 Today marks the launch of Autism Communities "Friend Responders" campaign, a collaborative initiative with the Suffolk County Police Department. This campaign is designed to foster mutual understanding and trust between neurodiverse individuals and first responders. During a press conference held on Monday, June 24 at Greenview Properties, North District Lofts in Bay Shore, Police Commissioner Robert Waring emphasized the departments support for the campaign stating "this is especially important as we believe it will give both the officers and the residents a better understanding of one another and alleviate potential misunderstandings during times of crisis. Our hope is that no matter the emergency, our officer will be recognized as a friendly face." KEY ASPECTS OF THE CAMPAIGN INCLUDE:
Steven Niciforo, our newest resident to North District Lofts, and other Autism Communities' residents from Westbrook Village in East Islip joined the conference. Steven spoke about his experience moving into his first apartment after living with his parents for the past 33 years. He shared "I am happy that Autism Communities developed this campaign because living on my own is a new challenge, but knowing that I can call someone in the event of an emergency and see a friendly face truly creates a level of support and confidence to make me feel secure in my new living environment. It is so important that the differently-abled feel included, like they are a part of the community and in turn have the community recognize, support and accept them." Special thanks to the Suffolk County Police Department for their partnership in the Friend Responders campaign. This truly is a beneficial and important initiative and we urge other emergency responder agencies to join by contacting Autism Communities. By working together, we can create safer, more inclusive communities for everyone! If you are interested in learning more or getting involved, please CONTACT US!
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Exciting Announcement! We are thrilled to announce our partnership with the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for the first inaugural Long Island Flutie 5K! The Flutie 5K is a fully inclusive race that prides itself on being a gathering place for EVERYONE to be a part of and is open to all ages and abilities. As a host charity partner, we invite you to run, walk or roll with us on October 5 at Belmont Lake State Park in West Babylon. Help us achieve our goal by registering NOW for the 5K Run or Half 5K walk or roll, and ask your friends, family and/or colleagues to support your fundraising efforts. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.  Join us in celebrating our newest resident, Steven Niciforo! Autism Communities is grateful to be a significant part of Steven's road to independence. We share in his parents' pride and determination, as we look forward to supporting this new and exciting chapter in his life! Steven's new home at North District Lofts in Bay Shore, a beautiful development by Greenview Properties, symbolizes not just a physical space but a beacon of hope and inclusivity. It stands as an example of what can be achieved when we come together to create supportive housing solutions that foster independence. Several of our board members and staff were present at this significant milestone, lending hands and joining hearts to celebrate Steven's move. Their presence was a heartfelt gesture of support, recognizing the hard work and perseverance that has defined Steven's journey. To our community and the team at Greenview Properties, we express our deepest appreciation for making moments like these possible. Together, we are not only building community, but dreams and opportunities! To Steven, we say congratulations and thank you for "inspiring a world built without barriers" - Doreen Jaggs, Autism Communities Chairwoman Stay tuned for an exciting announcement coming soon! |
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