Our main focus is to create social opportunities out in the community so we learn how to "Be A Friend and Make A Friend" The funds we raise directly impact the individuals and their families.
Our Story:
We are parents and community members who gather to assist fellow families with this lifelong diagnosis. In these past 28 years since we began, we often hear parents make a profound statement, "I hope I live one day longer than my child.” This leads to the question, “Who will care for my child when I’m gone?” At that time, the prevalence rate was 1-in-2,500; now, it is 1-in-36.
As parents and community members, we cannot do this alone, we need to work collaboratively to continue with the mission and vision of parents who started in 1995 in the Southern Tier.
Below, you will find some of the most dedicated individuals.
Our Board of Directors:
CEO/President:
Sally J Colletti
Vice President:
Laurie Newman
Treasurer:
Breanna Ball
Secretary:
Phyllis Plohetski
Youth Coordinator:
Trina Beckwith
Board Members:
Jason Ball and Megan Seevers, MSN
Sally, Founder of Advocates For Autism, with Tyra Banks discussing Autism with Top Model, Heather Kuzmich, season 5 finalist. Heather identified as having Asperger's. Sally appeared on the Tyra Show 4/23/08 and was recognized for her many years as a volunteer helping those with autism. Chevy and The Tyra Show surprised Sally with a Malibu of her own.