ASAH Art Contest
Congratulations to our Transitional I student, Jonathan for winning first prize in his age category in the ASAH 2010 Student Art Contest!
SEARCH Staff Presents at ASAH Conference
Jodi Ussery and Lori Evans presented at this year's ASAH Conference. Their workshop, titled, "My Sibling and Me", briefly reviewed the current research related to sibling relationships and support groups. The workshop also identified the goals of SEARCH Day Program's Sibling Group, provided strategies that may be effective in building a rapport, encouraging participation and ideas to teach age-appropriate information about the sibling's diagnosis. Specific work samples and activity examples from the group were provided including references. The presenters discussed group dynamics, issues and effective solutions. Unique to this presentation was the inclusion of some of our sibling group participants. They shared their insight and wisdom with the audience:
Capital Campaign
Last August, our agency was offered a once in a lifetime opportunity to purchase the adjoining nine acres and 23,000 square feet of building space. More importantly, we were provided an opportunity to establish a strong foundation and future for our growing population of children and adults with autism. The conditions of the sale included our ability to raise $600,000 in ten months to cover the down payment and closing expenses, which ignited a very aggressive capital campaign.
During the worst economic climate imaginable with our combined commitment, focus, generosity and energy, the otherwise impossible became a reality and we closed on the property in May. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all of the individuals who together turned a dream into a reality. As we move forward in year two of our Capital Campaign, I have no doubt that, together we will again achieve the impossible and meet very ambitious financial obligations and timelines for our newly acquired buildings and grounds. Many of you have contacted the school to ask how you can help or assist with the campaign. Naturally, supporting our annual fundraisers is essential. Our first fundraiser for the 2010-2011 school year will be a film event scheduled for October 15th at the Pollack Auditorium at Monmouth University. It is our hope to bring both the autism community, as well as the Monmouth County arts community together to raise funds for our campaign. We are in need of a $4000 sponsorship for this event. If you or anyone you know would like to be a partial or total sponsor please contact me directly at (732) 531-0454 ext. 108. Our Annual Gala is scheduled for May 12, 2011 at the English Manor. Once more, for this event, we are seeking sponsorship. Our third event will be a theatre presentation in our newly acquired building. More information will be forthcoming. I would like to thank everyone who have made our annual events a successful in the past and look forward to your continued support. The following suggestions are ways in which many of our families, faculty and friends have been supporting our campaign: Donated through special occasions in lieu of gifts such as a siblings sweet sixteen, bar/bat mitzvah's, communions, graduations, weddings, etc. Reaching out to community clubs and organizations to take SEARCH Day Program on as a recipient in thier club's fundraising efforts. Reach out to friends and colleagues with a personal letter. One of our families raised $16,000 in this respect! Last year, we reached our goal to raise $600,000. As we move forward, in order to meet our obligations, we will need to raise an additional $800,000 to cover the quarterly payments over the next 24 months. I have 100% confidence and faith in our mission that we will reach this goal.
Thank you all!
Katherine Solana
Executive Director