Santa Claus had some help this week as he made an early delivery to some folks on the “nice” list in Raleigh, North Carolina.
Living With Autism is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization that uses compassion and innovation to support adults with autism and developmental disabilities. According to Jenna Stirling, Director of Development at Living With Autism, clients join the program when they age out of the school system to maintain a structured schedule and the skills they’ve been building for years.
“Our clients are all ages 18 and up, but have skill levels on the pre-k to elementary level,” Stirling says. “We have an incredible 82 staff to 65 client ratio for this reason to provide the most fulfilling and individualized experience for each. We currently have a two-page waitlist of families ready to join our center.”
For this year’s “Here Comes Santa” event, members of the specialty toy industry sprung into action to provide gifts, including toys and games that were wrapped by William Meredith and the “elves” at Learning Express Toys & Gifts in Cary, North Carolina.
Toys are used in every part of our day. Beginning with creating a visual and tactile schedule that is individualized for each client. Plush and sensory items are used for self-regulation and comfort. Auditory toys like Yoto, talking dolls, puppets, etc. are used for language acquisition and communication facilitation. Pair and Duel play foster a sense of community and safety, etc. We literally play all day!"
Santa delivered the gifts and posed for pictures before a holiday cookout with clients’ families.
Living With Autism extends thanks to Corey Funkey (Smart Toys and Games), Brian Turtle (Goliath), Sarah Natchez (Yoto), Tom Rushton (Revenew Sales), Ron Weizman (South Beach Bubbles), Alex Provda (The Pencil Grip), and Natalie Ringeis (Plus-Plus) for their contributions this season.
Parties interested in supporting the world of Living With Autism can make a donation via DonorBox.
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