FOCUS Appeal Tells a Story

The approach is something new for The FOCUS Center for Autism. For this Fall's appeal we're telling a story about a positive outcome. Storytelling is something we did extensively in public radio. Admittedly we didn't do it enough in fundraising. But, I'm hopeful the appeal will reach or donors. Look it over. Let me know what you think.

WITH YOUR HELP, FOCUS MAKES A DIFFERENCE!

Alison is a vivacious twelve-year-old with Autism who, before FOCUS, struggled both academically and socially. Alison represents a unique aspect of Autism as it affects boys four times more than girls. She has the same needs as her male counterparts on the Spectrum, but her sweet disposition caused some adults to overlook her. Many adults described Alison as “cute” and “bright”, and couldn’t believe she could need assistance with academics or social skills. She had teachers who didn’t understand her, and peers that would bully her. Because her needs were not being met, Alison was feeling more and more isolated and depressed. She thought her life didn’t have a purpose.  

Alison has been enrolled in FOCUS’s Extended Day Treatment program for three years. This program has helped her develop and practice the social skills she needs to navigate her world. However, the problems she was having at school still remained. It was then decided that she would attend FOCUS’s Clinical Educational Support Program. This program serves children who are having a difficult experience in their traditional school setting. With low teacher to student ratios, a multimodal approach to academics, and a strong emphasis on social and coping skill development, this program supports the whole child in order to ensure their success.  

Now in her second year, Alison is thriving both academically and socially. She finally has the help she needs, which puts her at ease. She also feels safe and accepted in the FOCUS environment. For the first time in her life, she is making friends! Alison’s experience at FOCUS is so profound that, in appreciation, she raised $215 which she donated to the Clinical Educational Support Program. 

Alison’s story doesn’t end here. She, along with her family, is using her voice to advocate for Autism Awareness in the community. Her family participates in Autism rides, and she is an active participant in FOCUS’s “Autism Spectrum Unplugged” panel. Alison also led the charge to have blue Autism ribbons distributed throughout her hometown. As a result of all her hard work she was honored this year by her State Senator, Jason Welch, during Autism Awareness Day at the State Capitol! 

Alison’s story is just one of the many reasons why YOUR support of FOCUS Center for Autism is so important.

Your donation will make a difference. Your contribution to FOCUS will help us continue to provide the child-centered programming you have come to expect.  

 

Your Support Helps Fund:

·         Our Clinical Educational Support Program

·         Our After School Program

·         Our Parent Support Program

·         Our Education and Mentoring Program

·         Our Scholarship Program

Please consider a gift today! Our unique model of care can change a child’s life. It has changed Alison’s. 

Help FOCUS help children and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders achieve their full potential.

“because the creatively wired and socially challenged should not have to go it alone”™

Thank you so much!