Press Releases

COMMUNITIES COME TOGETHER TO SUPPORT AUTISM AWARENESS

On December 14, families, educators, professionals, and elected officials came together at the VFW in Manville for the screening of Normal People Scare Me, a documentary film about the many faces of autism (visit www.normalfilms.com for more information). The film, produced by Joey Travolta revealed compelling stories of families and their children with autism. Co-directors Taylor Cross, 17, who was diagnosed with autism at the age of 6, and his mother, Keri Bowers, came from California to participate in the program, share some of their experiences, and offer support to the audience.

“What a great opportunity to bring together all the different faces in the community that are impacted by autism”, said Tina Rear, founder of Care-to-Share Parent Support Network and co-sponsor for the event, “the film provided a fresh and unique perspective regarding the challenges and opportunities for children with autism.” 

Michelle Petito, owner and operator of Growing Together Therapuetic Center in Hillsborough and co-sponsor for the evening added, “Our purpose this evening was to increase awareness and support for the autism community.  Growing Together and Care-to-Share plan to continue to support families of children with disabilities. Our mission is to build a foundation of extended support and services accessible to every family. In response to discussions that evening, we are developing a life-skills program at our center to help children and teens with autism increase independent skills as well as find a foundation to support their aspirations.”

Hillsborough and Manville officials were on hand to share their thoughts as well. Hillsborough’s Deputy Mayor, Anthony Ferrera stated, “tonight Care-to-Share and Growing Together seized the opportunity to bring together people differently impacted by and involved in the autism community, programs like this continue to increase awareness and education.”

 Hillsborough Police Chief Paul Kaminsky also showed his support that evening, outlining the importance of the information he received, “This excellent program provided me an opportunity not only to educate myself on the many challenges of living with autism, but also provided a wonderful opportunity for me to bring back a lot of valuable information to share with the police department”.

Judy Maio, Executive Director and CEO of the ARC of Somerset County, has been collaborating with the Care-to-Share Parent Support Network to reach as many families as possible to provide support services, added “Tina Rear, Founder of Care-to-Share, is playing a lead role in Central New Jersey by forming communication circles where we can all share our knowledge and learn from each other about autism, a disability that has yet undiscovered definitive causes and cures. The film, Normal People Scare Me, co-directed by Taylor Cross was both captivating and revealing. Taylor took us inside the world of autism to provide a perspective of those afflicted - how they process information, interpret their surroundings, and communicate in their own unique ways. This presentation highlighted the need for early intervention and comprehensive programs that will address each child’s special needs in the most effective ways. The program also gave insight to parents on the importance of promoting social and life skills training to enhance their children’s long-term adjustment and increased independence. It was an awesome caring and sharing experience!”

[Note: Since the publication of this article, Growing Together Therapuetic Center has moved to Branchburg and the new phone number is (908) 722-4400]

(Back to About Us)