grants

autism tomorrow FITNESS grant

The Nicholas Center

For a decade, The Nicholas Center has been committed to developing innovative programs that assist individuals with Autism in leading meaningful and productive lives. These funds will be used for enhancements to their existing Health and Wellness program at their Port Washington location and the establishment of a new program, including a “Zen Den” yoga studio at their new location in Westchester, NY. “Wellness and fitness are integral components of our programming. We are grateful for the opportunity to upgrade, expand and create a new space for the individuals we serve.” - The Nicholas Center

SMALL BUSINESS GRANT

Spectrum Designs

Spectrum Designs, located in Port Washington NY, is a custom apparel and promotional items business with a social mission to help individuals with autism lead full and productive lives through the world of work. The Autism Tomorrow Small Business Grant will allow 1,000 hours of paid employment for individuals with autism to improve and advance their skill set, learn new tasks, and experience working in different departments across the organization. Spectrum Designs and Autism Tomorrow expect that these experiences will allow employees to grow both personally and professionally, advancing their careers. Did somebody say job promotions!?

Popcorn for the people

Inspired by 24 year old Sam, an adult on the autism spectrum with a love for America's favorite snack food, Popcorn for the People was started with help from friends and family in 2014. Agnes, a star chef and mother of a child with autism, came on board to experiment with new flavor profiles while Sam cooked the popcorn. Before they knew it, orders were flying off the shelf and they invited other adults with autism to join this exciting adventure. The business creates sustainable long-term employment in production, shipping, and sales of gourmet popcorn. Autism Tomorrow took a visit to their factory in New Jersey and had a taste test of flavors ranging from cheddar to french toast! We confirm they are as delicious as they sound, with an extra bonus of being all natural! With this grant, Popcorn for the People will be able to purchase the Paxiom Swifty Junior, a machine to help employees more efficiently bag the popcorn, enhance quality control, learn a new job skill, and  ultimately provide more employment opportunities for adults with autism.

TRANSITIONS GRANT AWARDS

Somerset Hills Learning Institute

Autism Tomorrow Transitions Grant recipient, Somerset Hills Learning Institute’s Center for Career Advancement, will help adults with autism lead fulfilling lives by achieving meaningful employment. By partnering with local businesses, the Center for Career Advancement will provide job skills training to an expanding number of adults with autism. Life Coaches will support career development and overall independence using science-based teaching techniques and systems. The funds from the grant will be used to expand the program to enroll additional adults with autism.

New Frontiers in Learning

Autism Tomorrow takes a visit to New Frontiers in Learning, one of our Autism Tomorrow Transitions Grant recipients. The program is based in NYC and shares our mission to improve the quality of life for adults on the autism spectrum through access to job opportunities, continued education, and independent living. The funds from the grant will be used to create scholarships to attend New Frontiers in Learning, expanding access to an innovative and truly impactful program.