The Faison Center was founded to give children and adults with autism and related challenges the best chance to improve their life ’ s journey , while also providing a network of support for their families and caregivers . This mission is furthered by our community partnerships , which create supportive environments for Faison participants to learn , grow , and thrive off-campus .
Peer Inclusion
Jill v ., whose daughter Mary attended
Faison ’ s Early Education Center ( EEC ), spoke to the impact on her daughter : “ Being there brought out her personality ,” Jill said . “ Without the foundation Faison gave her , she wouldn ’ t be the thriving , shining star she is today . They gave her a safe space to shine , and I don ’ t know if she would have the self-confidence , spunk , and tenacity that everyone falls in love with if it wasn ’ t for Faison and their partnerships .”
Mary benefited from The Faison Center ’ s partnership with Westhampton Day School , which collaborates with the EEC to give our littlest friends a space to interact with their peers without autism on a regular basis . This classic educational setting paired with the impact of early
intervention for autism offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity for children like Mary , according to Maggie Gucwa , who works as a Behavioral Analyst with the EEC . “ It provides a place for our toddlers to work on social , play , and early academic skills in a traditional classroom setting ,” Gucwa said , reflecting on what she has seen during her work with children in this integrated classroom . “ It also allows students from Westhampton Day School to have an opportunity to meet kids that are working on these skills and embrace their differences , interact , and learn what our kiddos like to do .” Because of her work with Faison and Westhampton Day School , Mary was able to successfully enroll in her local public school .
Social Interaction
We also have partners who create experiences for students outside of the classroom . Our collaboration with Beyond Boundaries means our kids get to enjoy outdoor adventures and learn key nature survival skills alongside co-founder and executive director , Shep Roeper , and his team of dedicated staff and volunteers . There are all kinds of opportunities for our students at Beyond Boundaries , from fishing and hiking , to rock climbing and whitewater rafting . Faison participants are not the only
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