Faison Center Annual Report 2022/23 | Page 32

Although not officially part of the Forward Into the Future capital campaign , The Faison Center also expanded services in 2017 with the Peninsula School in Newport News . In 2019 , we built out a new location for this school with an enrollment capacity of 40 students . This location increased our capacity to serve students from New Kent County all the way down to the City of Hampton . Shortly after opening the Peninsula School , we opened an additional Early Education Center to serve newly diagnosed toddlers out of this location .
Parents like Whitney G . are thrilled to have access to such high-quality autism services in the Peninsula region . “ We live in a small town where there aren ’ t many opportunities for children with autism . The Faison Center has given [ my daughter ] the chance to build on her life skills . Things like shopping for items she needs , practicing cleaning and organizing areas at school , and especially working on her communication skills have helped her become more independent . Without The Faison Center , she wouldn ’ t have the chance to grow like that .”
We are grateful for the opportunity to work with families and children with autism on our Peninsula Campus , and we are extremely thankful for all of those in that area who support our mission and all who we serve .
In addition to allowing us to serve more individuals , this campus has widened our research partnerships . Now , in addition to working with University of Virginia , Columbia University , and Kennedy-Krieger at Johns Hopkins , among others , we enjoy great working relationships with Old Dominion University and The College of William and Mary .
“ My favorite part is knowing that there are people who care for my daughter with respect and dignity . They acknowledge her disability and treat her no different . The staff are true SUPERHEROES ! - Whitney G ., Parent of Peninsula School student
17 17