Volunteers are the backbone of every organization and The Autism Project of RI is grateful to the countless individuals who have helped us in the last nine years to enhance the lives of so many children and their families.  We would like to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts of our key volunteers in each issue of our newsletter Steps to Success. We will post the members of the Volunteer Hall of Fame here on our website. Please say thank you to them when you see them at an event or training. We could not do what we do without all of our volunteers giving so much time to a very important cause.

Thank you to all of our volunteers for your very important contribution to improving the quality of life for individuals with an autism spectrum disorder.

SEPTEMBER 2006

David and Barbara Frerichs have been volunteering with us for two years. The Frerichs host an event at their farm for the families of the Autism Project of Rhode Island each August.  They create a Farm Fun Day where children with special needs and their families can relax and have fun with activities designed exclusively for them.

The Frerichs even have a schedule available as well as a social story for parents on their website http://www.frerichsfarm.com/

This July, Barbara and David Frerichs dedicated their float in the historic Bristol 4th of July parade to Autism Awareness.  The Frerich’s float received the prestigious “Most Patriotic” award by the parade committee.

JULY 2006

Michael Andoscia, A leader and  volunteer since 2003.

When Michael learned of our camp and discovered that it was too costly for some families, he hosted many fundraisers for our organization and established the Michael Andoscia Scholarship fund. To date Michael has helped us raise close to $30,000.00 to support our mission of helping children with autism reach their full potential.

On behalf of the Autism Project and the children and families we serve, we thank you Michael for your willingness to “Imagine” and a special welcome to you as our first inductee into our Volunteer Hall of Fame!