Like many others, my family was hit with the reality of having a child diagnosed with Autism in 2004. The process of acceptance to actively advocating for our son Caleb was a short one. We knew that it was necessary to be deeply involved if we were going to provide the best care for our son. Jim and I were constantly looking for ideas that would best help in his treatment. The start of this journe
y was a lonely and painful one. We had no idea how much this diagnoses would change our lives. Our passion has always been to touch and support as many families like ours as possible. The idea Making Strides began four years ago when I was training for a marathon to support the Autism Society. During those long training runs I began to wonder what we could that would increase the awareness of autism in my own community and somehow financially help support the educational needs of not only our son but others struggling along on a similar journey. Jim and I began to toss around the idea of creating a 5K run/walk to raise funds for my sons school in the area of OT equipment. Several months later I brought this idea to other 2 mothers and a special education teacher. From there Making Strides began to evolve. We have come a long way from planning that first 5K fun run. Since then we have continued to add people to our board and increase our activities in the surrounding areas. We are dedicated to assisting and supporting other families like ours, the schools that educate these amazing individuals and the communities that play a part in their lives. We provide educational programs and materials, specialized equipment, events and community outreach to assist individuals on all levels of the autistic spectrum in achieving their highest potential and quality of life. Our vision also includes the development of Blue Hill Peninsula secondary education options, including a program that nurtures and develops the unique talents of these individuals. We partner with:
FAMILIES through special events, programming and education to enrich and enhance the lives of families affected by autism. SCHOOLS to make specialized equipment, programs, services and resources available in an effort to provide the best learning environment. COMMUNITIES with outreach targeted at helping the community understand, relate to and support the integration of individuals affected by autism into our community.
