(click photo)
At Colonial Funeral Home, giving back to those in our community is something we take great pride in. As a community business leader, we believe in leading by example and hope to inspire other local businesses to get involved and help local charities and organizations in our area thrive. One such local charity we are proud to be a partner with is the Grace Foundation.
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The Lanza Family at a Grace Foundation 2017 Gala (click photo) |
The Grace Foundation is a charitable organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder. This neurological disorder is something that can greatly impact the lives of children and adults in our community with 1 in 68 children being diagnosed annually.
This is a cause that is close to all of our hearts here at Colonial Funeral home with our owner, Michael Lanza serving on the organizations' board.
The mission of the Grace Foundation is to empower those they serve with opportunity, dignity, and teamwork. The organization offers a variety of programs and services to help families in the community. Some of the various programs and services offered include:
1. Recreation ProgramsThese programs put an emphasis on making choices that encourage independence, self-esteem, physical activities and teamwork. This occurs in a variety of recreational activities like bowling, swimming, gym, and baseball. |
2. Performing ArtsThese classes are designed to teach effective communication skills. This is accomplished through teaching song structure, pitch, tone, harmony, movement, and team spirit. |
3. Social SkillsThis is a curriculum based on the most current research to teach social skills. An emphasis is placed on positive reinforcement, role play, and group activities to help develop social skills. |
4. Creative ArtsThe development of creativity is very important to those living with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Through art, music, and movement classes, participants receive the opportunity to communicate creatively with an emphasis being placed on enhancing fine motor skills and social integration. |
5. Support GroupsSupport groups are offered for individuals, families, and educators to provide encouragement for one another, information, and professional guidance. |
If you would like to support The Grace Foundation, we encourage you to attend any of the events below. Click the links for details.
Giving Tuesday - Tuesday, October 28th
Trunk or Treat - Sunday, October 29th
Brushstrokes for Autism - Saturday, December 2nd
Shoe Drive - Collecting new and gently worn shoes until the goal is reached of 100 bags
Specialty Mega Raffle - Drawing to be held at the Valentine Fashion Runway
The GRACE Foundation Gala - Saturday, April 14th, 2018
