Strong Turnout for TEAM CVR at Autism Speaks Event

LONG BRANCH, N.J. - Oct. 2, 2013 - PRLog -- Long Branch, NJ – This past Saturday, over 100 walkers showed up to support TEAM CVR at this year’s Walk Now for Autism Speaks event at Pier Village in Long Branch. TEAM CVR, representing the Center for Vocational Rehabilitation (CVR), raised over $2000 for Autism Speaks and was comprised of CVR staff, board members, special needs participants, friends and family. CVR is an annual participant in the event as part of their ongoing initiative to raise awareness in the community for those within the autism spectrum and with developmental disabilities.

“What a magnificent day for TEAM CVR and the whole CVR family,” said Russell Anderson, CEO/President of CVR. “Autism is the fastest growing developmental disorder in the United States and CVR is committed to supporting those within the entire developmental disability community. CVR will continue to lead the way because we have the support of a tremendous board of directors and dedicated staff members who will do whatever it takes help those with special needs.”

This past July, the Aspen Academy at CVR was opened to serve those within the autism spectrum and developmentally disabled individuals with cognitive impairments. The Aspen Academy at CVR offers ABA trained staff, behavioral therapists, counselors, vocational evaluators, an on-site VNA nurse and psychiatrist. Individuals are given an appropriate foundation in the areas of vocational skills, daily living skills, work skills, pre-employment development, supported employment and social independence.

“I am so proud of the turnout for TEAM CVR today. It is a testament to the support we have for the Aspen Academy at CVR as we continue to grow and develop,” said Anderson. “When we attend the Autism Speaks walk each year, we are reminded just how many individuals and families in our area are affected by Autism and other developmental disabilities. The Aspen Academy at CVR was opened to offer more individuals with developmental disabilities an opportunity to grow their socialization and communication skills, with a goal of further integration into their community. On a beautiful day like today, when you look around the boardwalk and you the see all of the smiling faces of those with special needs, you are reminded that our mission is important and worthwhile.”

For more information about the Aspen Academy at CVR please contact Jennifer Lotano Nangano – Phone:  732-544-1800 ext 217
Email: jlotano@cvrus.org

Founded in 1954, the Center for Vocational Rehabilitation (CVR) has provided what people with disabilities need most for their self-respect and the esteem of others: WORK.  CVR facilitates personal growth and helps bring dignity and respect to the people it serves through a variety of vocational and partial-care rehabilitation programs. For more information about CVR, a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit, please visit: www.cvrus.org or call: 732-544-1800.