World autism acceptance Month (#WAAM2025)
April marks the beginning of World Autism Month 2025, a time to celebrate the diverse experiences, strengths, and contributions of autistic people while advocating for a more inclusive world. This year, the campaign focuses on “Connected Through Inclusion,” emphasizing the importance of meaningful connections, community support, and opportunities for autistic people to thrive.
Throughout the month, we will share stories, promote acceptance, and encourage actions that make the world more inclusive for autistic people.
– April 2 is World Autism Acceptance Day, highlighting the importance of accessibility, advocacy, and community.
– Show your support by wearing RED to #WalkInRed on April 2nd and 30th.
– Show your support by wearing GOLD to #LightUpGold on April 2nd.
Click the arrows in the photo below to see the gallery of images from the day!
4/9/25
Click the arrows in the photo below to see the gallery of images from the day!
4/15/25
4/16/25
4/17/25
On Sunday, April 13th, the Springbrook community hit the road to the Bronx for an unforgettable day at Yankee Stadium! People receiving services through Springbrook, their families, and staff came together to watch the New York Yankees take on the San Francisco Giants. From the excitement of the game to the joy of sharing it with loved ones and friends, it was a day full of memories that will last a lifetime.
A heartfelt thank you to Bill Mirabito for generously sponsoring transportation, purchasing New York Yankees hats for the group, and joining us to be part of the fun-filled day!
This trip was a home run, and we look forward to continuing to provide memories like these that bring joy, connection, and community to those we serve.
See more images here.
4/19/25
Did you know World Autism Month was officially recognized in April 2008 when the United Nations General Assembly declared April 2nd as World Autism Awareness Day?
Acceptance celebrates neurodiversity, supports self-advocacy, and promotes dignity and respect. At Springbrook, we promote autism acceptance all year by providing person-centered support to promote independence.
This week, we are proud to highlight Charlie, a student at The School at Springbrook, whose passion for the environment and community impact continues to inspire us all. Since launching his recycling challenge in November 2023, Charlie successfully reached his goal of collecting 1,000 pounds of plastic film, which will be recycled into a bench.
But Charlie didn’t stop there. He’s already collected an additional 400 pounds toward his next goal of another 1,000 pounds! He recently recruited a school peer to help expand the effort, and together they continue to grow the project.
Charlie has also registered his collection with the Otsego County Solid Waste Earth Day competition! He has an upcoming interview with the ACE Hardware staff in Cooperstown, where he will share more about his project. ACE is one of the generous businesses that donates plastic for his cause, and they are excited to share more about Charlie’s work with others. As part of a class learning project, Charlie researches new and innovative ways to recycle beyond plastic film—showing just how committed he is to making a difference.
His leadership and dedication are a reminder of the power of inclusive education, environmental responsibility, and community connection.
Read more about Charlie’s inspiring efforts here.
4/22/25
4/23/25
4/25/25
As we continue to share more stories during World Autism Acceptance Month, we reflect on the importance of embracing neurodiversity and celebrating the unique strengths, talents, and perspectives of every person we serve.
This month, we are proud to highlight voices from across Springbrook who support the autistic community—like Alyssa Horton, Principal at The School at Springbrook.
Alyssa shares her thoughts on what Autism Acceptance means in the school community:
“April is World Autism Month, and this year’s theme—“Connected Through Inclusion”—reminds us that meaningful connections grow when we listen, learn, and create spaces where every voice is valued. At The School at Springbrook, the little things are NEVER little, and every milestone is a celebration. Each day, we have the privilege of witnessing the students’ strength and resilience– the courage, the joy, the breakthroughs. We revel in small victories, embrace the unexpected, and advocate fiercely for a world where our students can thrive.
Throughout April and beyond, we encourage families, colleagues, and friends to educate themselves, reflect, challenge stereotypes, and support meaningful inclusion for those who experience the world through a different lens. We challenge you to move beyond awareness to embrace understanding, inclusion, and respect. We need YOUR help to build a world where everyone feels supported, valued, and connected.”
4/29/25
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (#DDAM2025)
At Springbrook, we celebrate the achievements, resilience, and voices of people with developmental disabilities. Throughout March, we will share inspiring stories from the people we support and the dedicated employees who make inclusion and independence possible, highlighting Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM).
DDAM is a time to recognize the valuable contributions of people with developmental disabilities, promote inclusion, and advocate for a more accessible and equitable society.
3/4/25
A Journey of Growth and Responsibility: Dates, Dogs and Dreams: Donnie’s Story
3/12/25
Rachel at The Ford on Main
3/13/25
Students at The School at Springbrook are hard at work on their self-portraits for the upcoming Fenimore Art Museum art show this April!
Under the guidance of Art Therapist, Tiffany Brzenk, students are using a variety of mediums and materials to bring their unique visions to life. Spectrum of Selfies is a collection of mixed media works. The exhibit aims to emphasize that disabilities, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, do not diminish a person’s worth but instead offer new perspectives on the world and the beauty within it.
From vibrant colors to favorite movie and TV characters, and even expressive facial features, each self-portrait is a reflection of individuality and creativity. We cannot wait to see these incredible works on display! Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the show!
3/21/25
Widmy at Blackstone Community Home
Through a stroke of serendipity, Widmy Leveille-Orion found Springbrook after stumbling upon a Direct Support Professional (DSP) Appreciation Week event. She began her journey at Springbrook in a Community Home, where she quickly became passionate about learning how to support people with disabilities.
Once Widmy started working, she became known for always asking the people she supports questions about themselves. As she explains, “How am I going to get to know people without asking questions?” She enjoys building personal connections with the people she supports, believing that “the best way to know how to support someone is to know them individually.”
Widmy is a shining example of the individualized care Springbrook provides. You can read more of Widmy’s story here.