Director’s Message

I often refer to POAC as a family, for that is what we truly are. And if you are reading this, you are a vital part of our family, of my family. The Mantra of POAC is “Making Lives Better Every Day.” And we are doing just that because of people like you. We are changing the lives of thousands of children and thousands of families, and we will do even more together. Let us continue our journey, achieve greater things, and be the pencils that write the book of a future that we dream of for all of our children.

My grandmother immigrated to America at the tender age of fifteen. And although she only went as far in school as the ninth grade, she remains one of the smartest people I have ever known. Her words of wisdom always flowed like a song woven delicately into her soft Irish brogue. She always said “Gary, if you see a need in the world, God is just showing you what he wants you to do.” She said there will always be people sitting on the porch talking about getting it done, long after the doers have completed the task.

Well my grandmother is looking down at POAC with pride in her heart. With your help, we are off the porch making this world a better place for children and adults with autism. Through training, education, recreation, support, promotion of legislative issues, research, our life-saving Autism Shield Program and so much more, we are truly making a difference.