Celebrating the People and Programs Transforming New Jersey’s Autism Community
I recently had the privilege of attending the annual conference hosted by Autism New Jersey, an inspiring event that brings together families, professionals, and businesses all dedicated to supporting individuals with autism. The conference offered a wonderful chance to collaborate, learn, and connect with others who share the same passion for creating positive change within our community. I left feeling energized and excited to share the amazing organizations I met along the way.
Below are some of the incredible New Jersey-based organizations that are making a difference every day. If you’re part of the autism community—whether as a parent, educator, therapist, or advocate—I encourage you to check them out and share their work with others who may benefit.
Autism New Jersey
Autism New Jersey continues to be a driving force in advocacy, education, and compassionate support throughout the state. Their work centers on creating meaningful connections, providing expert guidance, and helping to build an autism-friendly New Jersey for all.
During the conference, I had the pleasure of meeting Brittany Coleman, Development Assistant; Christina Toth, Coordinator of Special Community Events and Relations; and Jon Gottlieb, Helpline and Family Advocacy Director. Their team’s dedication to improving systems of support and empowering families was evident in every conversation. The organization’s ability to bridge professional expertise with heartfelt compassion truly stood out.
Autism New Jersey
https://autismnj.org/about-us/mission/
Ready Rocker
I was also fortunate to meet Michael Savas, Director of Business Development; Jack Savas, Salesperson; and Brandon Mager, Salesperson and Motivational Speaker, from Ready Rocker. Their product is more than just innovative—it’s life-changing.
The Ready Rocker delivers the therapeutic motion of rocking in a portable, compact design. Beyond comfort, it provides sensory and physical benefits that can make a real difference for both children and adults with developmental disabilities, including autism and ADHD. Users have found it helpful for reducing stress and anxiety, improving focus and circulation, easing back pain, and supporting better sleep. It’s a product that blends practicality with comfort, offering a sense of calm and grounding wherever it’s used.
Ready Rocker
https://readyrocker.com
Bancroft
At the Bancroft booth, I met John Rastelli III, Marketing Outreach Manager, who shared insight into the organization’s broad network of services. Bancroft is a leading nonprofit organization in New Jersey that provides a full continuum of care and support for individuals with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and those in need of neurological rehabilitation.
Their mission centers on improving quality of life through education, clinical excellence, and compassionate care. Bancroft operates specialized schools, residential programs, adult day services, and behavioral health programs that are designed to meet individuals’ needs at every stage of life. From early intervention and classroom-based learning to supported living and vocational training, Bancroft ensures that each person receives the resources and support necessary to reach their fullest potential.
Bancroft
https://www.bancroft.org
Spectrum Sports
Spectrum Sports is an adaptive fitness and recreation organization in New Jersey created to make sports accessible for individuals with special needs. Founded by two former special education teachers, the program was born from the recognition that children and adults with developmental disabilities often have limited opportunities to participate in traditional extracurricular activities.
Their mission is to ignite joy, promote health, and encourage learning through movement. Spectrum Sports offers structured, inclusive classes that combine exercise, play, and skill-building to help participants grow physically, socially, and emotionally. Each session is led by trained coaches who understand how to adapt activities for different ability levels while maintaining an environment that is safe, positive, and fun.
Spectrum Sports
https://www.spectrumsportsnj.com
The EDGE Approach
I had a wonderful conversation with Micki Benoit, speech-language pathologist, social skills group facilitator, speaker, and author of Not Autistic Enough. She is the creator of The EDGE Approach, an intervention model designed specifically for neurodivergent teens and young adults.
Her weekly social skills groups strike the perfect balance between structure and openness, allowing participants to develop communication skills, understand social nuances, and build meaningful friendships. The sessions are welcoming and empowering, giving young people a space to connect with peers who understand and accept them. The EDGE Approach is more than a program—it’s a community built on understanding and growth.
The E.D.G.E Approach
https://edgeapproach.com
Blue Light Music Program
I met Nick Avellino, Creative Development Director, and Alec Sye, Vice President, from the Blue Light Music Program. This organization provides inclusive and person-centered music experiences for individuals of all abilities.
Through lessons, recording opportunities, and group music sessions, participants are encouraged to explore their creative sides and express themselves through sound. What makes Blue Light truly special is its focus on meeting each individual where they are and helping them discover their unique musical voice. Music becomes not just a skill, but a form of empowerment, connection, and joy.
Blue Light
https://bluelightmusicprogram.com
First Phrases
Finally, I had the pleasure of learning about First Phrases, created by Farwa Husain, a bilingual speech-language pathologist and private practice owner. Her work is rooted in the belief that communication should never be about “fixing” a child, but rather about nurturing authentic expression and celebrating who they are.
First Phrases offers a beautifully designed and research-informed deck created to support autistic children and early communicators through meaningful, joyful interactions. Each card is designed to help children find their voice in a natural, empowering way—encouraging language development through play, connection, and genuine engagement. The mission behind this product is one of compassion and respect for every child’s individual communication journey.
First Phrases
https://www.firstphrases.com
My Experience
Attending the Autism New Jersey Conference was both inspiring and uplifting. It served as a reminder of how strong, innovative, and compassionate the autism community in New Jersey truly is. From advocacy and therapeutic resources to sensory tools, sports programs, and creative outlets, each organization I met is helping to build a more inclusive and supportive world.
If you’re part of this community, I encourage you to explore these organizations, share their work, and consider how collaboration can continue to make a difference for individuals and families across our state. Together, we can keep driving progress, one connection at a time.
