Weprin Instrumental in Restoring Funding for Children with Autism

Children on the autism spectrum will continue to receive governmental support, thanks largely to Council Member Mark S. Weprin, D-Oakland Gardens, who spearheaded the effort to restore $1.25 million in funding to continue the New York City Council’s Autism Initiative.

has offered programs geared toward children with autism for the past few years, and Jeri Mendelsohn, the Y’s associate executive director, said she couldn’t be more thrilled that funds will still be available.

Though the Y hasn’t officially been awarded the funding for the coming year, Mendelsohn said that she is optimistic that they will receive a contract. Last year, the center provided after-school activities for 65 children on the autism spectrum, offering specialized basketball and soccer leagues, as well as programs for families.

Mendelsohn said she’d like to see the program expand to include a stronger focus on social skills, particularly as the children who have long been involved with the program enter their teenage years.