PARSIPPANY — The National Institute for People with Disabilities of New Jersey runs a program for adults with Asperger’s Syndrome, autism spectrum disorders and those with similar traits, held a ribbon cutting grand opening on Wednesday, October 19.
Joining in the celebration were Parsippany-Troy Hills Mayor James Barberio, Councilman Michael dePierro, Council President Louis Valori, Council Vice President Robert Peluso, Parsippany Parsippany Business Administrator Ellen Sandman, Economic Development Advisory Committee Chairman Frank Cahill, James Walsh, Parks & Forestry Director and NIPD/NJ attendees Davey Willans, Chair Board of Trustees; Gail Dombeck, Board of Trustees; Christine Reinhard, Executive Director; Ralph Coloma, Director; Michelle Newburger, Asst. Director Aspergerer’s Skill Building Network; Dara Westler, Program Supervisor; Jennifer Holak, Lead Facilitator; Katie Daley, Asst. Facilitator; Eti LeMoulled, Office Manager and Lynn Berman, Sr. Media Relations Manager, YAI.
The grand opening was held at the Parsippany Park Center, Knoll Drive, Lake Hiawatha.
Emily Kushner, a graduate of the program who spoke about her experience in the program and the how it has impacted her life.
“NIPD/NJ is grateful for the support that the Town and people of Parsippany have shown in making the Asperger’s Skill Building Program a success here. They have welcomed us into their community and have demonstrated an interest not only in what we do, but in collaborating with us to help make the lives of people with Autism who live in and around Parsippany better. I am hopeful that the relationship between NIPD/NJ and the Town of Parsippany continues to be mutually beneficial for many years to come, saidChristine Reinhard, Executive Director.”
The National Institute for People with Disabilities of New Jersey was founded in 1998 and is a member of the YAI Network of agencies. NIPD/NJ provides a range of services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. These services include a continuum of residential programs, as well as respite and in-home services for children and adults living at home, Support Coordination services in Sussex, Essex and Hudson counties and programs for social opportunities and skill development such as the Asperger’s Skill Building Network as well as the Coffee House, a weekly socialization program.
The Asperger’s Skill Building Network began in Parsippany in February. They currently offer this program in Wayne and Warren as well serving approximately sixty people.
For information about or referral to the program contact Dara Westler at dara.westler@yai.org or (973) 720-3762.
Emily Kushner, a graduate of the program who spoke about her experience in the program and the how it has impacted her life.
