NEW YORK, Jan. 6, 2010 — Rethink Autism announced its partnership with the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation, providing its research-based online autism treatment tools free with each computer donated by the Foundation.
The Laurie Flutie Computer Initiative was founded in 2000 as part of the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation annual grant cycle. Through this program, the Foundation has distributed over 400 computers directly to underprivileged families of children with autism and their school districts in New England, New York and New Jersey. As part of this year's computer grant, each computer recipient will receive a free six-month membership to Rethink Autism's services.
"The Flutie Foundation is very excited to offer Rethink Autism's service to our 2009-2010 computer recipients. Part of our mission at the Foundation is to support families affected by autism spectrum disorder and to help them find the resources they need to address the challenges that they face. Partnering with Rethink Autism is the perfect chance to offer a quality, affordable educational tool to help the parents of these very special children," said Chris Chirco of the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation.
"Rethink Autism is pleased to partner with the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation in providing underprivileged families of children with autism and their school districts with high-quality technology resources," said Jamie Pagliaro, Executive Vice President of Rethink Autism. "No child's progress should be delayed due to high costs, waiting lists, or the scarcity of trained professionals. Using computers provided through the Laurie Flutie Computer Initiative and online subscriptions contributed by Rethink Autism, parents and teachers will learn state-of-the-art teaching strategies that will have a positive impact on their children with autism."
About Rethink Autism
Rethink Autism, Inc. seeks to ensure that every child on the autism spectrum has access to effective and affordable research-based treatment options by providing professionals, parents, and family members with the tools and information necessary to teach children with autism in a way that is easy to understand and apply. Rethink Autism was founded in 2007 and has its headquarters at 19 West 21st Street in New York City. For more information, go to http://www.rethinkautism.com.
About The Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism
The Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism was established in 2000 by NFL quarterback Doug Flutie and his wife, Laurie, in honor of their son, Doug, Jr., who was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. The Foundation awards grants on an annual basis to nonprofit organizations that provide services for children with autism and to organizations that conduct research on the causes and effects of autism. To date, the Fluties have given over $5 million for grants and programs in New England, New York, New Jersey, southern California, at the national level, and in Canada. For more information, go to http://www.flutiefoundation.org.
Press Contact:
Jamie Pagliaro, Executive Vice President
Rethink Autism
Email
ph: (+1) 646-257-2919 ext. 205
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