Winters Center marks World Autism Awareness Day

In recognizing World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, the Winters Center for Autism is reaffirming its commitment to enhancing the lives of adults with autism through employment opportunities.

Founded by the late Joe Winters and his wife Michele, the 14,000-square-foot Winters Center for Autism in West Babylon is equipped with job training and life skills teaching facilities to prepare individuals with autism for the workplace.

Since opening its doors, Winters Center for Autism has facilitated the training and employment of 63 young adults in various community businesses.

“The unemployment rate for individuals with autism exceeds 85 percent, highlighting the urgent need for initiatives like WCFA,” Christine Ponzio, the center’s director, said in a written statement.

The Winters Center has partnered with many local businesses, including Burger Brothers Restaurants Group, LISH, Winter Bros. Waste Systems, Bayard Arboretum, OTB, EQ Salon, Flagstar, Kilwins, Paws of War, Trotta Tire, Nelly’s, Table Wraps, Akropolis Restaurant, Music Academy, Stony Brook Hospital, Gerald J. Ryan Outreach Center, Yonida, Jake’s 58, Bead Market, Geiger Park, The Show Place, Macchiarola Accounting, Greenview Properties and Greater Data.

“As we commemorate World Autism Awareness Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to creating a world where individuals with autism are valued and empowered,” Ponzio said.

For more information about WCFA and its initiatives, visit: winterscenterforautism.com.