Autism Speaks History Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Bob and Suzanne Wright, grandparents of a child with autism. Their longtime friend Bernie Marcus donated $25 million to help financially launch the organization. Since then, Autism Speaks has grown into the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization, dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. We are proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish and look forward to continued successes in the … Continued

The Lyme Disease problem was brought to Kiwanis’ attention during 2000-01 when New York District Gov. John Gridley vowed to do something to help children afflicted with this terrible disease. The Lyme Disease Project was quickly set up to help pay for medical treatment for children with this disease. Unfortunately most insurance companies do not pay for its treatment, which is very expensive. Our support is funded through donations from Kiwanis Clubs and individuals and channeled into the Pediatric Lyme Disease Fund. As of May 2014, the foundation had paid $269,000 for pediatric treatment. Lyme Disease is caused by bacteria … Continued

Emergency Children’s Help Organization “ECHO” is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization established for the purpose of providing financial assistance to children and their families during a time of need. ECHO is comprised of dedicated caring people whose sole purpose is to brighten a family’s path during a difficult journey. Our hope is that our assistance will make a difference to improve their current circumstances both financially and spiritually. ECHO’s founder, Sebastian Angelico, has assembled a diverse Board of Directors, whose unquestionable motivation and agenda is to help children. Sebastian has always supported charitable organizations ranging from those helping children to … Continued

The mission of Michael’s Cause is to raise awareness of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy as well as direct funding for research by building a strong foundation for future treatments and a possible cure. Our goal is to save our son’s life and the many thousands of boys afflicted with this fatal disease. Michael Capolongo is a typically vivacious nine year old determined to explore his surroundings and make his presence known. He dotes on his little sister, Victoria Rose, and idolizes his older brother, Bobby. Michael wants to be just like him. But even as he learns new ways to imitate … Continued

Sunrise Day Camp is the world’s first full-summer day camp for children with cancer and their siblings, provided completely free of charge. The fun, friendship and smiles continue year-round through various camp-like programs and in-hospital services. Sunrise Day Camp-Staten Island is a proud member of the Sunrise Association, whose mission is to bring back the joys of childhood to children with cancer and their siblings worldwide through the creation of Sunrise Day Camps, Year-Round Programs and In-Hospital Recreational Activities, all offered free of charge. The JCC of Staten Island is partnering with Catholic Charities of Staten Island and will be utilizing the facilities at Mt. Loretto which include … Continued

Kamp Kiwanis is aimed at providing fun, physical exercise and adventure. It strives to afford opportunities to participate in a creative outdoor group experience in a democratic setting and develop characteristics of leadership and fair play. The program at Kamp Kiwanis is designed to mainstream all children, including up to 20 each session with special needs. It is non-competitive with emphasis on group and team building. No activity is forced, but all are encouraged. International Staff Staff members come from many countries as well as some from the United States. All staff members have been trained to interact with children … Continued