Eustacia Cutler, internationally-renowned author, advocate and lecturer on autism and the mother of autism activist and animal scientist Temple Grandin, and Long Islanders Cindy and Paul Woldar of The Edwin and Shirley Woldar Family Foundation which funds programs for children, medical research and educational institutions were honored last night at the second annual Toast to Success Cocktail party at The Village Club at Lake Success. The event raised $95,000 to benefit the Compass Project for young adults with autism. Compass is a program of JCCA, a comprehensive child and family services organization.
Kristen, 26, a Compass participant, told 175 guests that thanks to the Compass program, “I now have my dream job working at a library and I am happy with my life and my work.”
According to Richard Altman, CEO of JCCA, “This was a very special evening honoring extraordinary people who have made a tremendous difference in the lives of young adults with autism. “ Compass helps 600 young adults in Long island, Queens and Westchester, live more fulfilling, productive lives with a wide range of programs from internships and counseling to socialization and independent living.
Added Mrs. Cutler, who spoke eloquently about the challenges of being a parent of a child with autism, “I’m honored to be part of this event. It’s gratifying to see how the Compass Project is addressing the complexity of autism, including its effect on all members of the family.”