Supporting Neurodiverse Families in an Inclusive Environment
By Office of the President | Oct 16, 2024
On Sunday, September 29, Downstate hosted its annual Autism Resource and Awareness Fair, bringing together a vibrant community of children, youth, and adults with autism,
their families, and various health providers and community programs. Organized by
Downstate’s Department of Pediatrics Division of Child Development and the Brooklyn
Leadership Education in Neurodisabilities (LEND) program, with the help of students from the School of Health Professions and
College of Medicine, the event was all about connection and community. It was a day
where families could come together, access valuable resources, and feel seen and supported.
The Fair featured a wide range of informational tables to help families connect with community-based programs and services offered at Downstate. A comprehensive Resource Guide, available in Haitian Kreyol, Spanish, and English, was provided to ensure families have the support they need at every stage of life. In addition to providing information, it was a day of fun and joy, particularly for the children. Families enjoyed a sensory gym, creative arts therapy, music, dancing, activities like face painting, and plenty of pizza, snacks, and ice cream.
Throughout the day, speakers—including Downstate leaders, community advocates, family members, and self-advocates with autism—shared powerful insights into the experiences of neurodiverse individuals and the importance of celebrating autism in all its forms. The message was clear: while different sectors—healthcare providers, behavioral programs, and culturally diverse families—often work in separate spheres, there is greater power and possibility when they come together as one community. The Autism Fair provided a hopeful glimpse of what is possible when we prioritize connection and embrace neurodiversity as a strength.
As we look ahead, our commitment to strengthening ties within the autism community remains unwavering. We are focused on fostering inclusivity and ensuring that families affected by autism continue to feel supported and connected.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Harris Huberman, M.D., Director of the Division of Child Development in the Department of Pediatrics; Neelima Nayyar-Gujral, RN, BSN, Nurse Coordinator in the Division of Child Development; Alishia Goodridge, MBA, Assistant Vice President of Government & Community Relations; and Enitza George, M.D., MBA, Chair of the Department of Family and Community Medicine, for courageously sharing the story of Ruben, her late son.
Downstate remains committed to supporting our residents’ healthcare needs, and I am deeply honored to serve this unique and special neurodiversity community.
Tags: Autism Awareness, Campus Events, Events