Community Corner
Jack's Run Sprints to Town at Hempstead Beach Park
In its fourth year, coordinators of Jack's Run are hopeful the Port community will do its part in funding the support of autism education.
On Saturday, Hempstead Beach Park will be packed with hundreds of supporters of Jack's Run, an event designed to raise money for Nassau-Suffolk Services for Autism (NSSA). NSSA is a program that has devoted its services to educating children that have been diagnosed with all forms autism. The organization also aids 28 local school districts in the education and support of those who have been diagnosed with the neurological disorder.
Michael Miranda, the creator of Jack's Run/Walk, has helped to fund, as well as raise awareness for NSSA over the past four years. His teenage nephew, Jack, was profoundly affected by the neurological disorder, and Miranda decided it was time to make a change.
"We have been very fortunate to do this for the past four years, and we are lucky to have been able to promote a growing awareness throughout Long Island," Miranda said. "However, even as we do so, one in 110 children born today in the United States are diagnosed with autism. We need to keep going and we need to push harder."
Find out what's happening in Port Washingtonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
All proceeds collected will be benefit NSSA's programs serving children, adults, and families touched by autism.. An iPad will be given away to the top fundraiser and an official New York Islanders jersey signed by every member of the team will be raffled off at the event.
Connie Grassle, the Development Coordinator of NSSA as well as the coordinator of the run/walk, participates in the event to support her son and all other children affected by autism. She said she hopes the community's involvement will jump start global awareness and support.
Find out what's happening in Port Washingtonwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
"My son, who is 22 now, was diagnosed with autism at age 4," Grassle said. "My family is so grateful to be associated with the entire organization. It is just wonderful for a million different reasons."
She added, "NSSA has gotten involved with helping school districts that have students with autism in their student body, and these districts and teachers need guidance on how to properly educate them. NSSA hosts summer camps, educational programs, adult services, and so much more to support progams that serve adults and children."
The run/walk is scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. on Saturday, but those participating are asked to arrive between 7:15 and 8:45 a.m. To register for the event or to donate, visit www.firstgiving.com/nssa.
