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Read the highlights of our collaborative partner provider’s inspired work and the progress being made at Golisano Autism Center in our first newsletter publication.

Golisano Autism Center Rendering
The Golisano Autism Center is transforming the delivery of autism services in the region. A comprehensive, enriched and innovative new model co-locates resources offered by multiple providers — experts in ASD knowledge, and in their specific services areas.

Multi-Sensory Learning Environment 3D tour

Experience our state-of-the-art Multi-Sensory Learning Environment by taking a 3D tour!

See the space »

Services

A lifetime span of autism services at the Golisano Autism Center include, but are not limited to:
  • After School/Respite
  • Art
  • Article 28/16 Clinic*
  • Autism HelpLine
  • Behavioral Therapeutic Support
  • Benefits Linkage
  • Care Management
  • Child Care
  • Community Education
  • Early Intervention
  • Employment Support
  • Family Navigation
  • Housing Liaison
  • Multi Sensory Regulation
  • Outdoor Learning & Recreation
  • Ongoing Service Expansion
  • Parent Support & Training
  • Preschool Education Consulting
  • Pre-Vocational & Readiness
  • Sensory Learning Gymnasium
  • School-Aged Education
  • Social & Recreational
  • Sports & Fitness
  • Therapeutic Interventions
  • Transition & Adult
  • Transportation
  • Yoga*

Providers

Multiple autism service providers work collaboratively under one roof at the Golisano Autism Center. This one-stop approach to accessing a wide variety of supports is transformative. Family Navigators are available on-site to help connect families with on-site providers, services and supports within the Center. Current tenants providing services at the Golisano Autism Center include:

Click a title to expand

AutismUp
AutismUp is a parent led autism support organization in the Greater Rochester and surrounding areas proudly serving more than 2,300 families. Its mission is to expand and enhance opportunities to improve quality of life for individuals of all ages and abilities with autism, and their families. AutismUp offers innovative, customized, and highly supported programs year round in the afternoons, evenings and weekends at the GAC, that develop Social Skills, Readiness Skills, Sensory Regulation, Supported Fitness and Recreation Skills. Additionally, support services include Parent & Caregiver Training, Family Support, Special Events, Family Gatherings, and Community Education. AutismUp headquarters are now located at the Golisano Autism Center. Information and registration at autismup.org or call (585) 248-9011.
CP Rochester
CP Rochester Article 28 Primary Care: This clinic will offer OT, PT, ST, Psychiatry, Psychology, Dental, and Primary Care services to individuals. Dental and Primary Care will be available in the future, but not available immediately.

CP Rochester Article 16 Clinic: OT, PT, ST, Psychology services available to individuals who qualify under the OPWDD waiver with the 95 exemption code on their NOD for Article 16 services. This clinic is able to offer skilled long-term therapy to individuals admitted to the clinic. Full services will be offered beginning September 2020.

CP Rochester’s SAIL program: designed to support and assist individuals to become more independent. Skill based learning will be provided at both site based sensory-integrated environment and community based volunteer opportunities. Learning opportunities will focus on emotional well-being, socialization, community involvement, self-advocacy, accessing safe supports, employability skills, benefits education, and building friendships and natural supports.
For more information visit our website
Daniel W. Mruzek, PhD, BCBA-D
Dr. Mruzek is a psychologist and applied behavior analyst who specializes in service with individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. His services include diagnostic and psychoeducational evaluation, counseling (e.g., social skills development, clarifying strengths and related opportunities), and parent and other caregiver empowerment (e.g., responding to challenging behavior, skill-building for independence). He provides consultation and workshops to local school districts and agencies with a focus upon positive, person-centered practices and teaches at the University of Rochester. For more information about his services, email dmruzek@ur.rochester.edu
Easterseals - NY
Easter Seals, Upstate NY offers clinical, residential, and educational services to individuals and families, including outpatient Primary Care and Mental Health services, In-home Respite, Community Recreation, Community Habilitation, Individual Residential Alternatives, Intermediate Care Facilities, and specialized instruction for students ages 5-21 at the Kessler Center school. Our newest program, THRIVE@ESNY, located within the Golisano Autism Center, is a collaboration with an amazing team of agencies supporting people with Autism and their families. In the THRIVE program, students of at least high school age who have demonstrated mastery of skillsets on the main Kessler Center campus will have the opportunity to apply and practice these skills for a portion of their school day at the Golisano Center, a setting that is specially designed to ensure student safety and sensory well-being. Some of the skills students will work on include: social-emotional skills; communication skills; community living skills; work-based skills; and recreational skills. Individuals and families utilizing Easter Seals Upstate NY services will also visit the Golisano Autism Center for a variety of Recreational Respite and Community Habilitation activities. THRIVE@ESNY Eligibility: Students of at least high school age who have demonstrated mastery of skillsets on the main Kessler Center campus. Contact: Kessler School and Residential Services (Requires School District Referral) at (585) 957-7206. Visit website
Happiness House
Happiness House Pre School Program: At this location, we offer four classrooms; three special classes, which are non-integrated serving children who require specialized programming and one special class integrated setting; wrap care is offered for our currently enrolled students. Visit our website for more information.
Holy Childhood
Holy Childhood’s Supported Employment Services: Holy Childhood Supported Employment Services staff provides intake assistance for ACCES-VR services for people with autism and intellectual/developmental disabilities. Staff also provides ongoing support to assist those interested in acquiring and maintaining competitive employment. Informational meetings related to job readiness are also provided by the Holy Childhood staff. Visit our website
LIS MindCare – Laurence I. Sugarman, MD, FAAP, ABMH
LIS MindCare, LLC provides assessments, parenting education, and person-centered therapy for individuals and families of all abilities. We also provide professional mentoring, consultation, and conduct training workshops that help clinicians develop their therapeutic communication and mind-body skills such as hypnosis and biofeedback training. Laurence Sugarman is a pediatrician who focusses on person-centered strategies that encourage people to change unhelpful thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, enriching their relationships and wellbeing. He researches, teaches, and writes about health care that helps people learn how to help themselves. Contact by email: LISMindCare@gmail.com
Monroe Housing Collaborative
MHC helps people with disabilities find affordable, accessible housing in the Greater Rochester area. Throughout Monroe County, there is a lack of residential properties that meet the needs of individuals with disabilities®. Using the combined resources of our experienced partners, we create comfortable housing options for members of our community with special requirements. MHC is your local resource — providing useful housing information and expanding residential opportunities for those living with disabilities®. monroehousingcollaborative.org
Prime Care Coordination
Service Path: Prime Care Coordination is a Care Coordination Organization created to help ensure that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities receive the services they need to thrive in their lives. Prime Care offers complete support for each individual, taking the time to really get to know each person and their needs and goals in order to provide a personalized approach to their care coordination. To learn more about how Prime Care Coordination can help you, visit primecareny.org

Provider Path: Prime Care Coordination is a Care Coordination Organization created to help ensure that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities receive the services they need to thrive in their lives. Prime Care offers complete support for each individual, taking the time to really get to know each person and their needs and goals in order to provide a personalized approach to their care coordination. When you join Prime Care, you will be introduced to your Care Manager. Our Care Managers are a diverse group of professionals with decades of combined experience and a wealth of knowledge about the many resources and services available. They get special training, including but not limited to meeting the needs of individuals with autism, to learn all about different ways to help people in the developmental-disability community. Some of our Care Managers speak more than one language. They will be able to assist and talk with you, your family and your support network in a way that is most comfortable for you.

To learn more about how Prime Care Coordination can help you, visit primecareny.org
Resources and Public Benefits Connections (RPBC)
Assists individuals and families to secure public benefits and/or community resources they need in order to take care of themselves and their families. Specialized training in public benefits and work incentive transitional benefits. Key Components: Transitional Benefits Planning; Linkage to community resources and benefit assessment; Family Self-sufficiency planning; Financial literacy Education and Groups For more information contact Michele Eckert 263-2690 x 2125
Rochester Rehabilitation
Rochester Rehabilitation Supported Employment Services: Supported Employment assists people with disabilities to obtain and maintain competitive employment. In continued partnership with New York State's Vocational Rehabilitation (ACCES-VR) program, Supported Employment helps people without jobs to find work, employers to fill vacancies, and employees to adapt to their new environment more quickly and more smoothly than they would alone. Assistance is free and includes: Developing work readiness skills; Individually tailored supervision; Interacting with employers; Job coaching and placement; On-site assistive technology training; Additionally, work-based assessments, ten-day job readiness training programs, internships, direct placement services, and retention support are offered. For more information, call us at 585.263.2690 or visit rochesterrehab.org | Employment Connection | 1357 University Ave. Rochester NY 14607
Room to Bloom
A Special Education Teacher guides the Sensory Sync UP class for 2 hours with help from a Teacher Assistant. Maximum number of children in the group is 6 and based on the individual needs of the children speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy services can be provided during the 2-hour class time. Hands on experiential learning opportunities will be provided in a sensory gym and classroom. Varied sensory experiences (tactile, vestibular) will be available throughout the 2 hours to assist in ‘syncing’ the child’s body to his/her environment. RTB’s aim is to have children experience successful sensory opportunities to best allow growth and learning how to play and socialize. We will provide developmentally appropriate activities based on children’s outcomes and differentiate sensory experiences to ensure success. roomtobloomtherapy.com
SAGE Rochester, LLC.
SAGE, which stands for Support, Advocate, Grow, Educate, provides supports for in the home and community as well as executive functioning coaching and social skills groups for all ages. For general questions regarding services provided, please email us at EmilyCarpenter@SageRochester.com, call us at 585-685-8300 ext. 231 or visit sagerochester.com.

Get Connected

General Inquiries & Family Navigator

(585) 685-8300
info@golisanoautismcenter.org

Golisano Autism Center (GAC) Family Navigator

The GAC Family Navigator provides:

  • Customized support for families living in the Rochester City School District, and all surrounding areas
  • Assistance navigating systems and accessing services available from the collaborative providers located at the Golisano Autism Center and in the community
  • Individualized family information, resources and support

The Family Navigator will help you to provide the best possible outcomes for your child.

Complete an online intake form HERE (one time only) in order for us to better assist you. This will help the Family Navigator have appropriate material and information at hand, and be prepared to speak with you. You will receive an email confirmation with a link to schedule an appointment with a Family Navigator within two business days.

The Autism Helpline - Hours

8AM – 4:30PM, Monday through Friday for any reason
1-866-AUTISM-4
To leave a message after hours, email: HelpLine@GolisanoAutismCenter.org

Autism HelpLine

A collaborative community initiative sponsored by the Golisano Autism Center 1 (866) AUTISM 4

What is it?

Help for people with autism, their families, caregivers, and anyone who has questions about autism. This is a local information and referral service, for callers in the Greater Rochester and surrounding areas.

When to call?

8AM – 4:30PM, Monday through Friday for any reason. To leave a message after hours, email: HelpLine@GolisanoAutismCenter.org

What to expect?

Trained professionals who can help callers find the best source of services, provide directions, appropriate referrals and/or support, as needed, in real time.

Where can I learn more?

The HelpLine offers a broad range of autism related information and support.

Visit

Hours

Golisano Autism Center is open for registered participants of on-site provider programs, or by appointment with an Autism Navigator, Monday through Friday from 8 AM - 4:30 PM with some provider programs hours during evenings and weekends.

All visitors must sign in and out of the facility.

Location

50 Science Parkway, Rochester, NY 14620

Multi-Sensory Learning Environment 3D tour

Experience our state-of-the-art Multi-Sensory Learning Environment by taking a 3D tour!

See the space »

2022 Annual Appeal Sponsors

About the Golisano Autism Center

chart
1 in 44
1 in 44 individuals are diagnosed with autism. About 1 in 6 children aged 3–17 years old in the United States had a developmental disability in 2015-2017.
chart
Friends and Loved Ones
10,000 individuals and families live with an autism diagnosis in Monroe County.
chart
Childhood to Adults*
1,350 school-aged students; 500 are preparing for transition to adulthood.
chart
1 : 1
Each individual with ASD has unique service needs and complex circles of support with few opportunities to collaborate.
chart
8,485 adults have autism*
Autism lasts a LIFETIME. The establishment of a “Center for Autism” will provide comprehensive services across the lifespan of an individual.
chart
Raising Money.
A Multi-Million dollar campaign to build the Center will provide easy access to services desired and needed. A $2.5 million challenge grant will insure the goal is met.
*Specific to Monroe County, NY

Autism Stats

  • The CDC estimates that 1 in 44 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
  • ASD is reported to occur in all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups.
  • ASD is about 4.5 times more common among boys (1 in 27) than among girls (1 in 116).
  • It is estimated that 10,000 individuals live with an autism diagnosis in Monroe County
    • 165 children ages 2 - 5
    • 1,500 school-aged students; approximately 500 of these students preparing for transition to adulthood
    • 8,485 adults with autism
  • About 1 in 6 children aged 3–17 years old in the United States had a developmental disability in 2015-2017, ranging from mild disabilities such as speech and language impairments to serious developmental disabilities, such as intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, and autism.

Vision

The Golisano Autism Center will provide a continuum of services that span a lifetime and offer a full array of coordinated program options for infants, toddlers, youth, teens and adults including: behavioral and primary care supports; respite; community habilitation; social, recreational and therapeutic services; and a housing and employment liaison. Lead partners Al Sigl, AutismUp and CP Rochester will coordinate the addition of other affiliate autism service agencies to be housed at the center.

Timeline

timeline

Founding Partners

Al Sigl, AutismUp and CP Rochester founded the Golisano Autism Center with the mission to provide comprehensive and coordinated autism services, ensure ease of access for families and individuals living with autism, and improve outcomes across all ages and abilities.

AlSigl Center
AutismUp
CP Rochester

Board of Directors

Jeffrey W. Baker
Chair
Sarah Milko
Vice Chair
Mary Walsh Boatfield
Treasurer
Thomas O’Connor
Secretary
Cody Braithwaite
R. Scott Burdett
Betsy Brugg
Eric Gilbert
Brian Meath
John McKenna
Elaine Pina

Thank you

The new Center is named for philanthropist, and Paychex and Golisano Foundation Chairman, Tom Golisano, who announced a matching challenge grant of $2.5 million to help build the Center in 2017. The first major gift toward the challenge came from the Golisano Foundation in the amount of $500,000. The campaign to build the Golisano Autism Center totals $9 million.

Major Donors to Date

  • Tom Golisano
  • Golisano Foundation
  • Brighter Days Foundation
  • Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Council
  • Waldron Rise Foundation
  • Assemblyman Harry Bronson & Congressman Joseph Morelle
  • Fred L. Emerson Foundation, Inc.
  • Paychex Charitable Foundation
  • Ability Partners Foundation/CP Rochester
  • Wegmans Food Markets
  • Al Sigl Community of Agencies
  • Jackie and Bob Sperandio
  • AutismUp
  • Daisy Marquis Jones Foundation
  • Mark Shortino
  • Davenport-Hatch Foundation
  • Karpus Family Foundation
  • Marie Graham
  • Mother Cabrini Health Foundation

In The News

04/15/23 - Spoke Fitness hosts event to benefit Golisano Autism Center 12/23/22 - Rochester Police horses greet children at the Golisano Autism Center 12/22/22 - Santa visits CP Rochester and Golisano Autism Center 09/09/22 - Golisano Autism Center and Oak Hill Country Club Partner to host Golf Clinic for Children 10/01/19 - SWBR celebrates opening of 33,000 s/f Golisano Autism Center in Rochester - New York Real Estate Journal 09/12/19 - Golisano Autism Center celebrates grand opening 09/12/19 - Golisano Autism Center, hub for autism services, celebrates grand opening 09/12/19 - Live video of ribbon cutting ceremony 09/12/19 - Golisano Autism Center Officially Opens in Rochester - Services to Span a Lifetime 09/12/19 - Live Video of Opening Ceremony Remarks - 11a.m. 09/12/19 - Golisano Autism Center opens - Rochester Business Journal 09/12/19 - Golisano Autism Center, hub for autism services, celebrates grand opening - 13WHAM 09/12/19 - New autism center opens in Rochester - WROC TV 09/12/19 - New autism center promises ‘one-stop hub’ for services - WXXI 09/12/19 - Golisano Autism Center grand opening - WHEC TV 10 08/16/19 - Students with autism help prepare for the Golisano Autism Center grand opening 08/16/19 - VIDEO: Golisano Autism Center prepares for grand opening 08/16/19 - Excitement builds as work continues on Golisano Autism Center 06/28/19 - Collaboration fueled creation of Golisano Autism Center 03/29/19 - Groundbreaking for Golisano Autism Center Live Video- 13 WHAM 03/29/19 - Crews break ground on Golisano Autism Center in Rochester - WROC TV 8 03/28/19 - Construction underway for new Golisano Autism Center in Rochester 09/21/18 - Supporting families with autism during a crisis - WXXI Need to Know 10/19/17 - Tom Golisano gives $5 million for new Pediatric Behavioral Health & Wellness Center 05/16/17 - Golisano Autism Center to be Built in Rochester Press Announcement

 

Contact Information

CALL or EMAIL

Caitlyn Stoffle,
Director
cstoffle@golisanoautismcenter.org
Phone: (585) 685-8300

For autism services inquiries and support, contact an Autism Navigator at
info@golisanoautismcenter.org
Phone: (585) 685-8300 x124

For facility operations inquiries and support, contact Cindy LaPorta at
claporta@golisanoautismcenter.org
Phone: (585) 685-8300 x203

VISIT

Golisano Autism Center
50 Science Parkway,
Rochester, NY 14620

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