Second Annual Olean Area Autism Awareness Rally

Dear concerned citizen and business owner,

I am part of a committee organizing a local fundraiser to raise funds for Olean area families affected by Autism. This committee is made up of parents that have a child with Autism and professionals that work to make a difference in the lives of those affected by Autism.

As you may have seen in the news, the latest CDC research shows that 1 in 150 children are now diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and a staggering 1 in 98 boys. Our rural area has not escaped these statistics. Unfortunately, we have limited access to educational and treatment resources that are available in larger cities.

We still believe that we can make a difference. We are organizing the Second Annual Olean Area Autism Awareness Rally. This event will be held on April 25th from 1-4 PM at Jamestown Community College- Olean. This exciting event will include educational materials about Autism, Autism Awareness materials for purchase, a basket raffle, food and beverages, and children’s entertainment including a “Passport to Autism Awareness!” All proceeds raised from this fun and family oriented event will benefit our local efforts to support families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders. Proceeds from our last Autism Rally helped to establish the Olean Area Autism Resource Library which houses educational books and videos available to parents and professionals.

What can you do to help? We are looking for donations of food, gift certificates, and products to put in our baskets for the Basket Raffle. Cash donations will also be gratefully accepted. Any help of any kind will help to make a difference in the life of a child affected by Autism. All donations are tax-deductible, and all major sponsors will be recognized on our Autism Rally t-shirts. Checks can be made out to “Mental Health Association of Cattaraugus County-Autism Rally” and sent to 502 N. Union St. Olean, NY 14760.

Our theme this year is “Family, Community, and Schools: An integrated partnership for serving children on the Autism Spectrum”. We look forward to partnering with you this year to benefit a great cause.



Sincerely,


Olean Area Autism Awareness Rally Committee Members

Karen O’Dell, Dodi McIntyre, Jodi Mallery

Abigail Abdo, Christie Chesebro, Mary Jermann

Jennifer Kinne, Andrea Oakley-Fisk, Ginger Oyer

Linda Puller, Sheri Rasey, Jennifer Sisson

Lori and Matt Taylor, Leanora Tolsma