TAP Champion in Action Announcement
https://turnto10.com/station/champions-in-action/the-autism-project-honored-as-champion-in-action-for-inclusion-and-equality
Citizens Bank and NBC10 provide $35,000 funding, public relations and volunteer support
PROVIDENCE, RI – The Autism Project, a nonprofit striving for a world where individuals with an Autism Spectrum Disorder are valued participating members of their communities, has been named a 2020 Champion in Action® in the category of Inclusion & Equality. The award, announced jointly by Citizens Bank and NBC10, includes $35,000 in unrestricted funding as well as promotional and volunteer support for the organization’s outstanding work.
The Autism Project was formed by educators and parents more than 20 years ago to learn how to educate students with autism in public schools, to support their families and to raise awareness on creating an inclusive environment for those with an Autism Spectrum Disorder through training, coaching, peer navigation and advocacy.
“We are excited to announce The Autism Project as our Champion in Action for Inclusion & Equity,” said Barbara Cottam, RI Market Executive at Citizens Bank. “It is vital that we create a community where all individuals are able to succeed and The Autism Project is doing just that through the support they provide for those with an Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families.”
Champions in Action is part of Citizens Helping Citizens Strengthen Communities, the bank’s program designed to enhance quality of life and economic vitality in local communities. In partnership with NBC10, the program provides support for nonprofit organizations to recognize their contributions to communities throughout the state.
“The spirit of the Champion in Action award is demonstrated by The Autism Project through the work they do to provided safe, therapeutic spaces for children, teens, young adults, the many professionals who work with them and their families to come and learn, connect, practice and feel supported,” said Vic Vetters, Vice President and General Manager, NBC 10.
“The Autism Project is a ‘Hub of Hope’ that connects people with a spectrum of needs to resources and education that support independent and purposeful lives,” said Joanne Quinn, Executive Director, The Autism Project. “The Champions in Action award will help The Autism Project expand our resources and connect even more people to a network of support.”
To date, the Champions in Action program has awarded 342 nonprofits across the bank’s footprint more than $9 million in contributions and promotional support. In Rhode Island, 54 nonprofits have been honored as Champions in Action, receiving more than $1.5 million.
As a Champion in Action, The Autism Project will receive:
- A $35,000 contribution in unrestricted funds from Citizens Bank;
- Media coverage from NBC 10, including public service announcements and television profiles;
- Volunteer support from Citizens’ colleagues;
- Promotional support highlighting the Champion in Action in Citizens Bank branches;
- Exposure on the Citizens Bank and NBC10 websites.