Did you know that after the age of 22, most state-funded services for autism and 90% of autistic adults, are unemployed or underemployed? You can make a difference.
Luv Micheal is a nonprofit organization dedicated to aiding adults across the autistic spectrum. Luv Micheal raises money for autistic adults and their families, provides housing for autistic adults, and helps provide jobs for autistic individuals, such as making granola or bracelets that are purchasable. The mission of the program is to promote advocacy for those who are autistic and don’t have a voice.
“Luv Michael is a great fundraiser all the way around! Our students learn the importance of giving back and supporting those in our community with Autism, while being able to raise funds for their dance expenses. We’ve had so many great conversations come up while doing this fundraiser and students have shared with us how meaningful it has been for them. Parents love it because there is a lesson in all of it and there is nothing to sell,” said participant, Ms. Shanon Wilson.
The owners of the program are Dr. Liberatore, Dr. Kessaris, and their autistic son, Micheal Kessaris. They were inspired to create this program when they found out their son had a passion for food and the food industry. However, employment opportunities were limited due to his autism diagnosis. They used this program to create a career for their son and others similar to him.
“The best thing about volunteering for Luv Michael is getting to help others!!” said former volunteer Isabelle Dasilva.
Students can volunteer 100% online, starting on a Zoom that gives insight into the program, discusses tasks, and helps volunteers set up a fundraising pages. In the end, students can obtain 40 hours and a senior cord. This can be obtained by sending a letter to three state representatives advocating for autistic change/ awareness, researching any other autism organization, and sending the information to Luv Micheal, and lastly, donating $500. Many individuals who volunteer always feel a sense of joy in doing so.
“Luv Micheal’s program was flexible and meaningful. I earned hours online and felt proud to contribute to such an impactful cause,” said junior and former volunteer, Max.
Individuals can also help others reach their donation goals with custom donation amounts or the ones on the screen. Every donation counts as a shining star of hope for the autistic community. If you would like to aid the mission, you may click the link below to help reach this goal.
