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The Grace Foundation of New York has scored a remarkable victory for autism awareness, shattering the Guinness World Record for the most participants in a puzzle assembly event. On World Autism Awareness Day, 2,453 participants gathered to highlight the strength of the Staten Island community in supporting individuals living with autism. Watch the video here https://youtu.be/yf11G7v1_yU
Cathy Del Priore, Executive Director of Grace Foundation, reflected on the significance of the event, “Each puzzle piece assembled today represents our shared commitment to fostering understanding and inclusion for individuals with autism.”
The sight of the puzzle pieces, a universal symbol of autism, demonstrated the unity of the Staten Island community. “It’s a testament to the powerful spirit of unity in our community,” says Dan Ryan, of The Staten Island Media Group.
Local businesses and civic leaders rallied their support for the event, contributing to its success. “As a local business, we’re proud to support such a worthy cause,” says Mike Bloomfield of Tekie Geek.
Brian Licata of Marvel Consults, pointed to the event’s success as a testament to the power of collective effort. “The result – a Guinness World Record – is an affirmation of what can be achieved through meticulous planning and unwavering commitment.”
Local businesses and nonprofits were key contributors. Anthony Rapacciulo from PrCision added, “It’s critical that businesses play a role in fostering inclusivity and understanding.” Massimo DiDonna of Merge Event Solutions, echoed these sentiments. “Today, we didn’t just set a record. We sent a strong message about the importance of inclusion and acceptance.”
Many local companies sponsored schools to send students to the event. Nonprofit organizations including On Your Mark, Eden II, A Very Special Place, The Integrated Athletic Initiative, Crossroads, Community Resources, and Lifestyles for the Disabled were instrumental in the event’s success, emphasizing the collaborative spirit necessary to effect change.
Sal Fabozzi and Anthony Passalacqua from The Integrated Athletic Initiative said, “We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to participate, engage, and excel.”
The World Autism Awareness Day event led by the Grace Foundation serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring further efforts to promote autism awareness and inclusion. The achievement symbolizes a step closer to a society where individuals with autism feel fully accepted and empowered, making it a day to remember.
This milestone in autism awareness is just one puzzle piece in the larger picture. As we continue to foster understanding and acceptance, each piece added brings us one step closer to a society where individuals with autism feel fully accepted and empowered. The Grace Foundation, along with its partners and supporters, has made a profound contribution towards this goal, truly making World Autism Awareness Day a day to remember.
