Nov 9, 2020, Waterbury (CT) Republican American: LARC receives funding for new Autism Resource Center https://community.rep-am.com/2020/11/09/larc-receives-funding-for-new-autism-resource-center/ LARC has been awarded funding of $150,000.00 from the Robert Rosenheim Foundation for the creation and development of an autism resource center in Torrington. The funds will be paid out over three phases in a three-year period. “We are very happy to support the work that the resource center will provide to Litchfield County youth and their families,” noted Michael Samartino, board member of the Robert Rosenheim Foundation…. Each of the three phases will feature different components to address needs of parents, children and young adults. Revisions and adjustments will be made as needed. Phase 1 will establish LARC as a resource for parents whose children have been diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). … Phase 2 will include the launch of a high school program. … Phase 3 will offer comprehensive preparation for employment, assistance with independent living, financial planning and more. The goal is to have Phase 3 fully operational in three years. According to Menard, “we have witnessed over the last several years an increase in the number of children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Though LARC has provided services over the years to individuals with autism in our Transitions, Vocational, Residential and summer camp programs, the agency has not provided a comprehensive program. … “We are excited to be a part of funding this important resource for our community,” said Diane Libby, Robert Rosenheim Foundation board member. …
