IGNITE is a program of the Autism Society of North Carolina, with founding support from the Evernham Family-Racing for a Reason Foundation. Fall 2022 • Volume 9, Issue 1
IGNITE Raleigh Has a New Space! IGNITE Raleigh has moved into a new, bigger, better space! This move has allowed IGNITE Raleigh to be open full-time, 35 hours a week as they are no longer sharing space with another program. The expansion also allows for IGNITE Raleigh to serve more members. “It’s bigger than our old space! It’s ours!” says IGNITE Raleigh member Suzanne Spofford. The new space boasts more square feet of open space for group meetings and recreation; a kitchen with a full-sized fridge and loads of cabinet space; an exercise room with a treadmill, elliptical, and stationary bike; a rec room with a ping pong table; a comfy room; and offices for staff. This move was made possible by a generous grant, which also allowed for new chairs, kitchen items, and tables. Members have adjusted well to our new space; with the additional
programming hours, they have more time to connect with peers and make progress on their goals. Grant funds have also been used to purchase passenger vans for IGNITE Raleigh and Davidson. The vans allow staff to transport members to and from programming activities, like walks in parks, disc golf, and volunteering at various locations in the community! For members who do not have readily accessible transportation, the van has opened doors for new opportunities!
IGNITE is a unique ‘peer-to-peer’ community center for young adults with high-functioning autism (HFA) or Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) offering activities, skills training, and educational workshops that foster social, financial, educational, and employment independence for its members. More importantly, IGNITE offers a social environment where members can connect with others and experience a sense of community.
For more information:
www.autismsociety-nc.org/ignite You can donate to IGNITE online or send a check made out to the Autism Society of North Carolina: Attn: IGNITE 5121 Kingdom Way, Suite 100 Raleigh, NC 27607