Pidels Host Party for Linwood Center

Board members Donna and Lowell Pidel recently held a party to unveil plans for an expansion to Linwood Center in Ellicott City.   A capital campaign is underway for a new school building adjacent to Linwood’s historic manor house purchased over 50 years ago by founder Jeanne M. Simons, a pioneer in the field of autism.

Linwood today provides education, employment and residential services for children and adults with autism and related developmental disabilities.  Services for adults include job training and supported employment and a community-based residential program at homes throughout Catonsville, Columbia and Ellicott City. 

Linwood is expanding to meet the needs of the autism population throughout the Central Maryland region.  A new state-of-the-art school will allow Linwood to increase capacity to 70 students and accept younger children as well as middle and high school students. The State of Maryland has invested over $1 million in the project, and other funding is now being sought among local supporters. 

Guests at the Pidels’ party included State Delegate Guy Guzzone and Howard County Council member Courtney Watson, Linwood board members and staff, friends and neighbors. 

Donna Pidel is the Founder/Executive Director of Ballet Royale, and Lowell Pidel is President of Glass and Aluminum Concepts. Their son receives services from Linwood Center.

Enjoying the party were (from l.) Lowell and Donna Pidel and Linwood Center Executive Director Bill Moss.