ECLC of New Jersey Walkathon Raises $30,000+ to Support People with Special Needs

ECLC of New Jersey’s first walkathon cruised past all expectations! The event drew 526 walkers, who together raised more than $30,000 for ECLC of New Jersey’s schools and adult services.

On Oct. 23, Brookdale Park in Bloomfield was packed with students, adult clients, families, staff members and other friends of ECLC to make a difference in the lives of people with special needs, including autism, Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities.

Proceeds from the walkathon will directly benefit nearly 800 students and adult clients served by ECLC. “We are overwhelmed by the support of the ECLC family and community members who came out for the walk,” said ECLC Foundation Director Heather Alonge. “Our first ECLC walkathon grew beyond what we imagined. We are so grateful!”

The walk will allow ECLC to offer many extra activities at its special-needs schools in Chatham and Ho-Ho-Kus, including weekend sleepovers, after-school trips, evening basketball clinics, scholarships to graduating students and much more.

The walkathon also sustains adult services. ECLC’s affiliate Community Personnel Services (CPS)helps students transition into the adult world and find jobs in their home communities. The ECLC P.R.I.D.E. Day Program offers students who are not ready for work, a place to continue thriving.

ECLC is excited to recognize the sponsors who supported the event. E&Y signed up as a Gold Starter Sponsor. TD Bank was a Silver Sponsor and J&S AutoHaus Group and the Litinger Family of Short Hills were Bronze level sponsors.

Donations are still being accepted online.

About ECLC

Established in 1970, ECLC is an accredited, nonprofit offering "Education, Careers and Lifelong Community” to children and adults, including those diagnosed with autism, Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities. ECLC operates schools in Chatham and Ho-Ho-Kus, educating nearly 300 students, from ages 5 to 21.

All students graduate ECLC with a clear plan for their future! ECLC offers post-graduate employment services through an affiliate, Community Personnel Services. Employment specialists from CPS help students find meaningful jobs in their communities and provide ongoing support and advocacy in the workplace. ECLC also offers enrollment in the P.R.I.D.E. Adult Program for graduates who are not ready for work. P.R.I.D.E. has centers in Paramus and Florham Park. At P.R.I.D.E., clients choose their daily activities and spend time out in the community every day. They also have opportunities to work through P.R.I.D.E.CO.

Learn more about ECLC.Please call Public Relations Director Amalia Duarte (aduarte@eclcofnj.org or 973-635-1705 X26), to schedule a tour of the schools or adult programs. For more information about the Chatham school, contact Principal Diane Gagliardi (dgagliardi@eclcofnj.org or 973-635-1700).

ECLC is a member of the Alliance of Private Special Education Schools of North Jersey, a coalition of more than 30 state-approved private, special-education schools dedicated to helping parents and educators better understand and access appropriate program options. Learn more about the Alliance.