In Livingston: ‘Shine a Light On Autism’ Raises Awareness, Funds

LIVINGSTON, NJ — The Livingston Advisory Committee for Disabilities (LACD) recently held its annual Shine a Light on Autism ceremony to raise funds and awareness, inviting a lineup of guests to talk about “acceptance and understanding.”

Speakers at the event included Livingston Mayor Ed Meinhardt, Livingston police officer Joy Klapal, and Brynn Alberici, development director of Autism New Jersey. New Jersey Assemblywoman Rosy Bagolie and Livingston council members Al Anthony, Ketan Bhuptani, Shawn Klein and Michael Vieira also supported the cause.

The event highlighted the contributions of student leaders from AYLUS West Essex, a nonprofit youth volunteer organization founded in Livingston. Board members and speakers Zoe Leung, Aily Wei, Jeffrey Yang, Alyssa Zhang, and Vivian Zheng delivered inspiring messages, reinforcing the importance of advocacy and awareness.

Thanks to the collective efforts of the Livingston community, a check for $917—raised through donations collected by Livingston Public Schools—was presented by LACD Chairperson Bob Gebroe to Autism New Jersey during the ceremony, organizers said.

An additional check of $640 is forthcoming, along with donations collected by three other Livingston schools, bringing the community’s total contributions during Autism Awareness Month to well over $1,550, organizers added.

The LACD thanked all those involved in the event.

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Learn more about advertising on Patch here. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.