Upper Montclair Country Cub hosts the Fourth Annual Anthony Fasano in Support of the REED Academy

Giving back always feels good. And at the 4th Annual Anthony Fasano Golf Outing on Monday it also doubled as an opportunity to rub elbows with some NFL stars.

The event supported the REED Academy’s ongoing commitment to autism awareness. The privately funded non-profit school serves children with autism and works with them and their parents to help them reach their fullest potential.

“We want to provide the kids with the skills to gain their greatest independence and the proper training to become contributing members of their families and communities,” said REED Academy founder Donna Sluka. “We got lucky with such a beautiful day today so I’m just happy we get such generous support.”

The weather was phenomenal and made for a perfect May day full of high spirits and light-hearted competition on the picturesque courses at the Upper Montclair Country Club. But it was clear the hundreds of golfers came out to support a cause of great concern to residents of the Garden State.

Currently, autism affects 1 in 150 children nationally, but in New Jersey the rate is 1 in 94 and for boys in our state, it’s 1 in 60.

“Autism affects so many families especially in our state that I was presented with an opportunity to help and it was a no-brainer,” said Miami Dolphins tight end and Verona High School graduate, Anthony Fasano.

Fasano was not the only gridiron celebrity hitting the links. Over 25 of his “co-workers” including Rutgers standout and current Cincinati Bengals running back Brian Leonard, Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Miles Austin and New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck showed up to support the cause and partner up with the other golfers. It made for an interesting time of shared stories and memorable moments, but on the golf course they all were amateurs.

“It’s nice to see everyone come out and we sold it out. It feels great to know I can help out in this way. It’s a huge concern in our state,” said Fasano.

The REED Academy is dedicated to providing children with autism a place where they can receive an education tailored to their specific needs. Their programs cover children from the ages of three to 21.

The Slukas were beaming with excitement and pride watching the great turnout.

“It’s a great day and a great turnout. We don’t ask the government for any funding so we rely on fundraising opportunities and the generous donations of our supporters,” said Michael Sluka.

The tremendous outpouring of funds has allowed the REED Academy to build a new facility in Oakland, New Jersey they plan to open later this year. The facility will provide plenty of space and a perfect setting to provide an exceptional environment conducive to their educational systems.

The event was put together and facilitated by the Upper Montclair Country Club and the Lunar Sports Group. This event was one of many altruistic events the club hosts throughout the golf season. 

“We typically host events on Mondays. It’s a big part of our goal to give back to our community. Today’s event is ne of our bigger events so we’ve got a lot of staff on hands to ensure everyone has a phenomenal experience,” said Assistant Golf Professional Jason Fiore.

The REED Academy will host its 2^nd Annual GO the Distance for Autism Family Bike Event on Saturday May 15. For more information go to www.reedacademy.org/. 

For more information about the Anthony Fasano Foundation, please go to www.anthonyfasanofoundation.com/ and www.lunarsportsgroup.com/.