When a Year Is Too Long: NJ Nonprofit Cuts Autism Wait Times

The Uncommon Thread

Across New Jersey, many families wait 9–12 months for an autism diagnostic evaluation, delaying access to therapy during the most critical years of early childhood development. A New Jersey nonprofit, The Uncommon Thread, is working to change that. For nearly 20 years, the organization has supported children with autism and their families. Now it has launched a coordinated 30-Day Pathway designed to move families from initial concern to diagnostic evaluation and evidence-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy in approximately one month whenever possible. This streamlined process supports families, pediatricians, schools, and diagnosing specialists by reducing delays and improving coordination of care. The organization leverages its extensive network of partnering specialists throughout NJ to help secure timely diagnostic evaluations and accelerate access to treatment. The nonprofit is also advancing earlier identification by leveraging EarliPoint, an FDA-cleared eye-tracking diagnostic tool that can detect autism risk as early as 16 months of age with about 90% accuracy. The Uncommon Thread provides early intervention services for children ages 1–5, when therapy can have the greatest impact on language, communication, and long-term developmental outcomes. “The system was never designed to move quickly enough for young children with autism,” said Greg Carr, Founder and Executive Director of The Uncommon Thread. “When families are told to wait six months, nine months, or even a year, that is a time in a child's development they cannot get back. We created the 30-Day Pathway because children cannot afford delays. The earlier we identify and intervene, the greater the opportunity to change the course of a child’s life.” As Autism Awareness Month approaches, the organization hopes to raise awareness about the importance of early identification and timely intervention. For more information contact: earlyanswers@theuncommonthread.org or 908-604-4500.

Union County

New York City Metropolitan Area

New Providence-Berkeley Heights

New Jersey

Across New Jersey, many families wait 9–12 months for an autism diagnostic evaluation, delaying access to therapy during the most critical years of...

Jersey Sports Finder is a comprehensive digital platform ded

Jersey Sports Finder

Jersey Sports Finder is a comprehensive digital platform dedicated to helping fans discover high school, college, and professional sporting events happening throughout New Jersey. By centralizing local schedules in one accessible location, the service makes it easier for residents and visitors to find and attend games across the state. Whether you are looking for Friday night high school football or professional baseball and soccer matches, the platform provides a streamlined way to stay connected to the local sports scene. The service specializes in aggregating verified event data, allowing users to browse a wide variety of sports including baseball, basketball, soccer, and more. Beyond simple event listings, Jersey Sports Finder offers personalized game-day email alerts tailored to the specific sports and teams you follow. This functionality ensures that fans never miss an opportunity to support their favorite local athletes and teams at venues across New Jersey. Users can expect a reliable and user-friendly experience designed to simplify the process of planning a day out at the stadium. By providing timely information and direct access to event details, Jersey Sports Finder serves as an essential resource for anyone looking to engage with the vibrant sports culture in New Jersey.

Essex County

Millburn-Short Hills

Jersey Sports Finder is a comprehensive digital platform dedicated to helping fans discover high school, college, and professional sporting events...

Marlen Elite Dental Wellness is a boutique dental practice l

Marlen Elite Dental Wellness

Marlen Elite Dental Wellness is a boutique dental practice located at 130 Kinderkamack Rd, Suite 306, in River Edge, New Jersey. With over 20 years of experience serving the Bergen County community, the clinic provides specialized care focused on comprehensive smile transformations and restorative dentistry. The practice offers a range of advanced services, including dental implants, dentures, full mouth rehabilitation, and cosmetic smile makeovers. Dr. Martirossian, a graduate of the NYU Doctor of Dental Science program with advanced training from the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Physiological Dentistry, also provides specialized neuromuscular dentistry for TMJ and facial rejuvenation. Patients can expect a personalized, whole-body approach to dental health backed by a reputation as a 2024 NJ Top Dentist. With over 31 five-star reviews and a commitment to cutting-edge technology, the team ensures every treatment plan is tailored to the individual goals and long-term wellness of each patient.

Bergen County

Englewood-Englewood Cliffs

Marlen Elite Dental Wellness is a boutique dental practice located at 130 Kinderkamack Rd, Suite 306, in River Edge, New Jersey. With over 20 years...

Visit our BRAND NEW ReStore in Kenilworth, New Jersey

Habitat for Humanity of Greater Newark ReStore

Discover unbeatable bargains on home goods, flooring, furniture, and more! Shop our ReStore for incredible low prices on quality finds while giving new life to gently used items. Every purchase helps recycle valuable materials, reduce waste, and support our community.

Union

Kenilworth

Discover unbeatable bargains on home goods, flooring, furniture, and more! Shop our ReStore for incredible low prices on quality finds while giving...

WalkWell Shoes is a specialized orthopedic shoe store locate

WalkWell Shoes

WalkWell Shoes is a specialized orthopedic shoe store located at 413 Springfield Avenue in Summit, New Jersey. Serving the community since 2016, the business provides expert footwear solutions for men, women, and children, focusing on comfort and clinical support. The store is staffed by Board Certified Pedorthists who offer professional shoe fitting and fulfill medical prescriptions for complex foot conditions. Their expertise includes providing diabetic therapeutic footwear, custom molded shoes, accommodative inserts, and specialized shoe modifications designed to relieve pressure and improve mobility. They are an authorized retailer for trusted brands such as Dansko, Ecco, and New Balance, and they are a recognized Medicare provider for diabetic footwear. Customers can expect a personalized, clinical approach to footwear that addresses specific issues like plantar fasciitis, bunions, and arthritis. By combining professional pedorthic knowledge with a wide selection of high-quality comfort shoes, WalkWell Shoes ensures that every client receives the support necessary for better foot health.

Summit

WalkWell Shoes is a specialized orthopedic shoe store located at 413 Springfield Avenue in Summit, New Jersey. Serving the community since 2016,...

Luxury Apartments at Cranford’s Hyatt Hills

Fairways at Cranford

Fairways at Cranford is a newly developed luxury apartment community offering modern one- and two-bedroom residences in one of Union County’s most desirable locations. Set alongside the scenic Hyatt Hills Golf Course, the community offers a rare “living on the green” experience—combining peaceful surroundings with convenient access to everything Cranford has to offer. Each residence features thoughtfully designed layouts with contemporary finishes, in-unit washer and dryer, and high-quality appliances. Residents also enjoy a full suite of amenities, including a fitness center, resident lounge, coworking spaces, and professionally maintained outdoor areas. Located just minutes from downtown Cranford, Fairways provides easy access to restaurants, shopping, and NJ Transit service with direct connections to New York City—making it ideal for commuters and those seeking a balance between suburban comfort and urban accessibility. Professionally managed by Greystar, Fairways at Cranford delivers a refined rental experience in a highly sought-after market. Schedule a tour today to experience elevated living at Fairways at Cranford.

Cranford

Fairways at Cranford is a newly developed luxury apartment community offering modern one- and two-bedroom residences in one of Union County’s most...

Insurcomm Restoration

After everything goes wrong, you deserve the confidence and comfort of everything going right. 	 Insurcomm Restoration is your trusted local partner for full-service property damage restoration — from emergency response and mitigation through complete reconstruction, all under one roof. For over 30 years, we've helped homeowners, businesses, municipalities, and insurance carriers recover from water damage, fire and smoke, mold, biohazard incidents, and catastrophic events.	 Our Services: • Water Damage Cleanup &amp; Mitigation • Fire &amp; Smoke Damage Restoration • Mold Remediation • Biohazard &amp; Environmental Cleanup • Contents Cleaning &amp; Restoration • Full Reconstruction &amp; Rebuild • 24/7 Catastrophe Response	 	 Why Insurcomm: • 24/7 Emergency Help Line — fast response when minutes matter • IICRC-Certified Professionals delivering precision craftsmanship • Dedicated project management with a single point of contact • Clear, transparent communication from first notice of loss to final walkthrough • Trusted by national and regional insurers for day-to-day claims and complex losses		 Insurcomm is a Fortify Company, a national property protection platform with 100+ markets nationwide. Locally rooted, nationally backed.		 Call our 24-hour response line: (844) 424-9283

Burlington County

Burlington

Southampton

After everything goes wrong, you deserve the confidence and comfort of everything going right. Insurcomm Restoration is your trusted local partner...

kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and whole-home renovations

Home Concepts Construction

Home Concepts Construction is a professional remodeling contractor based in New Providence, NJ, serving homeowners across northern and central New Jersey. Since 2017, the company has specialized in kitchen, bathroom, basement, and whole-home renovations, focusing on meticulous planning to ensure projects stay on track and within budget. By prioritizing clear communication and detailed preparation, they aim to eliminate the common frustrations often associated with home improvement projects. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including general construction, flooring and drywall installation, framing, and home additions. Their expertise lies in creating functional, high-quality spaces tailored to how a household actually uses their home, with a commitment to using proper materials and proven craftsmanship. Every project is managed with a focus on structural integrity and aesthetic cohesion, ensuring that renovations feel intentional and built to last. Homeowners can expect a transparent experience backed by a written scope and line-itemed budget provided before any deposit is collected. As a licensed and insured contractor (NJ HIC #13VH10078600), Home Concepts Construction provides a single point of contact for project management, handling all necessary permits and inspections to ensure a seamless and stress-free renovation process.

Home Concepts Construction is a professional remodeling contractor based in New Providence, NJ, serving homeowners across northern and central New...

PSE&G

Public Service Electric &amp; Gas Co. is New Jersey’s oldest and largest gas and electric delivery public utility, as well as one of the nation’s largest utilities. PSE&amp;G has won the ReliabilityOne® Award for superior electric system reliability in the Mid-Atlantic region for 24 consecutive years. In 2025, for the fourth consecutive year, J.D. Power named PSE&amp;G number one in customer satisfaction for residential electric service in the East among large utilities.  PSE&amp;G is a subsidiary of Public Service Enterprise Group Inc., (PSEG) (NYSE:PEG), a predominantly regulated infrastructure company named to the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for North America for 17 consecutive years (www.pseg.com).

Somerset County

Alexis Tarrazi

Bridgewater

Public Service Electric & Gas Co. is New Jersey’s oldest and largest gas and electric delivery public utility, as well as one of the nation’s...

Your one stop outdoor company. From grass to pavers.

Lawn-Gevity Landscaping 

Full service lawn care company, in business since 1994.  We do it all lawn care, sprinkler installation and repair, landscape lighting, planting, masonry, pavers, and snow removal.  From design to installation and maintenance.

Scotch Plains-Fanwood

Full service lawn care company, in business since 1994. We do it all lawn care, sprinkler installation and repair, landscape lighting, planting,...

Serving Morris, Somerset, Union, and Essex counties

Picatinny Federal Credit Union

Picatinny Federal Credit Union is a full-service financial partner for individuals and their families who live, work, worship, or learn in Morris, Somerset, Union, and Essex counties. For 85+ years, we’ve been dedicated to helping our members and community thrive. We support members like family and help them navigate financial needs through all stages of life. Since our founding, we’ve reinvested our profits and passed them along to our members, not shareholders. Member-owned and led translates to lower fees, higher savings rates, more conveniences, and better loan terms. Our more than 19,000 members have access to five branch locations, 55,000 fee-free ATMs, and robust 24/7 online banking. Picatinny Federal Credit Union is insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA).

Picatinny Federal Credit Union is a full-service financial partner for individuals and their families who live, work, worship, or learn in Morris,...

Transforming New Jersey Backyards Into Private Oases

The Pool Boss

Based in Wayne, New Jersey, The Pool Boss is an award-winning design and construction firm recognized as one of the "world’s greatest" pool companies and a premier builder in New Jersey. Specializing in rapid, high-quality installations and custom backyard transformations, the company offers elite amenities including fire pits, landscaping, hardscaping, water features, and outdoor kitchens. As an owner-operated company, The Pool Boss is led by founder and CEO Christopher Argenziano, whose hands-on approach ensures accountability and precision for every project. Built on the philosophy that a five-star experience is created by people rather than just plans, The Pool Boss provides bespoke designs tailored to the unique vision and needs of every family.

Basking Ridge

Based in Wayne, New Jersey, The Pool Boss is an award-winning design and construction firm recognized as one of the "world’s greatest" pool...

 Springfield Collectibles

We specialize in selling collectibles, electronics and household items on trusted online marketplaces. With over 8 years of experience, we handle the entire selling process, from listing to delivery, so you don’t have to. Once your items are sold, you get paid. Our goal is to maximize value and get you the best possible return for your items. Turn your items collecting dust into Income with sellers you can trust. 

We specialize in selling collectibles, electronics and household items on trusted online marketplaces. With over 8 years of experience, we handle...

A patient-centered plastic surgery practice

Somerset Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery

Somerset Cosmetic &amp; Reconstructive Surgery, located at 31 Mountain Blvd in Warren, NJ, is a patient-centered practice led by Dr. Matthew Clott. As a board-certified plastic and hand surgeon, Dr. Clott provides expert surgical care focused on restoring both form and function for patients in a professional and supportive environment. The practice is dedicated to delivering high-quality results with an emphasis on safety, precision, and personalized attention. Dr. Clott offers a comprehensive range of aesthetic and reconstructive services, including breast augmentation, reduction, and lifts, as well as tummy tucks and liposuction. Beyond cosmetic enhancements, the practice specializes in reconstructive procedures such as skin cancer excision and reconstruction, alongside expert care for hand and upper extremity conditions. Whether managing complex hand trauma or performing aesthetic body contouring, the clinic utilizes advanced surgical techniques to achieve natural-looking, authentic results tailored to each individual's goals. Patients can expect a compassionate experience where clear communication and detailed planning are prioritized to ensure comfort and effective outcomes. By combining extensive surgical expertise with a commitment to patient well-being, Somerset Cosmetic &amp; Reconstructive Surgery provides a trusted destination for those seeking both restorative and aesthetic care.

Warren

Somerset Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery, located at 31 Mountain Blvd in Warren, NJ, is a patient-centered practice led by Dr. Matthew Clott. As...

<a href="https://www.berkeleyheights.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=510" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Press release from the Berkeley Heights Township:</a> March 10, 2022 Join the members of the Berkeley Heights Police Department for "Coffee with a Cop," on Tuesday, March 15th from 10am-11am at police headquarters, 29 Park Avenue, in the new municipal complex. It's a chance to meet some of Berkeley Heights' finest, to learn about our Community Policing initiatives, and other programs of the BHPD. It's also just a great chance to talk to those who work to keep you safe every day.   <img data-src="https://www.berkeleyheights.gov//ImageRepository/Document?documentId=6417" data-sizes data-srcset /><hr />This press release was produced by <a href="https://www.berkeleyheights.gov/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">the Berkeley Heights Township</a>. The views expressed here are the author's own.

<a href="https://www.berkeleyheights.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=510" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Press release from the Berkeley Heights Township:</a>

March 10, 2022 Join the members of the Berkeley Heights Police Department for "Coffee with a Cop," on Tuesday, March 15th from 10am-11am at police headquarters, 29 Park Avenue, in the new municipal complex. It's a chance to meet some of Berkeley Heights' finest, to learn about our Community Policing initiatives, and other programs of the BHPD. It's also just a great chance to talk to those who work to keep you safe every day.

<img data-src="https://www.berkeleyheights.gov//ImageRepository/Document?documentId=6417" data-sizes data-srcset /><hr />This press release was produced by <a href="https://www.berkeleyheights.gov/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">the Berkeley Heights Township</a>. The views expressed here are the author’s own.

Berkeley Heights Township : Coffee With A Cop...

See the latest announcement from the Berkeley Heights Township.

Berkeley Heights Township : Coffee With A Cop March 15 At BHPD

Politics & Government

Westfield

Springfield

Clark-Garwood

Morris County

Chatham

Watchung-Green Brook

Maplewood

UMC Summit 17 Kent Place Blvd., Summit NJ

Fall Kick-Off Sunday – September 20!
Join us as we launch an exciting new year of worship, and fellowship at the United Methodist Church of Summit!
9:15 AM – Social Skills Class
9:30 AM – Chancel Choir
10:30 AM – Worship Service
10:45 AM – Sunday School Kick-Off (Children begin in worship before being dismissed to their classes.)
11:30 AM – Church Picnic
12:00 PM – Petting Zoo
There's something for everyone! Invite your family, friends, and neighbors as we celebrate the start of a wonderful new season together.

Local Event: Kick-Off Sunday

Kick-Off Sunday

Fall Kick-Off Sunday – September 20!
Join us as we launch an exciting new year of worship, and fellowship at the United...

Meadowbrook Country Day Camp

<h3>Families Can Explore Summer 2027 at the September 26 Open House</h3>
Families thinking ahead to summer 2027 are invited to visit Meadowbrook Country Day Camp during an Open House on Saturday, September 26, from 12–4 p.m. at 73 East Valley Brook Road in Long Valley.
The Open House is by appointment only. Families can reserve a time by emailing <a href="https://null" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">mason@meadowbrookdaycamp.com</a>.
During their visit, prospective camp families will have an opportunity to meet members of Meadowbrook’s leadership team, learn about the camp’s programs and philosophy, and tour its expansive wooded campus.
“There’s no substitute for coming to Meadowbrook, walking the grounds and seeing what makes the camp so special,” said owner Mason Goldberg. “We want families to get a real feel for the community their children can become part of.”
<h2>More Than a Summer Schedule</h2>
Meadowbrook Country Day Camp is an American Camp Association-accredited day camp located on a 50-acre campus in Long Valley. The camp serves children ages 3–15 and offers programming designed to help campers build confidence, independence, friendships and lifelong memories.
At the heart of the Meadowbrook experience are three priorities: family, connection and safety.
Campers become part of a caring, supportive community where they can form meaningful friendships, try new things and develop greater confidence and independence. Meadowbrook also places a strong emphasis on creating an environment where every camper feels safe, supported and included.
The camp’s TIGER core values — Teamwork, Integrity, Generosity, Enthusiasm and Respect — are incorporated throughout the summer, encouraging campers and staff to carry those lessons with them both at camp and beyond.
<h2>A Summer Filled With Possibilities</h2>
No two days at Meadowbrook are exactly alike.
Campers can spend their summers swimming in heated pools, playing sports, boating, mountain biking, taking on ropes and challenge courses, creating art, cooking, dancing, exploring nature and participating in special events and themed activities.
The variety allows children to enjoy the activities they already love while also discovering new interests and challenging themselves in new ways.
Older campers can also participate in travel programs that combine time at Meadowbrook with off-site adventures and experiences.
And while the activities are a big part of camp, the friendships and memories children create along the way are often what stay with them the longest.
<h2>Convenience for Busy Families</h2>
Meadowbrook also offers features designed to make summer easier for parents.
The camp provides door-to-door bus transportation throughout many North Jersey communities, with routes serving areas throughout Morris, Essex, Union, Sussex, Warren, Hunterdon, Middlesex and Somerset counties.
Before-care and after-care are also available, and lunch is served daily.
Another feature appreciated by Meadowbrook families is that staff tips are included in tuition, eliminating an additional end-of-summer expense.
<h2>A Place Kids Want to Come Back To</h2>
For Goldberg, whose own children have attended Meadowbrook, creating a successful camp experience goes far beyond filling a child’s day with activities.
The goal is to give campers a place where they feel known, supported and excited to return each morning.
Over the course of a summer, children have opportunities to become more independent, build confidence, develop friendships and experience the traditions and moments that make camp memorable.
Those experiences can become part of a child’s story long after the summer ends.
<h2>Plan Your Visit</h2>
Families interested in learning more about Summer 2027 can attend Meadowbrook Country Day Camp’s Open House on:
Saturday, September 26 
12–4 p.m. 
By appointment only
To RSVP, email <a href="https://null" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">mason@meadowbrookdaycamp.com</a>.
Meadowbrook Country Day Camp 
73 East Valley Brook Road 
Long Valley, NJ 07853 
MeadowbrookDayCamp.com

Local Event: A World of Memories Begins at Meadowbrook Country Day Camp

West Orange

A World of Memories Begins at Meadowbrook...

Families Can Explore Summer 2027 at the September 26 Open House
Families thinking ahead to summer 2027 are invited to visit...

A World of Memories Begins at Meadowbrook Country Day Camp

Join us for a day of furry friends, community, and the opportunity to help pets in need find loving homes! On Sunday, September 27th, we are hosting our 6th Annual Pet Adoption Day (from 11am-3pm) at our Elmwood Park Financial Center at 680 River Drive, Elmwood Park NJ. Five local rescue organizations will be bringing their adoptable pets to the Financial Center parking lot to find their fur-ever homes! There will also be refreshments, food and giveaways. We hope to see you there!

Local Event: Spencer Savings Bank Hosts Pet Adoption Day

Elmwood Park

Spencer Savings Bank Hosts Pet Adoption Day

Join us for a day of furry friends, community, and the opportunity to help pets in need find loving homes! On Sunday, September...

🌱 Patch AM: How New Providence’s Pioneers...

You won’t want to miss Kick-Off Sunday on the New Providence Patch calendar

🌱 Patch AM: How New Providence’s Pioneers dominated Metuchen to stay undefeated.

Community Corner

Ocean County

Toms River

1 Killed As SUV Crashes Into Outdoor Diners At...

Seven people were injured after the driver of the SUV hit the accelerator instead of the brake while parking, police said. 

1 Killed As SUV Crashes Into Outdoor Diners At Lavallette Restaurant, Police Say

1 Killed As SUV Crashes Into Outdoor Diners At Jersey Shore Restaurant

Crime & Safety

Fugitive ID'd In Fatal Shooting At Wawa In Toms...

The victim has been identified as a 42-year-old Toms River man, the prosecutor's office said. 

Fugitive ID'd In Fatal Shooting At Wawa In Toms River, Prosecutor Says

NJ Wawa Shooting Suspect Identified, Prosecutor Says

Fugitive ID'd In Fatal Shooting At Wawa At The Jersey Shore, Prosecutor Says

🌱 Patch AM: Meet the New Providence sophomore...

And on the New Providence Patch calendar - Tremendous Office Furniture Warehouse Liquidation Sale

🌱 Patch AM: Meet the New Providence sophomore dominating first singles this season

Across America

Listeria Concerns Reported with Walmart Pasta...

Recalls also include hand soap that may be contaminated with bacteria, electric blankets and heating pads responsible for dozens of burns.

Nearby Communities

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