ECLC of NJ Opens New PRIDE Center for Adults with Special Needs!

PARSIPPANY - On April 9, ECLC of New Jersey celebrated a big milestone: the opening of a third PRIDE Center for adults with special needs!

"This is more than a ribbon cutting," said PRIDE Director Christina Klimkowski. "It's a reflection of growth, intention, and a deep commitment to the individuals and families we serve. As the need for high quality, meaningful adult programming continues to grow, we recognized that we had a responsibility to grow with it."

ECLC Executive Director Peter Petrou added that Parsippany is a perfect location, offering easy opportunities for community integration. "What makes our clients' experience special is our focus on community-based activities through volunteerism, recreational opportunities, and involvement with local businesses and organizations," said Petrou.

The ceremony also recognized April as Autism Acceptance Month, a time to highlight the abilities of individuals with autism and the need for full acceptance and inclusion.

Klimkowski said, "This program embodies those values. It represents our ongoing effort to create spaces where individuals are supported, respected, and given every opportunity to thrive."

PRIDE started as a small "pilot" program in 2008 to serve graduates of ECLC's schools for students with special needs in Chatham and Ho-Ho-Kus. Today, PRIDE serves nearly 200 adults with special needs across three centers. PRIDE gives clients a chance to learn and grow in a nurturing setting with their peers. Other centers are located in Florham Park and Saddle Brook.

Petrou thanked all those who made the new center possible, including donors, the construction project team, and Board members.

Dignitaries who joined the event included: Mayor Pulkit Desai, Parsippany Council President Judy Hernandez, and Vice President Diya Patel. Abe Polakunnil, Senior Aide, Intergovernmental Affairs, with the Office of Gov. Mikie Sherrill, presented a Proclamation for Autism Awareness Month and a letter congratulating ECLC!

About ECLC of New Jersey

ECLC of New Jersey is an accredited, nonprofit educating students ages 5–21 with autism, Down syndrome, and other disabilities at schools in Chatham and Ho-Ho-Kus. ECLC believes in educating the whole student, placing an equal emphasis on academics and social-emotional learning.

Students are prepared for life as adults through a transition program that starts at age 14, providing opportunities to learn job skills in-house and later venturing out to local workplaces.

When students are in their final year of school, staff from ECLC's affiliate, Community Personnel Services (CPS) eliminate the anxiety and worry of graduation, almost like falling off a cliff that can occur at programs without these services.

Based on skills, abilities and interests, students "job sample" prior to graduation with the goal of identifying the best match. For students who may not be ready for work, CPS arranges tours of alternative programs, including the option of entering PRIDE, if appropriate, or educational programs. CPS staff collaborate with students and families to create a roadmap for success in adulthood.

Learn More

Inquire about scheduling a tour of PRIDE or an ECLC school by sending an email to aduarte@eclcofnj.org.