Hills Vs. Autism Holds 7th Lacrosse Night

Hills vs. Autism, a non-profit founded by Half Hollow Hills alumni Drew Quinto, held their 7th annual Lacrosse Night event on Wednesday, July 18, to help raise awareness and funds for autism related charities. The lacrosse tournament brought together several varsity, junior varsity and travel club teams to compete in three games each at the athletics fields of Half Hollow Hills High School East.

Proceeds from the event will be used to further the organization’s mission of promoting tolerance and acceptance for children within the autistic spectrum, and to benefit programs that help enhance the social skills of individuals with autism. They are currently working with Com4Care via Adaptations, a program that provides mentors and life coaches to young adults on the spectrum.

“Growing up with an older brother who struggled with a developmental disability, it truly opened my eyes and made me realize that there was a need for socialization programs in the community for children and young adults with autism spectrum disorders,” said Drew. “I feel truly blessed to be able to fund grants that celebrate all individuals and make a positive change in their lives.”

Hills vs. Autism was born as part of Drew’s bar mitzvah in November of 2011, when he had to fulfill the requirement of doing a mitzvah project, or a good deed. Drew had observed his brother Corey, who has a developmental disability, having a difficult time socially and fitting in with others his age. In order to create something that would have a lasting impact, Drew decided to create a foundation that would generate funds through yearly events to help young people with autism reach their full potential.

“The Hills vs. Autism Lacrosse Night helps bring together our adolescents around the important idea that inclusive communities for individuals with disabilities are the norm,” said Dr. Patrick Harrigan, the Half Hollow Hills Superintendent of Schools. “Drew’s initiative helps involve teens in the community, while shaping the way they feel about individual differences.”

Drew added that, “Corey has taught me that anything is possible and any goal is achievable. He is a source of inspiration and I am so proud of all his accomplishments.”

For more information on Hills vs. Autism, or to make a donation, please visit http://www.hillsvsautism.org.

An education-oriented community with high academic expectations, the Half Hollow Hills Central School District is located in a residential area of 50,000 people in the central part of Long Island, approximately 40 miles from New York City. Providing for the education of more than 8,000 students, the school district has five elementary schools, two middle schools and two high schools. Half Hollow Hills High Schools are fully accredited by the New York State Department of Education and the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. The district is committed to providing all students with opportunities to excel in academics, athletics and the arts.