Dear Laurie,
I joined the board of the Autism Society of Greater Akron (ASGA) in 2016 in what I thought was an altruistic endeavor. The people I have met changed me forever. I am certain I’m a better father today for being a part of this organization. It has brought more meaning to my life than anything I could give back. ~ William (Bill) Lanzinger, M.D., David’s Dad
One Family’s Story of CONNECTION
Bill became involved with ASGA after his son, David, was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). At ASGA, we create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. For 36 years, ASGA has been the connection to many individual and family successes. Our dedicated staff and volunteers open doors to resources and provide education, support, and hope to more than 15,000 people in our service area of Summit, Stark, Medina, Portage and Wayne counties.
Meet Bill’s son, David, who found his voice with ASGA’s Teen Club
David is a junior in high school and has been involved with ASGA, along with his parents, for many years. David learned to ride a bike at ASGA’s iCan Bike Camp, raised money at our Step Into Autism walk and resource fair, and volunteered for events. However, it was his involvement in ASGA’s Teen Social Club that helped David find his voice, leading to a more self-determined life and Autism journey.
ASGA’s Teen Club gave David friendships and confidence
Last year, David admittedly was depressed, anxious and stressed. He didn’t want to go to school and had few friends. One small decision to join ASGA’s Teen Social Club made a big difference for David. It was in Teen Club that he met his friend, Janessa, because of their mutual love of hard rock and heavy metal music; a friendship that is now outside of the club. As friendships grew, so did David’s confidence.
New-found confidence leads to new experiences
David had more confidence at school, too, so when he saw a flyer for a job as the videographer for the junior and varsity football teams, he decided to take a chance and apply. He got the job! What David didn’t expect is that his work with the team also helped to teach the players about respect for people with disabilities, leading to his saying “ I’m just happy being me.”
What’s next for David
David wants to continue to build relationships, listen to music, expand his IT skills, and explore new foods, like his latest pizza creation featuring steak, chicken, and BBQ sauce. Sounds good, David!
You can help make connections for others like David
When you donate, you create connections, empowering individuals like David to live fully. Can we count on you to help us reach our goal of $50,000 to continue to support our Social Clubs and other programs?
Thanks to our Match Partners, you’re doubling your impact!
Every dollar you donate, up to $15,000, will be matched by our generous match partners! Donate NOW to double your gift.
Your donations stay right here to benefit your family, friends, and neighbors in Medina, Portage, Stark, Summit and Wayne county! All donations, large and small, will make an even greater difference.
