Community raises more than $290,000
at an unforgettable Summit Gala |
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Our community's support for The Summit Center was on full display at the Summit Gala on Friday, November 7, creating a long-lasting impact.
We are beyond grateful for every guest, sponsor, donor, and volunteer who helped us raise $290,476 and counting, more than any previous Summit fall event. These funds will provide life-changing services for individuals and families across Western New York.
During the evening, philanthropist Tom Golisano was honored with this year’s Hope Award. In September of 2024, Mr. Golisano announced Summit would be receiving a $5 million donation from the Golisano Foundation. This is the largest gift ever made in Summit’s history. Erica Dayton, executive director of the Golisano Foundation, accepted the award on Mr. Golisano’s behalf. A special thank you to co-chairs Tammy and Steve Nicholson and Missy and Gerry Cornish for making this event such an incredible success! To relive the evening, view beautiful photos taken by Tom Burns Photography. |
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Early intervention helps children thrive |
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Research shows that early intervention is a key factor in supporting individuals with autism. The brain is most adaptable in the first few years of life, giving children the best prospects for meaningful progress.
Elijah was diagnosed with autism at the age of two. He was accepted into Summit's Early Autism Program which provides evidence-based therapy to help young children build a solid foundation for learning. Teacher Sara Baker began working with him one-on-one along with Sarah Hausherr, Elijah’s speech therapist. Elijah’s mom shared that the experience was incredibly impactful for her son and for the family.
“They have made every effort to help Elijah and myself overcome every challenge presented to us thus far,” Courtney said. “They've gone above and beyond in every way.” This September, Elijah confidently boarded the school bus to start his first day at Summit’s integrated preschool program. Elijah now has limited speech and can make his needs known.
“Sara and Sarah have always provided reassurance and compassion to us,” Courtney shared. “They have both shown respect to our concerns and never tried to minimize our fears as parents of a special needs child.”
Today, a team of teachers, aides, therapists, and behavior professionals are providing the support Elijah needs to continue building fundamental skills. The progress he has made is a testament to the importance of early intervention and evidence-based methods of instruction. |
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Amherst Chamber recognizes
Summit with Stewardship Award |
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On October 20, Summit CEO Lisa Foti accepted the 2025 Stewardship Award presented at the Amherst Chamber of Commerce’s The Event: Celebrating Business Excellence.
The annual event recognizes businesses and organizations that drive economic growth, innovation, and community impact in the Buffalo Niagara region. The Summit Center was honored for its transformative support services and for empowering individuals with disabilities through advocacy and inclusive programming. Other award winners included Kelton Enterprises, LLC for Business of the Year; Lynne Marie Finn of Broadleaf Results for Woman of Distinction; Lippes Matthias LLP for Commitment to Excellence; and Walsh Insurance for the Family-Owned Business Award. Congratulations to all this year’s winners! |
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Holiday Cheer supports families in need |
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This holiday season, we’re thrilled to share the joy of giving through our annual Holiday Cheer program! Each year, this initiative helps fulfill holiday wishes for families who could use a little extra support, bringing smiles and warmth to those we serve.
You can make a difference by: -
Shopping from our Amazon and Target wish lists.
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Purchasing gifts in-store and dropping them off at reception at any Summit Academy location.
To ensure every gift is wrapped and ready for the holidays, please deliver or drop off items by December 15. Questions? Contact Stacey Chambers at schambers@thesummitcenter.org or 716-629-3462.
Thank you for helping us spread cheer this holiday season! |
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Board member honored for giving back |
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Janice Larson was recognized at the 2025 WNY National Philanthropy Day Luncheon on November 12 for her extraordinary service to The Summit Center and her commitment to uplifting individuals with autism.
Janice is the vice president of Summit’s foundation board. She is recently retired from Rich Products, where she was an active member of the Better Our Community Team comprised of associates who give back to the community through volunteerism. |
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In 2022, Janice joined the Summit Autism Walk committee, and she will take on the role of Walk Chair in 2026. As the foundation board’s vice president, Janice oversees several strategic planning committees and acts as liaison to Summit’s operating board. We are grateful for her time, talents, and dedication to making lives better. |
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December 2: Giving Tuesday
Support The Summit Center on Giving Tuesday, a global day of giving to strengthen the critical work that nonprofit organizations do every day. Make a gift at TheSummitCenter.org/donate. March 20, 2026: WNYRCASD Conference The WNY Regional Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders will host its annual conference entitled Advancing Behavior Support: From Prevention to Treatment. Registration will open in December. |
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The first signs of autism usually appear before age 3. The earliest signs may include poor eye contact, lack of pointing, difficulty in the use or understanding of language, and unusual play or lack of play. Although there is no cure for autism, children can make substantial gains with early intensive intervention. (CDC, 2022) |
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Our Mission
Guided by evidence-based practice, we maximize life success for people facing developmental, social, and behavioral challenges. |
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