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The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation

A National Autism Organization: Granting A Future To Adolescents And Adults®

The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation, a 501 (c)(3), all volunteer-run organization, was established to develop, advocate for and support programs through grant awards that enrich the lives of adolescents and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). ASD affects each individual in a different manner but is generally characterized by impairments in social interactions and communication skills. In some people, ASD also affects cognitive, emotional and behavioral functioning. The guiding principle of The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation is to honor the individuality of each person with ASD so that each may participate throughout their lifetime in vocational, recreational, educational and residential opportunities that are suitable, stimulating and sustainable and allow for maximum integration in the community. Quality of life issues, including health and wellness throughout the lifespan, awareness about co-morbid health conditions and the development of positive support systems for adults on the spectrum are an integral part of our mission.

Spotlight on DJF Adult Programs:
"Fun With Friends": The Zabota Foundation's Social Program Thrives Thanks to "Community Seed Grant" from DJF

In 2009, The Daniel Jordan Fiddle Foundation selected a group of organizations to receive grant awards as "seed" money to start a new endeavor or help an existing program grow. The Zabota Foundation, has an established record of working successfully with adults on the spectrum and received funding to launch, "Fun with Friends," a social program developed to give adults on the spectrum the opportunity to practice social skills in community settings. Participants attend monthly Saturday outings that include Broadway shows, restaurants, formal day trips and special events. Trained facilitators guide the participants in appropriate social behavior with the goal of enhancing peer interactions and interactions with community members. "Independence is fostered, choices are encouraged and self-confidence is boosted," said Errol Seltzer, Director of the Zabota Foundation, "and the skills learned are being carried over to the participants' lives outside of the program which is the best result of all."