Though Lise Menard Smith only worked at NECC for a year, the skills she learned during her time here have helped guide her life, which includes raising a son with autism. Now, as a fan-favorite on Netflix's Love on the Spectrum-US, Lise has a platform to advocate for autism acceptance.
Christine Pellerin, MSEd, BCBA, LABA, has the perfect job as the program coordinator for the RISE (Reaching Independence through Supported Employment) program in Shrewsbury. It’s a job she found thanks to her experiences learned over her 12 years working in the residential and vocational departments at NECC.
Across two weeks, NECC parent Mike McKenna drove from Los Angeles to Jupiter Beach, FL, meeting with autism advocates, supporters, and NECC staff alumni along the way. He also raised more than $86,000. McKenna’s drive uncovered heartwarming stories and hard truths about autism such as limited resources, awareness, and staffing.
