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HEAL Receives $300,000 in 2016
HEAL Awarded Nearly $145,000 from Dworken & Bernstein Law Firm
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Leslie Weed accepts a check from Howard Bernstein and Pat Perotti.
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HEAL Foundation was among 12 Florida charities to receive $144,958.84 through a distribution of $1.7 million in unclaimed funds. On January 26, HEAL Co-Founder Leslie Weed was presented with a check during a special ceremony in Boyton Beach, Fla.
“We hit the charity lottery, and are very grateful to the law firm of Dworken & Bernstein for selecting HEAL as a recipient,” said Weed. “Autism now strikes one in 45; the need is dire to provide programs and services for the families affected, and these funds will benefit so many with autism throughout Northeast Florida.”
The distribution is the result of the “cy pres” doctrine, which distributes unclaimed class action settlements to charity, rather than giving the money back to the settling defendant. This distribution of more than $1.7 million appears to be the largest state court consumer protection class cy pres in Florida history.
“I plan to spearhead an effort for Florida to adopt the cy pres doctrine so fellow charities may be eligible to receive unclaimed funds as HEAL did,” said Weed.
The money will go towards a multitude of local autism programs, ranging from the arts, sports leagues, summer camps, therapy on horses, iPads in schools, after school programs and service dogs.
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HEAL’s Gala and Golf Successful in Raising Funds for Autism
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Teachers Millie Richardson and Morgan Tyner present an iPad to Autism teacher Kristine Miller.
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HEAL’s Annual Gala & Golf Tournament held at the TPC Sawgrass raised $155,000 for Autism. Guests were treated to a fun evening of delicious food, libations, live music and dancing. A whopping $90,000 was raised during the live auction, which included 6 trips to South Africa, ESPY Awards, Jimmy Buffett in Vegas and 4 catered parties for 50 at Weed’s Fish Camp. A surprise “Bid-From-The-Heart“ for iPads, brought in a stunning $30,000 within minutes.
Dave Lombardo wins a "Stocked Bar" in live auction
Another highlight of the evening was a heartfelt song "Wondering Why,” written and sung by Haley Weed, detailing life growing up with her non-verbal sister Lanier. Hear the song on YouTube.
Bobby Weed’s Golf Gig was held on Dye’s Valley Course. Bloody Marys and breakfast were served on the practice tee before a large field of golfers hit the course. Following golf, participants were treated to awards and lunch in the TPC Clubhouse.
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Apply for Spring Grants Now – Deadline March 21
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Grant Recipient - Henderson Haven "Camp Possible" Summer Camp.
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Thanks to the generosity of our donors, HEAL has granted over $1.4 million dollars to provide over 100 grants for assistance to those affected by Autism throughout Northeast Florida. The HEAL grants impact a huge population of children, teens and adults with autism through schools, specialized summer camps and programs. We are grateful and honored to be aligned with a great outpouring of support, which allows us to continue our mission of serving our Autism Community.
 Grant Recipient HUG - Help Us Golf - Golf Camp at TPC Sawgrass.
HEAL is now accepting grant applications for Spring & Summer camps and recreational activities. These mini grants are capped at $2,500.
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iHEAL – iPads Helping Enrich Autistic Lives
This year, HEAL will also be offering ESE teachers the opportunity to apply for a classroom iPad. The iHEAL initiative – iPads Helping Enrich Autistic Lives – will give teachers enhanced tools to communicate, teach, and reward their students. Teachers, please click here to download the iHEAL application.
If your organization is interested in applying for a HEAL grant, please visit our website to download a grant application. Also listed on our website is a list of previous grants awarded from 2007 to 2015.
The HEAL grant deadline for submission is March 18. Notification of grant results will be announced by April 5.
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Bruster’s Offers $1 Ice Cream for HEAL!
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Register Today! Walk on the Wild Side at the HEAL Zoo Walk - April 24
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Walkers line up for HEAL Zoo Walk for Autism.
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Join forces with HEAL for the HEAL Zoo Walk for Autism on Sunday, April 24, at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. Mark Autism Awareness Month by joining old friends and making new ones at HEAL's annual Zoo Walk. Last April over 1,500 participants supported and raise funds to assist those in our community with Autism. The teams raised over $50,000, with the proceeds going to benefit Autism programs and education on the First Coast.
Tickets for the event are $15 per person ages 13 and up and FREE for kids 12 and under. The ticket purchase allows you to join the HEAL Zoo Walk and enjoy the entire day at the Jacksonville Zoo. Registration opens at 7:30 AM and the walk begins at 8:30 AM.
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HEAL After Party
Immediately following the walk, join Patty Crosby, First Coast News morning anchor, at the "Party with Patty" sponsored by Nimnicht Family of Dealerships. This year Nick Loren will be performing and introducing his children’s book series, Farful Foolong of Oolong Panshoo! The party will take place on the Zoo's Great Lawn and will feature bouncy houses, a climbing wall, face painting, music and more!
The top four fundraising teams will win a prize, and may designate a school, camp or program to receive funds from HEAL:
- 1st Place - $1,000
- 2nd Place - $750
- 3rd Place - $500
- 4th Place - $250
The selected organization or school must fall under the HEAL grant guidelines directly helping those with Autism in our community.
Register and form your team here.
Vendor tables available! Download the application (.docx) have a table at the Great Lawn.
Please email HEAL if you'd like to be a sponsor.
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Upcoming Events in Northeast Florida
| DATE |
EVENT |
| Ongoing |
Social Skills and Support Groups - Dr. Maria Tapia, Licensed Psychologist with the UF/Jacksonville's CARD Program, runs several support groups for adolescents and adults with Asperger's syndrome, as well as for the siblings and mothers. If you are interested in joining any of these groups or gathering additional information, such as date, time and ages, please contact Dr. Tapia at maria.tapia@jax.ufl.edu or 904-633-4330. |
| Ongoing |
Rising Star Baseball - Boys and Girls unable to “shine” with a traditional little league team can have fun with baseball, build self confidence, and make memories and friendships with Rising Star. The cost is free, and siblings are welcome. Practices have already begun, and take place every week at Cornerstone Park off A1A. Visit the website at risingstarsbaseball.org or email Coach Bob at bob_culliton@outlook.com. |
| Mar. 5 |
Special Olympics Duval Summer Games - Start training for this awesome event. Sports offered include Athletics (Track & Field), Soccer, Bocce and Tennis. Must have your medical & consent forms in by January 15, and scores, times and Soccer rosters are due by February 26. Event will be held Saturday, March 5 at the Atlantic Coast High School’s Football Stadium. Call Special Olympics Duval at 904-307-4221 with questions. |
| Mar. 8 |
Sensory Friendly Films: London Has Fallen at 7 PM - AMC & ASA are bringing families an opportunity to go to the movies in a safe accepting environment on a monthly basis. Lights are brought up, sound is turned down, and families may bring their own snacks. Movies are shown at the AMC Regency 24 at the Regency Center Square. All viewings are held at 10 AM or 7 PM. More information. |
| Mar. 9 |
Eighth Annual Autism Symposium at UNF - This event features national Autism experts and will focus on current medical evidence and interventions regarding Autism. Featured speakers include Jeremy Veenstra-VanderWheele, Catherin R. Rice, and Nathan A. Call. The event will be at UNF University Center. Click here for more information. |
| Mar. 11 |
Applications Due: Strategies for Social Success - Social Skills Group with Sportsmanship Theme at Great Strides Rehab, Thursdays from March 24 to May 26. Work on winning and losing gracefully, encouraging teammates, and demonstrating flexibility. This group is geared toward children with Asperger’s, high functioning Autism, or typicially developing children who have social difficulties. Must be able to commit to 10-week session, and be able to participate in a 1:6 therapist to student group. For more information, or to request an application, contact Lauren Gianino at Gianino.saralauren@gmail.com or 770-480-5904. Application is due March 11, first session is March 24. |
| Mar. 12 |
Microsoft Gaming Party - Join CARD at the St. Johns Town Center Microsoft Store for a Xbox party. While children are gaming, parents have a breakout session on internet safety and parental controls. Forty spots available on a first come first servce basis. Contact karen.auger@jax.ufl.edu to RSVP. |
| Mar. 12 |
Sensory Friendly Films: Zootopia at 10 AM - AMC & ASA are bringing families an opportunity to go to the movies in a safe accepting environment on a monthly basis. Lights are brought up, sound is turned down, and families may bring their own snacks. Movies are shown at the AMC Regency 24 at the Regency Center Square. All viewings are held at 10 AM or 7 PM. More information. |
| Mar. 14 |
College Bound - FSCJ: Transitioning to College - First speaker is Rachel Rippey, Project Achieve Coordinator at Florida State College at Jacksonville Campus. Project Achieve is initiative funded by Florida Developmental Disabilities Council that supports students in their pursuit of higher education at Florida State College in Jacksonville. Second speaker is Denise Giarrusso who will review process for students who are transitioning from high school to college. Event will be 5:00 to 6:30 PM. For more information, contact Anne Wilson at anne.wilson@jax.ufl.edu. |
| Mar. 17 |
UF /CARD Annual Spring Fling! - An evening of fun for you and your family, from 5:30 to 8:00 PM with the Easter Bunny! Hunt for eggs, play in the game rooms, have your face painted and make crafts! All at no cost. For more information, contact autumn.mauch@jax.ufl.edu. |
| Mar. 21-25 |
Spring Break Camp with Keystone Behavioral Pediatrics - Journey Around the World 2016 – Camp is 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM. See their website for more information, or contact Matthew Delaney at delaney@keystonebehavioral.com. |
| Mar. 22 |
Sensory Friendly Films: Divergent at 7 PM - AMC & ASA are bringing families an opportunity to go to the movies in a safe accepting environment on a monthly basis. Lights are brought up, sound is turned down, and families may bring their own snacks. Movies are shown at the AMC Regency 24 at the Regency Center Square. All viewings are held at 10 AM or 7 PM. More information. |
| Mar. 24 |
Strategies for Social Success - Social Skills Group with Sportsmanship Theme at Great Strides Rehab, Thursdays from March 24 to May 26. Work on winning and losing gracefully, encouraging teammates, and demonstrating flexibility. This group is geared toward children with Asperger’s, high functioning Autism, or typicially developing children who have social difficulties. Must be able to commit to 10-week session, and be able to participate in a 1:6 therapist to student group. For more information, or to request an application, contact Lauren Gianino at Gianino.saralauren@gmail.com or 770-480-5904. Application is due March 11, first session is March 24. |
| Mar. 26 |
Sensory Friendly Films: Zootopia at 10 AM - AMC & ASA are bringing families an opportunity to go to the movies in a safe accepting environment on a monthly basis. Lights are brought up, sound is turned down, and families may bring their own snacks. Movies are shown at the AMC Regency 24 at the Regency Center Square. All viewings are held at 10 AM or 7 PM. More information. |
| Apr. 5 |
First Coast Autism Support - Charlotte Temple presents “Understanding Social Security Benefits and More” Join First Coast Autism Support for their monthly meeting at Greenland Pines Elementary, 5050 Greenland Road, Jacksonville. Their mission is to connect families raising a child with an Autism Spectrum Disorder so they can share resources, discuss ideas and support each other. There is also a Sibling Support Group for siblings 7-13 years old running at the same time, run by professionals with an understanding of the impact a special needs child can have on a family. For more information, contact Angela.Mann@unf.edu. |
| Apr. 9 |
Sensory Friendly Films: Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice at 10 AM - AMC & ASA are bringing families an opportunity to go to the movies in a safe accepting environment on a monthly basis. Lights are brought up, sound is turned down, and families may bring their own snacks. Movies are shown at the AMC Regency 24 at the Regency Center Square. All viewings are held at 10 AM or 7 PM. More information. |
| Apr. 11 |
First Coast Autism Support Group - This month’s speaker is Chandra Jones, Community Liaison for Jacksonville Health and Transition Services (JaxHats). This workshop is for parents and families who have teenage youth with disabilities and chronic health insurance who want to learn more about JaxHATS and how to utilize their services. RSVP required to attend, register here. |
| Apr. 12 |
Sensory Friendly Films: Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice at 7 PM - AMC & ASA are bringing families an opportunity to go to the movies in a safe accepting environment on a monthly basis. Lights are brought up, sound is turned down, and families may bring their own snacks. Movies are shown at the AMC Regency 24 at the Regency Center Square. All viewings are held at 10 AM or 7 PM. More information. |
| Apr. 14-15 |
Free Two-Day Workshop for Parents with the Jericho School - Teaching Language to Children with Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities. Participants will gain a greater understanding of Applied Behavior Analysis to assist in the acquisition of language skills for children with developmental disabilities. Parking and lunch is included. You must register to participate. Contact Cassandra Tuohy at 904-744-5110 or jerichoschool@yahoo.com. |
| Apr. 23 |
Sensory Friendly Films: The Jungle Book at 10 AM - AMC & ASA are bringing families an opportunity to go to the movies in a safe accepting environment on a monthly basis. Lights are brought up, sound is turned down, and families may bring their own snacks. Movies are shown at the AMC Regency 24 at the Regency Center Square. All viewings are held at 10 AM or 7 PM. More information. |
| Apr. 23 |
Morning Star’s Annual Gala and Silent Auction, “An Evening on the St Johns” - Morning Star School is celebrating 60 years of serving our community. Join them for a special fundraiser at the Haskell Building on Riverside Avenue. Click here for more information. |
| Apr. 24 |
HEAL Zoo Walk for Autism! Registration is now open for the best walk of the year! Start telling your friends and family! See you at the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens for another beautiful walk, after-party, train rides and more! Tickets are still $15 for ages 13 and up! Visit HealAutismNow.org to register and form a team. |
| Apr. 26 |
Sensory Friendly Films: The Huntsman Winter's War at 7 PM - AMC & ASA are bringing families an opportunity to go to the movies in a safe accepting environment on a monthly basis. Lights are brought up, sound is turned down, and families may bring their own snacks. Movies are shown at the AMC Regency 24 at the Regency Center Square. All viewings are held at 10 AM or 7 PM. More information. |
| May 10 |
Sensory Friendly Films: Captain America: Civil War at 7 PM - AMC & ASA are bringing families an opportunity to go to the movies in a safe accepting environment on a monthly basis. Lights are brought up, sound is turned down, and families may bring their own snacks. Movies are shown at the AMC Regency 24 at the Regency Center Square. All viewings are held at 10 AM or 7 PM. More information. |
| May 14 |
Sensory Friendly Films: Captain America: Civil War at 10 AM - AMC & ASA are bringing families an opportunity to go to the movies in a safe accepting environment on a monthly basis. Lights are brought up, sound is turned down, and families may bring their own snacks. Movies are shown at the AMC Regency 24 at the Regency Center Square. All viewings are held at 10 AM or 7 PM. More information. |
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