ImpactA NEWSLETTER FOR FRIENDS, FAMILIES AND SUPPORTERS OF THE LEARNING TREE New Mobile Location Announced From its unassuming beginnings, The Learning Tree, Inc. has grown into playing a significant role of educating some of the most severely impacted children in Alabama, now serving more than 600 children. Since 1983 programs have operated at the Lott Road location in Semmes. Early in 2017 their business offices and educational, residential, and nursing programs will move to a new location adjacent to their schools on Able Court in West Mobile. The new location includes four office/warehouse buildings totaling 15,190 sq. ft. The anticipated move will provide additional space for existing programs and allow for future expansion. “Locating close to Woody’s Song School on Able Court will have a significant impact on the the efficiency of our operations, said Dr. Marc Williams,” Executive Director. Nathan Handmacher with Stirling Properties in Mobile managed the sale of the property.
Architectural plans are in progress for the necessary renovations to accommodate the planned use of the buildings. “This is an opportunity to design the space according to what we need to best serve the children, rather than just adapting our work to the space,” added Williams. Woody’s Song School will also be incorporated in to the plans, i.e. adding a walkway between the buildings and other related projects. Plans for a capital campaign will be released soon that will include the purchase of the building, provide for the renovations, new equipment and furnishings, and landscaping. “We are hopeful the Mobile community and surrounding service areas will embrace this exciting project and the campaign that will financially support it,” said Sheila Sears, Director Mobile Campus Master Plan of Resource Development. Legacy gifts, securities, real estate and cash donations will all be welcomed. Naming opportunities will also be available as the plan is developed. For information about how to make a pledge or donation please call or text Teresa Atkins at 251- 331-2633 or email her at [email protected]. •
Mobile Floor Plan
WINTER 2016 ISSUE: New Mobile Location • Chip in for Autism • Regional News • Honor Roll Winter 2016 http://www.learning-tree.org Message from the Executive Director, Established in 1983, The Learning 6th Annual “Chip in for Autism” Tree, Inc. is a nonprofit organization Dr. Marc Williams: dedicated to children and adolescents with significant educational, medical, A new year is ahead and we are on course for an exciting new The 6th Annual “Chip in for Autism” Golf Tournament benefitting Woody’s Song School had a record- and behavioral challenges; helping them venture. As previously noted, we are moving the Lott Rd. programs breaking year. The tournament raised over $36,000 with close to 100 golfers. The event, sponsored by HPC develop and maintain a quality of life and business offices to a new location on Able Court next door to Specialty Pharmacy, kicked off with a shotgun start on Friday, October 21st at Azalea City Golf Club. Each year, expected by non-disabled members of their family and community. Woody’s Song School. This move will provide a much improved Cindy Fulford, mom to students Sam and Cale, devotes her life to this event. This event would not be possible space for our children in the residential program, clinical services, without Cindy and all of the families at Woody’s Song School who work tirelessly to make sure the tournament is The Learning Tree, Inc. and its programs and a number of administrative offices. Woody’s Song School a success. After a beautiful day on the links, the golfers were treated to dinner courtesy of Naman’s Catering and admits students of any race, color, and improvements are also part of the plan. national or ethnic origin. a host of prizes. Many thanks to title sponsor, HPC Pharmacy and to all of the other sponsors for their generosity. Chip in for Autism is the only event that solely benefits Woody’s Song School. The Learning Tree is governed by a This fall we welcomed two new members to our board of volunteer board of directors, represen- directors – Ms. Angie Coon from Greenville, Alabama and Mr. Alan Taunton from Tallassee, tative of the primary service areas in the Alabama. We are very pleased to have them on board. As always, I sincerely appreciate the Hole Sponsors State of Alabama. support of our board, parents, and the conscientious work of our staff across the state. We also Altapointe Health Systems Tim Andrews Board of Directors want to thank you, our donors, for your support of our special events through your donations, Paul Bartels Dr. John Caldwell sponsorships, and participation. If you are considering year-end contributions, please remember Angie Coon Bella Bridesmaid Katie Dougherty our building project and programs. Happy holidays! Tony Benefiel Nathan Handmacher Broadway South Dance Allison Kendall In other news with regard to our employees. . . Studio Rachel Byers Dr. Sam Perna • Sympathy is extended to Erin Wofford in the death of her father Wesley Wofford, and to Title Sponsor Dr. Marcia Rossi The Chatham Family Alan Taunton Maxine Sandlin in the death of her husband Charles Sandlin. HPC Specialty Pharmacy Jean Cieutat Dr. Jim Siders Citrin, Rihner & Gupta • We celebrate Teena Norton’s 23 years of employment with The Learning Tree in Jacksonville. Gold Sponsors Clark’s Kitchen & Catering Pictured L to R: Jeff Spiller, Hank Hayes, Shelby Windham & Randy Eckhoff This newsletter is published by The • Jules Starr now fills a new role as the Coordinator of Regional Education Services. Dr. Kenneth Ellingwood Dance Without Limits Learning Tree, Resource Development • Christy McSpadden and Kim Turner have assumed the role of Assistants to the Coordinator of Nicholas Insulation Services Dennis McLaughlin Department compiled and distributed David Dye by coordinating offices located in these Regional Education Services. Silver Sponsors Edward Jones Investments Alabama cities: Anniston/Jacksonville, • Valerie Mitchell has moved to the Mobile region as the Assistant to the Regional Director. Baker Donelson Shirley Eiland Auburn/Tallassee, and Mobile. Cottage Hill Civitan Club Philip Epstein • Steven Tillery is a new training Coordinator in Tallassee. Express Oil Change & Tire The Learning Tree, Inc. C Spire • Siobhan Washington is a new Quality Monitor in Tallassee. Firetrol Protection Services Engineers Administrative Office The Forsman Family 101 S. Dubois Street • Erin Jennings is a new Clinical Coordinator Assistant in Jacksonville. Gulf Coast Surgical Specialists, Inc. Hargrove Engineers + PO Box 780639 • Nicole Dieckow recently successfully completed an Iron Man in Panama City, Florida. Constructors Hancock Bank Tallassee, AL 36078 Harper Technologies, LLC • The Anniston Preschool employees recently donated their personal time to assist TOP Soccer, Jones Walker, LLC 334-252-0025 The Houston Jones Fan Club a special needs soccer course for the children of the community. The Reed Mattingly Family Executive Director Mark & Annette Jones • Brittney Lockhart is the new Assistant to Regional Director in Tallassee. Mobile Premier Pediatric Don & Diane Kennedy L to R: Scott Jordan, Jim Neal, Earle King and Jimmy Miller Dr. Marc Williams Dentistry • Jessica Zavac is Assistant to Preschool Director in Auburn. The Kyser Family Regional Director-Anniston/Jacksonville Greg, Judy, Andy & Kevin Little Tree Preschool Pat Murphy • Kerrianne Castleberry, Mobile Regional Director and Junior League member participated in Sykes Lyon Fry Cadden Insurance the Junior League’s “Done in a Day” painting program at the preschool. WS Foundation The McLaughlin Family Regional Director-Auburn/Tallassee New Horizons Credit Union Bronze Sponsors Whitney Hester Sean Nicholas Butch Barker – Team Sports Casey Porter & Keith Regional Director-Mobile Brindlee Mountain Fire Kerrianne Castleberry Anonymous Donation to Woody’s Song Culpepper Apparatus Sears and Sears Law Firm Operations Director The Dozier Family Simply Sheets Ben Rogers The Harty/Carpenter Group – Stirling Properties A donation of over $111,000 was recently made to Woody’s Song School by a donor that Merrill Lynch Dr. and Mrs. John Stone Resource Development Director wishes to remain anonymous. The generous donation was designated for transportation for the school The Iqbal Family The Strickland Family Sheila Sears and to set up a scholarship fund for families in need. A 26 passenger bus was purchased from a local Regions Bank Dr. Hanes Swingle The Mattingly Family Russell, Thompson, Butler & Ellen Taylor Member of the Alabama Autism Provid- church earlier this year. The bus will be used for school related travel including field trips. “In the Houston Dr. Linda Tenhundfeld ers Network Collaborating, Advocating past we have had to share other agency vans,” Jules Starr, Program Director explained. “The new bus Smith, Dukes & Buckalew USA Psychology Department and Caring for People with ASD will be much more safe and efficient when we are traveling round the community with the students.” Bryan Sykes & Suzanne Deborah Walker www.al-autismproviders.net Rastani Zaxby’s The scholarship program is being The Starr Family Zebra Marketing Zoghby’s Uniforms developed to help provide assistance Willis Towers Watson to families who are experiencing a temporary financial hardship. This support Woody’s Song School in Mobile opened in 2009 will ensure that students are able to FACT! serving 8 children. continue in the program without concern Today more than 26 children are served each year. about changes in their financial status. Keith Castleberry pictured with Mobile Regional Director, Kerrianne Castleberry 2 3 Angling for Autism Fishing Tournament AmazonSmile! The third annual Angling for Autism fishing tournament was a big succcess, held November 12th at Wind Creek State Park in Alexander City. Sixty-three boats registered bright an early that morning in hopes to win the top prize of $1,500. Ten places were paid out and a big fish pot with a 70/30 split. There was also a $100 prize for the top parent/child team and a $100 prize for the top male/female team. The top winner was Brandon Pritchard and Adam Roberts with the top weight of 14.38lbs. They also won the second big fish pot. Second place went to Chad Miller and Chris Miller with 13.74lbs. They also won the first big fish. Third place went to Felton Langley. Fourth place went to Erick Sommers and Tommy Pegues. Fifth place went to George Breland and Jeremy Philliber. Sixth Place went to Mike Keel and Mike McCullars. Seventh place went to Steven Ingram. Shop at AmazonSmile this holiday season and Amazon makes a donation to The Learning Tree! Eighth place went to Ryan Stewart and David Swatts. Ninth place went to Todd Mote and David Carlisle and tenth place went to Hank Golden and Hulan Mattox. The prize for top male/female team went to Danny and Helen What is AmazonSmile? AmazonSmile is a simple and automatic way for you to support The Learning Tree every Pollard. The prize for top parent/child went to John and Katie Pollard. Dallas Weldon managed the weigh in this time you shop, at no cost to you. When you shop at smile.amazon.com, with every purchase Amazon will donate year and was there bright and early to check live wells, and a portion of the purchase price to The Learning Tree! “blasted off” the boaters at safe daylight. Also there early that morning to help was Brittney Lockhart and Whitney How much of my purchase does Amazon donate? The AmazonSmile Foundation will donate 0.5% of the purchase Hester. That afternoon Jeffrey Dennis, Allen Meadows, Cory price from your eligible AmazonSmile purchases. The purchase price is the amount paid for the item minus any Hammonds, Ashley Hammonds and Lucy Johnson helped rebates and excluding shipping & handling, gift-wrapping fees, taxes, or service charges. out with the weigh in. April Rapp was there too taking Can I receive a tax deduction for amounts donated from my purchases on AmazonSmile? Donations are made by the photos. AmazonSmile Foundation and are not tax deductible by you. Go to smile.amazon.com today!!! MANY THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS: Bama Budweiser AES Industries Pictured L to R: Brandon Pritchard, Tallassee True Value Stephanie Weldon and Adam Roberts Lyon, Fry, Cadden Insurance PrimeSouth Bank A.M.P.S. E&I, Inc. Tallassee Jeffcoat-Trant, Inc. Tallassee Automotive Freedom Logistics Tallassee Rehab Tallassee Kiwanis Club
Top male/female pictured L to R: Danny Pollard, Helen Pollard, and Stephanie Weldon State Employees Families and Friends! Friends and families who are employed by the state may now designate their Combined Charitable Campaign donations to The Learning Tree. The Alabama State Employee Combined FACT! Charitable Campaign accepted The Learning Tree for Consultation & Outreach Services participation in the 2016 campaign. The 2016 Campaign Students Served: 220 began August 24th and will conclude December 31st, with School Districts Served: 78 pledged contributions actually beginning in January 2017. The first disbursements will be made beginning April 2017. www. Teacher Training: 213 hours statecombinedcampaign.org Individualized Consultation: 2,829 hours
Kids watching the fish being released Pictured L to R: Stephanie Weldon, Katie Pollard and John Pollard
4 5 Statewide Support Continues to Grow Memorials & Honorariums The Learning Tree is grateful for the support of local and state foundations and business and government support from across the state. Thank you to the following for their support in 2016 to date: To make a donation in memory of a loved one or to honor a special event in someone’s life please contact the Resource • An anonymous gift was made to Woody’s Song School to purchase a new van for the school and establish Development Coordinator in your region. We will mail a professionally designed card to the family for a memorial or a scholarship fund. to the individual being honored. Donors will receive a thank you letter for the donation and acknowledging the card • Festival of Children Foundation awarded $5,000 as the Founder’s Choice through the 2016 NCAM Talent has been mailed. Memorials and honorariums will also be listed in the newsletter and on The Learning Tree website. To Challenge. coordinate the cards please contact your regional development office: • $25,650 in funding for applied behavioral analysis services for the Anniston Preschool was made possible by a grant from the Stringfellow fund of the Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama. Auburn/Tallassee • Honda Manufacturing of Alabama gave $2,400 in support of the Anniston Preschool. Stephanie Weldon at 334.415.9372 or [email protected] • Tyler Union Foundry of Anniston, Alabama donated $2,500 in support of the Anniston Preschool. Anniston/Tallassee • The Darr Foundation awarded a $15,000 grant to the Anniston Preschool. Erica Brown at 256.490.1648 or [email protected] • Walmart Community Foundation awarded a $2,000 grant to the Auburn Preschool. Mobile • The Junior League of Lee County gave $1,082 to purchase 3 large size Angeles SilverRider Trikes for the Auburn Preschool. Teresa Atkins at 251.331.2633 or [email protected] • Alabama Department of Environmental Management contributed $25,000 to upgrade and resurface the basketball court at Tallassee’s Residential School.
• Poarch Creek Indians $1,000 for playground improvements for theTallassee School. Please see the sample card below highlighting the text and format used. • The Daniel Foundation of Alabama granted $15,000 to upgrade technology and security at Woody’s Song School in Mobile. • The Treadwell Foundation awarded $15,000 to support Kilborn Kids, a Mobile scouting program for Woody’s Song School and the Residential School in Mobile. • The A.S. Mitchell Foundation contributed $5,000 toward adding a new teacher’s position at Woody’s Song School in Mobile. • The Hearin-Chandler Foundation awarded $5,000 toward the installation of a splash pad at Woody’s Song School. • The Catranis Family Foundation donated $2,000 for iPads and bicycles for Woody’s Song School. A donation has been made to e Learning Tree in memory of A donation has been made to e Learning Tree in memory of • The Caring Foundation of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama donated $2,500 to Woody’s Song School for general support. by by
Insert Donor Name Insert Donor Name and Address and Address Here Here
Established in 1983, e Learning Tree is a nonpro t organization dedicated to serving children with developmental Established in 1983, e Learning Tree is a nonpro t organization dedicated to serving children with developmental disabilities, including autism. Educational, residential, and support services are helping children learn and grow. disabilities, including autism. Educational, residential, and support services are helping children learn and grow. For more information about e Learning Tree please visit our website at www.learning-tree.org. For more information about e Learning Tree please visit our website at www.learning-tree.org.
An acknowledgment has been mailed to the donor. An acknowledgment has been mailed to the donor.
6 7
A donation has been made to e Learning Tree in memory of A donation has been made to e Learning Tree in memory of by by
Insert Donor Name Insert Donor Name and Address and Address Here Here
Established in 1983, e Learning Tree is a nonpro t organization dedicated to serving children with developmental Established in 1983, e Learning Tree is a nonpro t organization dedicated to serving children with developmental disabilities, including autism. Educational, residential, and support services are helping children learn and grow. disabilities, including autism. Educational, residential, and support services are helping children learn and grow. For more information about e Learning Tree please visit our website at www.learning-tree.org. For more information about e Learning Tree please visit our website at www.learning-tree.org.
An acknowledgment has been mailed to the donor. An acknowledgment has been mailed to the donor. AUBURN/TALLASSEE REGION AUBURN/TALLASSEE REGION Number of children enrolled FACT! Three Graduations at Tallassee School Lake Martin Area United Way Campaign Kick-off The first annual “Chip in for Children” in our Preschool Services: Golf Tournament Families, staff and community guests attended the graduation The Lake Martin Area United Way held their kick-off meeting on ceremony for three Tallassee students, Patrick, Katie and Riley. The Tallassee residential school and the Little H.A.P.I.E. Tree August 30th at the Betty Carroll Graham building on the cam- Anniston, 19 Auburn, 48 Mobile, 34 Pictures highlighting each graduate and their years at the school Preschool held the first “Chip in for Children” golf tournament pus of Central Alabama Community College. Agencies provided decorated the gym. The direct care staff that had worked closely on June 21st at the Auburn University Club. We had 7 teams exhibits and shared information. “Picture a Brighter Future” was with the graduates, shared wonderful tributes and memories with to come out on this nice summer morning. The winners were Junior League of Lee County gives Tricycles the theme of the meeting. Each agency was asked to decorate the crowd. Katie’s housemates even sang her a song to honor as follows; first place was Primesouth Bank, second place was The Junior League of Lee County provided funds for six new a picture frame to represent their organization. The residential her accomplishments. After the ceremony, everyone enjoyed Milner Electric and third place went to Southern Controls. We tricycles for the children at The Little HAPIE Tree Preschool in school in Tallassee decorated a white picture frame with brightly refreshments. Good luck graduates! would like to thank all of our golfers for coming out to play. Auburn. More than 48 children are benefitting from the new painted wooden puzzle pieces attached. Prizes were given for We would also like to thank our sponsors because without trikes and are having a blast! Outdoor exercise is so good for the best frames and table decorations. Whitney Hester, Regional them this wouldn’t have taken place. Our Gold Sponsor was the kids, we sincerely appreciate this helpful donation,” said Director and Stephanie Weldon, Resource Development Coor- Hyundai of Auburn. Our lunch sponsors were Lumpkin Pest April Rapp, Program Director.” dinator represented The Learning Tree along with students. The Management, Tallassee Rotary Club and Trustmark Bank. students worked at the booth handing out candy and talking to Our hole sponsors were Sizemore and Sizemore, Dilworth The Junior League of Lee County, Inc., is an organization of folks about their school. Development, Guardian Credit Union, BTS & Associates, and women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the Publix. Panera Bread furnished the pastries, bagels and potential of women, and improving the community through cookies for breakfast. Publix furnished the snacks, water and the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its gator-aide and Premium Beverages provided drinks. purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.
The Liles family with Riley
New Basketball Court at Tallassee School SAVE THE DATE FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017 The Alabama Department of Environmental Management approved funding for over $25,000 through the Elmore County 1st place – Primesouth Bank L-R; Todd Mote, Michael Dalton, Jimmy Monk, and Larry Coker Commission to resurface the basketball court at the Tallassee residential school on Dubois Street. A process using recycled tires was used for the mulch. A special thanks to Commissioner Trey Taylor for leading the effort.
Katie with teacher Crystal Jamal sharing memories of Patrick
FACT! United Way Support
United Way of East Central Alabama
2nd Place – Milner Electric L-R; 3rd Place – Southern Controls L-R; Lake Martin United Way Phil Spear, Brent Milner and Derrick Grooms, Stephanie Weldon Stephanie Weldon. Not pictured, and David Hart. Not pictured, United Way of Southwest Alabama Bruce Dean and Jim Harwick Daniel McGhee and Chris Coan. at Lazenby Farms
8 9 ANNISTON/JACKSONVILLE REGION ANNISTON/JACKSONVILLE REGION
Run for HOPE 5k/10k Jax Students Compete Congratulations Jacksonville Graduates! In November The Little Tree Preschool in Anniston celebrated The 2016 Paralympic Summer Games Graduation almost always creates feelings of happiness and Baron’s Sponsor several patriotic days, including the Presidential Election Day, in Rio de Janeiro was held in September yet some sadness. At The Learning Tree the children are Autism Day Veteran’s Day, Marine Birthday, and World Freedom Day; highlighting over 280 USA athletes. In celebrated for their accomplishments as they prepare for An annual event day, the teaching children that first responders and military are our the 1976 Summer Games, athletes with their next step in life. The sadness comes when one realizes 3rd annual Autism Friendly friends. a variety of disabilities were included for that the children you have come to love and helped grow Baron’s game at Region’s the first time. In 2016 over 4,000 athletes are now adults and are moving on in life. In September five Field in Birmingham was “We Run Free Because of the Brave”, Run for HOPE 5k/10k competed from over 170 nations. students graduated from the Jacksonville residential school against the Pensacola Blue started at 8 am at The Little Tree Preschool on Fort McClellan, campus. Patricia Murphy, Regional Director, led the graduation Wahoos. The Learning Tree joined ten other non-profits that saluting all military, veterans, and first responders. There The Jacksonville school ceremony recognizing each student and presenting them with serve individuals with special needs from across Alabama. were police cars, fire trucks, and a surprise helicopter visit. campus celebrated the a diploma. Family and community friends cheered as the Many thanks to all sponsors including Jefferson’s of Oxford, Paralympics by hosting graduates “walked the stage”. A special luncheon was catered The event was an opportunity for families and their children Kirkpatrick’s Contracting, America’s First Credit Union, Panera their own games. The by the cafeteria staff with a personalized cake and cupcakes for with special needs to enjoy a day at the ballpark. The game Bread, Buffalo Rock, Ace Hardware, Road ID, the Comer family, entire experience was each student. day included calming stations and decreased noise through and the Edmondson family. Panera Bread and Buffalo Rock set up on campus for all the stadium sound system. The mascots were located in a provided post-race refreshments. Awards were presented to top of the students to enjoy, designated area where the children could approach them male and female overall runners, and different age groups in including a Paralympic on their own time to prevent the costumes from being both 5k and 10k. torch relay and an overwhelming. opening ceremony. Each day students and staff participated in multiple events. The Games included the longest trampoline jump time, FACT! More than 100 children & adolescents corn hole, ring toss, long jump, relay races, and swimming were served this year through our events. The week ended with a closing ceremony. The event residential program and community based was also a learning experience for the students on Olympic schools. history and how it operated. Students made their own t-shirts representing their Olympic teams. The teams included Team Currently enrolled in Jacksonville – 36, Yellow (Mrs. Jessica’s Class), Team Africa (Nicole/Shadericka’s Tallassee – 34, and Mobile – 27. Class), Team Wild Thangz (Mrs. Wendy’s Class), and Team Adults (Adult Program). $5,000 Founder’s Prize Awarded September is National Child Awareness Month (NCAM) Business to Business Expo bringing diverse charitable organizations together for a common The 32nd Annual Business to Business Expo was held at the goal. A wide array of organizations set aside their individual Anniston Meeting Center in Calhoun County this year. Erica agendas to focus on issues children face in America today, Brown, Resource Development Coordinator for the Jacksonville addressing their growing challenges and needs. The goal and Anniston Region represented The Learning Tree. More was to highlight children’s charities through a talent based than 80 businesses and organizations highlighted their services. Attendees also enjoyed sampling the foods of the video challenge. The Learning Tree participated in the 2016 Taste of Calhoun County. NCAM Talent Challenge. Each preschool and Woody’s Song School submitted a video highlighting the children’s talent and challenging their favorite celebrities, organizations, or schools. Their talents consisted of tumbling, dancing, water balloon toss, Halloween and showing off their water day fun! On September 30, 2016, the national competition came to a close, with The Learning Tree coming in 4th. There were over 2000 nonprofits registered through NCAM Talent Challenge webpage. The Learning Tree was selected and awarded the $5,000 Founder’s Prize by the Foundation.
The videos submitted by the Anniston, Auburn and Mobile preschools and Woody’s Song School can be found on The Learning Tree Facebook page. We look forward to August 2017!
The Little Tree Preschool rocked Halloween Disney style this year, Aimee Find us on Facebook @learningtree.alabama Spruill was Cinderella, Erin Jennings was Belle, Jennifer Wythe was Erica Brown, Resource Development Coordinator in Anniston/Jacksonville. Snow White, and Erica Brown was Queen of Hearts. 10 11 MOBILE REGION MOBILE REGION
Kilborn’s Kids Visit Camp Grace Puzzle Piece Flash Dash Volunteers and Staff Receive ARC Awards Kiwanis Club of Mobile Kilborn’s Kids, a scouting program supported by attorney, Vincent The annual Puzzle Piece Flash Dash moved to an evening run The Mobile ARC awards were presented at their annual meeting Members of the Kiwanis Club of Mobile recently spent a Kilborn and The Joseph Treadwell Foundation, spent a beautiful this year. With more than 80 participating the run started and in September. Receiving awards from The Learning Tree were: Saturday morning cleaning up the playground at Woody’s Song fall day at Camp Grace in West Mobile. They enjoyed horseback ended at The Little Tree Preschool in Mobile through the nearby School. They prepared the gardens for fall planting, brought Community Service Award – The 74 Club riding, paddle boats, inflatables, fishing and riding on a raft neighborhoods. Each 5K runner was given a head lamp, courtesy in wood chips for around the playground equipment, power Family of the Year Award – The Fulford Family around the lake. Angie Cieutat coordinates the Kilborn’s Kids of Billy Loewen with Performance Contractors. There were lots washed the building and tidied up the ground areas. Exemplary Educator – Little Tree Preschool Teacher, program for Woody’s Song School and the Mobile Residential of other flashy, glowing give-aways. Thanks to Thrivent Financial Shaquana Giles School. This annual event is a favorite among the kids. Mr. Kilborn Services, Run-N-Tri, and Newks Eatery for coming out to support Distinguished Direct Service Professional – Little Tree Preschool A has supported this program for more than 4 years. the run. Music was provided by John Cardell. The children also enjoyed a one-mile Fun Run. The event raised over $7,000 to Teacher’s Assistant, LaShannon Pines benefit The Learning Tree and The Autism Society of Alabama. The 74 Club was recognized for their commitment to Woody’s Song School through their fundraising efforts, such as the Blues Tavern Barbecue Cookoff and the Over the Edge event. The group has raised more than $10,000 for the school. Cindy and Jed Fulford were recognized for their hard work and commitment to the children at Woody’s Song School. Mr. and Mrs. Fulford organize the Chip in for Autism golf tournament, now in its sixth year, which has raised more than $90,000. In addition, they L to R: Julius Powell, Bruce McCrory, Don Halimunanda, Bob Hollon, organize an annual Fall Festival for the school and help to build Ahmad Zahra, Tim Clairborne and Darrell Butler. Kendall Clarke not pictured. Mardi Gras floats for the children. Ms. Giles and Ms. Pines were recognized for their outstanding commitment to the children at Celebration of Fall the Little Tree Preschool. Congratulations to everyone! The children at Woody’s Song School and the Residential School celebrated the fall season with costumes, carnival games, food and lots of fun. Cindy Fulford coordinated the event along with other Woody’s Song parents. The students and teachers had a great time dressing up in creative costumes. A few of the moms got in on the action too. There was a “Fox in Socks, the Wizard of Oz crew, a Bowling Ball and Pin and even a Hot Dog! The Hot Hayley’s Bar Care Carnival Dog enjoyed several hot dogs for lunch. Thank you to everyone! The 2nd Annual Care Carnival sponsored by Hayley’s Bar in Downtown Mobile raised more than $2,400 for Woody’s Song School. The street carnival coincided with Mobile’s Downtown Alive and featured carnival games, raffle items, live music and local celebrities getting a pie in the face. Former Alabama football player, Roger Schultz and Local TV 15’s Darwin Singleton were very popular victims. The event was organized by Brittany Mistich, a former Learning Tree employee and current employee at Hayley’s. We appreciate Brittany and the families with Woody’s L to R: Mobile ARC Executive Director, L to R:The Fulford Family, Sam, Song School that came out to enjoy the beautiful day. Jeff Zoghby, 74 Club members, Jake, Cale, Cindy and Jed. Julie Bellcase and David Scott.
L to R: Mobile ARC HR Director, Kris- Emcee and Local 15 reporter, tin Priest, LaShannon Pines & Mobile Darwin Singleton and ARC Executive Director, Jeff Zoghby Shaquana Giles 12 13 Mrs. Nita Hicks Ms. Jerlene Buckels Ms. Carol Loper Ms. Michelle Winstead Ms. Brenda Price Joe Bullard Acura and Infiniti Mr. Marston Luce Mr. and Mrs. J.E. Witherington Ms. Rachel Byers Lyon, Fry & Cadden Insurance Ms. Theresa N. Yarbrough In Memory of Randy Norris Ms. Michelle Callen Mr. John Macritchie Zaxby’s Tallassee Kiwanis Club The Caring Foundation of Mr. Sam Maisel Zoghby’s Uniforms BlueCross BlueShield of Alabama Dr. Carl Maltese IN-KIND GIFTS Mr. Wesley Carpenter Drs. Daran and Sissy Mason In memory of Susan Branson Coward Alabama Shakespeare Festival Mr. Chris Carroll Mr. and Mrs. James Mason 918 Ponce, LLC Alabama Splash Adventure Ms. Mary Carter Ms. Melissa Mason Atlanta Citizen Review Board Alabama State Parks Mr. Keith Castleberry – Edward Jones Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Mattingly Mr. and Mrs. John Baehr Auburn Deck Masters Investments Ben May Charitable Trust Ms. Ingrid V. Bartels 1 2 The Auburn Tuskegee Christian Church Ms. Kerrianne Castleberry Dr. and Mrs. Robert McGinley Mr. David Bedner Thank you to our friends and supporters. Behind the Glass The Catranis Family Charitable Foundation Mr. Dennis McLaughlin Ms. Elizabeth M. Edgar Johnny Bruscos The Charity Run Mr. and Mrs. Thomas McLaughlin Mr. and Mrs. Don Kennedy Courtyard Marriott in Birmingham Mr. and Mrs. Clifton Chatham Ms. Christy McSpadden Mr. Seth D. Kirshenbaum FUNDING PARTNERS AND Ms. Lauren Key Mr. Shannon Brown Ms. Faye Ford Create A Spa Ms. Jill Chenoweth Meresys Development Corporation Mr. Nicholas A. Lotito OTHER SUPPORTERS Mr. and Mrs. Charles King Buffalo Rock Freedom Logistics, LLC Dammar Products Chevron Matching Employee Funds Ms. Wanda Milner Ms. Jamie G. Landry Alabama Dept. of Education Ms. Jennifer Kirkpatrick Chick Fil A GKN Aerospace Ms. Casey Dubose Ms. Jean Cieutat Ms. Bethann Mills Mrs. Linda Ogden Alabama Dept. of Human Resources Kirkpatrick Contacting, LLC Couch’s Jewelers Robert D. Gamotis, DMD The Flower Store Mr. Ronald Cieutat Ms. Brittany Mistich Mr. Gene R. Sharp Alabama Dept. of Mental Health Kohl’s of Oxford Ms. Tara Cunningham Mrs. Nina Gauntt Gander Mountain Cigna A.S. Mitchell Foundation Ms. Allison Silvio Auburn TheCity Schools Kronospan, LLC HonorDécor World Ms. FrancesRoll Harris GNC Citrin, Rihner & Gupta Cardiology The Sykes Family Mobile Premier Pediatric Dentistry Autism Speaks Mark Lee Insurance Agency, Inc. Dillards of Oxford Ms. Nita Hicks Mrs. Priscilla Hamonds Clark’s Kitchen & Catering Moore Law Firm VA Dept. of Audiology & Speech Davis Direct, Inc. Ms. Hannah LoFollette Ms. Jenny Reed Dooley Dr. Doris Hill Hampton Inn & Suites Coming Home Sunday School Class – Mr. Jerry Moragne Lake Martin United Way Ms. Jamie Logan Extreme Auto Spa HR Management Solutions Ms. Karen Harris Christ United Methodist Church Mr. Kyle Morris In memory of Coach Bill Dooley Mobile County Public Schools Ms. Tina Loveless Gregerson’s Hyundai of Auburn Mrs. Donna Higgins Mr. Randy Copeland Mr. and Mrs. Dwayne Morvant Paul and Barbara Handmacher United Cerebral Palsy Magic Moments Vacations Gulf Rebel Fishing Charters Jeffcoat-Trant Funeral Home Hodges Vineyard Cottage Hill Civitan Club – Friends of Ms. Kim Morvant United Way of East Central Alabama Ms. Joni Magourik The Gypsy Begonias Ms. Sharon Jones Home Depot Woody’s Song School Mr. David Mrozek In honor of Skev Karavokiros United Way of Southwest Alabama Ms. Elizabeth Maloney Ms. Blake Johnson Mr. James Kelley Hometown Jewelers Ms. Maggie Cottrell Mr. Holt Naff The Catranis Family Charitable Foundation Mr. Lamont Mayer, Jr. Mr. Mike Kennedy Kids Clothes Connection Jewelry By Design Mr. and Mrs. Richard Coyer Ms. Lisa Nash JACKSONVILLE/ANNISTON Mr. and Mrs. Patrick McCarty Kohl’s of Oxford Mr. Don Killingsworth Kinnucan’s C Spire Ms. Paige Naylor In memory of Charles Sandlin Aerospace Coatings International, LLC Ms. Stephanie McGuffey Mr. Mike Marion Ms. Elizabeth Knight Montgomery Biscuits Mr. Keith Culpepper New Horizons Credit Union The Learning Tree Board of Directors & Staff Ms. Jerricka Aiken Mr. Josh Measles Mr. Obie C. Oden Lake Martin United Way Montgomery Zoo Dance Without Limits Newk’s Eatery of Mobile Amazon Smile Mr. Howard Meyer Panera Bread Ms. Judith Lechner My Gym The Daniel Foundation of Alabama Newk’s Eatery of Spanish Fort In memory of Bill Shores American Plumbing and Septic Services Ms. Kristi Miller Lee Pitt’s Guide Service Ashley Lovell New Stone Realty Diversified Roofing Service, Inc. Ms. Callie Newman Paul and Barbara Handmacher America’s First Credit Union Ms. Patricia Murphy Publix Mr. Hilliard Lubin Niffer’s in Auburn Ms. Michelle Dooley Nicholas Insulation Services Mr. Christopher Banks Mustard Seed Massage Company The Rabbit Hatch Ms. Kerri Lucas Perch Jewelry Studio Mr. and Mrs. Lafe Dozier Mr. Sean Nicholas In memory of Coach John Tatum Lumpkin Pest Management Mr. Eric Blaskowski Ms. Tenna Norton Southwest Vacations Publix Mr. David Dye O’Daly’s Irish Pub Paul, Barbara and Nathan Handmacher Lyon, Fry & Cadden Insurance Mr. Steven Blaskowski Nowak Land Surveying Spivey Family Dentistry Jenny Rogers Photography Mr. and Mrs. Joe Eiland Mrs. Linda Ogden Superior Beverage Machen, McChesney, LLC Ms. Judy Bradley Mr. Robert O’Day Mrs. Lani Ryan Dr. Kenneth Ellingwood The Orthopaedic Group In honor of Lynne Ginsburg Talladega Speedway Mrs. Deanna Mann Shakey’s Pizza Parlor Ms. Sarah Bright Omnicare Mr. Phillip Epstein Mr. David Pitts Paul and Barbara Handmacher Ms. Mary Patrenos Target Ms. Barbara McKeon Skilled Hands, LLC Ms. Lindsay Britt Ms. Kelsey Volz Fike Ms. Casey Porter Mr. and Mrs. Brown Ms. April Pearson Tri States Utility Products Mike’s Merchandise Smoothie King Firetrol Protection Services, Inc. Ms. Dorothy Robinson In honor of Karen Herman Mr. Charlie Bunch Ms. Candace Peavey University of Alabama Mr. Brent Milner Spa One Eighty The Forsman Family Mr. Benjamin Rogers Paul and Barbara Handmacher Mr. Randy Byrd Pediatrics Plus, PC Walt Disney World Milner Electric, Inc. Subway Mr. Nick Friley Mr. Troy Rosser Ms. Tiffany Canady Ms. Brandy Phillips Ms. Erin Washowich Ms. Julie Moncrief Mr. Ben Taylor Ms. Cindy Fulford Rotary Club of Mobile – Sunrise In honor of Bobby Kohn Canvas, Inc. Rainbow City Pet Care Ms. Twyla Wilkerson Mr. Dick Morris Taziki’s Mr. Gary Fulford Ms. Cheri Rudisill Paul and Barbara Handmacher Ms. Jammi Cash Mr. Robert Ray Willow Tree Ms. Pat Murphy Tiger 13 Ms. Stella Gamble Russell, Thompson, Butler & Houston Clanton Animal Hospital, LLC Ms. Jessica Reed Wind Creek Casino Mr. Charles Necrelli Tiger Iron Gym Ms. Marthea Gibby Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Saad In honor of Sharon Rubin Ms. April Cobb Regional Medical Center Mr. Nathan Winkler Neptune Technology Group Uptown Art Ms. Shaquana Giles Ms. Ashley Saranthus Paul and Barbara Handmacher Ms. Sonde Coleman of Anniston (RMC) Mr. Ben Wood Ms. Ayme Orwin Mr. Daniel Van-Scoyc Ryan Ms. Prudence Graham Mr. Sidney Seale Ms. Brittany Collier Ms. Holly Rucker Ms. Jennifer Wythe Parker Tire & Service Center Mrs. Jenny Warren Gulf Coast Surgical Specialist, Inc. Mr. Mark Segal IN-KIND GIFTS Mr. Charles Comer Sander’s Cabinetry Yesterday’s Photography Mrs. Laura Leigh Peters Whippoorwill Vineyard Mr. and Mrs. Nathan Handmacher Mr. Jerry Self Alex & Ani, LLC Community Foundation of Ms. Charline Sands YETI Ms. Kim Petrina Wind Creek Casino Hargrove Engineers + Constructors Miss Allie’s Class Parents Northeast Alabama Mr. Warren Sarrell Philips Family Dentistry Zoe’s Kitchen Semmes Middle School Mr. Wayne Hartung Antiques at the Loop Ms. Jean Cooper Mr. Bobby Schimmelsbusch AUBURN/TALLASSEE Poarch Band of Creek Indians Mr. Gene Sharp Mr. and Mrs. C. Hodges Harty, III Ms. Erica Cosper Ms. Rena Dreskin Schoenberg Mr. Mohammed Abdalla Danny and Helen Pollard MOBILE Mr. Michael Shaw Ballin’s Ltd. The Harty/Carpenter Group – Merrill Lynch Mr. Robert Couch Ms. Raili Smith AES, Industries Mr. John Pollard The 74 Club Mr. and Mrs. William Shulman Ms. Allie Barker Mr. Shane Denham Southern States Bank Dr. Shelley Airstrup Mr. Tony Potts 918 Ponce, LLC The Hearin Chandler Group Ms. Alison Silvio Ms. Marsha Barnett Ms. Jenny Reed Dooley Mr. and Mrs. Darren Spruill Alabama Power Foundation Ms. Brenda Price Abenee Foo Kuo Honor Society Ms. Whiney Hester Simply Sheets Café 615 Ms. Katie Dougherty Mr. Quentin Spruill Ms. Apryl Alexander Ms. Dana Price Airbus Group Ms. Kimberly Hill Ms. Brittany Smith Mr. and Mrs. Randy Copeland Ms. Jennifer Edmondson Ms. Shelby Spurlin ALL for Children Primesouth Bank Mr. Leonard Allen HPC Specialty Pharmacy Smith, Dukes & Buckalew, LLP Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc. Mr. Joshua Edmondson State Farm Insurance A.M.P.S., LLC Dr. Marcia Rossi Altapointe Health Systems Mr. Christopher Hughes Ms. Linda Spitzkoff Dance Without Limits Mr. Scott Elliott Struts of Oxford Auburn Bank Mr. and Mrs. Joe Scarborough Mr. Timothy Andrews Ms. Nicole Hughes Ms. Rene Sprague Delchamps Printing Mr. Joseph England Mr. Kenneth Truitt Auburn University Club Mrs. Kami Scarborough Anunciation Greek Orthodox Church Dr. and Mrs. Ijaz Iqbal Ms. Amber Stanga Miss Emily’s Class Parents Ms. Brenda Evans Mr. James Turner Bama Budweiser of Montgomery, Inc. Sizemore & Sizemore Ms. Debra Aronson The Iqbal Family The Starr Family Ms. Cindy Fulford Evans Lindale Ace Hardware Dr. Rebecca O. Turner Berney Office Solutions Ms. Christine Skalsky Ms. Teresa Atkins Mr. and Mrs. Thomas James Stirling Properties Gulf Distributing Extreme Auto Spa, LLC Mr. Barry Twigg Ms. Lourdes Betanzos Southeast Area Fire Equipment and Repair Atlanta Citizen Review Board Ms. Stephanie Jett Dr. and Mrs. John Stone Gulf Quest Maritime Museum FabArc Tyler Union/McWane Industries Ms. Mary Burkhart Southern Controls Autism Society of Alabama Ms. Margaret Johnston Ms. Abry Stopper Hair to Dye For Festival of Children Foundation United Way of East Central Alabama The Busfield Foundation Tallassee Kiwanis Club Ms. Celia Mann Baehr The Houston Jones Fan Club Mr. David Stowers Hampton Inn & Suites – Downtown Ms. Jessica R. Ford Mr. Bill Wakefield C & M Service Center Tallassee Rotary Club Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Ms. Marlene Jones Mr. and Mrs. Carson Strickland Harper Technologies, LLC Mr. Vincent S. Frank, Jr. Waldrop Mfg. Ms. Marjorie Caldwell Mr. Ben Taylor Berkowitz Jones Trawl Board & Marine Supply The Strickland Family Mr. Wayne Hartung Dr. Rodney Friery Miss Erin Washowich Capital X-Ray Trustmark Bank Mr. John Barber Company Dr. Hanes B. Swingle Hide – Away in Fairhope Mr. Rajae Gillespie Webb Concrete & Building Materials Ms. Jerrie Chamblee-Nacrelli Turf Tactics Ms. Allie Barker Mr. and Mrs. Mark Jones The Sykes Family Ms. Marlene Jones Gold’s Gym of RBC – Extreme Fitness, Inc. Mr. William Whaley Ms. Melissa Cleondis Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Van-Scoyc Ryan Mr. Butch Barker – Team Sports Jones Walker Law Firm Mr. Bryan Sykes and Ms. Suzanne Rastani KPO Kids/Angela McAtee Greater Anniston Business Mr. Dane White Community Hospital Mr. and Mrs. Carl Vella Mr. John Craig Barker Mr. and Mrs. Mike Karavokiros Ms. Ellen Taylor Miss Kelsey’s Class Parents and Professional Assoc. Mr. Gary Wiggington Cookie Cutters Haircuts for Kids Walmart Neighborhood Market Ms. Ingrid V. Bartels Mr. and Mrs. Don Kennedy Dr. Lynda Tenhunfeld Krispy Kreme Mr. Mitch Griffin Mr. James R. Williams Ms. Sarah Covoington Ms. Heather Weldon Mr. Paul Bartels Ms. Mary Anne Killion Ms. Emily Tisdale Ms. Brenda Lloyd Ms. Brandy Hamlin Ms. Jennifer Williams Crain Landscape Mr. James Weldon BBVA Compass Bank Employee Giving Mr. Seth D. Kirschenbaum and Nicholas Ms. Pamela Todd Lowe’s Ms. Jeda Hemlock Ms. Laura Wood Mr. Gary Daniel Ms. Turia Williams Bella Bridesmaid A. Lotito The Joseph Treadwell Charitable Foundation Lyon Fry Cadden Insurance Ms. Anne Herndon Ms. Jennifer Wythe Mr. Mack Daugherty Ms. Erin Wolford Mr. Tony Benefiel Mr. Yaya Kochaprom Ms. Millie Trull Magic Memories Photography & Photo Mr. David Hofland Zoe’s on the Lake Diamond, Carmichael, Gary, Mr. David Wunderlich Ms. Kerrie Benson Ms. Carol Kral Ms. Margaret Tsu Booth Honda Manufactoring of Alabama Patterson & Duke Ms. Cathy Zevac Ms. Jana Blades Mr. Matthew Kridel Ms. Kim Turner Ms. Laura Matthews Ms. Marguerite W. Hopkins IN-KIND GIFTS Dilworth Development Blues Tavern The Kyser Family Ms. Lisa Turner – USA Pschology Mr. Stan Ivey Ace Hardware Ms. Tricia Dorman In Memory of Clarence Baker Mr. Derek Bolden Mr. Josh Ladner Department Jacksonville Discout Pharmacy Atlanta Bread Ms. Casey Dubose Mrs. Mia Baker Mr. and Mrs. Thomas McLean Bramlett Ms. Jamie Landry United Way of Southwest Alabama Mr. Lori James Auburn University Duke & Patterson, LLC Mrs. Priscilla Hammonds Mr. and Mrs. Brian Breland Mr. Kyle Lantz WS Foundation Jefferson’s of Oxford B & B Pawn E & I, Inc. Ms. Linday Breland Mr. Robert Lanuza Ms. Deborah Walker Ms. Georgia Johnson Bed, Bath & Beyond Elmore County Community Foundation In Memory of John Henry Morgan Brindlee Moutain Fire Apparatus, LLC Mr. and Mrs. Tofey Leon Ms. Nicole Watkins Listing reflects donations Mr. Seth Johnson Birmingham Baron’s Eric and RyAnn Fligel Mrs. Mia Baker Ms. Michelle Brinkman Mr. Terry Lester Willis Towers Watson made January 1st, 2016 Mr. William Jones Chris Bright Fishing Services First Baptist Church of Tallassee Mrs. Faye Ford Ms. Lindsay Britt Ms. Natalie Leverone Mr. Spencer Wiggins through October 31st, 2016. Kerper Endodontists, DMD Ms. Sarah Bright Ms. Alice Fitzgerald Mrs. Priscilla Hammonds Broadway South Dance Studio Ms. Brenda Lloyd Ms. Jennifer Williams
14 15 Resource Development Office 205 Lambert Avenue, Suite B Mobile, AL 36604 www.learning-tree.org
FACT! 18,236 visits to www.learning-tree.org annually
2,117 Facebook followers monthly
Summer Workshop SAVE THE DATES! The Auburn/Tallassee region hosted a continuing education workshop this summer. Nineteen Learning Tree employees participated representing all January 21st three regions. Dr. Catherine Simms from the Alabama Department of Mental Blues Tavern Health presented “Advanced Topics in Behavior Assessment”. Participants Barbecue Cook-Off also benefitted from skill building activities related to behavior assessments. Mobile This is the first of three quarterly workshops. January 28th Charity Chase Mobile
February 17th Boots and Bowties Auburn
April 6th A Night at the Races Mobile
April 29th Aces for Autism Anniston
Anniston/Jacksonville Auburn/Tallassee Mobile Resource Development 256-447-9349 334-252-0025 251-649-4420 251-331-2633