Coney Island Shines a Light on Autism.​
​
On Wednesday, April 2nd, 2014, we embarked on our first Autism Awareness event. In conjunction with Councilman Mark Treyger, The Coney Island Community Board, and Luna Park we took our first strides in spreading awareness for Autism. We lit the famous Coney Island Parachute Jump blue to kick of Autism Awareness Month!! Once again on Thursday April 2nd, 2015 with the help of so many we lit the Parachute Jump up blue to spark the start of Autism Awareness month. This year on Thursday April 30th 2015 we also closed out Autism Awarness month with another lighting of the parachute jump. Both kids and adults participated in our many activities that day.
Mermaid Parade 2014​ and 2015
​
On Saturday, June 21st, 2014, we marched in the iconic annual Mermaid Parade . Thanks to the help and support of the Mermaid Parade officials, we were able to obtain a float, alongside a beautiful Blue Autism Mermaid.
Once again on June 20th, 2015 we had the wonderful opportunity to march in the annual Mermaid Day Parade. This year we did it on an even bigger and motorized float with a living Autism Mermaid. We even had our local kids dance group come out to support us. This year thanks to the support and help of so many we were even awarded third place for our float.
Halloween,Winter and Valentine's Day Bash for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities.
We care about our community and adjacent neighborhoods. So we set out to bring the joy of music and dancing to adults with intellectual disabilities. Thanks to the help of Peggy O'Neills', we were able to provide a few filled nights of fun.​
Sand Sculpting Contest 2014
On August 24th 2014, we participated and were very well received and supported in the annual Coney Island Sand Sculpting Contest. We had a great turn out of supporters and artists to help make this event a great one. We can't wait to particpate in this again in 2015.
​​
School Supplies Giveaway
​​
On Sunday, August 31st, 2014 we distributed well over 200 backpacks filled with school supplies to children of the Coney Island community.
Winter Gear Giveaway
On Saturday, November 8th, 2014 we distributed tons of hats, scarfs, gloves and gift cards for other winter gear, within the Coney Island Community.
​
​
EVENTS DURING 2014 and 2015
Different Not Less Social Group
​
​
Our social/support group meets every Monday at the YMCA in Coney Island, from 6:30 pm-8pm.
The social group allows children to interact with each other in so many ways. We offer social play as well as pool time for all children and parents. We also offer support to both children and their parents in this setting.
CIAA Vs. Team Treyger Softball Fundraiser.
On Tuesday July 14th 2015 members of CIAA,Councilman Treyger's office and members of the NYPD's 60th precint faced off in our first annual softball game.​
Everyone came out to MCU park in Coney Island to raise money to benefit CIAA. Even though team Treyger won a good time was had by all.
Autism Awareness Day
On Saturday August 22nd 2015 CIAA partnered with Raymour and Flannigan to host an Autism Awareness day. A bounce house and snacks were offered to all children who came out. All who came out had a chance to dunk a CIAA staff memeber. There was also a meet and greet with some famous characters like Stuart the Minion, Mr. Incredible, Elmo, Batman and Mickey and Minnie Mouse. Thanks to the support and a generous donation from Raymour and Flanningan we raised over $500. We hope to make this event an annual one.
PeggyPalooza
On Saturday August 1st 2015 members of CIAA, were lucky enough to be invited to participate in the first ever PeggyPalooza. Peggy O'Neills welcomed CIAA to take part in a fun filled day of games and live music. We were on hand with a dunk tank, where some of our members and supporters volunteered to get dunked in our name. We raised $600 dollars to help CIAA move on to our next event.
2nd Annual School Supply Giveaway
On Sunday August 31st 2015 CIAA hosted our 2nd annual School Supply giveaway. We gathered to give out bookbags packed with school supplies to the children of Coney Island. We collected over 150 bookbags and supplies and distrubed them. All children in attendance had the chance to take their picture with Stuart the Minion. We were proud to be able to supply the Coney Island Community with the supplies needed to ensure that our children started off their school year prepared and happy!! We can't wait to do it again next year.
Annual Halloween Party for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities.
On Wednesday October 28th 2015 we held our annual holiday Halloween Bash for adults with Intellectual Disabilities. Everyone came out dressed in their best costumes for some dancing, music, snacks and all around fun. Thanks as always to Peggy O'neills for allowing us to host these events with them. We look forward to our Holiday Party in December.