NEW YORK, NY -- (Marketwired) -- 07/29/14 -- Shema Kolainu - Hear Our Voices (SKHOV) hosted its 12th Annual Legislative Breakfast at the Renaissance Ballroom in Brooklyn, New York. Over 150 guests from across the city were at the breakfast in support of SKHOV's mission to help those on the spectrum succeed. The event welcomed a diverse group of attendees including community leaders, civic and religious leaders, as well as elected officials.
This year, more than ever, the need to bring awareness and recognition to the autism community was critical as the statistics now show that 1 in 68 children are autistic. Each year SKHOV honors those who have shown commitment to the autism community.
Some of the honorees this year included, NYC Comptroller Scott Stringer, NYC Councilmember Brad Lander, NYS Senator Simcha Felder, NYC Councilmember Mark Weprin, NYS Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, NYS Assemblymember Helene Weinstein, NYS Assemblymembers Steve Cymbrowitz, Phil Goldfeder, and Dov Hikind. Also given recognition was Mrs. Leah Steinberg, the Director of Project LEARN Special Education Affairs for the Agudath Israel of America, Jeff Leb, New York State Director of Political Affairs Orthodox Union, Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., and Larry Seiler from the Bronx Network Channel for his segment Special People Special Issues (SPSI).
The honorees spoke about the hard work of individuals in the legislature that have pushed for funding and resources for the autism community and the need to continue advocating on behalf of those children who need the support of therapists, teachers, parents, and community members alike. They stressed the fact that all children, whether they are on the spectrum or not, deserve access to a proper education that meets their needs.
Scott Stringer, who visited SKHOV earlier this year, spoke about his admiration for the school and is looking forward to visiting again. NYS Senator Simcha Felder gave a special address where he emphasized the need for every citizen to be advocates and to speak out about the needs of their communities.
Dr. Joshua Weinstein, Founder of SKHOV thanked the council members and assembly members for their unwavering support on these issues in the autism community and for their recognition of the work that Shema Kolainu does. He commended their commitment to all children and schools across the city that are better off because of their help and advocacy.
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