Milestones benefits local autism community

Milestones team member Haley Dunn with Kevin, Cory and Steph Irwin, and Debbie Yasinow from the Jewish Federation of Cleveland. Photo courtesy Hannah Harp.

On Oct. 28, Milestones Autism Resources hosted more than 250 guests at its 2017 annual benefit. The nonprofit raised more than $250,000 to fund its  autism helpdesk, a free resource for families and professionals looking to connect with valuable, regional services.

John Carroll University student Cory Irwin, an individual on the autism spectrum, captivated attendees.

“My mom will say the only person who understands me more than she or my father does is probably Miss Haley at Milestones,” Irwin said. “She has been working with me so I can learn how to talk to my co-workers, advocate for myself and build a career in the field I love. While I am a work in progress, I can tell you my confidence is growing at a steady pace daily.”

With the help of Milestones, Irwin is now the Cleveland Israel Arts Connection intern with the Jewish Federation of Cleveland—a position that enables him to utilize his passion for museum studies.

Milestones, based in Warrensville Heights, improves the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum at all ages, stages and abilities by educating, coaching and connecting the community with evidence-based information.

For information on Milestones visit milestones.org.