We are pleased to welcome Jacqui Makowski as the new Managing Director of Autism Cares Foundation, effective January 29, 2018. In her role, Jacqui will be responsible for continuing the growth of the foundation’s activities, and for developing the strategic imperatives to achieve our present and future plans.

Jacqui will be taking over for Kimberly Smith, who has held this position for the past three years and has done a remarkable job, especially with her assistance in launching the Adult Services Division. Kimberly has decided that it is time to enjoy retirement. We wish her well as she explores this new found opportunity, and she has our sincerest appreciation for her exemplary performance.

Jacqui brings more than 25 years of experience and skill in social services and education, holding a Bachelor of Arts in English/Communications from Cabrini University. Her experience includes more than 25 years in fundraising, public relations, and organizational operations. Jacqui also served in various administrative roles at the largest senior center in Pennsylvania, where she specialized in public relations, marketing, program management, and policy. During her tenure, she developed and implemented the award winning Fan Fair program, designed to serve older adults in crisis. She regularly presented at national conferences on aging, focusing on cutting edge marketing strategies and program development for the emerging Baby Boomer population.

For the past decade, Jacqui devoted her energy to education and raising critical funds needed for school operations and financial assistance. She built an extensive enrollment management program, which grew from 5 to more than 50 events annually. Jacqui introduced the school’s social media platforms as a form of interactive communication and marketing with alumnae, donors, and prospective parents/students. Spearheading the redesign of their web site, she introduced dynamic new content and a vehicle for online giving. Under Jacqui’s direction, the first ever online giving events, Giving Tuesday and March Madness were launched, as well as email donation campaigns. 

Jacqui and her husband Tom have a son Ryan, who is on the autism spectrum. They believe strongly in providing opportunities for interaction and socialization for their son, as well as all children on the spectrum. Jacqui and Tom enjoy learning from other parents in the community who share their journey.  

Please join us in welcoming Jacqui M. Makowski to our Autism Cares Foundation family.