Roman Finds His Voice

Roman is making remarkable progress in expressing himself and connecting with others thanks to his determination and speech therapy at CAU’s day habilitation program.

Roman has apraxia of speech, a condition that makes producing consistent speech sounds challenging. With support from CAU’s speech-language pathology team, he has been learning to use an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) app on an iPad, while continuing to develop his verbal communication skills. The team also created a personalized communication dictionary which has helped others understand Roman’s unique speech sounds. As communicating becomes easier, Roman is even more motivated to share his thoughts and experiences.

As Lauren Meade, Director of Speech-Language Pathology explained, “Roman’s journey is a reminder that underlying all communication, there is motivation and connection. When a person feels understood, and is given the space, time, and support to find their own way, they find a way to tell their story. Roman is telling his.”

Keep up the great work, Roman!

Serving Up Success: T.EAT.CH Café Graduates Shine

CAU is proud to congratulate the latest graduates of its T.EAT.CH Café Culinary Hospitality Training Program.

Assemblywoman Annette Quijano, who recently helped secure $450,000 in state funding for T.EAT.CH Café and CAU’s Academy of Continuing Education, attended the special graduation celebration on October 23.

The program, known as “Skills, Skillets, Success,” provides individuals with hands-on culinary training and career development opportunities, helping participants overcome challenges and prepare for employment in the hospitality industry.

The ceremony recognized the hard work, determination and accomplishments of participants as they take their next steps toward meaningful careers.

Congratulations to all of the graduates!

Kean–CAU Collaborative Supports Historic Broadway Debut

Music took center stage in New York City on October 7 as The Music Man Project’s Global Ambassadors, a group of musicians with learning disabilities from the United Kingdom, made their Broadway debut with Music Is Magic on Broadway at The Town Hall.

The milestone performance celebrated the talents of the musicians and the belief that everyone deserves opportunities to pursue their passions and share their gifts. The group also performed at the United Nations during its visit.

CAU was proud to support the performers during this historic occasion through the Kean–CAU Collaborative.

Driving Opportunities Forward at CAU’s Golf Classic

More than 80 golfers gathered at Cedar Hill Country Club on October 5 for CAU’s annual Golf Classic, raising support for our Academy of Continuing Education (ACE), which creates opportunities for adults with disabilities to learn, grow and build more independent lives.

Seven ACE students joined participants for breakfast and spent time connecting with golfers and sponsors throughout the event. Elizabeth Mayor J. Christian Bollwage and Assemblyman Michael Venezia were also among those in attendance.

CAU extends its gratitude to Advocate Sponsor Innovative Benefit Planning; Partner Sponsors Coli Construction and Macro Technology Group; Supporter Sponsors Hub International Limited, Valley Bank, BCB Bank and Baker Donelson; and Friend Sponsors Santander, Coli Property Solutions, NDP Services, Seckar & Son and NPC Pharma. Special thanks to Macro Technology Group for its additional participation and support during the event.

Family Connections Brings Families Together for Learning and Support

Approximately 40 family members, loved ones and CAU staff gathered at Shackamaxon Country Club on October 13 for CAU’s quarterly Family Connections event, an opportunity to share information and discuss issues important to the families CAU supports.

The evening featured a presentation by attorney Lisa Roe of Hinkle, Prior, Fischer & Oberweis titled “Demystifying Special Needs Trusts,” followed by an engaging question-and-answer session. Attendees also participated in an open discussion about the things that matter most to them and what they would like to learn at future gatherings.

Family Connections continues to provide a welcoming space for families to connect with one another, access valuable resources and strengthen their relationship with the CAU community.

CAU Self-Advocates Make Their Voices Heard at Statewide Conference

Twenty CAU self-advocates and 10 staff members joined advocates from across New Jersey on October 2 for the 42nd Annual New Jersey Statewide Self-Advocacy Network Fall Conference at The Pines Manor in Edison.

Hosted by The Arc of New Jersey’s Self-Advocacy Program, the conference brought together more than 220 participants for a day of learning and connection. This year’s theme, “Rise Up for Self-Advocacy,” emphasized the importance of empowering people with disabilities to speak up, influence decisions and advocate for greater opportunities. Participants learned about effective advocacy, heard from state leaders and connected with fellow advocates committed to making their voices heard.

Shoutout to CAU’s Helping Hands member Andre, who was recognized for his leadership on the regional Council 2!

Additional Events

Here’s what our community partners are offering this month. Details and registration are with each organization.