ELIJA Winter 2026 Newsletter

WINTER 2026 NEWSLETTER

CEO’s Opening Message

As January 2026 starts and is almost to a close, I want to extend my heartfelt wishes for a happy, healthy, and fulfilling New Year to our entire ELIJA community. The start of a new year offers an opportunity to reflect on how far we have come and to look ahead with optimism and purpose.

Throughout 2025, your continued support, dedication, and belief in our mission have made a meaningful difference in the lives of the learners and families we serve. Together, we have strengthened our programs, supported growth and independence, and fostered a community built on inclusion, respect, and possibility.

As we move forward into the year ahead, ELIJA remains deeply committed to expanding opportunities, enhancing services, and ensuring that every individual we support is empowered to reach their fullest potential. None of this would be possible without you—our families, staff, donors, partners, and friends.

Thank you for standing with us and for being an essential part of the ELIJA journey. I look forward to all that we will accomplish together in 2026.

xxooo

Deb Thivierge

Founder/CEO

DONATE HERE!

Rena Lee - Appointed Farm Manager

Rena has been part of ELIJA Farm for four years and brings a deep love of natural farming and nature-based education to her work. She centers farm programming on joy, exploration, and sensory connection, creating meaningful experiences for participants of all ages. As Farm Manager, Rena supports the continued evolution of ELIJA Farm as a safe, welcoming community space where people can enjoy fresh vegetables, build meaningful connections, and experience a true sense of belonging!

We’re thrilled and honored to announce that ELIJA Farm has been named Best Farm of Long Island 2026!

This recognition is a celebration of not just the farm itself, but the incredible community that makes everything we do possible. From our dedicated CSA members who support our mission, to our hardworking volunteers, passionate staff, and loyal supporters, this award belongs to all of you.

At ELIJA Farm, we’re proud to provide fresh, sustainably grown produce while offering hands-on learning experiences through our community classes in art, farming, baking, and Toddler Thyme. Our learners actively engage in every part of farm life, from planting and harvesting to cooking and creating, and it’s your support that allows these meaningful experiences to thrive.

Here’s to continuing to grow, nurture, and celebrate our farm family, and to many more seasons of community, sustainability, and joyful learning together!

Bittersweet Retirement

This year also brings important transitions within our team. We would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Jodi Taggart, who will be retiring after six years of dedicated service as ELIJA’s Director of Development. Jodi played a crucial role in advancing our programs, fostering meaningful relationships, and creating opportunities that have shaped the growth of ELIJA. We wish her the very best as she steps into this new chapter!

Outreach and Development Promotions:

Kristen Tursi – Communications and Social Media Manager

Kristen was born and raised in East Williston on Long Island, where she developed a deep connection to her local community. She has been with the ELIJA Foundation for nearly three years, supporting fundraising efforts, donor engagement, event planning, photography, and digital outreach initiatives. A graduate of Binghamton University with a background in English Literature, Creative Writing, and Education, Kristen brings strong communication skills and a passion for meaningful community impact. She plays an integral role in advancing ELIJA’s mission through strategic marketing, event coordination, and advocacy for individuals with autism and their families.

"Nothing brings me greater joy than capturing the happiness created at ELIJA and getting to share the meaningful difference we make within our community." - Kristen Tursi

Reese Smith – Events & Outreach Manager

Originally from the South, with a family background rooted in culinary arts and hospitality, Reese moved to New York for college and earned her B.A. in Psychology with double minors in Black Studies and Juvenile Justice from Adelphi University in 2021. Prior to joining ELIJA, she worked closely within the autism community as a family liaison and outreach professional. Through that work, she discovered ELIJA Farm and quickly found a place that aligned deeply with both her professional passions and personal values.

In her role as Events & Outreach Manager, Reese oversees the planning and execution of events, cultivates community partnerships, and develops meaningful opportunities for collaboration that further ELIJA’s mission. She is passionate about building connections with individuals, organizations, and businesses who share a commitment to inclusion, growth, and community impact.

“This role allows me to combine my love for community, connection, and impact. I’m truly excited to share ELIJA’s mission while building relationships that help it grow and reach even more families.” - Reese Smith

Reese, Kristen, and Rena each bring new energy and expertise to their roles, and we look forward to the inspiring work ahead under their leadership!

February 13th - ELIJA Farm Valentine's Day Sale!

Sweeten Your Valentine’s Day with ELIJA Farm! Celebrate love while supporting a great cause with our Valentine’s Day Chocolate Treat Box from ELIJA Farm!

Each $30 Valentine’s Box includes:

- 8 chocolate-dipped strawberries

- 4 chocolate-dipped Oreos

- 5 chocolate-dipped pretzels

Last day to order: February 4th

Pick-up/delivery: February 13th | 10:00am–3:00pm

*NO DELIVERY FEE*

Order Here For Pick-Up

Order Here For Delivery

EVENTS CALENDAR

March 2026

St. Patrick’s Day Event - March 14th
Pathways to Adulthood Conference - March 21st

Pathway to Adulthood Conference

Saturday, March 21st 2026 8:00am - 4:00pm

at 999 Stewart Ave, Bethpage, NY, 11714

Join the ELIJA Foundation for Pathway to Adulthood: Using Self-Direction: Transitioning for Independence in 2026, a powerful conference focused on supporting individuals with autism as they move toward meaningful, independent adult lives.

This conference serves as an informational hub for families and professionals alike. Attendees will hear directly from expert presenters covering the wide range of services and supports individuals may need throughout adulthood, and have the opportunity to connect with real vendors and service providers on-site who are available to answer questions, share resources, and help families navigate next steps with confidence.

Sponsorship & Vendor Opportunities Available through March 6:

• Pathway to Adulthood Conference Co-Sponsor

• Conference Lunch Sponsor

• Conference Breakfast Sponsor

Digital Program Ad

• Full Screen

• Half Screen

Tables

• Vendor Table

• Non Profit Vendor Table

This is a meaningful opportunity to connect with families, professionals, and community partners while supporting critical transition services!

APRIL 2026

A special Autism Acceptance Month event - To Be Announced!

MAY 2026

Mother’s Day Sale - May 9th

JUNE 2026

ELIJA (Empowering Long Island’s Journey through Autism) proudly invites you to join us for our 19th Annual Sy Schwartz Golf Outing on Monday, June 1, 2026, at the prestigious Brookville Country Club in Glen Head, Long Island.

This highly anticipated day brings together supporters, community leaders, and golf enthusiasts for a memorable experience featuring brunch and driving range access, a shotgun start, and an evening of cocktails and buffet reception. Guests will enjoy a full day of premier golf, exceptional hospitality, and meaningful connection, all in support of a critical cause.

Proceeds from the outing directly benefit ELIJA’s mission to improve the lives of the 1 in 36 children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). While there is no cure for Autism, research shows that individualized, high-quality support can lead to lasting improvements. ELIJA is committed to empowering individuals with ASD through personalized education, life-skills development, and transition-to-adulthood programming.

Participants may register as individual golfers or foursomes, enjoy a full golf package with brunch, on-course refreshments, cocktails, and a buffet reception, or attend the evening celebration only. A wide range of corporate and individual sponsorship opportunities are available, offering valuable recognition throughout the event while making a meaningful impact in the Autism community.

We hope you’ll join us for another unforgettable day of golf, camaraderie, and purpose in support of ELIJA.

2026 Golf Outing Committee Co-Chairs Caryn Beyer & Tracy Meehan