Inclusion Matters

JULY 2025

A Voice Beyond Words

At 30 years old, Sujit Kurup is a vibrant, thoughtful, and highly expressive person whose life story continues to inspire those around him. Though he communicates primarily through an iPad, Sujit has never let that slow him down. He’s a poet, an artist, an advocate, and a young man brimming with compassion and a great sense of humor. His journey is one of persistence, creativity, and the unwavering support of family and community.

“I am a social person who likes to meet people,” Sujit told us. “I want to strive to make the world a better place to live in for everyone.” That spirit of service shines through in everything he does, especially in his work as the treasurer of the Autism National Committee (AutCom), where he volunteers and presents at conferences, advocating for the rights of others to access communication with dignity.

Sujit’s accomplishments are remarkable. He earned a Regents diploma in just three years, graduated with a degree in Business Administration from Onondaga Community College, and has developed a powerful artistic voice through poetry and painting. “Of course, I am proud of my paintings and poetry,” he said. His creative pursuits are more than hobbies – they are lifelines. “When he is writing poetry or doing art, he is so calm and collected,” his mother, Srilata, reflected. “You can see a change in him. It grounds him.”

Sujit was born in New Delhi, India, where resources for people with autism were limited. At age 13, his family made the life-changing decision to move to the United States. “My husband and I gave up our jobs and didn’t work for two years,” Srilata recalls, noting that the family moved solely for Sujit’s sake. “But the supports and services here were much better and more expansive.” It was a leap of faith that has paid off – not just for Sujit, but for everyone touched by his presence.

Though the services and supports the family receives through Advocates are exceptionally advanced compared to those of their native land, Sujit is constantly confronted with obstacles. “I face many challenges in my daily life, especially getting to make people understand me,” Sujit said. “My need for support for communicating makes it harder.” He also explained that if he comes across as having challenging behaviors, it is merely his way of trying to express himself. “The fact that people judge me by my behavior is very challenging. My behavior is mostly to do with my communication.”

Sujit expresses himself in unique ways and with exceptional clarity. His poetry, artwork, and advocacy reveal a philosophical thinker who challenges assumptions about disability. “People have stereotypes and preconceived notions about people with autism,” Srilata said. “But Sujit shows he is a deep thinker. He has such a unique and beautiful perspective about life.” She went on to emphasize the importance of seeing beyond verbal ability. “People with disabilities have the same emotions, feelings, and aspirations. Their communication is just different.”

In many ways, Sujit has transformed the people around him. “He has made me a better human being,” Srilata said, the pride evident in her voice. “He brought compassion into my life.” As a freelance communication trainer, she now works with other families, sharing tools and strategies to support expressive communication. Her personal journey has become a professional mission. “My world view has changed because of him…not just for his sake, but others’ as well.”

In addition to impacting and advocating for those around him, Sujit is also focused on practical goals. He wants to be as independent as possible – learning to cook, clean his room, and manage daily life with confidence. He’s learning to play the piano and sing, even if, as he jokes, he’s not quite ready for a concert. “Books are my best friends,” he says. In his recreational time, he loves being outside in nature, going for long walks, biking, and skating. In every pursuit, he brings joy, thoughtfulness, and determination.

Since joining Advocates years ago, Sujit and his family have felt welcomed and empowered. “What I like about Advocates is it gives recognition to all individuals as people who possess abilities and presuming their competence,” Sujit says. “The many activities that are organized and the inclusion of support staff is very amazing.” Srilata agrees. “There’s always someone there to listen,” she said. “We only wish we had found Advocates sooner.”

Looking ahead, Sujit dreams of greater independence and continued advocacy. He craves the freedom to express himself more fully and to continue building a life rich in meaning and connection. “He will have a full life,” his mother says with confidence. “If you give him an opportunity, he won’t miss it.”

Do you have a friend or family member who

would make a great Mentor?

If so, please encourage them to apply on our website.

We look forward to meeting them!

Dreamnight 2025 was a hit, and we even avoided the raindrops! On June 6th, Advocates teamed up with other local service providers and the Rosamond Gifford Zoo to create a memorable evening of fun, food, and entertainment for families and friends - and of course, some quality time with the animals! A huge thank you to everyone who came out to join the celebration, as well as to our incredible volunteers. Your dedication and hard work made this event possible, bringing joy to hundreds of people. We truly appreciate you all!

Traveling With Your Special Needs Child/Adult

Monday, July 28 @ 6pm (virtual event)

Presented by Barbara Hoffman

Assistant Coordinator,

Parent to Parent of NYS

Looking After Our Mental Health: Building Awareness & Support

Thursday, September 25 @ 6pm

(virtual event)

Presented by Kristine Knutson

Manager of Community Programs, 

Contact Community Services

Although these events are free to attend, eligible individuals must be enrolled in our FSS Training program in order to register.

We hope you'll join us anytime between 5-8pm on Tuesday, July 22nd for our next Dine For Dollars event at Sweet Frog (190 Township Blvd, Camillus).

When placing your order, be sure to mention Advocates. Sweet Frog will generously donate 20% of the proceeds to Advocates! Bring your family, friends, and coworkers and enjoy some decadent, tasty frozen yogurt during one of the warmest summer months yet!  

On behalf of our individuals, families, and employees, thank you for your anticipated support! We hope to see you there!

Celebrate 20 Years and Join Us "Fore" a Great Cause!

Advocates’ 20th Annual Golf Tournament is right around the corner, and we’d love for you to be part of this special milestone event!

Join us on Wednesday, September 17th at the beautiful Timber Banks Golf Club in Baldwinsville, featuring a stunning Jack Nicklaus Design course. Enjoy 18 holes of golf with cart, golfer gifts, on-course contests, lunch, beverages, a post-play networking reception, awards, an exciting auction, and a gourmet meal overlooking the scenic grounds.

Whether you’re a longtime participant or new to the tournament, it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a day of golf while making a meaningful impact.

Not a golfer? No problem! Sponsorship and donation opportunities are available, which are a great way to promote your business and support children with intellectual and developmental disabilities through Advocates.

Let’s make our 20th year the best one yet!

Promote your business while supporting Advocates!

Pin flag sponsorships are another way to get involved in supporting this year's golf tournament. A pin flag in golf is a flag attached to the flagstick on the green to mark the hole's location. Because every golfer encounters every hole on the golf course, they will also see every pin flag. Therefore, pin flags make for wonderful marketing opportunities!



These durable and high-quality flags will be framed and returned to you after the tournament to keep as a memento. Best of all, 100% of the proceeds from the sales of pin flags will benefit children and adults with disabilities.

Did you know?

Advocates' Executive Director, Amy Dugliss, and Self-Advocate, Nicholas Courgi, collaborate each month to bring you an Advocates-themed podcast! The Inclusion Matters Podcast can be found by searching "Inclusion Matters Advocates" on Amazon Music and Spotify.

We hope you'll tune in monthly to hear inspiring stories from Advocates!



In case you missed it!

Check out a previous edition's spotlight on Tina Fitzgerald!