February is a month full of momentum at Chapel Haven Schleifer Center! From our growing collaboration with SCSU to the launch of our Monthly Meet‑Up series and important heart healthy initiatives, there’s so much to share! Have a news item to contribute? Send to Denise Hawkins

Providing optimum support for adults on the spectrum who are attending college takes training. Chapel Haven Schleifer Center, Inc. was proud to partner with Southern Connecticut State University Office of Faculty Development and Center for Excellence on Autism (CESAD) on a day-long training entitled, "Cultivating Inclusivity & Belonging: Supporting Neurodivergent Students and Students with Disabilities at SCSU” on January 15, 2026.

After a welcome message from SCSU Interim Provost Julia Irwin, as well as a historical overview of autism from Dr. Fred Volkmar, Director of CEASD and Professor of Special Ed, approximately 40 SCSU faculty and staff attended the screening of the award-winning film "In a Different Key." Dr. Volkmar also serves on the Board of Directors at CHSC.

The film was followed by small group discussions co-led by CHSC and SCSU faculty. The rich conversations centered on how to build inclusive and welcoming learning environments for a wide variety of learners and included a take-away resource guide of strategies to implement in classroom settings, as well as a list of available SCSU on-campus resources. 

The day also included an afternoon panel of neurodivergent SCSU students and graduates, the head of the SCSU faculty and staff neurodivergent group, and both SCSU and CHSC staff who provide supports to SCSU and other college students. We were especially thankful to have Graham H., SCSU and ASAT graduate, share his experiences and supports that led to his success in earning his bachelor’s in liberal studies with concentrations in psychology and leadership development. He’s also taken graduate level courses in counseling and is currently taking master’s level courses in human rights.

Supporting college students on the spectrum is a key part of our mission! Christy Chandler, SVP of Admissions and Marketing, and Gina Apicella, SVP of Clinical Services were proud to be a part of this collaborative effort with SCSU’s Office of Faculty Development and the Center for Excellence on Autism and look forward to additional opportunities to collaborate with SCSU and other local colleges to create inclusive environments and college success for all students. 

February is National Heart Month, and CHSC is hosting Heart Health stop-ins this month.

We've encouraged staff to remind CHSC adults to stop by the office of CHSC Nurse Brittany Joyner in SAIL on either Tuesdays, noon to 2 p.m., or Thursdays, at 1 p.m. to learn something new, and take a few minutes to focus on their heart health. Dates are listed in the graphic.

✨ What to expect:

• Heart-healthy education (fun & easy-to-understand)
• BP & pulse checks
• Interactive learning activities

Even a quick stop can make a big difference — and your encouragement goes a long way! Please help spread the word and support individuals in stopping in throughout the month. Stop in on the dates and visit with CHSC Nurse Brittany Joyner!

Let’s make February a healthy one 💕

Our new CHSC Monthly Meet-Up webinar series is designed to give families an inside look at program updates, enhancements and the many ways we support adults in their path to independence.

Program Directors will hold 1-hour sessions to offer an informative space to learn more about our program services and ask questions - whether you're just beginning to explore Chapel Haven or are already party of our community. It's a great way to stay connected, stay informed and stay inspired!

Join us Tuesday, March 3, 6-7 p.m. on Zoom as CHSC Benefits Coordinator Alisha Anrico presents a Benefits Webinar, moderated by Christy Chandler. We will explore:

• An Intro to the Benefits Department at CHSC
• Explore federal, state and local benefits and entitlements that could benefit your son or daughter
• Social Security Benefits (like SSI vs SSDI)
• State Benefits (Medicaid, SNAP, MSP, Cash Assistance)
• Rental assistance programs (DDS: rent subsidy vs. Section 8)
• Discounted utility benefits (electric, gas, telephone/internet)

Register here

Opportunity to Participate in Casting Call for Love on the Spectrum

The award‑winning Netflix documentary series Love on the Spectrum is currently casting for their new season and is seeking adults 18+ on the autism spectrum who are single and interested in dating. The series highlights real stories, celebrates differences, and aims to show that people on the spectrum can and do find meaningful relationships.

If you or someone you know is interested in learning more, please contact Denise Hawkins at dhawkins@chapelhaven.org for details.

Join us in wishing a very happy 70th birthday to Andy A. on February 18th! We’re also thrilled to celebrate his incredible milestone of 45 years of independent living, making him Chapel Haven’s longest‑tenured community member. In addition to these achievements, Andy is proudly marking 20 years of partnership with his support coordinator, Carlos Mercado, and 20 years of training with his personal trainer, Kim Stack. Congratulations, Andy — so many milestones worth celebrating!