MARCH 2025 NEWSLETTER

Dear Parents & Friends



In Memoriam: Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Angela Abdul, Founder of the Association for Special Children and Families


It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Angela Abdul, the visionary founder of the Association for Special Children and Families (ASCF). Her unwavering commitment to advocating for children with special needs has left an indelible mark on our communities.


A Fierce Advocate and Champion

Angela was renowned for her relentless advocacy on behalf of children with special needs and their families. Her dedication ensured that their voices were heard and their needs addressed, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.


Masterful Grant Writer

One of Angela's standout strengths was her exceptional grant-writing ability. She possessed a unique talent for articulating the needs of our community and securing the resources necessary to meet them. Her efforts resulted in numerous grants that funded vital programs and services, directly benefiting countless children and families.


Founding the Association for Special Children and Families

In 1978, Angela Abdul established the Association for Special Children and Families with the mission to "empower and support families to raise all their children to reach their full potential. Our vision is that all individuals are included in their communities". Under her leadership, ASCF grew from a passionate initiative into a cornerstone of our communities, offering Special education support services to those who needed them most.


A Lasting Impact

Angela's vision and dedication have left an enduring legacy. Her work has touched the lives of many, creating a ripple effect that will continue for generations to come. As we mourn her loss, we also celebrate the remarkable contributions she made and commit to carrying forward her mission.


Continuing the Mission

In honor of Angela's memory, ASCF will continue to "provide unwavering support to children with special needs and their families, ensuring they receive the resources and care they deserve". We invite all whose lives were touched by Angela to join us in this ongoing journey, upholding the values she held dear.


Angela's spirit, dedication, and love for our community will never be forgotten. May her legacy inspire us all to advocate, support, and uplift those in need.


Staff of ASCF


VIRTUAL SUPPORT GROUPS FOR PARENTS


JOIN ASCF'S NEW DAD CHAT


Join this virtual Dad's group on the third Monday of each monthThis is NOT counseling. No legal, medical advice or recommendations are given at anytime. This is a open and informal conversation among dads and men caregivers to share the unique experience of raising children with disabilities.

Please email Dennis at dennis@ascfamily.org or call us at 973-728-8744

with your email address and phone number to register.

The Zoom link will be emailed on the morning of the group


MOM SQUAD


This group will discuss the joys and challenges of being a mom and raising a child or children with emotional, behavioral, mental health challenges and/or special needs. Meet other moms in the community experiencing similar scenarios, learn about services available to you and build a support network!

They meet Thursdays at 6 pm


Contact Diane Varga, Family Partners, for more information at:  862-273-5046 or you can email her at dvarga@familypartnersms.org



FREE VIRTUAL WORKSHOP

EXTENDED SCHOOL YEAR

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW


Extended School Year (ESY) services are pivotal in ensuring that students with disabilities receive continuous educational support beyond the traditional school calendar. These services help prevent regression and promote skill retention, fostering academic and social success.


Thursday, March 27, 2025 at 7:00 pm


Please email us at info@ascfamily.org or call us at 973-728-8744 and we will send you a link the day of the workshop.



ARTICLES & ACTIVITIES

PASSAIC VALLEY MARTIAL ARTS


Coming soon....our expertise in developing kids with special needs is coming to fruition!! We are excited to be putting together a brand new program for kids (ages 8 to 18) that are on the spectrum and NOT MAINSTREAMED in school. The program will be one martial art class and one yoga class a week. I believe the movement and flexibility of Yoga combined with the athleticism of Martial Arts will have the children working towards a happier and healthier lifestyle.


Classes will be forming in April. Please email passaicvalleyma@gmail.com to register and reserve your child's spot on our mats.



DISCLAIMER:

The Association for Special Children and Families does not provide or give legal or medical advice.

DESCARGO DE RESPONSABILIDAD:

La Asociación para Niños y Familias Especiales no proporciona ni brinda asesoramiento legal o médico.



The contents of this newsletter was developed under a grant from the US Department of Education, H328C10009. However, those contents do not necessarily represent the the policy of the US Department of Education, and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government.

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