In This Issue:


  • ED Message
  • Family Summit
  • Camp and Academy
  • Save the Date 2025
  • January Programs
  • Year In Review with The UpTIC
  • Volunteers


Looking Towards a New Year

A Note from the Executive Director Hilary Kruchowy

Happy New Year from the Board and Staff of NJCTS!


We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us in celebrating our 20th anniversary. 2024 was a year to remember, marked by a successful and joyous gala with both old and new friends; the return of NJ Walks as an in-person event; and the continued success of the Tim Howard Leadership Academy and the Camp FantasTIC Family Retreat Weekend. However, it was also a year of sorrow, as we mourned the passing of our beloved Executive Director, Pat Phillips.


As we look ahead, we invite you to be a part of our strategic planning process. We will be gathering feedback through surveys, focus groups, and interviews, and we would love for you to get involved. Stay tuned for more details in the coming months. If you have suggestions or would like to participate, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me.


Wishing you a joyful, fulfilling, and healthy New Year!

Hilary Kruchowy with Dr. Jay Tischfield at the Tim Howard Leadership Academy

There's Still Time to Sign Up for the Family Summit

The 2025 NJCTS Family Summit will take place at the Environmental Education Center in Basking Ridge on Saturday, January 25 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Families with children ages 10 to 17 can attend for a day of targeted programming for parents and kids. Lunch included with registration. New families are welcome!

Learn More and Register Today!

Camp FantasTIC

A Family Retreat Weekend

Camp FantasTIC registration is now open! Space is limited to about 30 families so be sure to reserve your room. Once we are full, we will start a waiting list.


Learn more and register


Is your older teen or college student interested in being a Camp Buddy? Reach out to Alina at aosborn@njcts.org to learn more.

Tim Howard Leadership Academy

NJCTS is currently accepting applications for the 2025 Tim Howard Leadership Academy, taking place at Rutgers University from July 31 to August 3.


Learn more and apply


Looking to become an Academy Coach? Reach out to Lisa at laugliera@njcts.org for an application.

Important 2025 Dates & Deadlines

Scholarship


The 2025 NJCTS College Scholarship application is available online. All forms must be submitted by March 10.

Camp FantasTIC


The early bird special to register for 2025 camp ends February 15.

NJ Walks for TS


NJ Walks for TS is scheduled for Saturday, May 17 at Duke Island Park.

More info coming soon!

January Programs & Support Groups

NJCTS is planning exciting programming throughout the month.

Community Connections for Adults with TS

January 13 at 7 p.m. (Virtual)


Join us for a Community Connections online "hang out" for those 21+. Here you can comfortably discuss your experiences, share advice, and build relationships with those who understand your unique challenges.

Navigating School Partnerships: Supporting Your Child with Special Needs

January 14 at 7 p.m. - Cherry Hill Public Library


This informative session is designed for parents, caregivers, and advocates of children with special needs who are looking for guidance on how to effectively navigate the complexities of school partnerships. Learn how to collaborate with educators, administrators, and support staff to ensure your child receives the resources and accommodations they need for success.

Tourette Talk: Pathological Demand Avoidance - Cultivating Understanding, Connection, and Conditions for Success

January 21 at 7 p.m.


(PDA) is a complex and often misunderstood profile of autism characterized by a pervasive drive for autonomy and significant challenges in managing everyday demands. In this webinar, we will explore the unique traits and behaviors associated with PDA, offering insights into how anxiety, sensory sensitivities, and a need for control shape this profile.

MASTERMINDS - Cannabis & Tourette Syndrome: The Evidence, The Promise, & The Perils

January 29 at 7 p.m.


Cannabis has garnered significant interest as a potential treatment for Tourette Syndrome, but uncertainty and confusion remain about its effectiveness. This FREE webinar will provide a comprehensive overview of the current evidence regarding cannabinoids for managing tics, including when cannabis might be considered as part of a treatment plan.

Today’s Challenge, Tomorrow’s Strength: A Support Group for Parents of Children with Tourette


First meeting of 2025 will take place in February! There is still time to fill out our survey and have your say on our schedule in the new year.

Highlights of 2024 on The UpTIC

UpTIC host Michael Leopold reflects on the incredible conversations he's had this last year and the powerful insights shared by guests. In this special highlights episode, we revisit some of the standout moments from the season, featuring discussions on occupational therapy, neurodiversity advocacy, groundbreaking research, and more.

LISTEN NOW

Office Volunteers Needed

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We are looking for a few volunteers to assist with office work and special projects starting March 1st. Volunteers should be available between 8:30am and 4:30pm and willing to come to our Somerville office. If you are interested in learning more, please email Katie Delaney.

BE A PART OF THE NJCTS VISION! Become One of the GreaTS.

DONATE NOW

We earned a 2024 Platinum Seal of Transparency! Learn more about our organization’s impact through our #NonprofitProfile on Candid.org

NJCTS | www.njcts.org
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