JULY/AUGUST HIGHLIGHTS & UPCOMING EVENTS/PROGRAMS

Autism Friendly Summer Camp

Nassan’s Place, in collaboration with the City of Newark's Department of Recreation, Cultural Affairs & Senior Services, welcomed individuals with autism for a 7 week, full day engaging and supportive Autism-Friendly Summer Camp.

Campers enjoyed a summer filled with:

🎨 Arts & Crafts — creativity and hands-on fun

🎵 Music and Dance — interactive musical and dance experiences

🏊 Swimming & Community Outings — recreation, exploration, and connection

🧠 ABA, OT & Speech Support — individualized support to help campers thrive

📚 Math, Literacy & Science — learning through engaging activities

🍎 Breakfast, Lunch & Snacks — nutritious meals and refreshments

From learning and creativity to new experiences and community connections, it was a summer to remember! We’re proud of our campers and grateful to everyone who helped make it possible.

July 6, 2026 - August 21st, 2026

Chattin' with Chelsea TV Interview

Founder/Executive Director Nadine Wright-Arbubakrr and fellow autism advocate Camille Joy joined Nadine’s soror, Chelsea Edwards, on Chattin’ with Chelsea.

The conversation highlighted Nadine and Camille’s journeys as autism moms, advocates, and the work they do through Nassan’s Place and Moments of Joy Podcast. 

A special full-circle moment: just one year ago, Nadine and Chelsea were both honored as Women of the Year by Gamma Sigma Sigma National Service Sorority, Inc.

Click the link below to catch the full conversation!

July 9, 2026

Moments of Joy Fest

Nassan’s Place was proud to be represented in Houston, TX at Moments of Joy Fest by our Founder & Executive Director, Nadine Wright-Arbubakrr, and Director of Communications, Niya Wright.

Hosted by Nadine’s “little sis” on this autism journey, Camille Joy, the event brought together autism families, advocates, and community leaders for a weekend of connection, education, support, and empowerment.

Nadine joined a panel sharing her experience as an autism mom and advocate, while Niya participated in a panel offering her perspective on autism as a sibling. From engaging discussions and informative workshops to valuable resources and a thoughtfully designed sensory room, the event offered something for everyone—including the dads!

July 11, 2026

Monthly Sensory Friendly Movie Day "Minions & Monsters" at CityPlex12



July 11, 2026

Check in Visit with Ausome Autism Superstar

Our Founder and Executive Director, Nadine Wright-Arbubakrr, along with Board Member Patricia Wilson visited one of our Ausome Autism Superstars, Brandon, at his group home and took him to lunch.

A few years ago Brandon’s mom and aunt passed away within months of each other. They were his only caregivers so he ended up in a group home. Nadine makes a point to stay connected with Brandon, get him out to our events, and make sure he continues to feel like part of the Nassan’s Place family.

For so many parents of children with special needs, one of their biggest fears are, “What will happen to my child when I’m no longer here?”

Nadine hopes Brandon’s mom and aunt are watching from Heaven, resting easily knowing Brandon has people who care about him, include him, and make sure he isn't alone.



July 27, 2026

Monthly Sensory Friendly Movie Day "Spiderman Brand New Day" & Informational Session at CityPlex12

We kicked off August with a Sensory Friendly Movie Day featuring Spider-Man: Brand New Day. While our kids enjoyed the movie, parents joined an Information Session in partnership with Circle of Strength, learning about resources, supports, and services for individuals with autism and their families.

Our community partners, Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc., made the day extra special with a surprise visit from everyone’s favorite Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man! And our Ausome Autism Superstar, Aaron, wowed us with his amazing Spider-Man artwork. We’re so proud of his creativity!

From learning and connecting to laughing together at the movies, the day was filled with community, inclusion, and fun. Thank you to our families, presenters, volunteers, and CityPlex12 for making it such a success. We can’t wait for our next Sensory Friendly Movie Day!



August 1, 2026

Back 2 School Store

A few of Nassan's Place families had a wonderful day at the NCJW/Essex Back 2 School Store where kids got to choose their own back-to-school essentials, including clothing, sneakers, backpacks, school supplies, books, and personal care items—all at no cost. Families also had access to healthy food options and valuable community resources.

We’re grateful to NCJW/Essex and their volunteers for inviting Nassan's Place for the last five years and creating an inclusive and welcoming experience for children with autism and their families. Our kids left feeling confident, supported, and ready for a new school year!

August 2, 2026

Autism By Nature Basketball Clinic

Nassan’s Place and Ballin By Nature EO teamed up for the Autism By Nature Inclusion Basketball Clinic at the Naughty By Nature basketball court in East Orange, NJ.

The day brought together individuals on the autism spectrum, siblings, and friends for a fun-filled afternoon of basketball, inclusion, community resources, and connection. Participants learned and practiced basketball fundamentals while enjoying an environment where everyone had the opportunity to play and shine.

We’re incredibly grateful to our Ballin By NatureEO partners, sponsors, donors, volunteers, coaches, vendors, and community partners who helped make the clinic possible.



Every participant went home with a medal celebrating their achievement: “AutismByNature — Thank You for Being a Champion!” The smiles from our Ausome Autism Superstars and their families said it all!

Click the collage below to watch a highlight reel!

August 8, 2026

Back to School BBQ & Backpack/School Supplies Giveaway

Nassan’s Place was proud to host our Annual Barbecue & Backpack Giveaway in conjunction with our valued community partners: Blackbird Smart Innovations LLC, Hype 4 Life Foundation of Brian Burns Family Charities, Lyft, Echo Care ABA, Lemcor Inc., Focus for Health Foundation, The MATTIE Fund, Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc., and Greater Essex Elks Lodge #21.

Together, we brought children and families affected by autism together for an afternoon filled with community, connection, resources, and fun. Families received backpacks and school supplies while enjoying delicious food, music, face painting and more.

We are incredibly grateful to our partners, volunteers, supporters, and everyone who joined us and helped make the day so special!

August 22, 2026

A Surprise for Two Nassan's Place Families

Nassan’s Place was honored to join our community partner, Blackbird Smart Innovation, for its Community Showcase in Nyack, NY. The day was filled with meaningful connections, inspiring stories, and an opportunity to learn more about Blackbird Smart Innovation’s innovative technology designed to support greater safety and peace of mind for individuals and families.

And then came an extra-special surprise: Two Nassan’s Place families in attendance were selected to receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Turks & Caicos during Beaches Resorts Autism Week this October, courtesy of Blackbird Smart Innovation!

Nassan’s Place is grateful to continue our partnership with Blackbird Smart Innovation and the shared commitment to supporting, empowering, and connecting families affected by autism. We look forward to continuing to create meaningful opportunities and experiences together.

A heartfelt thank you to Tyneadrian and the entire Blackbird Smart Innovation team for their generosity and continued support of the Nassan’s Place community.

August 28, 2026

Nassan's Place shared information and resources at the following community event:

National Night Out

Newark, NJ

August 4, 2026

Newark Board of Education’s Office of Federal Programs & Grants & Parent Engagement Back to School Night

Newark, NJ

August 26, 2026

Proud Moments ABA Speaking Engagement

Founder and Executive Director, Nadine Wright-Arbubakrr, was invited to speak at the Black Employee Resource Group Meeting hosted by Proud Moments ABA.

During the virtual meeting, Nadine shared information about Nassan’s Place and our work to support children and families affected by autism. The speaking engagement provided an opportunity for Nadine to connect with Proud Moments employees and families, share the mission of Nassan’s Place, and offer insight into the needs and experiences of families navigating the autism spectrum.

We welcome every opportunity to share our work and continue conversations that help connect, educate, and empower families and communities.

August 27, 2026

If you're interested in learning more or registering your child, please email info.nassansplace@gmail.com or call 973-424-7781.

CLICK FLYER TO REGISTER

If you're interested in supporting our Toy Drive, please email info.nassansplace@gmail.com or call 973-424-7781.

CLICK FLYER TO REGISTER