ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — The Rockford Ice Hogs donated more than $16k to Easterseals serving Chicagoland and Greater Rockford’s autism program during a game on April 2nd.
“We want people to be aware that autism is a diagnosis and many individuals need support, but they also have many strengths,” said Easterseals Autism Program Manager Lori Davie. “It’s amazing I’ve met the greatest artists, hockey players, musicians.”
Davie’s daughter Emily was diagnosed with autism and that did not stop her from chasing her goals. She competes as a goalie and helped her team win the USA Special Hockey Classic.
“This was the first place where she felt like she belonged and they didn’t focus on all the things she could do wrong, they focused on just hey she likes hockey,” said Davie.
Davie is the program manager for the Autism Program at Easterseals, serving the Chicagoland and greater Rockford areas. The program aims to give resources to individuals with autism.
In January, proceeds from a game went towards the check which was presented during the second period.
“We have over a year waiting list for our diagnostic services and our goal is that no family should ever have to wait for the services when they need them,” said Davie. “That’s a huge barrier especially if a child is struggling with behaviors, we are getting a lot more calls for adults seeking diagnostics.”
Easterseals will be having a ton of family events that everyone can be a part of and have a good time. For the schedule of events and ways to donate click here.
