1 in 88 Children have Autism
source: CDC April 2012
Little Ricky Foundation is focused on raising awareness and financial support for Autism and other developmental disabilities in the community. The number of children with Autism is growing faster than all other childhood diseases combined.
(photo on left is me and Little Ricky at Revere Beach summer 2011)
At the Little Ricky Foundation, we try to help financially. Your donations go to where they are needed most such as software, books, field trips, or other supplies that will enrich these kids lives and hope to bring a promising future to all affected by this mysterious disease. Our kids have the best teachers and with the money we raise, can have the best tools too.
Now more than ever we need you to help us. With the school budgets dwindling, Special Education requests may go unanswered. Every Child with Autism should not be shortchanged in school and the community because of recent government bailouts. Lets help the teachers and parents that help our children and get them the very best supplies and anything else they need to successfully teach and nurture these wonderful children.
We have supported local schools, parent workshops, and other local Autistic organizations since our inception.
Together with your support, we have provided over $40,000 worth of supplies and services.
My name is Rick Freni and I am the proud dad of Ricky, my wonderful son who is Autistic.
This note below was sent from an Early Intervention Teacher who has several Autistic Students.
The mere words "THANK YOU!!!!!"" seem to fall flat no matter how many exclamation points are added. You and The Little Ricky Foundation have added so much to my classroom. It is far beyond mere supplies. You've given my children the opportunity to say "Look at me! Watch what I can do!" Young children learn through play, which is a skill that comes naturally to most. However, for children with autism play must be taught, constantly re-invented, and motivated by interests that sometimes try to hide locked away. These supplies are the key to their learning! Each day I am inspired by the learning that takes place in my classroom. Each day I am in awe of how each child has redefined their diagnosis of autism---they are so much more than that. Amongst the piles of papers on my desk I have taped a quote by Shel Silverstein to remind me in an often busy classroom what really matters:
“Listen to the Musn't's child,
Listen to the Don't's.
Listen to the Shouldn't's, the Impossibles, the Won't's.
Listen to the Never Haves,
then Listen close to me.
ANYthing can happen, child,
ANYthing can Be.”
Shel Silverstein (1930-1999);
Thank you for all that you do!
Traci Glynn - Beachmont School-Early Intervention
THIS IS WHY WE DO WHAT WE DO, BECAUSE OF WONDERFUL TEACHERS LIKE MISS GLYNN!
Thank you to everyone who attended our 4th annual event at the Casa Lucia Revere. Over 200 people enjoyed the wonderful evening which included dinner, entertainment by Joey Voices, and over 50 raffle items.
WE WILL SEE EVERYONE NEXT YEAR AT OUR 5TH ANNUAL BACK at the MALDEN MOOSE. THIS WILL BE THE BIGGEST AND BEST!
Be Happy, Healthy, and Safe
Proceeds from all events benefit local kids with Autism and other developmental delays.
Helping Kids with Autism by providing financial assistance and support to their teachers, paraprofessionals, and therapists to ensure all the tools are in place for a successful education.
We are non-profit 100% run Volunteer organization.
For more information on our annual event, please contact me directly at
Our goal is to provide support and services to these children while in school so that one day they can become independent, self sufficient, and active members of our community.
Quote:
"You never know how much love you have to give until you have a child with special needs." Rick Freni 1998