The Williamsburg Community Foundation continues to demonstrate the profound impact of local philanthropy with its latest $2,500 surprise grant to One Child Center for Autism. As part of the Foundation’s yearlong 25th Anniversary celebration, this September grant supports One Child’s vital work providing therapy and family support services for individuals affected by autism and other developmental differences.
The surprise grants program highlights how the community can make a lasting difference through gifts to the Foundation’s community endowment. Each month, a local nonprofit is selected to receive a surprise grant, highlighting the ongoing impact that donors have on organizations like One Child Center for Autism.
Nancy Coté Sullivan, President & CEO of the Community Foundation, emphasized the power of donor contributions: “When people give through the Foundation, they are creating a permanent pool of resources to support the needs of local residents. It’s a partnership that benefits everyone, forever.”
One Child Center for Autism offers a broad spectrum of services, including Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, in-home support, and recreational programs such as Kids Night and Club Sib. These programs provide essential support for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their neurotypical siblings, creating an environment where all children can thrive. Community support, like the Foundation’s grants, helps ensure these programs continue and expand.
Carolyn McNamara, a long-time donor to the Foundation whose grandson has benefited from the Center’s services, had the honor of presenting the grant to Julie Cullifer, Executive Director of One Child Center for Autism. McNamara’s connection to the Center is deeply personal—her grandson, diagnosed with ASD, has attended One Child since he was two. “I chose One Child not only to honor the support they’ve given my grandson, but also to raise awareness about autism and the importance of inclusive services,” said McNamara. “By giving through the Foundation, I’m ensuring that other families receive this support for years to come.”
Cullifer highlighted the Center’s unique approach: “You can learn so much through play,” she said, referencing the playroom where occupational therapy sessions take place. “It’s a safe space for kids to explore, grow, and express themselves.” Cullifer also shared plans to expand the Center’s services to support children as they grow into young adults, with future upgrades such as adding a kitchen and laundry facilities to teach life skills.
One Child’s Kids Night, a monthly event where children with ASD and their siblings engage in fun activities, has faced a shortage of volunteers since the pandemic. “We welcome anyone willing to jump in and play with the kids—no special training required,” said Cullifer.
The work done at One Child is transformative not only for the children but also for their families. “The individualized care we provide acknowledges that every child is unique,” said Cullifer. “Thanks to support from the Foundation and the community, we’re able to meet children where they are and help them grow into the best versions of themselves.”
As part of its 25th Anniversary Campaign, the Foundation aims to grow its Community Endowment by raising $750,000, supported by a 1:2 matching challenge. This campaign will enable the Foundation to increase grants by $25,000 every year, ensuring that programs like those at One Child Center for Autism receive sustainable, long-term funding.
“When donors choose the Community Foundation as their philanthropic partner, they create a legacy that will last forever,” said Sullivan. “The impact of their gifts is felt every year by nonprofits across the region and will continue to touch lives for generations.”
For more information about One Child Center for Autism, visit onechildcenterforautism.org.
For more information about the Community Foundation and how to contribute to its 25th Anniversary Campaign, visit williamsburgcommunityfoundation.org or contact (757) 259-1660.