ImpactA NEWSLETTER FOR FRIENDS, FAMILIES AND SUPPORTERS OF THE LEARNING TREE

WINTER 2016 ISSUE: New Mobile Location • Chip in for Autism • Regional News • Honor Roll

New MobileLocation Announced From its unassuming beginnings, The Learning Tree, Inc. has grown into playing a significant role of educating some of the most severely impacted children in Alabama, now serving more than 600 children. Since 1983 programs have operated at the Lott Road location in Semmes. Early in 2017 their business offices and educational, residential, and nursing programs will move to a new location adjacent to their schools on Able Court in West Mobile. The new location includes four office/warehouse buildings totaling 15,190 sq. ft. The anticipated move will provide additional space for

existing programs and allow for future expansion. “Locating close to Woody’s Song School on Able Court will have a significant impact on the the efficiency of our operations, said Dr. Marc Williams,” Executive Director. Nathan Handmacher with Stirling Properties in Mobile managed the sale of the property.

Architectural plans are in progress for the necessary renovations to accommodate the planned use of the buildings. “This is an opportunity to design the space according to what we need to best serve the children, rather than just adapting our work to the space,” added Williams. Woody’s Song School will also be incorporated in to the plans, i.e. adding a walkway between the buildings and other related projects. Plans for a capital campaign will be released soon that will include the purchase of the building, provide for the renovations, new equipment and furnishings, and landscaping. “We are hopeful the Mobile community and surrounding service areas will embrace this exciting project and the campaign that will financially support it,” said Sheila Sears, Director of Resource Development. Legacy gifts, securities, real estate and cash donations will all be welcomed. Naming opportunities will also be available as the plan is developed. For information about how to make a pledge or donation please call or text Teresa Atkins at 251-331-2633 or email her at tatkins@learning-tree.org. •

Mobile Campus Master Plan

Mobile Floor Plan

Message from the Executive Director,Dr. Marc Williams:

A new year is ahead and we are on course for an exciting new venture. As previously noted, we are moving the Lott Rd. programs and business offices to a new location on Able Court next door to Woody’s Song School. This move will provide a much improved space for our children in the residential program, clinical services, and a number of administrative offices. Woody’s Song School improvements are also part of the plan.

This fall we welcomed two new members to our board of directors – Ms. Angie Coon from Greenville, Alabama and Mr. Alan Taunton from Tallassee, Alabama. We are very pleased to have them on board. As always, I sincerely appreciate the support of our board, parents, and the conscientious work of our staff across the state. We also want to thank you, our donors, for your support of our special events through your donations, sponsorships, and participation. If you are considering year-end contributions, please remember our building project and programs. Happy holidays!

In other news with regard to our employees. . .

• Sympathy is extended to Erin Wofford in the death of her father Wesley Wofford, and to Maxine Sandlin in the death of her husband Charles Sandlin.

• We celebrate Teena Norton’s 23 years of employment with The Learning Tree in Jacksonville. • Jules Starr now fills a new role as the Coordinator of Regional Education Services.• Christy McSpadden and Kim Turner have assumed the role of Assistants to the Coordinator of

Regional Education Services.• Valerie Mitchell has moved to the Mobile region as the Assistant to the Regional Director.• Steven Tillery is a new training Coordinator in Tallassee.• Siobhan Washington is a new Quality Monitor in Tallassee.• Erin Jennings is a new Clinical Coordinator Assistant in Jacksonville.• Nicole Dieckow recently successfully completed an Iron Man in Panama City, Florida. • The Anniston Preschool employees recently donated their personal time to assist TOP Soccer,

a special needs soccer course for the children of the community. • Brittney Lockhart is the new Assistant to Regional Director in Tallassee.• Jessica Zavac is Assistant to Preschool Director in Auburn.• Kerrianne Castleberry, Mobile Regional Director and Junior League member participated in

the Junior League’s “Done in a Day” painting program at the preschool.

Winter 2016

http://www.learning-tree.org

Established in 1983, The Learning Tree, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to children and adolescents with significant educational, medical, and behavioral challenges; helping them develop and maintain a quality of life expected by non-disabled members of their family and community.

The Learning Tree, Inc. and its programs admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin.

The Learning Tree is governed by avolunteer board of directors, represen-tative of the primary service areas in the State of Alabama.

Board of DirectorsDr. John CaldwellAngie CoonKatie DoughertyNathan HandmacherAllison KendallDr. Sam PernaDr. Marcia Rossi Alan TauntonDr. Jim Siders

This newsletter is published by The Learning Tree, Resource Development Department compiled and distributed by coordinating offices located in these Alabama cities: Anniston/Jacksonville,Auburn/Tallassee, and Mobile.

The Learning Tree, Inc.Administrative Office101 S. Dubois StreetPO Box 780639Tallassee, AL 36078334-252-0025

Executive DirectorDr. Marc Williams

Regional Director-Anniston/JacksonvillePat Murphy

Regional Director-Auburn/TallasseeWhitney Hester

Regional Director-MobileKerrianne Castleberry

Operations DirectorBen Rogers

Resource Development DirectorSheila Sears

Member of the Alabama Autism Provid-ers Network Collaborating, Advocating and Caring for People with ASDwww.al-autismproviders.net

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A donation of over $111,000 was recently made to Woody’s Song School by a donor that wishes to remain anonymous. The generous donation was designated for transportation for the school and to set up a scholarship fund for families in need. A 26 passenger bus was purchased from a local church earlier this year. The bus will be used for school related travel including field trips. “In the past we have had to share other agency vans,” Jules Starr, Program Director explained. “The new bus will be much more safe and efficient when we are traveling round the community with the students.”

The scholarship program is being developed to help provide assistance to families who are experiencing a temporary financial hardship. This support will ensure that students are able to continue in the program without concern about changes in their financial status.

Anonymous Donation to Woody’s Song

6th Annual “Chip in for Autism” The 6th Annual “Chip in for Autism” Golf Tournament benefitting Woody’s Song School had a record-breaking year. The tournament raised over $36,000 with close to 100 golfers. The event, sponsored by HPC Specialty Pharmacy, kicked off with a shotgun start on Friday, October 21st at Azalea City Golf Club. Each year, Cindy Fulford, mom to students Sam and Cale, devotes her life to this event. This event would not be possible without Cindy and all of the families at Woody’s Song School who work tirelessly to make sure the tournament is a success. After a beautiful day on the links, the golfers were treated to dinner courtesy of Naman’s Catering and a host of prizes. Many thanks to title sponsor, HPC Pharmacy and to all of the other sponsors for their generosity. Chip in for Autism is the only event that solely benefits Woody’s Song School.

Title Sponsor HPC Specialty Pharmacy

Gold Sponsors Dr. Kenneth Ellingwood Nicholas Insulation Services

Silver Sponsors Baker Donelson Cottage Hill Civitan Club C Spire Firetrol Protection Services Gulf Coast Surgical Specialists, Inc. Hancock Bank Jones Walker, LLC The Reed Mattingly Family Mobile Premier Pediatric Dentistry Greg, Judy, Andy & Kevin Sykes WS Foundation

Bronze Sponsors Butch Barker – Team Sports Brindlee Mountain Fire Apparatus The Dozier Family The Harty/Carpenter Group – Merrill Lynch The Iqbal Family Regions Bank Russell, Thompson, Butler & Houston Smith, Dukes & Buckalew Bryan Sykes & Suzanne Rastani The Starr Family Willis Towers Watson

Hole Sponsors Altapointe Health Systems Tim Andrews Paul Bartels Bella Bridesmaid Tony Benefiel Broadway South Dance Studio Rachel Byers The Chatham Family Jean Cieutat Citrin, Rihner & Gupta Clark’s Kitchen & Catering Dance Without Limits Dennis McLaughlin David Dye Edward Jones Investments Shirley Eiland Philip Epstein Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers The Forsman Family Hargrove Engineers + Constructors Harper Technologies, LLC The Houston Jones Fan Club Mark & Annette Jones Don & Diane Kennedy The Kyser Family Little Tree Preschool Lyon Fry Cadden Insurance The McLaughlin Family New Horizons Credit Union Sean Nicholas Casey Porter & Keith Culpepper Sears and Sears Law Firm Simply Sheets Stirling Properties Dr. and Mrs. John Stone The Strickland Family Dr. Hanes Swingle Ellen Taylor Dr. Linda Tenhundfeld USA Psychology Department Deborah Walker Zaxby’s Zebra Marketing Zoghby’s Uniforms

Pictured L to R: Jeff Spiller, Hank Hayes, Shelby Windham & Randy Eckhoff

L to R: Scott Jordan, Jim Neal, Earle King and Jimmy Miller

The Mattingly Family

Keith Castleberry pictured withMobile Regional Director, Kerrianne Castleberry

FACT! Woody’s Song School in Mobile opened in 2009 serving 8 children.

Today more than 26 children are served each year.

Friends and families who are employed by the state may now designate their Combined Charitable Campaign donations to The Learning Tree. The Alabama State Employee Combined Charitable Campaign accepted The Learning Tree for participation in the 2016 campaign. The 2016 Campaign began August 24th and will conclude December 31st, with pledged contributions actually beginning in January 2017. The first disbursements will be made beginning April 2017. www.statecombinedcampaign.org

State Employees Families and Friends!

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Angling for Autism Fishing Tournament The third annual Angling for Autism fishing tournament was a big succcess, held November 12th at Wind Creek State Park in Alexander City. Sixty-three boats registered bright an early that morning in hopes to win the top prize of $1,500. Ten places were paid out and a big fish pot with a 70/30 split. There was also a $100 prize for the top parent/child team and a $100 prize for the top male/female team. The top winner was Brandon Pritchard and Adam Roberts with the top weight of 14.38lbs. They also won the second big fish pot. Second place went to Chad Miller and Chris Miller with 13.74lbs. They also won the first big fish. Third place went to Felton Langley. Fourth place went to Erick Sommers and Tommy Pegues. Fifth place went to George Breland and Jeremy Philliber. Sixth Place went to Mike Keel and Mike McCullars. Seventh place went to Steven Ingram. Eighth place went to Ryan Stewart and David Swatts. Ninth place went to Todd Mote and David Carlisle and tenth place went to Hank Golden and Hulan Mattox. The prize for top male/female team went to Danny and Helen Pollard. The prize for top parent/child went to John and Katie Pollard. Dallas Weldon managed the weigh in this year and was there bright and early to check live wells, and “blasted off” the boaters at safe daylight. Also there early that morning to help was Brittney Lockhart and Whitney Hester. That afternoon Jeffrey Dennis, Allen Meadows, Cory Hammonds, Ashley Hammonds and Lucy Johnson helped out with the weigh in. April Rapp was there too taking photos.

MANY THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS:

Bama Budweiser AES Industries Tallassee True Value Lyon, Fry, Cadden Insurance PrimeSouth Bank A.M.P.S. E&I, Inc. Tallassee Jeffcoat-Trant, Inc. Tallassee Automotive Freedom Logistics Tallassee Rehab Tallassee Kiwanis Club

Pictured L to R: Brandon Pritchard,Stephanie Weldon and Adam Roberts

Top male/female pictured L to R: Danny Pollard,Helen Pollard, and Stephanie Weldon

Pictured L to R: Stephanie Weldon, Katie Pollard and John PollardKids watching the fish being released

FACT!Consultation & Outreach Services

Students Served: 220

School Districts Served: 78

Teacher Training: 213 hours

Individualized Consultation: 2,829 hours

AmazonSmile!

Shop at AmazonSmile this holiday season and Amazon makes a donation to The Learning Tree!

What is AmazonSmile? AmazonSmile is a simple and automatic way for you to support The Learning Tree every time you shop, at no cost to you. When you shop at smile.amazon.com, with every purchase Amazon will donate a portion of the purchase price to The Learning Tree!

How much of my purchase does Amazon donate? The AmazonSmile Foundation will donate 0.5% of the purchase price from your eligible AmazonSmile purchases. The purchase price is the amount paid for the item minus any rebates and excluding shipping & handling, gift-wrapping fees, taxes, or service charges.

Can I receive a tax deduction for amounts donated from my purchases on AmazonSmile? Donations are made by the AmazonSmile Foundation and are not tax deductible by you.

Go to smile.amazon.com today!!!

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Statewide Support Continues to Grow The Learning Tree is grateful for the support of local and state foundations and business and government support from across the state. Thank you to the following for their support in 2016 to date:

• An anonymous gift was made to Woody’s Song School to purchase a new van for the school and establish a scholarship fund.

• Festival of Children Foundation awarded $5,000 as the Founder’s Choice through the 2016 NCAM Talent Challenge.

• $25,650 in funding for applied behavioral analysis services for the Anniston Preschool was made possible by a grant from the Stringfellow fund of the Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama.

• Honda Manufacturing of Alabama gave $2,400 in support of the Anniston Preschool.

• Tyler Union Foundry of Anniston, Alabama donated $2,500 in support of the Anniston Preschool.

• The Darr Foundation awarded a $15,000 grant to the Anniston Preschool.

• Walmart Community Foundation awarded a $2,000 grant to the Auburn Preschool.

• The Junior League of Lee County gave $1,082 to purchase 3 large size Angeles SilverRider Trikes for the Auburn Preschool.

• Alabama Department of Environmental Management contributed $25,000 to upgrade and resurface the basketball court at Tallassee’s Residential School.

• Poarch Creek Indians $1,000 for playground improvements for theTallassee School.

• The Daniel Foundation of Alabama granted $15,000 to upgrade technology and security at Woody’s Song School in Mobile.

• The Treadwell Foundation awarded $15,000 to support Kilborn Kids, a Mobile scouting program for Woody’s Song School and the Residential School in Mobile.

• The A.S. Mitchell Foundation contributed $5,000 toward adding a new teacher’s position at Woody’s Song School in Mobile.

• The Hearin-Chandler Foundation awarded $5,000 toward the installation of a splash pad at Woody’s Song School.

• The Catranis Family Foundation donated $2,000 for iPads and bicycles for Woody’s Song School.

• The Caring Foundation of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama donated $2,500 to Woody’s Song School for general support.

Memorials & Honorariums

To make a donation in memory of a loved one or to honor a special event in someone’s life please contact the Resource Development Coordinator in your region. We will mail a professionally designed card to the family for a memorial or to the individual being honored. Donors will receive a thank you letter for the donation and acknowledging the card has been mailed. Memorials and honorariums will also be listed in the newsletter and on The Learning Tree website. To coordinate the cards please contact your regional development office:

Auburn/Tallassee Stephanie Weldon at 334.415.9372 or sweldon@learning-tree.org

Anniston/TallasseeErica Brown at 256.490.1648 or ebrown@learning-tree.org

MobileTeresa Atkins at 251.331.2633 or tatkins@learning-tree.org

Please see the sample card below highlighting the text and format used.

A donation has been made to �e Learning Tree in memory of

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Established in 1983, �e Learning Tree is a nonpro�t organization dedicated to serving children with developmental disabilities, including autism. Educational, residential, and support services are helping children learn and grow.

For more information about �e Learning Tree please visit our website at www.learning-tree.org.

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Established in 1983, �e Learning Tree is a nonpro�t organization dedicated to serving children with developmental disabilities, including autism. Educational, residential, and support services are helping children learn and grow.

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For more information about �e Learning Tree please visit our website at www.learning-tree.org.

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For more information about �e Learning Tree please visit our website at www.learning-tree.org.

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The first annual “Chip in for Children”Golf TournamentThe Tallassee residential school and the Little H.A.P.I.E. Tree Preschool held the first “Chip in for Children” golf tournament on June 21st at the Auburn University Club. We had 7 teams to come out on this nice summer morning. The winners were as follows; first place was Primesouth Bank, second place was Milner Electric and third place went to Southern Controls. We would like to thank all of our golfers for coming out to play. We would also like to thank our sponsors because without them this wouldn’t have taken place. Our Gold Sponsor was Hyundai of Auburn. Our lunch sponsors were Lumpkin Pest Management, Tallassee Rotary Club and Trustmark Bank. Our hole sponsors were Sizemore and Sizemore, Dilworth Development, Guardian Credit Union, BTS & Associates, and Publix. Panera Bread furnished the pastries, bagels and cookies for breakfast. Publix furnished the snacks, water and gator-aide and Premium Beverages provided drinks.

Junior League of Lee County gives TricyclesThe Junior League of Lee County provided funds for six new tricycles for the children at The Little HAPIE Tree Preschool in Auburn. More than 48 children are benefitting from the new trikes and are having a blast! Outdoor exercise is so good for the kids, we sincerely appreciate this helpful donation,” said April Rapp, Program Director.”

The Junior League of Lee County, Inc., is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

New Basketball Court at Tallassee SchoolThe Alabama Department of Environmental Management approved funding for over $25,000 through the Elmore County Commission to resurface the basketball court at the Tallassee residential school on Dubois Street. A process using recycled tires was used for the mulch. A special thanks to Commissioner Trey Taylor for leading the effort.

AUBURN/TALLASSEE REGION AUBURN/TALLASSEE REGION

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Three Graduations at Tallassee SchoolFamilies, staff and community guests attended the graduation ceremony for three Tallassee students, Patrick, Katie and Riley. Pictures highlighting each graduate and their years at the school decorated the gym. The direct care staff that had worked closely with the graduates, shared wonderful tributes and memories with the crowd. Katie’s housemates even sang her a song to honor her accomplishments. After the ceremony, everyone enjoyed refreshments. Good luck graduates!

Lake Martin Area United Way Campaign Kick-offThe Lake Martin Area United Way held their kick-off meeting on August 30th at the Betty Carroll Graham building on the cam-pus of Central Alabama Community College. Agencies provided exhibits and shared information. “Picture a Brighter Future” was the theme of the meeting. Each agency was asked to decorate a picture frame to represent their organization. The residential school in Tallassee decorated a white picture frame with brightly painted wooden puzzle pieces attached. Prizes were given for the best frames and table decorations. Whitney Hester, Regional Director and Stephanie Weldon, Resource Development Coor-dinator represented The Learning Tree along with students. The students worked at the booth handing out candy and talking to folks about their school.

1st place – Primesouth Bank L-R;Todd Mote, Michael Dalton, Jimmy Monk, and Larry Coker

2nd Place – Milner Electric L-R; Phil Spear, Brent Milner and

Stephanie Weldon. Not pictured, Bruce Dean and Jim Harwick

3rd Place – Southern Controls L-R; Derrick Grooms, Stephanie Weldon

and David Hart. Not pictured, Daniel McGhee and Chris Coan.

SAVE THE DATEFRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2017

at Lazenby Farms

The Liles family with Riley

Katie with teacher Crystal

FACT! Number of children enrolled in our Preschool Services:

Anniston, 19 Auburn, 48 Mobile, 34

Jamal sharing memories of Patrick

FACT! United Way Support

United Way of East Central Alabama

Lake Martin United Way

United Way of Southwest Alabama

ANNISTON/JACKSONVILLE REGION ANNISTON/JACKSONVILLE REGION

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Run for HOPE 5k/10kIn November The Little Tree Preschool in Anniston celebrated several patriotic days, including the Presidential Election Day, Veteran’s Day, Marine Birthday, and World Freedom Day; teaching children that first responders and military are our friends.

“We Run Free Because of the Brave”, Run for HOPE 5k/10k started at 8 am at The Little Tree Preschool on Fort McClellan, saluting all military, veterans, and first responders. There were police cars, fire trucks, and a surprise helicopter visit. Many thanks to all sponsors including Jefferson’s of Oxford, Kirkpatrick’s Contracting, America’s First Credit Union, Panera Bread, Buffalo Rock, Ace Hardware, Road ID, the Comer family, and the Edmondson family. Panera Bread and Buffalo Rock provided post-race refreshments. Awards were presented to top male and female overall runners, and different age groups in both 5k and 10k.

Jax Students CompeteThe 2016 Paralympic Summer Games in Rio de Janeiro was held in September highlighting over 280 USA athletes. In the 1976 Summer Games, athletes with a variety of disabilities were included for the first time. In 2016 over 4,000 athletes competed from over 170 nations.

The Jacksonville school campus celebrated the Paralympics by hosting their own games. The entire experience was set up on campus for all of the students to enjoy, including a Paralympic torch relay and an opening ceremony. Each day students and staff participated in multiple events. The Games included the longest trampoline jump time, corn hole, ring toss, long jump, relay races, and swimming events. The week ended with a closing ceremony. The event was also a learning experience for the students on Olympic history and how it operated. Students made their own t-shirts representing their Olympic teams. The teams included Team Yellow (Mrs. Jessica’s Class), Team Africa (Nicole/Shadericka’s Class), Team Wild Thangz (Mrs. Wendy’s Class), and Team Adults (Adult Program).

Halloween

Congratulations Jacksonville Graduates!Graduation almost always creates feelings of happiness and yet some sadness. At The Learning Tree the children are celebrated for their accomplishments as they prepare for their next step in life. The sadness comes when one realizes that the children you have come to love and helped grow are now adults and are moving on in life. In September five students graduated from the Jacksonville residential school campus. Patricia Murphy, Regional Director, led the graduation ceremony recognizing each student and presenting them with a diploma. Family and community friends cheered as the graduates “walked the stage”. A special luncheon was catered by the cafeteria staff with a personalized cake and cupcakes for

each student.

Business to Business ExpoThe 32nd Annual Business to Business Expo was held at the Anniston Meeting Center in Calhoun County this year. Erica Brown, Resource Development Coordinator for the Jacksonville and Anniston Region represented The Learning Tree. More than 80 businesses and organizations highlighted their services. Attendees also enjoyed sampling the foods of the Taste of Calhoun County.

Baron’s SponsorAutism DayAn annual event day, the 3rd annual Autism Friendly Baron’s game at Region’s Field in Birmingham was against the Pensacola Blue Wahoos. The Learning Tree joined ten other non-profits that serve individuals with special needs from across Alabama. The event was an opportunity for families and their children with special needs to enjoy a day at the ballpark. The game day included calming stations and decreased noise through the stadium sound system. The mascots were located in a designated area where the children could approach them on their own time to prevent the costumes from being overwhelming.

$5,000 Founder’s Prize AwardedSeptember is National Child Awareness Month (NCAM) bringing diverse charitable organizations together for a common goal. A wide array of organizations set aside their individual agendas to focus on issues children face in America today, addressing their growing challenges and needs. The goal was to highlight children’s charities through a talent based video challenge. The Learning Tree participated in the 2016 NCAM Talent Challenge. Each preschool and Woody’s Song School submitted a video highlighting the children’s talent and challenging their favorite celebrities, organizations, or schools. Their talents consisted of tumbling, dancing, water balloon toss, and showing off their water day fun! On September 30, 2016, the national competition came to a close, with The Learning Tree coming in 4th. There were over 2000 nonprofits registered through NCAM Talent Challenge webpage. The Learning Tree was selected and awarded the $5,000 Founder’s Prize by the Foundation.

The videos submitted by the Anniston, Auburn and Mobile preschools and Woody’s Song School can be found on The Learning Tree Facebook page. We look forward to August 2017!

Find us on Facebook @learningtree.alabamaThe Little Tree Preschool rocked Halloween Disney style this year, Aimee Spruill was Cinderella, Erin Jennings was Belle, Jennifer Wythe was

Snow White, and Erica Brown was Queen of Hearts.Erica Brown, Resource Development Coordinator in Anniston/Jacksonville.

FACT! More than 100 children & adolescents were served this year through our

residential program and community based schools.

Currently enrolled in Jacksonville – 36, Tallassee – 34, and Mobile – 27.

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MOBILE REGION MOBILE REGION

Kilborn’s Kids Visit Camp GraceKilborn’s Kids, a scouting program supported by attorney, Vincent Kilborn and The Joseph Treadwell Foundation, spent a beautiful fall day at Camp Grace in West Mobile. They enjoyed horseback riding, paddle boats, inflatables, fishing and riding on a raft around the lake. Angie Cieutat coordinates the Kilborn’s Kids program for Woody’s Song School and the Mobile Residential School. This annual event is a favorite among the kids. Mr. Kilborn has supported this program for more than 4 years.

Puzzle Piece Flash DashThe annual Puzzle Piece Flash Dash moved to an evening run this year. With more than 80 participating the run started and ended at The Little Tree Preschool in Mobile through the nearby neighborhoods. Each 5K runner was given a head lamp, courtesy of Billy Loewen with Performance Contractors. There were lots of other flashy, glowing give-aways. Thanks to Thrivent Financial Services, Run-N-Tri, and Newks Eatery for coming out to support the run. Music was provided by John Cardell. The children also enjoyed a one-mile Fun Run. The event raised over $7,000 to benefit The Learning Tree and The Autism Society of Alabama.

Hayley’s Bar Care CarnivalThe 2nd Annual Care Carnival sponsored by Hayley’s Bar in Downtown Mobile raised more than $2,400 for Woody’s Song School. The street carnival coincided with Mobile’s Downtown Alive and featured carnival games, raffle items, live music and local celebrities getting a pie in the face. Former Alabama football player, Roger Schultz and Local TV 15’s Darwin Singleton were very popular victims. The event was organized by Brittany Mistich, a former Learning Tree employee and current employee at Hayley’s. We appreciate Brittany and the families with Woody’s Song School that came out to enjoy the beautiful day.

Volunteers and Staff Receive ARC AwardsThe Mobile ARC awards were presented at their annual meeting in September. Receiving awards from The Learning Tree were:

Community Service Award – The 74 ClubFamily of the Year Award – The Fulford FamilyExemplary Educator – Little Tree Preschool Teacher,Shaquana GilesDistinguished Direct Service Professional – Little Tree Preschool Teacher’s Assistant, LaShannon Pines

The 74 Club was recognized for their commitment to Woody’s Song School through their fundraising efforts, such as the Blues Tavern Barbecue Cookoff and the Over the Edge event. The group has raised more than $10,000 for the school. Cindy and Jed Fulford were recognized for their hard work and commitment to the children at Woody’s Song School. Mr. and Mrs. Fulford organize the Chip in for Autism golf tournament, now in its sixth year, which has raised more than $90,000. In addition, they organize an annual Fall Festival for the school and help to build Mardi Gras floats for the children. Ms. Giles and Ms. Pines were recognized for their outstanding commitment to the children at the Little Tree Preschool. Congratulations to everyone!

Kiwanis Club of MobileMembers of the Kiwanis Club of Mobile recently spent a Saturday morning cleaning up the playground at Woody’s Song School. They prepared the gardens for fall planting, brought in wood chips for around the playground equipment, power washed the building and tidied up the ground areas.

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Celebration of FallThe children at Woody’s Song School and the Residential School celebrated the fall season with costumes, carnival games, food and lots of fun. Cindy Fulford coordinated the event along with other Woody’s Song parents. The students and teachers had a great time dressing up in creative costumes. A few of the moms got in on the action too. There was a “Fox in Socks, the Wizard of Oz crew, a Bowling Ball and Pin and even a Hot Dog! The Hot Dog enjoyed several hot dogs for lunch. Thank you to everyone!

L to R: Mobile ARC Executive Director, Jeff Zoghby, 74 Club members,Julie Bellcase and David Scott.

L to R:The Fulford Family, Sam, Jake, Cale, Cindy and Jed.

L to R: Mobile ARC HR Director, Kris-tin Priest, LaShannon Pines & Mobile ARC Executive Director, Jeff Zoghby

Emcee and Local 15 reporter,Darwin Singleton and

Shaquana Giles

L to R: Julius Powell, Bruce McCrory, Don Halimunanda, Bob Hollon,Ahmad Zahra, Tim Clairborne and Darrell Butler. Kendall Clarke not pictured.

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Listing reflects donations made January 1st, 2016 through October 31st, 2016.

FUNDING PARTNERS ANDOTHER SUPPORTERSAlabama Dept. of EducationAlabama Dept. of Human ResourcesAlabama Dept. of Mental HealthAuburn City SchoolsAutism SpeaksDavis Direct, Inc.Lake Martin United WayMobile County Public SchoolsUnited Cerebral PalsyUnited Way of East Central AlabamaUnited Way of Southwest Alabama

JACKSONVILLE/ANNISTONAerospace Coatings International, LLCMs. Jerricka AikenAmazon SmileAmerican Plumbing and Septic ServicesAmerica’s First Credit UnionMr. Christopher BanksMr. Eric BlaskowskiMr. Steven BlaskowskiMs. Judy BradleyMs. Sarah BrightMs. Lindsay BrittMr. and Mrs. BrownMr. Charlie BunchMr. Randy ByrdMs. Tiffany CanadyCanvas, Inc.Ms. Jammi CashClanton Animal Hospital, LLCMs. April CobbMs. Sonde ColemanMs. Brittany CollierMr. Charles ComerCommunity Foundation of Northeast AlabamaMs. Jean CooperMs. Erica CosperMr. Robert CouchMr. Shane DenhamMs. Jenny Reed DooleyMs. Katie DoughertyMs. Jennifer EdmondsonMr. Joshua EdmondsonMr. Scott ElliottMr. Joseph EnglandMs. Brenda EvansEvans Lindale Ace HardwareExtreme Auto Spa, LLCFabArcFestival of Children FoundationMs. Jessica R. FordMr. Vincent S. Frank, Jr.Dr. Rodney FrieryMr. Rajae GillespieGold’s Gym of RBC – Extreme Fitness, Inc.Greater Anniston Business and Professional Assoc.Mr. Mitch GriffinMs. Brandy HamlinMs. Jeda HemlockMs. Anne HerndonMr. David HoflandHonda Manufactoring of AlabamaMs. Marguerite W. HopkinsMr. Stan IveyJacksonville Discout PharmacyMr. Lori JamesJefferson’s of OxfordMs. Georgia JohnsonMr. Seth JohnsonMr. William JonesKerper Endodontists, DMD

Ms. Lauren KeyMr. and Mrs. Charles KingMs. Jennifer KirkpatrickKirkpatrick Contacting, LLCKohl’s of OxfordKronospan, LLCMark Lee Insurance Agency, Inc.Ms. Hannah LoFolletteMs. Jamie LoganMs. Tina LovelessMagic Moments VacationsMs. Joni MagourikMs. Elizabeth MaloneyMr. Lamont Mayer, Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Patrick McCartyMs. Stephanie McGuffeyMr. Josh MeaslesMr. Howard MeyerMs. Kristi MillerMs. Patricia MurphyMustard Seed Massage CompanyMs. Tenna NortonNowak Land SurveyingMr. Robert O’DayOmnicareMs. Mary PatrenosMs. April PearsonMs. Candace PeaveyPediatrics Plus, PCMs. Brandy PhillipsRainbow City Pet CareMr. Robert Ray Ms. Jessica ReedRegional Medical Center of Anniston (RMC)Ms. Holly RuckerSander’s CabinetryMs. Charline SandsMr. Warren SarrellMr. Bobby SchimmelsbuschMs. Rena Dreskin SchoenbergMs. Raili SmithSouthern States BankMr. and Mrs. Darren SpruillMr. Quentin SpruillMs. Shelby SpurlinState Farm InsuranceStruts of OxfordMr. Kenneth TruittMr. James TurnerDr. Rebecca O. TurnerMr. Barry TwiggTyler Union/McWane IndustriesUnited Way of East Central AlabamaMr. Bill WakefieldWaldrop Mfg.Miss Erin WashowichWebb Concrete & Building MaterialsMr. William WhaleyMr. Dane WhiteMr. Gary WiggingtonMr. James R. WilliamsMs. Jennifer WilliamsMs. Laura WoodMs. Jennifer WytheZoe’s on the Lake

IN-KIND GIFTSAce HardwareAtlanta BreadAuburn UniversityB & B PawnBed, Bath & BeyondBirmingham Baron’sChris Bright Fishing ServicesMs. Sarah Bright

Mr. Shannon BrownBuffalo RockChick Fil ACouch’s JewelersMs. Tara CunninghamDécor WorldDillards of OxfordMs. Jenny Reed DooleyExtreme Auto SpaGregerson’sGulf Rebel Fishing ChartersThe Gypsy BegoniasMs. Blake JohnsonMr. Mike KennedyKohl’s of OxfordMr. Mike MarionMr. Obie C. OdenPanera BreadLee Pitt’s Guide ServicePublixThe Rabbit HatchSouthwest VacationsSpivey Family DentistrySuperior BeverageTalladega SpeedwayTargetTri States Utility ProductsUniversity of AlabamaWalt Disney WorldMs. Erin WashowichMs. Twyla WilkersonWillow TreeWind Creek CasinoMr. Nathan WinklerMr. Ben WoodMs. Jennifer WytheYesterday’s PhotographyYETI

AUBURN/TALLASSEEMr. Mohammed AbdallaAES, IndustriesDr. Shelley AirstrupAlabama Power FoundationMs. Apryl AlexanderALL for ChildrenA.M.P.S., LLCAuburn BankAuburn University ClubBama Budweiser of Montgomery, Inc.Berney Office SolutionsMs. Lourdes BetanzosMs. Mary BurkhartThe Busfield FoundationC & M Service CenterMs. Marjorie CaldwellCapital X-RayMs. Jerrie Chamblee-NacrelliMs. Melissa CleondisCommunity HospitalCookie Cutters Haircuts for KidsMs. Sarah CovoingtonCrain LandscapeMr. Gary DanielMr. Mack DaughertyDiamond, Carmichael, Gary, Patterson & DukeDilworth DevelopmentMs. Tricia DormanMs. Casey DuboseDuke & Patterson, LLC E & I, Inc.Elmore County Community FoundationEric and RyAnn FligelFirst Baptist Church of TallasseeMs. Alice Fitzgerald

Ms. Faye FordFreedom Logistics, LLCGKN AerospaceRobert D. Gamotis, DMDMrs. Nina GaunttMs. Frances HarrisMs. Nita HicksDr. Doris HillHR Management SolutionsHyundai of AuburnJeffcoat-Trant Funeral HomeMs. Sharon JonesMr. James KelleyKids Clothes ConnectionMr. Don KillingsworthMs. Elizabeth KnightLake Martin United WayMs. Judith LechnerAshley LovellMr. Hilliard LubinMs. Kerri LucasLumpkin Pest ManagementLyon, Fry & Cadden InsuranceMachen, McChesney, LLCMrs. Deanna MannMs. Barbara McKeonMike’s MerchandiseMr. Brent MilnerMilner Electric, Inc.Ms. Julie MoncriefMr. Dick MorrisMs. Pat MurphyMr. Charles NecrelliNeptune Technology GroupMs. Ayme OrwinParker Tire & Service CenterMrs. Laura Leigh PetersMs. Kim PetrinaPhilips Family DentistryPoarch Band of Creek IndiansDanny and Helen PollardMr. John PollardMr. Tony PottsMs. Brenda PriceMs. Dana PricePrimesouth BankDr. Marcia RossiMr. and Mrs. Joe ScarboroughMrs. Kami ScarboroughSizemore & SizemoreMs. Christine SkalskySoutheast Area Fire Equipment and RepairSouthern ControlsTallassee Kiwanis ClubTallassee Rotary ClubMr. Ben TaylorTrustmark BankTurf TacticsMr. and Mrs. Daniel Van-Scoyc RyanMr. and Mrs. Carl VellaWalmart Neighborhood MarketMs. Heather WeldonMr. James WeldonMs. Turia WilliamsMs. Erin WolfordMr. David WunderlichMs. Cathy Zevac

In Memory of Clarence BakerMrs. Mia BakerMrs. Priscilla Hammonds

In Memory of John Henry MorganMrs. Mia BakerMrs. Faye FordMrs. Priscilla Hammonds

1 Thank you to our friends and supporters. 2

The Honor Roll Mrs. Nita HicksMs. Brenda Price

In Memory of Randy NorrisTallassee Kiwanis Club

IN-KIND GIFTSAlabama Shakespeare FestivalAlabama Splash AdventureAlabama State ParksAuburn Deck MastersThe Auburn Tuskegee Christian ChurchBehind the GlassJohnny BruscosCourtyard Marriott in BirminghamCreate A SpaDammar ProductsMs. Casey DuboseThe Flower StoreGander MountainGNCMrs. Priscilla HamondsHampton Inn & SuitesMs. Karen HarrisMrs. Donna HigginsHodges VineyardHome DepotHometown JewelersJewelry By DesignKinnucan’sMontgomery BiscuitsMontgomery ZooMy GymNew Stone RealtyNiffer’s in AuburnPerch Jewelry StudioPublixJenny Rogers PhotographyMrs. Lani RyanShakey’s Pizza ParlorSkilled Hands, LLCSmoothie KingSpa One EightySubwayMr. Ben TaylorTaziki’s Tiger 13Tiger Iron GymUptown ArtMr. Daniel Van-Scoyc RyanMrs. Jenny WarrenWhippoorwill VineyardWind Creek CasinoZoe’s Kitchen

MOBILEThe 74 Club918 Ponce, LLCAbenee Foo Kuo Honor SocietyAirbus GroupMr. Leonard AllenAltapointe Health SystemsMr. Timothy AndrewsAnunciation Greek Orthodox ChurchMs. Debra AronsonMs. Teresa AtkinsAtlanta Citizen Review BoardAutism Society of AlabamaMs. Celia Mann BaehrBaker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & BerkowitzMr. John BarberMs. Allie BarkerMr. Butch Barker – Team SportsMr. John Craig BarkerMs. Ingrid V. BartelsMr. Paul BartelsBBVA Compass Bank Employee GivingBella BridesmaidMr. Tony BenefielMs. Kerrie BensonMs. Jana BladesBlues TavernMr. Derek BoldenMr. and Mrs. Thomas McLean BramlettMr. and Mrs. Brian BrelandMs. Linday BrelandBrindlee Moutain Fire Apparatus, LLCMs. Michelle BrinkmanMs. Lindsay BrittBroadway South Dance Studio

Ms. Jerlene BuckelsJoe Bullard Acura and InfinitiMs. Rachel ByersMs. Michelle CallenThe Caring Foundation of BlueCross BlueShield of AlabamaMr. Wesley CarpenterMr. Chris CarrollMs. Mary CarterMr. Keith Castleberry – Edward Jones InvestmentsMs. Kerrianne CastleberryThe Catranis Family Charitable FoundationThe Charity RunMr. and Mrs. Clifton ChathamMs. Jill ChenowethChevron Matching Employee FundsMs. Jean CieutatMr. Ronald CieutatCignaCitrin, Rihner & Gupta CardiologyClark’s Kitchen & CateringComing Home Sunday School Class – Christ United Methodist ChurchMr. Randy CopelandCottage Hill Civitan Club – Friends of Woody’s Song SchoolMs. Maggie CottrellMr. and Mrs. Richard CoyerC SpireMr. Keith CulpepperDance Without LimitsThe Daniel Foundation of AlabamaDiversified Roofing Service, Inc.Ms. Michelle DooleyMr. and Mrs. Lafe DozierMr. David DyeMr. and Mrs. Joe EilandDr. Kenneth EllingwoodMr. Phillip EpsteinMs. Kelsey Volz FikeFiretrol Protection Services, Inc.The Forsman FamilyMr. Nick FrileyMs. Cindy FulfordMr. Gary FulfordMs. Stella GambleMs. Marthea GibbyMs. Shaquana GilesMs. Prudence GrahamGulf Coast Surgical Specialist, Inc.Mr. and Mrs. Nathan HandmacherHargrove Engineers + ConstructorsMr. Wayne HartungMr. and Mrs. C. Hodges Harty, IIIThe Harty/Carpenter Group – Merrill LynchThe Hearin Chandler GroupMs. Whiney HesterMs. Kimberly HillHPC Specialty PharmacyMr. Christopher HughesMs. Nicole HughesDr. and Mrs. Ijaz IqbalThe Iqbal FamilyMr. and Mrs. Thomas JamesMs. Stephanie JettMs. Margaret JohnstonThe Houston Jones Fan ClubMs. Marlene JonesJones Trawl Board & Marine Supply CompanyMr. and Mrs. Mark JonesJones Walker Law Firm Mr. and Mrs. Mike KaravokirosMr. and Mrs. Don KennedyMs. Mary Anne KillionMr. Seth D. Kirschenbaum and Nicholas A. LotitoMr. Yaya KochapromMs. Carol KralMr. Matthew KridelThe Kyser FamilyMr. Josh LadnerMs. Jamie LandryMr. Kyle LantzMr. Robert LanuzaMr. and Mrs. Tofey LeonMr. Terry LesterMs. Natalie LeveroneMs. Brenda Lloyd

Ms. Carol LoperMr. Marston LuceLyon, Fry & Cadden InsuranceMr. John MacritchieMr. Sam MaiselDr. Carl MalteseDrs. Daran and Sissy MasonMr. and Mrs. James MasonMs. Melissa MasonMr. and Mrs. Kevin MattinglyBen May Charitable TrustDr. and Mrs. Robert McGinleyMr. Dennis McLaughlinMr. and Mrs. Thomas McLaughlinMs. Christy McSpaddenMeresys Development CorporationMs. Wanda MilnerMs. Bethann MillsMs. Brittany MistichA.S. Mitchell FoundationMobile Premier Pediatric DentistryMoore Law FirmMr. Jerry MoragneMr. Kyle MorrisMr. and Mrs. Dwayne MorvantMs. Kim MorvantMr. David MrozekMr. Holt NaffMs. Lisa NashMs. Paige NaylorNew Horizons Credit UnionNewk’s Eatery of MobileNewk’s Eatery of Spanish FortMs. Callie NewmanNicholas Insulation ServicesMr. Sean NicholasO’Daly’s Irish PubMrs. Linda OgdenThe Orthopaedic GroupMr. David PittsMs. Casey PorterMs. Dorothy RobinsonMr. Benjamin RogersMr. Troy RosserRotary Club of Mobile – SunriseMs. Cheri RudisillRussell, Thompson, Butler & HoustonMr. and Mrs. Gregory SaadMs. Ashley SaranthusMr. Sidney SealeMr. Mark SegalMr. Jerry SelfSemmes Middle SchoolMr. Gene SharpMr. Michael ShawMr. and Mrs. William ShulmanMs. Alison SilvioSimply SheetsMs. Brittany SmithSmith, Dukes & Buckalew, LLPMs. Linda SpitzkoffMs. Rene SpragueMs. Amber StangaThe Starr FamilyStirling PropertiesDr. and Mrs. John StoneMs. Abry StopperMr. David StowersMr. and Mrs. Carson StricklandThe Strickland FamilyDr. Hanes B. SwingleThe Sykes FamilyMr. Bryan Sykes and Ms. Suzanne RastaniMs. Ellen TaylorDr. Lynda TenhunfeldMs. Emily TisdaleMs. Pamela ToddThe Joseph Treadwell Charitable FoundationMs. Millie TrullMs. Margaret TsuMs. Kim TurnerMs. Lisa Turner – USA Pschology DepartmentUnited Way of Southwest AlabamaWS FoundationMs. Deborah WalkerMs. Nicole WatkinsWillis Towers WatsonMr. Spencer WigginsMs. Jennifer Williams

Ms. Michelle WinsteadMr. and Mrs. J.E. WitheringtonMs. Theresa N. YarbroughZaxby’sZoghby’s Uniforms

In memory of Susan Branson Coward918 Ponce, LLCAtlanta Citizen Review BoardMr. and Mrs. John BaehrMs. Ingrid V. BartelsMr. David BednerMs. Elizabeth M. EdgarMr. and Mrs. Don KennedyMr. Seth D. KirshenbaumMr. Nicholas A. LotitoMs. Jamie G. LandryMrs. Linda OgdenMr. Gene R. SharpMs. Allison SilvioThe Sykes Family VA Dept. of Audiology & Speech

In memory of Coach Bill DooleyPaul and Barbara Handmacher

In honor of Skev KaravokirosThe Catranis Family Charitable Foundation

In memory of Charles SandlinThe Learning Tree Board of Directors & Staff

In memory of Bill ShoresPaul and Barbara Handmacher

In memory of Coach John TatumPaul, Barbara and Nathan Handmacher

In honor of Lynne GinsburgPaul and Barbara Handmacher

In honor of Karen HermanPaul and Barbara Handmacher

In honor of Bobby KohnPaul and Barbara Handmacher

In honor of Sharon RubinPaul and Barbara Handmacher

IN-KIND GIFTSAlex & Ani, LLCMiss Allie’s Class ParentsAntiques at the LoopBallin’s Ltd.Ms. Allie BarkerMs. Marsha BarnettCafé 615Mr. and Mrs. Randy CopelandCracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc.Dance Without LimitsDelchamps PrintingMiss Emily’s Class ParentsMs. Cindy FulfordGulf DistributingGulf Quest Maritime MuseumHair to Dye ForHampton Inn & Suites – DowntownHarper Technologies, LLCMr. Wayne HartungHide – Away in FairhopeMs. Marlene JonesKPO Kids/Angela McAteeMiss Kelsey’s Class ParentsKrispy KremeMs. Brenda LloydLowe’sLyon Fry Cadden InsuranceMagic Memories Photography & Photo BoothMs. Laura Matthews

January 21stBlues Tavern

Barbecue Cook-OffMobile

January 28thCharity Chase

Mobile

February 17thBoots and Bowties

Auburn

April 6thA Night at the Races

Mobile

April 29th Aces for Autism

Anniston

Resource Development Office205 Lambert Avenue, Suite BMobile, AL 36604

www.learning-tree.org

SAVE THE DATES!

Anniston/Jacksonville256-447-9349

Auburn/Tallassee334-252-0025

Mobile251-649-4420

Resource Development251-331-2633

Summer Workshop The Auburn/Tallassee region hosted a continuing education workshop this summer. Nineteen Learning Tree employees participated representing all three regions. Dr. Catherine Simms from the Alabama Department of Mental Health presented “Advanced Topics in Behavior Assessment”. Participants also benefitted from skill building activities related to behavior assessments. This is the first of three quarterly workshops.

FACT! 18,236 visits to www.learning-tree.org annually

2,117 Facebook followers monthly