Since serving as President of Buffalo Autism Project, Laura feels that she has truly found her passion in helping families just like hers facing a ASD Diagnosis.  Whether it is meeting people in similar situations, spreading acceptance and awareness of ASD, or connecting families in the community, Laura believes there is so much more room to grow as an advocate for her child and those facing similar struggles.

By day, Laura works as a School Counselor.  After earning a Master’s Degree from Canisius College in Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling, she began working with children on the Autism Spectrum.  It wasn’t until Laura began noticing similarities between her clients and her own son that she began the uphill battle with Autism Spectrum Disorder.  After sharing her story on Facebook (where else?), so many other parents messaged and called saying “us too” or “what do I do now” that she realized how truly prevalent this disorder is.  While connecting with other professionals in the community (enter board members), and talking with parents about the needs in our community, it was decided that SOMETHING had to be done.  Laura believes that the mission of Buffalo Autism Project will fill the need in our community.  Helping parents that are struggling with a diagnosis, those that are looking for support, and raising awareness and acceptance within the AMAZING Buffalo Community is something that doesn’t feel like “work” to Laura and she is excited to see where this organization goes!

Theresa is an elementary special education teacher for the Hamburg Central School District. Currently working in a self contained classroom with students in kindergarten through second grade. She has a bachelors degree from SUNY Fredonia in Speech and Language Disabilities and a dual Masters degree from D’Youville College in regular education and special education.  Theresa was formally a speech therapist working with the early intervention population.  Theresa has had the opportunity to work with many students with a variety of disabilities.  Theresa is also a wife and mother to two beautiful boys.  In her spare time she loves to go on adventures with her family and friends.  

Daniel graduated from high school and entered the Air National Guard as a C-130 Crew Chief. Where he assisted with natural disasters like Hurricane Sandy for 4 and a half years.  He Joined M&T Bank in 2014 where he works in the Business Banking Division and assists small and medium size businesses with their lending needs. Prior volunteer experience with the SPCA, Moving Day Parkinson’s Foundation, and several resource groups within M&T Bank. At Buffalo Autism Project Daniel helps plan and host events for the community.

Rachael is the Senior Clinical Director at Autism Learning Partners. She has a Bachelors Degree in psychology from Medaille College and a Masters Degree in applied behavior analysis (ABA) from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Currently she is a Doctoral Student in ABA. She has experience with working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and developmental disabilities across the lifespan. She has worked in a variety of settings in family homes, group homes, school and community settings. Rachael has experience implementing verbal behavior programs, daily living skill programs, and challenging behavior programs. Rachael likes to work with a team approach and collaborate with all members of a team, including the family as a whole, school personnel, and other providers. She has goals to disseminate evidenced based practices and resources to families of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder.