Autism Awareness Day: UGI is Proud to Support The Vista School

April 2 is Autism Awareness Day, which aims to increase understanding and acceptance of people with autism and to help create a world in which autistic individuals are fully supported, championed, and celebrated.

UGI Utilities is proud to support The Vista School through Pennsylvania’s EITC program. Based in Dauphin County, The Vista School is a leading expert focused on data-driven approaches to improve the lives of individuals with autism and their families, from the time of diagnosis through adulthood.

Our support helps to fund the school’s Pre-Kindergarten Scholarship, which allows preschoolers to receive the integrated educational and behavioral support that The Vista School provides. When a young child is not yet old enough to enroll in their home school district, they often don’t have many options for intensive autism support. Early diagnosis and behavioral interventions for autism spectrum disorder at a young age give children the best chance of reaching their unique potential. The earlier a child begins receiving treatment, the greater impact it can have on their long-term growth and development. The Pre-K scholarship allows young children to attend The Vista School and receive this critical support, giving children with autism the best start.

Pre-K students at The Vista School learn a range of skills that are key to bridging developmental gaps and preparing for school. Vista’s Early Intervention program always has the availability of a 1:1 staff-child ratio, with staff rotating between children throughout the day to promote flexibility and the generalization of skills. The staff works with each child toward roughly 12-16 goals per day, in an effort to work on expressive and receptive communication, fine and gross motor skills, social skills, personal independence, and positive behavior. The Vista School also equips family members to be active participants in the child’s treatment.

UGI Utilities is proud to support The Vista School’s efforts to help local children thrive in their academic careers.

Follow UGI Utilities on Facebook (@UGIUtilities), Twitter (@UGI_Utilities) and Instagram (@ugiutilities) or visit www.ugi.com/community-programs to learn more about UGI’s commitment to supporting local students.