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Memory of Fallen Fire Fighter Helps Autistic Persons
November 3, 2006 -- Jack Fanning was a member of the Uniformed
Fire Officers Association (UFOA) of New York Local 854 when he made the ultimate
sacrifice on 9/11. But, before he died, he always talked about what he would do
if he won the lottery – pay off his bills and build a home for autistic
children. Today, part of his dream is becoming a reality.
On that dark day, Fanning left behind his two severely autistic
sons, Sean and Patrick. With the generous support of many friends throughout the
nation, contributions were sent to help the family with the mounting medical
expenses and special needs training that the boys require. Fanning’s wife,
Maureen, knew exactly how to use these funds to honor her husband’s memory. She
started a foundation to build homes for autistic children – the Jack Fanning
Memorial Foundation and the Angels for Autism program.
“In the past three years, we have been able to raise enough
money to refurbish two group homes for autistic individuals – with plans to do
more,” says Tony Mussorfiti, member of Local 854 and a foundation executive
board member. “All funds go to a specific cause.”
Autism diagnosis is currently growing at an alarming rate of one
in 166 children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that
1.5 million Americans have an autistic disorder. The number of cases has
increased between 10 and 17 percent every year since 1990.
The Jack Fanning Memorial Foundation, Angels for Autism, is a
nonprofit 501(c)3 organization. In addition to the two homes it has assisted in
building, it has responded to numerous events and needs that support autistic
individuals and their families. Through the annual dinner dance and other
fundraising activities, the Foundation continues to expand and impact lives of
those afflicted with autism. The next fundraiser is planned for October 2007 and
is open to any who would like to honor Fanning’s memory and help families
afflicted with this disorder.
For more information or to donate,
click here.
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