The Dan Marino Foundation, a fixture in South Florida since 1992, has recently announced plans to start a college for those with autism and other special needs. According to a Fort Lauderdale Sun Sentinel article published last month, the school will be the first-of-its-kind in Florida and assist those with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and other related disorders.
With building space already purchased in downtown Fort Lauderdale, The Dan Marino Foundation Florida Vocational College will cater to students, ages 18 to 28, and open its doors in the fall of 2013.
As a resident of South Florida, this is certainly heartening news and will be a great addition to the community. The Dan Marino Foundation has maintained a great reputation over the years and was launched shortly after Marino’s son was diagnosed with autism at 2-years-old. The Dan Marino Center, which is part of the larger Foundation, holds special significance to me personally — it’s where my son was first diagnosed with autism back in 2005.
As for Marino’s son, he’s since graduated from college himself and is currently working as a DJ in Florida. Despite having many challenges at an early age, he’s been able to far exceed expectations that were made for him at the time of his diagnosis nearly twenty years ago.
For more info about the new school, you can read the full article here.
FINALLY AN ANSWER TO OUR PRAYERS
I’m so glad God places people in our lives like Dan Marino who not only sees but understand the need to help parents like us. God is amazing.
hi my name is caitlin i was just wondering if you know when are the college applications for 2013 going to be posted online.
I would like to get in touch with Mr. Marino pertaining to a piece of propertythat my husband and I own. It is in citris springs,Florida. We purchased it 40 years ago. We have a grandson who has Autism, who is now 16. We were thinking of donating to a charity where it could do some good. This just sounds like it might be the right place. If Mr. Marino could find good use for it we would be thrilled. Please respond soon. Thank you,
Connie & Lou Longo
56 Alexander Ave
Yonkers, N.Y. 10704
Please get back to us asap. Thank you Mrs Longo
Need help with graduates from Charles Drew Transition Center. There disabilities range from autism to the severely cognitive imparied. The graduating seniors would like to request your help with a senior trip scheduled for approximately 65 students. Most of our students can not financially afford the planned senior trip. We ask if you could please make a donation that will help offset the cost of the trip per student. This Detroit Public School, Charles Drew Transition Center. 9600 Wyoming, Detroit, Michigan 48204 Rev. Reginald J. Edwards, Committee Leader, PTSA/LSCO 313 836 1368 or Patricia Jones- Benn LSCO president
Thank you for any consideration. Trip is scheduled for June 3rd thru 6th.