When Neil and Lynn Balter learned their 3-year-old son, Jack, had autism, their doctor handed them a book to read and told them to come back in six months for a follow-up appointment. The “wait and see” approach wasn’t good enough for the Balters so, after seeking advice from a friend, they reached out to SARRC.
At that time, SARRC had recently opened its Campus for Exceptional Children and the Community School was preparing to welcome its first class of preschool students. After attending JumpStart®, Jack was enrolled in the inaugural preschool class.
“The team at SARRC wrapped their arms around our family,” Lynn says. “They held our hand while we learned to navigate autism and provided guidance that we could trust.”
So, when Lynn and Neil were planning for their future, choosing to join SARRC’s Legacy Circle felt natural.
“We believe strongly in the mission, there could be no higher priority to SARRC than helping struggling families,” says Neil. “SARRC’s energetic mission and support are second to none and we feel proud to help ensure the organization’s financial future.”
In addition to being Legacy Circle members, the Balters’ commitment to raising awareness for autism as well as critical funds for SARRC, is widely known.
Since 2006, Lynn and Neil have led the charge to organize SARRC’s Autism Speaks Walk in Partnership with SARRC. In their first year, they raised $125,000 for the event and recruited 300+ volunteers to help.
“For nearly 12 years, we have been grateful to have helped make a difference in the fight against autism for SARRC and the many families and individuals that benefit from their many life-changing services,” says Lynn.
In addition, the Balters’ passion for helping families navigate autism, like SARRC did for them, is well known. At least twice a month, they host a newly diagnosed family for dinner at their home.
Neil spent 40 years in the custom closet industry and founded California Closets. Lynn is working to publish a book that focuses on how challenges can lead to a purpose that will benefit others, citing their family’s journey with autism and how helping other families navigate their journey can be part of the healing process.
If you would like to learn more about becoming a Legacy Circle member and ensuring the continued vitality and growth of SARRC’s services from one generation to the next, please contact Beth Salazar at [email protected] or 602-340-8717, ext. 1039.
