Entertainment and fun planned for the whole family at GTD4A on May 31 at Bergen Community College

Paramus, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 05/14/2015 -- Go the Distance for Autism invites the community to attend a day of autism-friendly family fun on Sunday, May 31, 2015 at Bergen Community College. Attendees will be treated to bounce houses, a trackless train, sweet treats, a catered BBQ lunch and numerous vendors from 9:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

"Go the Distance for Autism is a great event for all families – both those affected by autism and those who simply want to enjoy a family-friendly day of fun," says Jill Nadison, Executive Director at REED Academy. "Our vendors have interactive opportunities for the kids involving music and characters, but there's a lot for grown-ups too – including free chair massages, delicious food, giveaways and the chance to win some great prizes."

Bikers and guests will also enjoy additional exciting activities and entertainment to celebrate the event's sixth consecutive year. There will be DJ's, an obstacle course, football and basketball games, a self-contained riding area for young children (bring your bikes and scooters) and plenty of popcorn and cotton candy.

Interested in attending the event?

Go the Distance for Autism is a collaborative fundraising effort supporting children and adults with autism by four northern New Jersey organizations – Alpine Learning Group in Paramus, the EPIC School in Paramus, Garden Academy in West Orange, and REED Academy in Oakland. To date, the event has raised over $500,000 through sponsorships and donations.

For more information please visit http://www.gtd4autism.org , but hurry as registration will close on Friday, May 29th! Walk-ins are encouraged to join GTD4A in the family fun area and will have access to all activities, the catered lunch, DJ, sweet treats, giveaways and event sponsors. Walk-in rate is $20 for adults and $10 for children.

To date, Top Gear event sponsors include Allied Barton; Ellkay; North Jersey Brain & Spine Center; Ramsey Auto Group; and TD Bank. Cycle Master sponsors include Callahan and Fusco, Columbia Bank, Cullari, Carrico, LLC, Dr. Robert C. and Tina Sohn Foundation, EBC Mission and Benevolence Fund, GNYHA Ventures, Inc., Oritani Charitable Bank Foundation, Parts Authority, Progenity, Reso Foundation, and Rose & Edward Dryer Philanthropic Foundation. Pedal Pusher sponsors are: ABNOTE CORPORATE, ACT-TEK, American Maintenance and Supplies, Bederson and Company, Berkley College, Dello Russo Laser Vision, Fox Rothschild, LLC, G-III Apparel Group, Hackensack Digestive Disease Associates, PA; Kind Bar, Investors Savings Bank, Jordan & Jordan, Kindersmiles, Lapatka Associates, Macy's, Mayer Brown, Mayerson & Associates, Met Life Auto and Home, Miss Patti's School of Dance, Morgan Stanley, NUUN, Otterstedt, Pashman Stein, Peter Winik Productions, Price Weber Marketing Communications, Progressive Neurology, Smith Mazure, Stop & Shop NY Metro Division, Sussan & Greenwald, Esqs., Tarpey Group, Taxi Fitness, UPS, and Willis. Special thanks to Bergen Community College.

About Alpine Learning Group, The EPIC School, Garden Academy and REED Academy
Alpine Learning Group, The EPIC School, Garden Academy and REED Academy are non-profit organizations located in northern NJ that provide educational and behavioral services to children and adults with autism. Autism is a neurobiologically-based developmental disability that emerges during a child's first three years of life. Individuals with autism display marked impairments in communication and social skills as well as a restricted range of interests and behavior.

For more information, please visit http://www.alpinelearninggroup.org - http://www.epicschool.org - http://www.gardenacademy.org and http://www.reedacademy.org

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Spa highlights the importance of autism awareness and hope

Paramus, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/22/2015 -- Ethos Fitness Spa will host an Autism Awareness Event on Monday, April 27th with proceeds benefiting autism treatment and education at Alpine Learning Group.

The event will run from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. at Ethos Fitness Spa, 85 Godwin Ave., Midland Park. The spa intends to highlight the importance of autism awareness by offering blue hair extensions for a $10 donation. BlueMoss Swimwear will also be onsite hosting a trunk show at the spa. 10% of sales purchased at the event will be donated to Alpine Learning Group.

Chantelle Walker, Director of Development for Alpine Learning Group encourages the community to show their support with this unique awareness activity. "When Ethos Fitness Spa approached us about the idea we loved it. What a fun way to show your friends and family that autism awareness is important to you. This event is great for all ages and secures vital funding which helps to ensure a meaningful and productive future for children and adults with autism."

No preregistration is required, members and non-members are welcome to attend. For more information, contact Ellen Babajko of Ethos Fitness Spa, 201-251-4500.

About Alpine Learning Group
Alpine Learning Group provides learners with autism and their families comprehensive, scientifically-validated educational and behavioral services designed to foster individual growth and personal achievement. Alpine Learning Group opened its doors in 1989 as one of the first nonprofit autism education centers in Bergen County. Located in Paramus, Alpine Learning Group serves learners and families across their lifespan through its education, adult, and outreach programs.

For more information, visit http://www.alpinelearninggroup.org or call 201-612-7800.

The vision of Ethos is to provide the most welcoming, motivating, luxurious, clean and social environment in which women can improve their health and well-being. The mission of Ethos Fitness Spa is to create an individualized, healthy experience for women through the personal attention of the area's finest, professional, staff and clinicians: offering a variety of the most up to date fitness equipment, integrated wellness programs and spa services.

For more information visit http://www.ethosfitness.com or call 201-251-4500.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Paramus, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/07/2015 -- Every April, businesses, individuals and organizations around the world recognize Autism Awareness Month with unique fundraising and awareness-raising events to show support for the autism community. This year, four programs from Northern New Jersey will once again join forces and combine their fundraising efforts to produce the Sixth Annual Go the Distance for Autism Ride – the largest charity cycling event in Northern New Jersey - on Sunday, May 31, 2015 at Bergen Community College in Paramus, NJ.

"Through Go the Distance for Autism we work together to raise awareness for autism, highlight needs for programs and services and honor the individuals and families who live with autism every day," says Dr. Bridget A. Taylor, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Alpine Learning Group. "Fundraising from this event creates a brighter future for the individuals in our programs and the rapidly-growing adult autism community in Northern New Jersey.

As part of this year's efforts, Go the Distance is pleased to announce the following events:

- April 12, 2015 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Go the Distance for Autism will attend Autism Awareness Day at the Bergen County Zoo. Raffle items, giveaways and great resources for the community.

- April 14, 2015 – 9 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Friends and Family Day at Alpine Learning Group. Friends and family of Alpine Learning Group staff enjoy a tour of the building and a firsthand glimpse into a typical day

- April 16, 2015 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Visitor's Day at the EPIC School. Visitors are invited to visit the program, tour the school and meet staff and administrators. Visit EPIC School to register.

- April 16, 2015 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. Open House at Garden Academy. Visitors are invited attend an information session, tour the school and meet the students and staff. Visit Garden Academy to register.

- April 21, 2015 8:30 a.m. – 3 p.m. students interested in learning more about a career in autism education are invited to Alpine Learning Group for a Field Experience Day. Space is limited and participants must register in advance by contacting jstine@alpinelearninggroup.org

- April 22, 2015 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. REED Academy hosts Visitors Day – an opportunity to visit the school campus, receive an overview of the program and tour the school.

- April 24, 2015 Improving Observational Learning Skills in Children with Autism, an invited talk by Dr. Bridget Taylor for the 8th Annual Conference on Autism Related Disorders, California

- April 28, 2015 9:15 a.m. – 3:15 p.m. students are invited to REED Academy for Observation and Field Experience Days. Space is limited and participants must register in advance by contacting rmainoffice@reedacademy.org

- April 30, 2015 12:00 p.m. -1:00 p.m. Community Workshop ABANOW: Intro to Applied Behavior Analysis hosted at Garden Academy. Community members interested in learning more about ABA in the 21st century and invited the first talk of the ABANOW series, lead by Dr. David Sidener. Visit Garden Academy to register.

- All Month – Alpine Learning Group challenges the community to "Share Your Voice for Autism". Record yourself singing a verse from your favorite song, post on social media, tag #shareforautism and nominate your friends to do the same. Bring awareness of the need for autism resources and funding through this interactive challenge.

Go the Distance for Autism is a collaborative effort by four northern New Jersey programs for learners with autism – Alpine Learning Group in Paramus, The EPIC School in Paramus, Garden Academy in West Orange and REED Academy in Oakland - and will be held on Sunday, May 31 at the Bergen Community College in Paramus, NJ. To-date, the 2015 event has raised over $250,000 through corporate sponsorships and donations. This year's Top Gear sponsors include Callahan and Fusco,LLC, Ellkay, Ramsey Auto Group and TD Bank North, joined by Cycle Master Sponsors Cullari Carrico LLC, Columbia Bank, GNYHA Ventures, Progenity, EBC Mission & Benevolence Fund, Parts Authority, Reso Foundation, and Rose and Edward Dreyer Philanthropic Foundation .

For more information about the event, visit Go the Distance for Autism and register today to ride, donate or volunteer.

About the Program Beneficiaries
Alpine Learning Group, The EPIC School, Garden Academy and REED Academy are non-profit organizations located in northern NJ that provide one to one educational and behavioral services to children and adults with autism. Autism is a neurobiologically-based developmental disability that emerges during a child's first three years of life. Individuals with autism display marked impairments in communication and social skills as well as a restricted range of interests and behavior.

For more information, please visit http://www.alpinelearninggroup.org - http://www.epicschool.org - http://www.gardenacademy.org and http://www.reedacademy.org

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Register today!

Paramus, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 01/27/2015 -- Registration is now open for the Sixth Annual Go the Distance for Autism Ride, to be held on Sunday, May 31 at the Bergen Community College in Paramus, NJ. More than 1,500 passionate cyclists are expected to attend the ride, which is a collaborative effort by four northern New Jersey schools for individuals with autism – Alpine Learning Group in Paramus, The EPIC School in Paramus, Garden Academy in Maplewood and REED Academy in Oakland. In the past five years, nearly $4 million have been raised for autism education and treatment programs for children and adults with autism.

Register today to ride, donate or volunteer at http://www.gtd4autism.org

This year's event boasts extended Family Fun hours, a new and convenient location at Bergen Community College and an opening ceremony kick off to mark the start of four rides of varying distances. The event is open to the public and there will be rides for cyclists of all levels throughout the scenic roads of Bergen County. Registered riders will also receive GTD4A gear, entrance to the Family Fun area for food, games, entertainment and a Community Pavilion featuring local businesses and non-profit agencies.

Start times are as follows:

Light Breakfast Served 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.
Opening Ceremony 8:45 a.m.
Rides begin 9:00 a.m.
Family Fun Area 9:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Kids Ride Open 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

"The entire community is invited to participate in the Go the Distance for Autism Ride," said Genna Toye, Director of Development for the Epic School. "This is a great family day that includes fun, fitness, live entertainment, food and a safe environment for children of all abilities. With one in 68 children in the United States diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder there is a critical need to act now to create a brighter future for children with autism. By joining us on May 31 as a rider, volunteer, or supporter, people of all ages will spread much needed awareness and directly impact the lives of individuals living with autism every day."

This event is made possible by a host of local and national companies that come out in support of Go the Distance for Autism each year. For more information on joining North Jersey's largest charity cycling event by becoming an event sponsor, please visit www.gtd4autism.org and click through to the Sponsor page.

About The Programs
Alpine Learning Group, The EPIC School, Garden Academy and REED Academy are non-profit organizations located in northern NJ that provide educational and behavioral services to children and adults with autism. Autism is a neurobiologically-based developmental disability that emerges during a child's first three years of life. Individuals with autism display marked impairments in communication and social skills as well as a restricted range of interests and behavior.

For more information, please visit http://www.alpinelearninggroup.org - http://www.epicschool.org - http://www.gardenacademy.org and http://www.reedacademy.org

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Paramus, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 09/17/2014 -- Alpine Learning Group announced today that it will break ground on its new Ely Center for Adult Learning this fall and have retained Bjork Builders as general contractor on the project. The Groundbreaking Ceremony will be held on Thursday, October 9, 4 p.m. in the lot adjacent to 777 Paramus Rd., Paramus, NJ. The community is invited to attend in support of local services for adults with autism.

The 13,000 square foot, state-of-the art adult learning center is the culmination of years of planning, development and over $6 million in fundraising which will bring together the three critical services that form the cornerstone of Alpine Learning Group's mission in reforming care for adults with autism. First, the Center will house the Adult Learning Program. Second, the Center will serve as a community resource center for families seeking information on adult services and ongoing support in implementing effective care plans.

Finally, the Center will be an indispensable resource for professionals and caregivers seeking the latest evidence-based interventions and the finest available training. The Center will be housed on the same campus as the current Alpine Learning Group Education Program and will provide an unparalleled level of continuity in education for adults with autism.

Dr. Bridget A. Taylor, co-founder and Executive Director of Alpine Learning Group has seen the sharp increase in prevalence over her 30 years in the field and is encouraged by the progress made at Alpine Learning Group for meeting the needs of adults with autism. "Between the report from the CDC indicating increasing numbers of individuals with autism, and the recent attention from Congress through the Autism CARES Act of 2014, it is clear that our country, and particularly our state, is facing an unwavering crisis – both financially and socially," says Taylor. "Nearly a decade ago, the Board of Directors of Alpine Learning Group identified this critical disparity in the transition to adulthood for individuals with autism and developed the adult program. To witness the commitment of the Board, our families and the community-at-large to make this endeavor a reality is humbling."

Larry Bjork, President of Bjork Builders, said of the project, "We are excited to get this project underway after months of hard work from all involved. We are honored to be working with such dedicated people on a project that will have significant impact on the autism community for years to come."

If you would like to learn more about the plans for Alpine Learning Group's Ely Center for Adult Learning, please visit the Alpine Learning Group Ely Center for Adult Learning

About Alpine Learning Group
Alpine Learning Group provides learners with autism and their families comprehensive, scientifically-validated educational and behavioral services designed to foster individual growth and personal achievement. Alpine Learning Group opened its doors in 1989 as one of the first nonprofit autism education centers in Bergen County. Located in Paramus, Alpine Learning Group serves learners and families across their lifespan through its education, adult, and outreach programs.

For more information, visit www.alpinelearninggroup.org or call 201-612-7800.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Paramus, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 09/16/2014 -- Alpine Learning Group will host 'The Fall Affair: A Modern Speakeasy' on Friday, November 7, 2014 at Montammy Golf Club, 7 Montammy Drive, Alpine, NJ from 7 p.m. – 11 p.m. In addition to distinctive fare, cocktails and cigar rolling, the event includes casino gaming and a highly anticipated Super Bowl raffle to be drawn at the conclusion of the evening. Event honorees include; TD Bank, Steve and Nancy Hamrick, and Kate Britton.

Director of Development, Chantelle Walker, says of the event, "We wanted to host a fun evening– something the community-at-large could turn out for and have a great time. This evening has something for everyone – gaming, silent auction, and great food and drinks – all in the comfort of the Montammy Golf Club. Sales of the Super Bowl raffle are well underway and have been very popular."

TD Bank will serve as corporate honoree for the event. "TD Bank has been a tremendous advocate and supporter of Alpine Learning Group for many years. Whether they are attending our holiday parties for our students, volunteering at our events, or providing corporate sponsorships, they are a valued community partner with staff members that show a real interest and connection with the work we do here," says Dr. Bridget A. Taylor, Co-founder and Executive Director of Alpine Learning Group. "It is for these reasons that they were a natural choice as corporate honoree at the event."

Steve and Nancy Hamrick, parents of Alpine Learning Group adult participant Zachary Hamrick, have been a part of the Alpine family for over 20 years. Erin White, Director of Alpine Learning Group's adult program knows the Hamricks well. "Steve and Nancy are tireless advocates for our program and their son. They were instrumental in the campaign to build the current location of Alpine Learning Group, and they have been equally committed to the development of Alpine Learning Group's Ely Center for Adult Learning which will be built next year. They have raised a remarkable man in Zachary – a committed athlete, dedicated employee, brother, son and friend."

Kate Britton, principal of Alpine Learning Group, has been with the organization for 17 years. A Board Certified Behavior Analyst and a certified teacher of the handicapped, and Britton has worked with individuals with autism since she began her career at Alpine Learning Group in 1997.

She has been the Principal of Alpine Learning Group since 2006 and currently serves as the Principal and Assistant Director. A graduate from the Academy of the Holy Angels High School in 1993, and Mount Saint Mary College in 1997, she now holds a Masters degree in both Educational Administration from Caldwell College and Special Education from Long Island University and is currently enrolled in the doctoral program for Educational Leadership, Management, and Policy at Seton Hall University. She serves on the New Jersey Association for Behavior Analysis Board of Directors as the Secretary and Continuing Education Chair and has presented at national and international conferences on increasing socialization, problem solving, small group and dyad instruction, promoting safety, and augmentative communication.

"I am so very humbled and stunned to be chosen as an honoree for this year's Fall Affair," says Britton. What a privilege to be honored along with TD Bank, a long-time supporter of Alpine Learning Group, and Steve and Nancy Hamrick, an Alpine family that holds a very special place in my heart. I cannot miss an opportunity to thank the Board of Directors, my mentor Dr. Bridget Taylor, and the learners and their families who have taught me so much over the years, allowed me into their lives, and have given me an everlasting appreciation for their struggles, celebrations and commitment to Alpine.

Dr. Taylor had this to say of Britton's role at Alpine; "Kate's strong leadership as Assistant Director and Principal of Alpine has been instrumental in our growth and recognition as a state-of-the-art education program for children with autism."

There are opportunities available to get involved with the fall affair. Sponsor, donate, purchase tickets, and learn more about the super bowl raffle by visiting The Fall Affair.

About Alpine Learning Group
Alpine Learning Group provides learners with autism and their families comprehensive, scientifically-validated educational and behavioral services designed to foster individual growth and personal achievement. Alpine Learning Group opened its doors in 1989 as one of the first nonprofit autism education centers in Bergen County. Located in Paramus, Alpine Learning Group serves learners and families across their lifespan through its education, adult, and outreach programs. For more information, visit http://www.alpinelearninggroup.org or call 201-612-7800.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Paramus, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/22/2014 -- Alpine Learning Group and The Epic School are joining forces to host 'Get Fit for Autism' this Sunday, April 27 at Life Time Athletic, 10 Van Riper Road, Montvale. Proceeds from the event will benefit autism treatment and education in Northern New Jersey.

The day of fitness starts at 1 p.m., with in-person registration beginning at 12:30 p.m. The $30 day pass includes a class of your choice taught by Life Time Athletic staff – Zumba, yoga or spin (all at 2 p.m.) – as well as full access to the gym, pool, cafe and child care.

The event is particularly timely in light of the CDC's most recent report indicating that 1 in 24 boys in New Jersey have an autism spectrum diagnosis. Chantelle Walker, Director of Development for Alpine Learning Group encourages the community to show their support with this family friendly day of fitness. "This event was created with the entire family in mind. It's a fun and active way to show support for autism awareness and education, while securing vital funding which helps to ensure a meaningful and productive future for children and adults with autism."

Registration for the event can be completed online at http://alpinelearninggroup.org/getfitforautism or http://www.epicschool.org/getfitforautism/ or in-person on April 27, starting at 12:30, Life Time Athletic.

Alpine Learning Group provides learners with autism and their families comprehensive, scientifically-validated educational and behavioral services designed to foster individual growth and personal achievement. Alpine Learning Group opened its doors in 1989 as one of the first nonprofit autism education centers in Bergen County. Located in Paramus, Alpine Learning Group serves learners and families across their lifespan through its education, adult, and outreach programs. For more information, visit www.alpinelearninggroup.org or call 201-612-7800.

The Educational Partnership for Instructing Children (The EPIC School) is dedicated to providing educational services for individuals with autism and pervasive developmental disorder. Since opening in 1997, The EPIC School has used the highly effective, scientifically documented method of applied behavior analysis to teach new skills and increase independence. For more information about The EPIC School, please visit www.epicschool.org or call 201-576-0600.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm

Paramus, NJ -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/26/2014 -- Alpine Learning Group and Dunkin Donuts announce a strategic partnership providing meaningful jobs for adults with autism. The opportunity represents an expansion of Alpine Learning Group's Supported Employment Program, which pairs adults with autism with a job coach to provide on-the-job training and skill development.

Franchise owner Mitch Baker initiated the partnership and employed the first two participants in January 2014. "When I spoke with Alpine Learning Group and came to understand the lack of meaningful employment for adults with autism, I did not hesitate to make a change," said Baker. "Alpine is doing amazing work in the field of autism, both locally and internationally, and I knew we could be a part of that." Baker reports, "The two men we employ from Alpine Learning Group have been an asset to our store – arriving on time, working diligently and making tremendous progress in the short time that they have been here. Our store hosts a fair number of 'regulars' who have also come to know our two newest employees and have been supportive of the initiative."

Alpine Adult Program Director, Erin Richard White, has been impressed with the ease with which the partnership began. "Mitch really paved the way for us. Light custodial work is perfect for the two adult participants working at Dunkin Donuts. The first few days were uncertain for everyone, but soon we established a rhythm and began breaking each larger task into smaller activities – working through the chain over and over. The guys have gone from being shown what to do every step of the way, to completing their assigned work and seeking out additional tasks – all in a matter of a month."

Dr. Bridget A. Taylor, Co-founder and Executive Director of Alpine Learning Group feels strongly about expanding opportunity for autistic adults. "There is truly a crisis both locally and nationally for adults with autism. After age 21 the absence of employment opportunities for our adults is striking, and the situation is worsening as job placements and state funding fail to keep pace with autism diagnoses. In response, Alpine Learning Group is establishing the Ely Center for Adult Learning, a 13,000 square foot, state-of-the-art center here in Paramus, which will break ground this year. We plan for this center to be a model for other adult programs, similar to the way our education program has been a model for the past 25 years."

In honor of Autism Awareness Month and in support of Alpine Learning Group, Team Baker Strategic Group is offering a free, one pound bag of Dunkin Donuts coffee to anyone donating $100 or more to Alpine Learning Group during the month of April. If you are interested in donating, please visit www.alpinelearninggroup.org and click on 'Make a Donation." A coffee voucher will be mailed to you at the end of the month for use at the Midland Park Dunkin Donuts only – 74 Godwin Avenue.

About Alpine Learning Group
Alpine Learning Group provides learners with autism and their families comprehensive, scientifically-validated educational and behavioral services designed to foster individual growth and personal achievement. Alpine Learning Group opened its doors in 1989 as one of the first nonprofit autism education centers in Bergen County. Located in Paramus, Alpine Learning Group serves learners and families across their lifespan through its education, adult, and outreach programs. For more information, visit www.alpinelearninggroup.org or call 201-612-7800.

For more information on this press release visit: http://www.releasewire.com/press-releases/release-3.htm