Summer Camp Memories

The Italian Welfare League (IWL) has been serving the needs of Italian New Yorkers and their families for over 100 years. IWL’s mission is to lend a helping hand to those children most needy within ‘la famiglia’ (the family). ACLD’s relationship with IWL began in 2008. From 2008 to 2021, IWL donated approximately $197,000 to ACLD’s children supported with autism, learning, and other developmental disabilities, all of Italian heritage. These donations have been used in the past to help cover the costs of medical supplies, treatments, therapies, school supplies, extracurricular activities, and even summer camp enrollment fees.

In 2021, 12-year-old Michael was able to attend Suffolk YJCC in Commack during July, thanks to IWL’s generosity. “After so many restrictions on his activities and socialization due to the pandemic, having the opportunity to attend camp was such a blessing,” says Mary, Michael’s mother. Some of Michael’s favorite activities at the camp were swimming in the indoor pool, rock climbing, and playing in the bouncy house outside. In November of 2021, IWL generously donated $24,000 to support the ‘bambini’ of ACLD. ACLD is grateful for IWL’s ongoing dedication to provide these children with enviable lives.