2023 Top-Rated Nonprofit

Play4Autism Foundation

1,750 Pageviews Read Stories

 

 

 

Add to Favorites

Share this Nonprofit

Donate

Volunteering Oportunities

Nonprofit Overview

Causes: Autism Research, Children & Youth, Health, Recreation & Sports, Sports, Youth Community Service Clubs

Mission: Connecting Children with Autism to Sports and Recreational Activities​. Play4Autism is a NYC based organization that seeks to increase the public's awareness and acceptance of autism, while improving the quality of life and hope for children. We will achieve this goal by introducing children on the autism spectrum and their families to our Kidz into Action Program. This will help to improve their self-esteem and social interaction, increase their communication and leadership skills plus teach them how to sustain regular lifelong physical activity as a foundation for a healthy, productive and fulfilling life. Such can also help an individual improve their skills in areas such as sensory issues, behavior, cognition, perceptual/motor skills, and self-reliance or self-determination. We also believe that by teaching children the basics of organized individual instruction & team play they will learn the values of teamwork & community in a fun and safe atmosphere

Community Stories

82 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

7

Ameena R., Client Served

Rating: 5

10/05/2020

It’s been over 5 years that my son, Marcus, has been part of this wonderful organization. Marcus looks forward to bowling the most. Greg is awesome! From the events to the programs, he puts his all into making Play4Autism #1!

1

VazAutism Client Served

Rating: 5

11/14/2023

New to this and came upon Play4Autism, reached out to them today and am excited to have my son enrolled in their Kidz into Action Program. Spoke with their president, Greg who was very patient and thorough with my questions and concerns. Can't wait to start. Highly recommend getting in touch with them.

1

NE101 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

11/14/2023

Keep up the great work Play4Autism. You are highly recommended to everyone on the spectrum.

Previous Stories
2

Donor

Rating: 5

10/31/2022

Keep up the great work, you guys are awesome. highly recommend them.

Read more
2

P4AMember Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/14/2023

Have been a volunteer board member for a few years and can honestly say that my involvement both and programs and in the back office has shown me that we are all equal and that it is all about getting the children involved along with their families. It is all about teamwork Highly recommend getting involved.

Previous Stories
2

Board Member

Rating: 5

10/31/2022

Play4Autism keeps moving forward, programs now on Long Island

Buddy_of_P4A Donor

Rating: 5

11/14/2023

Great organization.
Highly recommend getting involved with them at some level.

Previous Stories
1

General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/30/2022

Their Halloween Family Fun Day an amazing experience. Great Organization!!!

Read more
Putting-the-Kidz-into-Action

Putting-the-Kidz-into-Action Board Member

Rating: 5

11/14/2023

It was a tough year for me after being in the hospital for a few months but the support was always coming in and our families kept coming out for our programs and events.

Thank you everyone for helping us keep on putting the Kidz into Action

Previous Stories
1

Board Member

Rating: 5

10/30/2022

Another great year and we keep growing in Queens and on Long Island. Awesome community support and family participation.

Read more

Writer Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/14/2023

As a volunteer in the past I highly recommend Play4Autism and their Kidz into Action Programs, I've helped out in the past and always love seeing the children develop their social and athletic skills.

Previous Stories
1

Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/02/2022

As always they are a great community organization from their weekend programs to events. Will always set time aside to volunteer for them and recommend them highly. Can't wait for their annual Halloween Family Fun Day in October.

Read more

MURPH63 Client Served

Rating: 5

11/14/2023

We have been members for 5plus years and their Kidz into Action Program has worked wonders for our son. Greg is awesome and has really helped us. Thank you so much Play4Autism.

Previous Stories

Client Served

Rating: 5

09/02/2022

Great organization!!!! Need I say more. Play4Autism continues to be a great member of the autism community. Thank you for all that you do.

Read more

Social-Media-Follower General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

11/14/2023

They continue to do great things in the community. Had the opportunity to attend their annual autism awareness day in Queens this year and it was a great experience.

Previous Stories
1

General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/12/2022

Great organization! Follow them on social media and love what they do.

P4A2023 Board Member

Rating: 5

11/13/2023

We had a great year and are looking forward to 2024. Thank you to all our volunteers and community support

1

AutismAwareness Client Served

Rating: 5

11/13/2023

Great organiztion. Their Kidz into Action Program is just what is needed for.the children. Keep up the amazing work!!!

Previous Stories
1

Client Served

Rating: 5

10/12/2022

Love Play4Autism and all they do for the kids and community.
Keep up the great work

1

AutismKid Client Served

Rating: 5

10/31/2022

Was one of their first members when they first started. Play4Autism is really dedicated to spreading awareness and helping other

1

Marketing4Autism Board Member

Rating: 5

10/31/2022

Totally impressed with the way Greg spreads awareness through their programs and events. He is totally dedicated and it's an honor to work with him.

danchuesq Client Served

Rating: 5

10/25/2021

Just what the doctor ordered. A major component of autism is the struggle to decipher social cues and form meaningful friendships. Greg and his group work tirelessly to bring the kids a wide variety of events and activities throughout the year. These outings provide invaluable opportunities for kids to interact while having a good time. It’s not always easy keeping things fresh and novel but Play4Autism manages to do just that. My son now looks forward to his weekend activities and upcoming events. For a parent of a child on the autism spectrum that means everything. Keep up the good work.

sruffc Client Served

Rating: 5

10/24/2021

This wonderful organization provides a welcoming and supportive environment for kids on the spectrum.

Theron Tee A. Client Served

Rating: 5

10/24/2021

Play4autism is great organization for kids on the spectrum. It's a safe space for our kids to be themselves without judgment. My son Taj has been apart of the program form the beginning and it has helped with his development. Salute to Greg and his wife for hard word and dedication for families on the Autism spectrum.

Previous Stories
3

Client Served

Rating: 5

11/02/2017

Play4autism is great organization for kids with autism. My son has been a member for 2years and it has helped him a while lot. I recommend this program very highly to families with kids on the spectrum.

1

madisonsanti3 Client Served

Rating: 5

09/30/2021

My experience with this nonprofit organization was very helpful, informative and welcoming.

1

sruff Client Served

Rating: 5

09/28/2021

This is great organization which affords my son the opportunity to exercise and socialize with the community.

1

Tereza H. Client Served

Rating: 4

09/28/2021

This is a wonderful organization where kids and parents are made to feel like family. Zane has really enjoyed the bowling get togethers . He’s looking forward to more to come!

katvhappy General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/28/2020

My son enjoys attending all the events! The staff members are attentive and supportive. Grateful to have this program around

1

vero_soto Client Served

Rating: 5

10/28/2020

Amazing organization, always thinking in the community. and helping our children and adults with Autism.

1

tajraeautism Client Served

Rating: 5

10/28/2020

Play4autism is a great organization for families who are affected by autism. The activities and programs provide a safespace for kids that have autism.

My son Taj has been a member since the very beginning. I highly recommend play4autism because the activities help boosts their confidence and self esteem.


Salute to Greg for all his hardwork!!!

7

Ameena R. Client Served

Rating: 5

10/05/2020

It’s been over 5 years that my son, Marcus, has been part of this wonderful organization. Marcus looks forward to bowling the most. Greg is awesome! From the events to the programs, he puts his all into making Play4Autism #1!

Previous Stories
1

General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/31/2017

Since 2015, my son has continued to be part of this awesome organization. Greg's mission is clear with wanting to have programs and events that are autism friendly! I'm very fortunate that my son (and I) are part of Play4Autism.

1

Miriam D.2 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/02/2020

Great program for kids on Autism Spectrum. They learn social skills and develop friendships. Also Great support group for parents as well. Im thankful for the Play4autism program.

1

verosoto77 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/01/2020

My family loves their programs. Because of Play4Autism, not only my son has benefit from their activities, but also our entire family. Thank you Greg for all you do with the Autism community.

Dec0212 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/19/2019

As a father of a son with autism I have found Play4Autism to be the perfect fit for him. Not only is he learning to play various sports he is also improving his social & communication skills as well as making friends. I highly recomend Play4Autism and look forward to many more positive experiences....

Terry1978 Client Served

Rating: 5

09/17/2019

Great organization. Always doing programs for the children on the weekend. Love there Gymnastics Club at LIC Kids Gymnastics, the coaches are awesome. Would highly recommend checking them out

1

AllforAutism Client Served

Rating: 5

09/01/2019

Year 3 and we can't say enough about Play4Autism and the awesome work they do for not only our children but all the children & adults that are part of this amazing organization. From their weekend programs to fundraiser to organizing trips to sporting events they are truly the ones to get involved with. Thank you Greg for all you do!

Previous Stories

Client Served

Rating: 5

10/30/2018

What a great organization. They do amazing weekend programs for our children as well allow the parents to get out and socialize with other parents. We've been with Play4Autism going on 2 years and would highly recommend checking them out.

AutismMomOf2 Client Served

Rating: 5

09/01/2019

We've been members of Play4Autism for 2 plus years and highly recommend them to all. They hold weekend programs that fit our schedule perfectly and our children love attending and have made great strides in interacting with others. The other parents that attend with their children have been been awesome!! We love their events, they are all about awareness and acceptance. Thank you Greg and Helena, you 2 are amazing. Keep up the great work

Previous Stories
1

Client Served

Rating: 5

10/30/2018

We love it!!! My 2 children started with Play4Autism at their Gymnastics Club and have been given the opportunity to meet other children, which has helped with their communication skills and self esteem. We also go to the Laserbounce Club once a month and attend bowling as well an it is such a relieve to know there is so much support and love out there. Greg is awesome he is so dedicated and so involved with all aspects of the organization. Thumbs up all the way.

Suzie77 Client Served

Rating: 5

07/21/2019

Play4autism has been such a great experience for our son allowing him to experience activities he wouldn't otherwise experience and enjoy doing them. Thank you!!

1 Shavonna Smith

Shavonna Smith Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

07/11/2019

As a parent and a professional, I'm truly astounded by the impact Play4Autism has on our community. They are provided our most vulnerable population with many opportunities to thrive. I am truly honored to be associated with this organization! Keep up the awesome work, you're changing lives!

2

AutismDad Client Served

Rating: 5

10/15/2018

Great organization! If you are looking for programs Play4Autism is awesome. Greg is great and finds the best location for our children.

1

krugerio Client Served

Rating: 5

10/08/2018

As many parents know (including parents of kids on the spectrum) ;getting their kids off of the computer or other electronic devices and to participate in sports or play is tough.

There aren't many programs for kids on the spectrum and many times they are expensive, require regular attendance or both.

Many parents with kids on the spectrum, struggle to make regular attendance as the kids sometimes have bad days and skipping and staying home is an easier route.

What's great about Play4Autism's programs is Greg really tried to keep costs low and make attendance more flexible for families.

Play4Autism also does a lot of local community based efforts to raise awareness. Using social media and getting partnerships with local businesses to spread the word.

1

jaherrera General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/15/2018

So happy to have joined Play4Autism. Such a great organization for Autism families. My 6 year old son really enjoyed today’s track event. They have many upcoming events that I am looking forward to attend with my family. I think it’s great that my daughters are able to participate and join in the fun with their little brother. It’s very inspiring and wonderful to see how dedicated and involved Greg is in making sure these fun and helpful activities are made possible for our families! Thank you!!

2

Margaret C.2 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/22/2018

I don't think or believe there is anyone who works as hard as Greg. He is constantly working on events for the kids. Every single day he meets with local businesses and company to help sponsor the endless amounts of events, games, sporting events and fundraisers for the kids and their families. As a mother of a young adult with Aspergers I applaud his efforts. I'm forever grateful for his tireless efforts and never ending support to the families.

1

Mdruitt General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/21/2018

Much needed program. Nothing like it. Mr Greg V is AWESOME! He's a dedicated professsional whose mission is to provide an amazing recreational and social experiences for individuals on the spectrum.

4

MightyJoeAusome General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/20/2018

GREAT Organization!!!! Joseph has grown socially, stays fit and most importantly, has fun!!! Greg is on the go everyday fundraising, scheduling activities (bowling, gymnastics, kick-boxing etc.) or meeting up in the park for baseball, basketball, soccer and Joes favorite, WATER BALLOONS!!!! We appreciate you and this organization Greg!!!!

Previous Stories
3

General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/31/2017

How lucky were we to run into Greg at Chuckie Cheese Autism Sunday with our grandson Joseph. We could immediately tell this organization was exactly what we were looking for after speaking with Greg for a short time. It takes a special person to teach special kids and we have found that and more in Play4autism.

3 nyckidneycoalition

nyckidneycoalition Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

08/20/2018

I met Greg at a community event. Through that event we started sharing ideas and working together at a few events. Play4Autism is dedicated to their mission and helping others. Greg is an amazing person who is dedicated to the children he helps and the community. It is a honor to work with him and an asset to know him. Looking forward to working with him in the future.

3

ahallett2 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

11/01/2017

This is truly a "one of a kind" - Amazing foundation!

The founder Greg and his wife Helena are very special people
with hearts of gold! They take the foundation's
mission seriously... and dedicate all they have to it.....
...It's all about the children!

This organization makes sure to put the children's wants
and needs first! Patience and understanding are key!

They say "pictures say a thousand words" --
Look at the pictures---- They say it all !!!!

Thank you -- for all you do!





3

JoesMom314 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/31/2017

Play4autism is a great organization for my 3 1/2 year old son. He is one of the youngest members and Greg has already coached him on hitting a ball with a bat,kicking a soccer ball in the net and of course breaking water balloons with a ball. The dedication,heart and soul that goes into this organization is amazing.

3

nycareerwoman729 Donor

Rating: 5

10/31/2017

My family and I have been involved with Play4Autism for the past several years and this is one of, if not the best organizations for children on the spectrum and/or special needs to have fun while learning both sports and social skills. Greg Vasicek is an amazing coach as well as a person who puts his whole heart and life into the organization he founded. Play4Autism depends on private donations and fundraisers and I cannot think of any other one that deserves support more!

3

ConanSD General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/31/2017

Play4Autism is a great organization that is dedicated in creating an athletic outlet for kids with Autism to introduce them to different types of sports. The founder, Greg, is motivated to provide the best opportunity for the children to socialize and expand their creativity. What better way for the kids to build friendships and get a little dirty.

4

shiralall1 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/31/2017

My sister invited my daughter and I two years ago for a Halloween event by Play4Autism. My nephew is autistic and I found it very inspiring that this foundation held such an awesome party. The kids interacted with each other and played games. Everyone was super nice and we had such a good time. It is very thoughtful to make these children be treated no different. Wish I could have gone this year (my nephew Marcus was featured on NY1) but we had plans. I seen the pictures and videos. I do look forward to next year.

2

Aandrew88 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/31/2017

Play4Autism is a fantastic Organization with a beautiful goal. As Co-Owner of Wild Free Yogi Studio, I am honored to be partnered with Play4Austism. They bring Joy and an outlet to children who need it the most, make parents feel like they are not alone and have a special community to call home, and spread awareness to the public about what autism is. 5 Star Organization!

2

BK77 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/31/2017

Great organization. My son loves going to the weekend sports programs. The coaches are very dedicated and we also are able to go to sporting events like the NJ Devils and the Brooklyn Cyclones. Highly recommend Play4Autism to everyone.

2

MikeR64 Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/14/2016

I've worked with Play4Autism as a volunteer on numerous occasions at their Kidz into Action Programs as well as with fundraisers in the past and have to say I am impressed with the way they teach the children various aspects of sports in a non-judgmental, safe and fun atmosphere. Would recommend them very highly and am looking forward to working with them in the near future upon my return to the NY area. Well done to all and the children are awesome!!!!

Mike

2

cartie007 Client Served

Rating: 4

07/21/2016

This foundation was exactly what i was looking for. Greg is absoultely amazing with the kids and all the activities are just great for our Autistic community of kids

2

Writer Client Served

Rating: 5

06/25/2016

Great organization! Greg is truly dedicated to working with kids!

3

MDiaz1975 Client Served

Rating: 5

03/30/2016

I can't say enough wonderful things about Play4Autism! Greg has made it possible for children with special needs have a place to get active and learn to socialize all in one program. To have a program where my son can learn how to play brings promise and hope for a better tomorrow. Giving to this organization will benefit do many kids and parents alike. Thank you Greg! Thank you got all your hard work, determination and heart! You give and care so much for the kids, I don't think as an Autism Mom I can thank you enough!

3

Jerry50 Client Served

Rating: 5

01/22/2016

Play4Autism is a great organization that makes each family feel safe and welcome. Greg is a great man that dedicates his time and effort to making an unique experience for our children. They do not try to mold your child to an activity but make the activity work for your child. I can only hope that others can find this organization and share the same times we have.

3

Writer General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

01/20/2016

Greg and Play 4autism has not only helped our son make friends but also helped my husband and I enter a world of acceptance and understanding...

Or son became a member of Play 4autism about 8 months ago. We were so worried that he would not have the skills to participate in sports or be able to interact with other children because of his condition but Greg proved us wrong. Our son had a lot of fun and he made a friend on his first day. We had an amazing time full of smiles and laughs. We did not feel different or awkward. Before becoming a member of Play 4autism, my husband and I felt alone and misunderstood. We didn’t know much about how to deal with our son but Greg introduced us to other parents who went through exactly what we were going through. These parents gave us advice and made us feel like we were no longer alone. Greg and the foundation gave us strength to face the bad days that children on the spectrum often have and they gave the good days better meanings. Our son now has plenty of friends. Greg helped him become confident and outgoing. Play 4autism doesn’t just help children with special needs, the foundations helps families. We are very lucky to be a part of it.

2

Thomas63 Volunteer

Rating: 5

01/19/2016

Wow, what an organization. Greg, the founder of Play4Autism has done some incredible things for these children by putting them first. My experience seeing these families brought together was life changing. After spending a few hours with the children and their families you really start to put things into perspective. To see the smiles and hear the laughs as these children feel apart of the Play4Autism family is truly something special. Greg's passion for these children and spreading awareness has truly made a difference and I erg everyone to help and get involved!

5

Writer General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

01/19/2016

My 10 year old son with Autism has been a member of Play4Autism's "Kidz Into Action" program since April 2015. I have seen my son grow and become more confident with the other children (even with the non-autistic children that come out to play at the Middle Village Playground in Queens). Greg, the founder, is a great coach! He is dedicated to each child individually and all the children as a whole. He is also involved with the parents, which is an admirable trait. His vision is unlike no other and I look forward to see what the future holds for Play4Autism. I am proud to say that my son is a part of this organization!

Need help?