My Nonprofit Reviews

As a federal program/financial auditor for 30 years, I was deeply impressed by my visit last week to Spectrum Designs (SD). It is truly a community program, providing real work at real wages in three different fields (baking, print screening, laundry) for almost 40 young people with autism and other developmental disabilities. At this social enterprise (affirmative business) these young people have transitioned out of school to world of work with non-handicapped peers (at least 25%). SD markets its attractive products to other non-profits, government agencies, and businesses. Because of its success SD has been invited into other suburban communities to meet the employment needs of this special but committed population. As any good business SD has been expanding its products and services at a steady pace and upgrading its work place to meet its expanded space needs with an attractive and bright shore front location. Most importantly, its has an active, hands-on, dedicated staff; it can be determined from their published financial reports that their salaries are reasonable allowing the workers to be paid decent salaries. Moreover, they have a supportive board of directors reflecting the diversity of the community. Finally, the communications work of the staff through its website, videos and brochures effectively puts out to the public SD's mission. Anthony LaGattuta, Treasurer, National Rehabilitation Assn. Metro NY Chapter. www.nymetronra 718-357-3928. Our 67 year old organization of rehabilitation professions has just recognized them as an Employer of Distinction.