Uniting for Autism: Greater Somerset County YMCA and The Uncommon Thread’s Commitment to Inclusive Communities
We are excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership between Greater Somerset County YMCA and The Uncommon Thread, bringing a vital new resource to families impacted by autism. This collaboration combines individualized ABA therapy with the inclusive environment of YMCA programs, allowing children to grow, learn, and thrive alongside their peers in the community. Together, we are creating a future where every child is supported and empowered to reach their full potential.
Greater Somerset County YMCA and The Uncommon Thread (TUT) have partnered to offer joint services to the children in the Somerset Hills toddler and preschool programs. This collaboration represents a shared commitment to fostering inclusion, diversity, and support for families of children with autism. It also mirrors a broader movement reshaping communities everywhere: championing inclusivity for neurodiverse children in schools, daycares, and community programs—essential cornerstones of compassionate societies.
Advancing Lives and Strengthening Communities
Both organizations share a mission to empower children. Greater Somerset County YMCA (GSCY), guided by core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility, offers nurturing early childhood education programs that foster cognitive, physical, and social development. Similarly, The Uncommon Thread (TUT), a nonprofit dedicated to advancing the lives of children with autism through Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, helps every child reach their full potential.
“At the YMCA, we are committed to helping all youth develop values, skills, and relationships that lead to positive behaviors, better health, and academic success,” says David M. Carcieri, President & CEO, Greater Somerset County YMCA. “Our partnership with The Uncommon Thread strengthens that commitment.” Gabriella St. Fleur, Senior Director of Youth Development at Somerset Hills YMCA, adds, “This partnership with The Uncommon Thread is a tremendous opportunity to expand our support for all children, especially those with unique needs.”
A Unified Vision for the Future
TUT and GSCY are launching joint services at Somerset Hills and Hillsborough YMCAs. Here, children with autism will have an opportunity to integrate into toddler and preschool programs while receiving individualized, medically necessary therapy from TUT. These children benefit from a tailored ABA treatment plan, provided by a dedicated 1:1 ABA therapist and overseen by a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). Greg Carr, Founder and Executive Director of TUT, said, “This partnership with the YMCA is a monumental step forward in our mission to bridge the gap between children with autism and their typically developing peers. This is about more than ABA therapy and services; it’s about creating lasting change and enriching lives.”
Benefits of the Partnership:
- Inclusion and Diversity: Building a community where every child is welcomed and valued.
- Comprehensive Family Support: Offering access to ABA therapy alongside YMCA programs.
- Community Enrichment: Promoting compassion and understanding through diversity.
- Empowerment and Advocacy: Encouraging self-advocacy for individuals with autism.
Together, The Uncommon Thread and Greater Somerset County YMCA are committed to empowering future generations to build inclusive, prospering communities and cultivating a better world for all.
If you have a child 1-5 years old diagnosed with autism, reach out to set up a complimentary family education meeting at family@theuncommonthread.
