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September 29, 2023Crossroads Center for Children Announces Transformative Project to Enhance Educational Support for Children with Autism
Crossroads Center for Children is proud to unveil an ambitious project that seeks to address a critical need for enhanced educational support for children with autism and special needs in Schenectady County and the surrounding area.
With its current leased facility in Rotterdam, serving the community for now 25 years, Crossroads recognizes the evolving demands for effective and empowering learning environments. To meet this challenge head-on, Crossroads is embarking on a new chapter with a purpose-built facility located at 395 Becker Drive, Princetown.
The heart of this project lies in creating a transformative educational space designed to cater to the unique needs of children with autism. By providing an engaging environment that fosters empowerment and skill development, Crossroads aims to bridge the gap between current educational offerings and the aspirations of its students.
The building is being purchased from Schenectady ARC and is a building that was built for individuals with disabilities in mind, as well as being constructed as a school. Crossroads intends to construct additional space as well as reconstruct several current areas. Rehabilitation is necessary to make the building suitable for young children after being vacated during the COVID shutdown.
To accomplish this monumental task, Crossroads has set forth a comprehensive plan. Phase 1 of the project requires significant funding of $7.4 million, with a starting fundraising goal of $2 million. This investment is crucial to creating an environment that empowers students, enhances their learning outcomes, and contributes to the well-being of the community.
Crossroads acknowledges that while its data-driven approach ensures prudent allocation of resources, a funding gap still remains. The organization is actively seeking financial partners to join them in making this project a reality. By fostering collaboration and support, Crossroads aims to create an educational space that not only transforms the lives of its students but also benefits the entire community.
“We believe that every child deserves an empowering and supportive learning environment. With this project, we are taking a bold step towards fulfilling that belief,” said Kelly Young, Executive Director of Crossroads Center for Children.
Very recently the Planning Board of the Town of Princetown has approved the special permit for the project to move forward on this site. This marks a major milestone for the project, which has the overwhelming support of family members and many community leaders.
Crossroads has received financial support from lead donors such as the Christopher Dailey Foundation, CDPHP, Price Chopper’s Golub Foundation, and a sizeable grant from The Schenectady Foundation. These early gifts serve to launch the project and inspire the community to get involved.
Robert Carreau, Executive Director of The Schenectady Foundation, said, “The Schenectady Foundation is proud to support Crossroads Center as they provide such outstanding services to our community members. Taking this step to purchase and renovate a building to suit the children and families in their care is an important one, and one we felt compelled to support.”
Crossroads Center for Children invites community members, organizations, and individuals who share its vision to join hands in creating a brighter future for children with autism and other special needs.
For more information about the project and how to contribute, please visit http://crossroadcenter.org/a-permanent-location-for-crossroads/.
