MONTICELLO, NY — Action Toward Independence (ATI) Executive Director Deborah Worden was a guest speaker at the July Monticello Kiwanis Club meeting. Worden described how ATI serves and empowers people with disabilities through its many programs, including advocacy, education and support groups. The organization provides guidance and empowerment in the field of life and social skills to the parents and caregivers as well as to the children on the autism spectrum. 

ATI’s objectives are in compliance with Kiwanis First Lady Marie Soderholm’s project for 2024-2025, which is Autism Acceptance.

Members of the Woodridge Kiwanis Club and the Monticello Rotary Club were also in attendance. Everyone was very impressed with Worden’s presentation and with the many services provided to people with disabilities by ATI. 

The Monticello Kiwanis Club presented her with a $100 donation in support of ATI’s very important programs, as well as a 75th anniversary Kiwanis mug.

The club meets the first Monday of the month at 6 p.m. at Albella’s Restaurant in Monticello. 

Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time. The Monticello club’s Facebook page at Monticello, NY Kiwanis Club has more information about all the club’s activities.