Neuropsychological Evaluation Family Grant #1... Dominic is a bright, creative, and empathetic 10-year-old boy from Essex County who brings a unique perspective to the world. As a child with hearing loss and Nonverbal Learning Disability (NVLD), he has strengths in his expressive language skills, creative thinking, and imaginative play. He has challenges in understanding language, motor coordination, organization, visual spatial processing, and reading social cues. His parents noted that “the school failed to properly identify or provide adequate support… until third grade… [and attributed] his struggles to mental health issues rather than his hearing loss and neurodivergent traits.” Due to challenges with the school district, the family had to hire an advocate, and, eventually a lawyer. They were told that a neuropsychological evaluation was “crucial” at this juncture, in order to advocate for what he needs at school. Due to unforeseen medical issues, Dominic’s father was unable to work for several months, causing increased financial strain on the family. His parents reported that, “This grant would not only ease the financial burden but also create a more supportive school experience for Dominic, allowing him to enjoy school again and thrive.” The cost of the neuropsychological evaluation and advocacy services had already surpassed $5,000. NSC granted his family $2,500 to support a portion of his Neuropsychological Evaluation.

Advocacy Services Family Grant #2... Logan is a creative, curious, inventive, enthusiastic, and playful 9-year-old boy from Essex County. He faces challenges with emotional and behavioral regulation, social skills, and understanding of safety secondary to his diagnoses of Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, and a Seizure Disorder. He often has aggressive outbursts when upset, including hitting, crying, screaming, and property destruction. He is anxious about being restrained at school and afraid of his classmates, which eventually lead to school refusal. Logan’s parents had to keep him home for several weeks while the school district found a more appropriate placement for him. Eventually, both of his parents lost their jobs due to missed work and challenges keeping up with work demands. His parents noted that, “it could take months to find a new program that will accept him and have the space for him… we have been relying on the guidance and support of our Special Ed Legal Advocate firm… and the outstanding legal fees have continued to grow.” The cost of the advocacy services had already surpassed $4,000. NSC granted Logan’s family $2,600 to support a portion of the Advocacy Service Fees.