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Improving the lives of families affected by ASD

Ashli Stempel-Rae

Posted on March 06, 2024

Ashli Stempel is a communications consultant for MassMutual.
child standing

When Frank Viglione’s son was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), the financial professional with Lee, Nolan & Koroghlian LLC turned to Michael Lanza, a fellow parent of a child with ASD, for support.

Lanza introduced Viglione to the GRACE Foundation, where he serves as chairman for its New York operations, and promotes its mission to improve the lives of individuals and families impacted by ASD. Viglione embraced the organization and its work. For the last five years, Viglione has served on its board of directors as treasurer.

With ASD on the rise, the innovative programs and services offered through the GRACE Foundation are more critical than ever. ASD currently affects 1 in 36 children in the United States, up from 1 in 44 the five years previous, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

As treasurer, Viglione supports the organization's financial stability and sustainability, and plays an active role in organizing fundraising events.

“The most fulfilling experience volunteering with the GRACE Foundation has been meeting the participants at events,” said Viglione. “It allows me to see firsthand the impact we’re making in the lives of individuals and families impacted by ASD.”

Viglione’s service earned the GRACE Foundation a $10,000 gold-level donation from the MassMutual Foundation as part of its 2023 Community Service Awards program. The organization will apply the funds toward the development of the GRACE Incubation Kitchen, a place for GRACE participants to learn basic cooking and life skills as well as receive job readiness training.

Each year, the MassMutual Foundation awards grants — ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 — to help nonprofit organizations with which MassMutual financial professionals are involved. You can read more about the program here.

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The information provided is not written or intended as specific tax or legal advice. MassMutual, its employees and representatives are not authorized to give tax or legal advice. You are encouraged to seek advice from your own tax or legal counsel. Opinions expressed by those interviewed are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company.