As March comes to a close, we’re taking a moment to reflect on this month’s impact through our 25 for 25 initiative.Each organization we support throughout the year is chosen with input from our community through online nominations.In March, that led us to support both the Rochester Area Autism Association and Cy’s Place.Supporting Individuals and Families with RAAAThe Rochester Area Autism Association (RAAA) is dedicated to empowering autistic individuals, supporting families, and strengthening the community through education, advocacy, and connection.

Founded by parents seeking resources for their own family, the organization has grown into a vital source of support for individuals and families navigating an autism diagnosis.This month, we were proud to support RAAA through a sponsorship of their annual gala.Their impact across the Rochester area made them a meaningful organization to come alongside through 25 for 25.RAAA 15th Annual Autism Acceptance GalaIn early March, we had the opportunity to attend RAAA’s 15th Annual Autism Acceptance Gala at the Rochester Golf & Country Club.The evening brought together families, supporters, and community members to celebrate progress, share stories, and raise support for programs that make a real difference locally.The event featured dinner, live entertainment, and powerful stories from families impacted by autism.

It was a meaningful reminder of the importance of community, especially as the need for resources and support continues to grow.Visiting RAAAWe also had the chance to visit RAAA’s office and meet with their Executive Director, Elizabeth Walby.Spending time in their space and learning more about their programs provided valuable insight into the day-to-day impact of their work.Opportunities like this allow us to understand the organizations we support and help us share their mission more clearly with our community.A Home Away from Home with Cy’s PlaceCy’s Place exists to support out-of-town families with children receiving cancer treatment or organ transplants in Rochester.By providing affordable, long-term housing, they help ease the burden on families navigating some of the most difficult seasons of their lives.Their story began with the experience of their own son’s medical journey, and that perspective continues to shape the care and support they offer today.

Cy’s Place stood out as an organization making a meaningful impact for families who need both stability and support while far from home.Meeting the Founders of Cy’s PlaceDuring our visit to Cy’s Place, we had the opportunity to meet the founders, Ree and Randy Erickson.We also received a tour of the guest apartment where families stay.Seeing the space firsthand and hearing more about their story deepened our understanding of the role Cy’s Place plays in supporting families during long-term medical treatment.Wrapping Up Another Month of 25 for 25March was a meaningful month in our 25 for 25 initiative.It was shaped by the organizations we supported and the community members who helped guide those selections.We’re grateful for the opportunity to come alongside organizations like RAAA and Cy’s Place, and we’re looking forward to continuing this initiative throughout the year.

Each month brings a new opportunity to support, learn, and give back to the community we’re proud to be a part of.Support RAAASupport Cy’s PlaceFollow Along with 25 for 25