Findlay Automotive donates $20,000 to Grant a Gift Foundation

Two families with close ties to the car business are helping make Las Vegas a better place.

Several years ago the Ackerman family created the Ackerman Center for Autism and Neurodevelopment Solutions, and recently Findlay Automotive Group donated $20,000 to the Grant a Gift Autism Foundation, which supports the Ackerman center at 630 N. Rancho Road.

“Once again, the Findlay family and Findlay Automotive Group are reaching out to help others in Las Vegas,” said Lotus Broadcasting General Manager Tony Bonnici, who, like Gaudin Motor Co. executive Gary Ackerman, is a member of the Grant a Gift Autism Foundation board of directors. “Thanks to the donation, a room in the center is being dedicated to benefit the children and families who are affected by autism.”

The Ackerman Center for Autism in partnership with Grant a Gift provides clients with a multidisciplinary team of physicians, psychologists, and speech and behavioral therapists for a comprehensive diagnosis, treatment plan, follow-up care and support services. The center combines cutting-edge diagnostics, treatment, behavioral/vocational training, support programs, and education for infants to young adults, all in one outpatient setting.

Findlay Automotive Group operations director Robby Findlay said, “With so many children affected by autism, it was an easy decision to step up and help the Ackerman Autism Center. Autism diagnoses have grown so rapidly in the past 10 years that traditional funding sources can’t keep up with the need. The team at the center provide unbelievable services, and we will continue to support them for years to come.”

Lynda Tache, founder and CEO of the Grant a Gift Autism Foundation, was appreciative of the donation.

“Grant a Gift Autism Foundation is so grateful to Findlay Automotive Group for their recent gift to our organization,” she said. “Because of their commitment to the community and generous support to our organization, we are able to continue to change the lives of families and individuals living with autism in Southern Nevada by helping them reach their full potential and live with maximum independence.”

“The UNLV Medicine/Ackerman Center for Autism has been a dream in our family since our oldest son, Andrew, was diagnosed,” Ackerman said. “He was 8 at the time, and he turned 33 this past October. Collaborating with the new UNLV School of Medicine was the final piece of the puzzle that took us from a dream to a functioning clinic.

“The support we have received from the community has been beyond our wildest hopes. The Findlay family donation is a great example.”

Further information regarding the Grant a Gift Autism Foundation can be found by visiting www.grantagift autismfoundation.org or by calling 702-564-2453.