Read the original Oct. 28, 2009 article on nj.com
Leslie Long, who has more than 20 years experience championing the needs of people with autism spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities and the elderly, has joined The North Ward Center in Newark to assist in creating The Center for Autism.“Leslie is a leader in her field and brings of wealth of experience to The North Ward Center,” said Michele Adubato, the deputy executive director of The North Ward Center and the driving force behind The Center for Autism. “Leslie has a passion for serving people with special needs and she has a broad and deep understanding of the policy and regulatory framework involved in creating a center for people with autism spectrum disorder.”
“I am looking forward to helping build what will be a unique institution in New Jersey for people on the autism spectrum,” Long said. “This is a tremendous opportunity and the culmination of my life’s work.”
Scheduled to open in the Fall of 2011, The Center for Autism will offer a seamless and lifelong array of services for individuals and families in the Greater Newark/Essex County area living with autism spectrum disorder and pervasive developmental disorders. The center will offer medical and educational services, including an elementary and secondary school. Other services will include interagency navigational guidance, benefits advocacy and coordination, and family support programming. The center will also serve as a hub for professional training.
“We are excited to have Leslie on our team,” said Adrianne Davis, the executive director of The North Ward Center. “There are few people in New Jersey who understand the issues relating to developmental disabilities the way Leslie does. She will be a major asset as we create our newest institution.”
Long began her career in 1988 in Washington, D.C., as a researcher for the National Council on Aging before landing a job with the New York City Department of Aging. In 1990, she began working with the Arc of Union County, and joined the Arc of New Jersey in 1997. In 2001, she became the coordinator for statewide employment and day services for the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities. She returned to the private sector in 2002 with Allies Inc. in Hamilton and joined the Arc of Monmouth County in 2003.
In 2004, Long joined Autism New Jersey, the leading advocacy group for people with autism spectrum disorder. As director of public policy and systems advocacy, Long convened a think tank of leaders from the human services community to develop a white paper with over 80 recommendations for the state’s human service system to improve supports for adults with autism. She also developed a statewide guide on services for adults with autism.
Long worked closely with state Assembly Speaker Joe Roberts on a package of bills for the autism community that included a Self-Directed Rights Bill, First Responders Training, and most notably, the passage this year of a healthcare reform bill that requires health insurers to cover treatments for people with autism and other developmental disabilities.
Long has also worked with U.S. Senator Robert Menendez’ staff on his Helping HANDS Act, which includes creating an autism navigator component to help states and families negotiate the complex and confusing healthcare and government support system.
This year, Long was recognized by the Assembly Speaker contributions towards legislation for the autism community. In 1995, she received the NJ Association for Person’s in Supported Employment Special Tribute Award for her outstanding work and dedication.
Long graduated from Stockton State College in 1988 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She lives with her husband, Robert, and two children, Melanie, 13, and Jack, 10, in Freehold, N.J.
