YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – Ahead of Autism Awareness Month in April, the Rich Center for Autism received a surprise donation.
DJ Yokley, founder and CEO of Your Sports Network, recently presented a $6,000 donation to the center, made possible through the collection of gate fees charged during boys and girls high school all-star basketball and volleyball games.
“DJ reached out to me earlier this year about supporting the Rich Center for Autism, but today’s contribution was an incredible surprise,” said Michael Latessa, executive director of the Rich Center. “YSN and the local sports community truly stepped up to show compassion and care while supporting our center. We are so grateful to YSN and everyone who participated in or attended the all-star games.”
During a tour of the center Friday, Yokley saw how students and staff interact and asked questions about autism and how YSN can further assist the center.
“We’re proud to be able to raise awareness and funds to benefit such a great organization in our valley like the Rich Center,” Yokley said. “Our mission is to make a greater impact in the world through sports by promoting a heroic sense of belonging in our communities through student-athletes, coaches and fans.”
Yokley “asked very specific questions” and “wanted to learn as much as he could,” said Jake Ellis, community engagement coordinator at the Rich Center.
“That is a great first step to promoting both awareness and acceptance for the autism community,” Ellis said.
Pictured at top: From left are Michael Latessa, DJ Yokley and Jake Ellis.