Nassau Suffolk Autism Society honors Oceanside for fundraising; district raised about $10,000 for events

OCEANSIDE, N.Y. — At the March 12 Board of Education meeting, Alisa Berman, a volunteer board member of the Nassau Suffolk Autism Society of America (NSASA), presented a Creating Connections Award to the Oceanside School District and to district employee Tracy Murray for districtwide fundraising and outreach in support of families affected by autism.

Alisa Berman told the board that the Long Island chapter of the Autism Society offers free membership and free events. “It is free to be a member, and it is free to attend any of our events,” Berman said, adding that NSASA is a registered 501(c)(3) and that funds raised go directly to programs.

Berman said Oceanside collectively fundraised just over $10,000 during Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month last April; the money supported two family events, one held at a Seaford site in September 2024 and another in January at the Long Island Children’s Museum. She credited Tracy Murray and building principals for mobilizing schools and staff to promote the work.

Tracy Murray accepted the award and said she was “overwhelmed” by the partnership and thanked principals and staff for their participation. Superintendent Doctor Harrington introduced Berman and noted the district’s special-education program and staff.

Berman invited families affected by autism to contact NSASA (nsasa.org) and said the local chapter charges no membership fees and is run by volunteers.

The board offered appreciation to NSASA and the district staff involved in the fundraising and outreach.