Lee Association for Remarkable Citizens (LARC) received a $5,000 grant from funds generated through the sale of the Florida “Support Autism Programs” specialty license plates. The grant will support art therapy programs for teens and adults with developmental disabilities at LARC.

The Autism Services Grants Council awarded a total of $106,900 in grants to 22 Florida-based nonprofit organizations that provide services and programs for individuals with autism and related disabilities. The funds available through grant opportunities offered by the Autism Services Grants Council, are generated through the sale of the Florida “Support Autism Programs” specialty license plates.

“We’re so pleased to receive this grant, which will allow us to provide art therapy to individuals at LARC,” said Angela Katz, LARC Development Director.  “Art therapy uses the creative process of art-making to improve and enhance the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of individuals. It helps people to resolve conflicts and problems, develop interpersonal skills, manage behavior, reduce stress, increase self-esteem, and self-awareness, and achieve insight.”

During the summer, Florida nonprofits were invited to submit grant proposals and nearly 60 nonprofits from across the state applied for funding. Priority was given to creative and innovative approaches to serving individuals with autism and their families.

In 2009, the Florida Legislature authorized the “Support Autism Services” specialty license plate and provided for the creation of the Autism Services Grants Council. The Council oversees a grants process to fund service programs for individuals with autism and related disabilities and their families throughout the state.

This year through a partnership with the Indian River Tax Collector’s office the process of purchasing a specialty Autism License plate throughout Florida has been streamlined so it’s easier than ever to purchase your plate. You can go online or call the Indian River Tax Collectors office directly to purchase your plate from anywhere in the state.

For more information on the Florida “Support Autism Programs” specialty license plate, please visit www.autismlicenseplate.com.  To learn more about LARC visit www.larcleecounty.org or call 239-334-6285.