Kelly and Scott Trueman, Dean Milem, and Dr. Ty Vernon at a salon benefiting the Koegel Autism Center (credit: Jeff Liang)
Koegel Autism Center donors Scott and Kelly Trueman believe that all families, regardless of income, should have access to the life-changing services provided at UCSB’s Koegel Autism Center, a state-of-the-art autism research facility located within the Gevirtz School of Education.
To further this vision, the Trueman’s have generously pledged to match up to $25,000 in gifts to the Koegel Autism Center until the end of April, which is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month.
Scott and Kelly were inspired to give back after their family received a transformational diagnosis at the Koegel Autism Center. “When our son was diagnosed at the Koegel Center, we were so impressed with their level of expertise,” Kelly shared. “They really comforted our family during a vulnerable time. We are thrilled to partner with the Koegel Center!”
Their gift will ensure that local families have access to the same life-changing support services, regardless of ability to pay.
This much-needed funding will support a graduate student clinician training at the Autism Center whose evaluation and assessment services will be provided for free or at reduced cost for up to 15 local families in need thanks to the Truemans and other generous donors.
To bring awareness to this important cause and ensure that the Autism Center receives the entire value of this match, the Gevirtz School is highlighting this opportunity on UCSB Give Day, which falls on Thursday, April 13th this year.
Give Day is an annual 36-hour virtual crowdfunding event where UCSB alumni, friends, family, staff, and faculty come together to support campus initiatives that further excellence in research, community service, and education.
We are well on our way to meet their match, with $13,000 in gifts made towards their challenge since October of 2022. Our school must raise another $12,000 by the end of April to maximize Kelly and Scott’s $25,000 gift.
The Gevirtz School and the Koegel Autism Center extend their gratitude to each and every donor who has already made a gift towards these services – the generosity and support is deeply appreciated.
Please consider being a part of this work with a gift to the Autism Center on Give Day – Thursday, April 13th. Gifts of any size will be matched dollar-for-dollar until we reach our $12,000 goal!