Expanding Awareness Across Staten Island: A New Billboard and Community CampaignWe’re excited to share that Eden II currently has a new billboard on Staten Island, co-branded with our partners at the Grace Foundation. The billboard is now live near the Outerbridge Crossing and will remain up for the next three months—offering a powerful opportunity to raise awareness about Eden II and the work we do to support individuals with autism and developmental disabilities.
The messaging on this first billboard aligns with the “R-Word” awareness campaign, reinforcing the importance of respect, dignity, and inclusion. Recently, we have seen a troubling resurgence of derogatory language used to describe individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. As an organization deeply committed to the people and families we support, it is essential that we continue to lead with a message rooted in respect and acceptance.
In addition to the billboard, we are proud to share that we have distributed hundreds of lawn signs across Staten Island. These signs carry the same message and are being displayed by staff, families, and community members to help amplify awareness—especially as we celebrate Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month. Together, these visible reminders across the community help spark conversation and promote more respectful language.
Our partnership with the Grace Foundation strengthens this effort, expanding our reach and highlighting the impact of collaboration among organizations dedicated to serving individuals with disabilities.
We’re also working with Grace on a second billboard that will launch in April at the Staten Island Chamber of Commerce, featuring additional messaging focused specifically on autism awareness and acceptance.
If you’re traveling over the Outerbridge Crossing, be sure to keep an eye out for the billboard—and thank you for being part of a community that values respect, inclusion, and acceptance for all.
