Dear FACTS Families & Friends,

As many of you know, FACTS began in 1996 when services in the Temecula Valley for children with autism were scarce.  We immediately took action to bring services to the area and take pride in the fact that our organization was integral to the establishment of many local support services that are in place today.  FACTS facilitated the development of the first in-home Applied Behavioral Analysis programs in the Temecula Valley area, built an extensive educational materials lending library, and for many years we recruited and trained tutors, social coaches and respite care providers.  FACTS provided free advocacy at hundreds of IEP meetings which consistently resulted in the provision of enhanced individualized educational services for children with autism.  We gathered together often at FACTS parent support meetings, family social events and FACTS Kids Club recreational activities.  Along the way, relationships were formed that will last a lifetime, families became empowered and the community began to embrace those whose lives are touched by autism. 

As I reflect on the past twelve years, I am immensely proud at all that we have accomplished together.  Our mission was to encourage families to maintain a positive outlook while acquiring knowledge and taking action to ensure the quality of educational and social services for children with autism and related challenges.  Together, we truly have succeeded!  Temecula Valley has grown to the point that various resources are now available, families are continuing to form strong networks of support and the outlook for individuals with autism in this community is brighter than ever before.  FACTS now has an opportunity to help families in Oregon’s Willamette Valley region and we are pleased to announce that the FACTS Center will soon open in Oregon thanks to the generous donation of commercial office space by The Auditing Firm of Jan Ahrendt.  Therefore, the governing board of FACTS has decided to now relocate the organization.  It is my hope that the foundation we have built together in Temecula Valley will have a lasting impact and that members will continue to stay connected with each other.  FACTS will continue to support families in Temecula Valley through the www.FACTSfamilies.org website, which will feature a community bulletin board to facilitate the informal gathering of FACTS members.  While FACTS will no longer be hosting activities in the Temecula Valley, we encourage you to make plans to get together with other parents and families often. 

It must be the hundredth time that I am rewriting this last paragraph, and each attempt fails to convey the depth of my love for the families who have been a part of FACTS these past twelve years and the gratitude for all those who supported our endeavors.  It is difficult for me to articulate a conclusion to this because there is so much more that I want to say.  One thing is certain, and that is that you will continue to gain strength with every obstacle overcome, you will continue to find joy in the celebration of your child’s very special achievements and you will continue to be held close to my heart.  Thank you for enriching my life and it is my sincere hope that FACTS has enriched yours.

Cheryl Cisneros

Executive Director and President

FACTS – Families & Autistic Children Together Succeed

May 2008