Caravel Autism Health opened the doors to its new autism center in Rochester, MN this month for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening. The special event drew a sizable crowd of elected officials, educators, social workers, parents and other advocates for children living with autism. Attendees came from multiple counties to celebrate the occasion.
Guests had the opportunity to explore the spaces inside the new 6,000-square foot center which has been specifically designed to meet the needs of children and young adults with an autism spectrum diagnosis. Caravel’s autism health specialists welcomed guests, answered questions, and hosted tours.
“This was a day of celebration,” explained Jackie Vick, vice president of clinical operations for Caravel. “Families had been encountering significant wait times for securing therapy for their children in Rochester,” said Vick, “so Caravel decided to create a new center here. The earlier we can begin intensive ABA therapy, the better-positioned children are to make the greatest gains possible. This new facility is where we can provide that therapy and begin to change these young lives,” Vick continued.
In Minnesota, one in 42 children has autism, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Despite greater awareness about autism, there are significant provider shortages in many communities,” according to Caravel CEO Mike Miller. “We want to help close that gap by opening new centers and providing access to a full array of diagnostic and therapy services,” explained Miller.
The impact of this new autism center for community members was not lost on local media. The grand opening drew a significant amount of interest from Rochester media. News teams from three local television stations were on hand to cover the event.
Caravel’s new center is located at 1470 Industrial Drive NW. For more information, visit caravelautism.com or call the Client Intake Team at 844-583-5437.
