Ross’ Story

Ross, a former student at SCO’s Westbrook Preparatory School, is a motivated and engaging young man who has Asperger syndrome. “I’m actually different from many people with Asperger’s in that I’m a very social guy,” says Ross. “On the other hand, sometimes I am unaware of other people’s feelings. I can be impulsive, and I do get overwhelmed. ”

Ross had difficulty adapting at his previous public school due to these challenges. However, Westbrook’s residential school setting gave Ross the opportunity to work on his social skills and develop strategies to help him avoid feeling overwhelmed.

One key element of life at Westbrook is the internship program. While students find comfort and build confidence living and learning with other teens who have similar challenges, they know that they need to prepare themselves to communicate and work well with all kinds of people. Ross’s first internship was at Sports Authority, and he held another at St. Brigid’s Elementary School Camp where he found talking with children about sports very rewarding.

His interest in sports led Ross to his next internship at WCWP 88.1 FM, the college radio station at CW Post. He ran the audio control sound board at sporting events, made guest appearances on a college sports talk show and researched sports information for use on air. He enjoyed his experience so much that he decided to study communications in college.

← Back

CFL Family Counseling & Supports

Center for Family Life is the principal provider of preventive counseling in Sunset Park, serving approximately 500 families each year. Through home and office visits, group activities, advocacy and referral to supportive services, our caseworkers help families to develop individualized plans that address their unique situations and deepen their sense of connection to the neighborhood. The success of our preventive counseling program contributes to the low rate of children entering foster care in Sunset Park, less than half the city average. Families served include both voluntary participants and those mandated by the NYC Administration for Children’s Services (ACS).

Who Can Benefit from this Program

Parents experiencing family problems can access free family counseling

How to Access this Program or Service

Contact the program at 718.438.9500

This program is associated with...

Center For Family Life

Our mission is to promote positive outcomes for children, adults and families in Sunset Park through the provision of a comprehensive range of neighborhood-based family and social services. Read More

Success Stories

Ross’ Story

Westbrook Preparatory School

“I’m actually different from many people with Asperger’s in that I’m a very social guy” Learn More

Isis & Kaiden

Bethany I

“We’ve made lifelong friends and family. It was a beautiful struggle.” Learn More

96%

of 12th graders in SCO's Family Foster Care program graduated high school, with 65% enrolled in post-secondary education

Last year,

188

youth and adults with special needs participated in volunteer projects in their community