Stay tuned for the 2025 Essential Puzzle Piece Honoree(s)

2024 Honorees

Spectrum Connection

Chris Chagnon and Rob Ferragamo are committed to helping young adults with autism succeed. With backgrounds in psychology and sociology, the men both work at a school for students with developmental delays. Spectrum Connection was developed in their off hours to provide a safe and welcoming group to address a decline in social skills primarily caused by the COVID pandemic. Individuals are selected based on need, capacity, and cohesion of all members.

The program has continued to grow over the past two years and serves an average of 8-10 adults per activity.  Some key milestones include introducing a Women’s Group, providing combined outings for all genders, and offering weekend getaways throughout New England and New York City. Their next goal is to expand support to those 18 and older in hopes of easing anxiety leading up to their transition to adult services. Their overarching hope is to be able to continue making a positive impact on the lives of individuals both on and among the autism spectrum.

East Coast Jumbos 

East Coast Jumbos Hockey Program is an organization whose goal is to provide a positive athletic and social experience for athletes with autism and other developmental disabilities who wish to participate in the great sport of ice hockey. 

Founded in 2007 by Waltham natives Ray LeBlanc and Jim Perry, with only five players, the team now has over 50 athletes ranging in age from seven through adulthood, and all ages are welcome. The team is not focused only on hockey, but hopes to help participants grow and learn, build their confidence, increase communication skills, and develop and maintain relationships both inside and outside the hockey environment.  More information: https://eastcoastjumbos.com/