At Evergreen Awards, we take immense pride in recognizing organizations that make meaningful contributions to their communities, and today, we are thrilled to announce that ROCCOSJOURNEY Foundation has been honored as the Best Inclusive Support Foundation in New Jersey of 2025. This prestigious recognition underscores the foundation’s tireless commitment to advocating for autism and neurodiversity education, inclusion, and acceptance.

Founded by Valerie Cullari, ROCCOSJOURNEY Foundation was born out of a deeply personal journey. When Valerie’s first child, Rocco, was diagnosed with autism at just two years old, she faced the overwhelming challenge of navigating a complex and often inaccessible system. Little did she know that her dedication to understanding the complexities of autism would lead to the creation of an organization that has now touched countless lives.

Outstanding Product Evaluation

ROCCOSJOURNEY Foundation’s commitment to providing inclusive and accessible events is unparalleled. The foundation partners with Chuck E. Cheese to host monthly sensory events during Sensory Sundays, providing children with autism and other neurodiverse conditions a space to socialize, play, and thrive. In addition, the foundation funds after-school programs for children who struggle to participate in school-organized events, ensuring that every child has access to safe, enjoyable experiences.

Through these initiatives, ROCCOSJOURNEY is able to create spaces where families can engage in activities such as early hours at the zoo, quiet time at the aquarium, and even gym time at local fitness centers. These events have become a cornerstone of the foundation’s mission to offer support and foster acceptance for families with special needs.

Demonstrated Expertise and Knowledge

Valerie’s deep personal experience, combined with her professional dedication, sets ROCCOSJOURNEY Foundation apart. By earning multiple certifications in autism education, therapy, legalities, and more, Valerie has positioned herself as an expert in the field. She utilizes this knowledge not only to improve her family’s situation but to advocate for change in the broader community.

As part of her commitment to education, Valerie has written a book titled Awesome and Autistic: Growing Up Awesome in an Autistic World, a book about embracing the diagnosis, which won an international award. The foundation’s educational endeavors don’t stop there—Valerie’s next book, focused on handicapped parking, is set to release in April 2026. Through these efforts, she continues to inspire and educate, leaving a legacy of hope and acceptance.

Authenticity and Trust

At ROCCOSJOURNEY, trust is at the heart of everything they do. Valerie’s lived experience with autism allows her to connect with families on a deeply personal level, offering empathy, understanding, and unwavering support. The foundation has built a reputation for authenticity, as it is driven by the very same challenges that the families it serves face daily.

The foundation’s Sensory-Friendly Events are an excellent example of this. These events not only raise awareness but help integrate neurodiverse children into the broader community by creating environments where differences are not just accepted—they are celebrated.

Quantitative Performance Excellence

ROCCOSJOURNEY Foundation’s impact is measurable through its continued growth and community support. Their sensory events draw thousands of attendees each month, with families reporting significant improvements in their children’s social skills and emotional well-being. The after-school funding program has provided opportunities for countless children to engage in activities outside of school hours, which otherwise would not have been accessible to them.

The foundation has also worked tirelessly with local law enforcement, providing training to help officers better understand and respond to autism-related situations. This collaboration has led to safer, more inclusive interactions for individuals on the spectrum, enhancing the community’s understanding of neurodiversity.

Competitive Differentiation

What sets ROCCOSJOURNEY Foundation apart from other organizations in this space is its holistic approach to supporting families affected by autism. Valerie’s dedication goes beyond just hosting events or providing educational materials—she works tirelessly to build systems of support within the community. From collaborating with schools to creating parental support groups, to advocating for those without the financial means to navigate the system, ROCCOSJOURNEY Foundation is truly a beacon of hope for all families affected by autism and neurodiversity.

The foundation’s efforts to introduce Unified Sports programs into local schools are just another example of how they continue to break down barriers and offer inclusive opportunities to children of all abilities. By fostering teamwork and inclusion in sports, they are ensuring that neurodiverse children have the same opportunities to thrive as their neurotypical peers.

Celebratory Conclusion

As ROCCOSJOURNEY Foundation continues to grow and expand its efforts, it remains committed to its founding mission: creating a more inclusive world for individuals with invisible disabilities. Through advocacy, education, and unwavering dedication, Valerie Cullari and her team are making a lasting impact, and their work will leave a legacy of hope for generations to come.

In a world that often feels divided, ROCCOSJOURNEY Foundation is a reminder that we are all on this journey together—just at a different pace. Their commitment to kindness, acceptance, and inclusion is changing lives, one event, one family, and one community at a time.

Congratulations to ROCCOSJOURNEY Foundation for being named the Best Inclusive Support Foundation in New Jersey of 2025. Your vision, passion, and hard work are truly making a difference in the world.

For more information on how you can get involved, visit ROCCOSJOURNEY.com. You can also follow them on Instagram (@valerieinspires), TikTok (@followroccosjourney), and Facebook (@roccosjourneyandourlilyraeofsunshine).