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Denver Real Estate– Peter Niederman, chief operating officer of The Kentwood Companies, and his family were honored by the Autism Society of Colorado at the organization’s second annual Face of Autism event held October 1, 2009 at Pallazo Verdi in Greenwood Village.  The Niederman family was recognized for contributions that have improved the lives of many families living with Autism in Colorado.  Former Colorado First Lady Frances Owens, honorary chair of the event, was present to honor the Niedermans.

The Niederman’s daughter, Nicole, was diagnosed with Autism at 22 months. Due to early intervention and many years of therapy, i.e. speech, occupational, music, cranio-sacral, homeopathy, behavior modification and dietary restrictions, she has developed into an extremely high functioning 18-year-old. She is a senior attending Cherry Creek High School and plans to attend college art school next fall.

“Peter Niederman and the Niederman family have been tremendous supporters of the Autism Society of Colorado,” said Betty Lehman, executive director of the charitable organization.  “They continuously give back to the community and genuinely care about others.”

The Face of Autism event helps increase awareness of the issue and raises much-needed funds to help the many children and families that are on waiting lists.  One in 91 children will be diagnosed with autism.  All funds raised at the event benefit the Autism Society of Colorado’s programs, including the Give Me a Break (GMAB) program.  GMAB provides families with a welcome break from providing care for their children by training respite providers about autism spectrum disorders, and preparing for and addressing the individualized needs of these children and youth.  A regular break from parent’s day-to-day duties is essential to their ability to provide long-term care.

“On behalf of my wife and children, we are very pleased to be honored by the Autism Society of Colorado,” said Niederman.  “This is such an outstanding organization and the work these dedicated people provide families living with Autism is invaluable.  The evening was a great success for a very worthy cause.  I encourage everyone in the metro Denver community and throughout Colorado to donate to the Autism Society of Colorado or become involved in one of its excellent programs.”

For more information on the Autism Society of Colorado, visit online at www.autismcolorado.org.