We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Cathy Del Priore a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Cathy, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. How did you get your first job in the field that you practice in today?

I had absolutely no experience in nonprofits when I transitioned from a major entertainment business career spanning over 20 years. The Chair of GRACE, Michael Lanza, also a friend, encouraged me to take an interview at GRACE because he believed my extensive event experience could bring something fresh and valuable to the agency.

This wasn’t my first job, but it was initially meant to be a part-time role—an opportunity to get my feet wet and learn how nonprofits operate compared to the corporate world I was used to. My first task was planning a simple picnic for our staff, families, and participants. What started as a small gathering quickly grew into a much larger event, eventually becoming one of our major fundraisers.

From there, I took on bigger challenges: organizing galas, golf outings, walks, and building strong collaborations within the community. Each event became a chance to deepen my connection with the GRACE family and to help raise awareness and support for our mission. As my involvement grew, so did my understanding of the incredible impact GRACE has on the lives of individuals with autism and their families.

Eventually, I was honored to be promoted to Executive Director, where I continue to bring that same passion and commitment—combining my background in event planning with a heartfelt dedication to advocacy, inclusion, and empowerment. It’s been an incredible journey from planning picnics to leading a foundation that truly changes lives.

Cathy, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m Cathy Del Priore, and I found my way into this field after spending 20 years in the Events Department at Madison Square Garden. I loved the energy, the people, and the thrill of live events—but it wasn’t until I stepped into The GRACE Foundation that I truly felt at home. The participants at GRACE—individuals of all abilities—are an extraordinary and beautiful community that inspire me every single day. Growing up, I was consistently bullied and often felt like my voice didn’t matter. That experience stayed with me. Today, as Executive Director of GRACE, I advocate fiercely to make sure every voice is heard, respected, and celebrated.

The GRACE Foundation was founded 25 years ago by four remarkable women—strong, determined mothers whose children had been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at a time when support was scarce and services were limited. They refused to accept “no” as an answer. Instead, they created something extraordinary: a community built on understanding, empowerment, and love. Their courage laid the foundation for what has become a thriving, innovative organization that now serves individuals of all ages living with ASD.

Over the past two and a half decades, GRACE has grown into a beacon of hope and opportunity. We provide life-enriching programs and services designed to empower, educate, and enhance the lives of those living with ASD. Our Day Habilitation program supports adults 18 and older, providing structured, engaging activities that focus on communication, daily living, community involvement, and socialization. Our Respite services start as early as age 5, giving children and families the support they need while helping participants build confidence, friendships, and independence. Community Habilitation takes our work into the home and neighborhood, reinforcing essential life skills in real-world environments.

We also prioritize job readiness—helping participants develop professional skills, build resumes, and explore meaningful employment opportunities. One of our most exciting developments has been the growth of our culinary program, including our GRACE on Wheels Food Truck. This isn’t just a food truck—it’s a mobile classroom and empowerment hub. Participants plan menus, prep ingredients, and serve meals to the public, gaining valuable experience and pride in their work. The truck is available for parties, events, and rentals—and it has quickly become a community favorite.

Our participants are storytellers, too. Through our in-house podcast studio, they produce and host Autism Unscripted, a show where they share their thoughts, interviews, and personal stories. Their creativity also shines in GRACE 10314, a web series that documents a “day in the life” of GRACE participants. And in collaboration with SI Media Group, we launched Dan on the Street, a series where participants visit restaurants and learn to cook side-by-side with local chefs. That hands-on experience directly enhances their work on the GRACE on Wheels Food Truck—blending fun, learning, and purpose in one powerful recipe for success.

We’ve also made history—literally. GRACE is now a three-time Guinness World Records™ titleholder:

🧩 The World’s Largest Human Puzzle Piece – symbolizing the value and uniqueness of each person in the autism community.

♾️ The World’s Largest Human Infinity Symbol – representing inclusion, unity, and limitless potential.

🎗️ The Most Autism Awareness Ribbons on a Van – turning a vehicle into a rolling monument for awareness and acceptance.

These record-breaking moments didn’t happen by accident. As a nonprofit, we’re proud to be innovators and risk-takers—pushing boundaries, thinking creatively, and refusing to settle for the status quo. When we were told breaking the first record might be impossible, we didn’t just meet the goal—we crushed it. That’s the power of passion and the belief that nothing is out of reach when we work together.

Today, with 1 in 31 children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, our mission has never been more urgent. But more than a mission, it’s our responsibility—to advocate, to innovate, and to continue creating meaningful, inclusive opportunities for individuals with autism. At GRACE, we don’t just offer services—we build futures, celebrate strengths, and amplify voices.

GRACE isn’t just a program. It’s a movement. And we’re just getting started.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

What truly helped build my reputation within the market is a combination of personal passion, innovative spirit, and a willingness to take bold risks. As a nonprofit, we don’t just follow the usual path—we’re innovators and a bit of risk-takers, always pushing the envelope to create meaningful change and make a stir in the community.

For example, when we first attempted to break the Guinness World Record for the largest human puzzle piece, many said it was impossible. Not only did we break it, we crushed it. That moment captured national attention and helped spotlight autism awareness in a powerful way. Since then, we’ve gone on to set two more world records, each one amplifying our message of inclusion, empowerment, and community strength.

But beyond the records and accolades, what really sets us apart is the deep passion we bring to everything we do. Our work is driven by a heartfelt commitment to giving individuals with autism a real voice and real opportunities. That passion resonates with families, partners, and the broader community—and it’s what builds lasting trust and a strong reputation. When you combine that with innovative programs and bold ideas, you create a nonprofit that not only delivers results but inspires others to join in.

If you could go back in time, do you think you would have chosen a different profession or specialty?

If I could go back, I would absolutely choose the same path. While I didn’t start in nonprofits and had no experience in this field initially, every step—from my years at Madison Square Garden to that first part-time role at GRACE—led me to where I’m meant to be.

Transitioning from a major entertainment business to nonprofit work wasn’t easy, but it was incredibly rewarding. I found a deeper purpose here that I hadn’t experienced before. Working alongside such amazing individuals with autism and their families, seeing their courage, creativity, and growth firsthand—there’s no substitute for that kind of fulfillment.

I do wish I had this same wisdom earlier in my career. If I had, I believe I could have done so much more, and maybe even started making an impact sooner. But life’s journey is what it is—full of lessons and timing. I’m grateful for where I am now and the work I get to do every day.

I believe that our lives aren’t just about the jobs we hold, but about the impact we make and the connections we build. GRACE has given me the chance to be part of something bigger than myself, to be an advocate for voices that too often go unheard. For all those reasons, I wouldn’t change a thing.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://graceofny.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/graceofny/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GRACEofNY
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/30154069/admin/dashboard/
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• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC49wzgOi2Dt0p2g4RDGQzEw
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@graceofny