Marjorie Madfis recently stepped down from the position of president of the Yes You Can Board of Directors knowing that she had been helpful in continuing the innovation and impact the organization has had on improving the lives of its participants, their families and the community. The organization she founded has served as a model for others who believe that people with autism deserve customized and effective training to enable them to join the workforce and gain greater independence.
Madfis credits her daughter Isabelle with the inspiration and motivation to create Yes She Can. “While my business skills, especially my expertise in strategy, planning and marketing were an advantage, I could not do it alone. I benefited from many people who offered their expertise probono and later from dedicated and highly skilled employees,” said Madfis.
“Yes She Can was a work in progress for me prior to incorporation,” said Madfis. “When I shared my concept with professionals in the autism world, and received positive responses, I knew it was time to undertake this endeavor. I benefited from the guidance from many experienced leaders and members of NonProfit Westchester, Volunteer New York, and Pro Bono Partnership.
Our launch of Advocates for Adults with Autism in 2016 was supported by a committee and winning significant grants from generous funders.
Our state, county and municipal elected representatives have been very supportive of the important work we have done and remained engaged in understanding the needs of people with disabilities.
