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Our Promise Alumni

Celebrating Them Today

Meet Josh

Diagnosed with autism at just 2 / 2 years old, Josh’s journey began at the
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Kelberman Promise Preschool Program, where he received life-changing early
intervention and support. At the time of his diagnosis, Josh was non-verbal.

However, as a pre-school student Josh spoke his first word “Mama”, which
marked the beginning of his communication breakthrough. Today, Josh is
thriving as a young adult. He successfully completed the Discover-U internship
program at Utica University and now works at Symeon’s Greek Restaurant.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Josh has become known

throughout the community as the “Kelberman Influencer,” where he proudly
represents the organization by interviewing community leaders and sharing
stories that inspire others.

Meet Blake

Blake first attended the Promise Program in 2004 and has continued to be a
part of the Kelberman family ever since. As a young child, Blake was nonverbal
with a very high need for sensory input. However, during his pre-school years
Blake began to speak and is now actively involved in Kelberman’s adult
programs. Blake has completed the Discover-U internship at Utica University,
Recognizing Leslie Stephens: gaining valuable experience with the Esports program, radio station and
IT department. Last summer, he became a Kelberman Kamp Connections
counselor, giving back to the community that helped shape his own journey.
Her Lifelong Promise Currently, Blake attends Herkimer College, where he competes on the Esports
team and where he recently made the Dean's List. Beyond academics, he’s
also on the CNY Storm powerlifting team and recently brought home a silver
medal at a regional competition as well as in his fourth NYS Special Olympics
Summer Games, demonstrating determination in all he does.

Meet Bryce

Bryce began his Kelberman journey in 2017 at the Promise Program’s main
campus on Armory Drive, a ectionately calling it “Number A” because of the

large letter on the building. At the start of his preschool years Bryce spoke very

few words, however over time his vocabulary and speech flourished. Today,
Bryce is finishing fifth grade and continues to shine in academics, arts and

community involvement. He was selected for All-County Chorus this year and
had his Dragon Eye art project featured at the Whitesboro Art Department
District-Wide Art Show. He also recently received his Taekwondo Black Belt
and is deeply committed to giving back - volunteering at Kelberman events,
especially the annual Walk, and also launched a charity trail run with his father
that benefits local causes, with Kelberman as the main recipient.