RVC Blue Speaks names two new board members

The Board of RVC Blue Speaks, the largest Long Island-based autism charity, has announced the appointment of Mireille Rivara and Carrie Thorne as its two new board members.

Rivara and Thorne are lifelong Rockville Centre residents and currently live in the community with their families. Their appointments are expected to strengthen the organization’s mission and expand its outreach across Long Island.

Rivara brings a strong background in social media, digital advertising, and campaign strategy. She is an advocate for individuals with neurodiversities and is deeply committed to the mission of RVC Blue Speaks. Board members said her experience will help enhance the organization’s visibility and deepen its relationships with community partners.

Thorne, an attorney, offers legal and regulatory expertise and has spent several years serving with a nonprofit agency. Her professional background, combined with her longstanding commitment to the Rockville Centre community, is expected to support the organization’s continued growth and advocacy efforts.

RVC Blue Speaks co-founder Mary Lou Cancellieri said the board is enthusiastic about the new appointments.

“We are delighted and excited to have two wonderful and experienced professional women who are so committed to our mission join our board,” she said.

“We look forward to expanding our community partnerships and advancing our advocacy efforts. As we continue to grow and expand, we are grateful for their support.”

RVC Blue Speaks was founded in 2016 by Anthony and Mary Lou Cancellieri after their grandson, Louis, was diagnosed on the autism spectrum at age 2. The organization’s mission is to promote awareness and acceptance of individuals affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder, enhance quality of life, and help individuals reach their full potential.

The group also raises funds for genetic research, support programs, and community initiatives that directly serve families in need across Long Island, while working to turn awareness into action and measurable progress.

Since its founding, RVC Blue Speaks has donated thousands of dollars through grants and scholarship programs. The organization has supported the Seaver Autism Center for Research and Treatment at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and the Hagedorn Little Village School in Seaford. In partnership with Mount Sinai South Nassau, the group funded two “Louie” Vecta machines, which help create a calming environment for individuals with autism spectrum disorder in emergency room and hospital settings.

The organization has also awarded scholarships to high school seniors from numerous local school districts and supports programs at Adelphi University and Molloy University. These programs assist students with neurodiversities as they transition into college life and, ultimately, the workforce.

Locally, RVC Blue Speaks has begun implementing plans to “Light It Up Blue” throughout the Village of Rockville Centre during the month of April in recognition of Autism Acceptance Month.

More information about RVC Blue Speaks can be found at RVCBlueSpeaks.org or on Facebook at @RVCBlueSpeaks.