Andra’s Hand began as a non-profit foundation created in loving memory of Andra Lynne Lazarus.
Andra devoted her life to her family. When her grandson Matthew was diagnosed with Autism, she quickly became one of his greatest supporters. She took great pride in all her grandchildren’s achievements, but she was especially proud of how hard Matthew worked each day for every achievement both big and small. Matthew was fortunate to be blessed with supportive family and friends, but Andra recognized that not all families affected by autism had the same opportunities. She also understood that many of these families were in need of resources.
Andra’s Hand was created to carry on the legacy of Andra Lazarus by offering assistance to the community in the manner which she supported her own family.
During the holiday season, Andra’s Hand runs a program called “Helping Hands.”
For many families affected by autism, there’s not a lot to celebrate during the holidays. Between paying rent, the electric bill, and other living expenses, what little left over is spent on expensive therapies for the individuals affected by autism. Purchasing gifts for the holidays is simply not feasible.
Each year, Andra’s Hand adopts underprivileged families affected by autism who would otherwise go without. The organization provides gifts for every member of the families, from toys and clothing to toiletries and other basic necessities. Andra’s Hand also provides grocery store gift cards to ensure that the families are able to have a holiday meal.
Gifts are hand wrapped by a team of volunteers and delivered either directly to the families or through a school. Gift tags are left blank to enable families to give gifts to their family members without having to explain where the gifts came from nor why such assistance is needed.
Mr. Harvey Lazarus, Founder
Mr. Eric Lazarus, Chairman
Mrs. Deborah Lazarus, President
Ms. Rachel Lazarus, Secretary
Mr. Mark Zand, Treasurer
Mr. Joshua Lazarus, Communications Director
Dr. David Reitman
Dr. Danielle Norona Bloecker
Dr. Seth Gottlieb
Dr. Jackie Schwartz
Ms. Stacey Hoaglund
Mrs. Caroline Weissman
Mrs. Linda Lazarus
Mr. Jeffrey Sopshin
Mrs. Anne Sopshin
Mr. Jeff Zbar
Ms. Elizabeth Hyatt
Ms. Debbie S Lazarus
Mrs. Wendy Carroll
Mrs. Deidre Everdij