YOUNGSTOWN – The Autism Society of the Mahoning Valley is mourning the passing of board member Kelly Long.
According to a post on the Autism Society’s Facebook page, Long has served as a board member since 2019, bringing her expertise as an IEP specialist and her lived experience as a mother of autistic children.
Long helped raise funds for the Autism Society with various fundraisers, including the Mahoning Valley Warrior Event.
In addition to her role with the Autism Society, Long’s commitment to inclusion extended further, including through her involvement with Miss Dana’s Diamons, an all-abilities tumbling and cheerleading gym in Boardman.
She also helped create Walnut Grove, an all-inclusive playground in Canfield.
“Even while facing significant health challenges, Kelly remained a beacon of strength and hope. The Mahoning Valley will feel the weight of this loss deeply,” the Autism Society’s post reads.