Wednesday, April 9, 2008

Special People Helping Others

Who: Zachary Peskin
Age: 16
What: Started Special People Helping Others


Zachary Peskin's older brother suffers from Autism. Zachary got motivated to start SpPHO when he noticed the greatest joy his brother got was helping others. The article is a short read and you can find it at http://ypwr.blogs.cnn.com/. Also make sure to check out the live interview with Zachary on CNN.com at 3:30 pm!!

Zachary Peskin
Posted: 10:21 AM ET


Zachary Peskin, right, and his brother Adam discuss the Special Business Partners Program with a retailer.

It's Autism Awareness Month, but for people who have autism or live with someone who does, they are aware every day. Zachary Peskin, 16, decided not only to be aware but also to be active.

Zachary's older brother, Adam, is autistic. After years of watching others serve Adam, Zachary noticed that his brother's greatest joy came from helping others. It was the little things: from setting the table to setting up events at the local community center. Last year, it hit Zachary — if his brother could give back a little, then the opportunity for the developmentally disabled community to give back collectively was great.

Last year, Zachary started Special People Helping Others, or SpPHO. Group members attend SpPHO-sponsored activities and community events to sell 3-for-1 Bracelets. It's called the 3-for-1 because for every bracelet sold, three causes can be helped: SpPHO, Meals on Wheels and Doctors Without Borders, an international medical and humanitarian aid organization. SpPHO is a group that helps people such as Zachary's brother by letting them help others.

What would you ask Zachary? Submit your questions as comments below or send in a question on video to iReport.com. Then look for your questions during the CNN.com Live interview Friday, April 11, at 3:30 p.m. ET.

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