Valeriya Litvak and her husband Andre Szumylo delivering boxes of wrapped gifts in early December
Valeriya and Andre delivering boxes of wrapped gifts in early December.

The holiday season once again arrived at Academy360 Lower School this December not in a sleigh guided by reindeer, but in a SUV navigating New Jersey’s bustling highways. This vehicle carried more than just gifts however; it transported a spirit of generosity and warmth, courtesy of Valeriya Litvak and her husband Andre Szumylo.

The couple, supporters of Spectrum360 since 2019, have made it a tradition to bring holiday cheer to the school’s Preschool/Elementary students. Though now residing in Pennsylvania, their hearts remain connected to the Livingston community. Valeriya, who once called Livingston home, discovered Academy360 through a client, Gregg Cuvin, a board member of Spectrum360. Inspired by the school’s mission, she and Andre were eager to contribute

Valeryia, Andre and Director of Development Kerry Guzman along with several students place several of the donated gifts under the Christmas tree in the Academuy360 lobby.
Valeryia, Andre and Kerry Guzman along with several students place gifts under the A360 tree.

For the couple, giving back is more than just a holiday tradition; it’s a family value. They instill this sense of generosity in their children, involving them in the gift-wrapping process. Their 11-year-old meticulously wraps presents, while the 5-year-old adds colorful bows. Even Valeriya’s mother joins the festive chaos, ensuring every gift is wrapped with love and care.

“We are Jewish and it’s so lovely to do it during the holiday season and your children get to see the mitzvah giving back to someone else,” Valeriya says.

The couple is guided on their shopping spree by a spreadsheet provided by Spectrum360’s Director of Development Kerry Guzman, which collates information provided by classroom teachers of each student’s interests, ensuring that every child receives a present that brings them joy.

Valeriya praises Kerry’s organization and dedication: “She really takes it to the next level in terms of putting it together for us. These are specific gifts, customized to the interests and needs of each child.”

The festive packages were handed out by Santa (and a gaggle of helpers) during the school’s annual holiday concert and judging by the shy smiles, clapping and a few tugs on Santa’s beard, students were excited by the surprise. And that is what makes the planning, shopping, wrapping and travel all worthwhile for Valeriya and her family: making children happy and spreading joy.

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Santa hands out gifts to A360 Lower School’s PSE students during the annual holiday concert.

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Over the years, countless students have benefited from the Litvak’s kindness. Valeriya expresses her gratitude for her own fortunate circumstances and her desire to give back to others:

“We are so lucky. We have two daughters. And we are very fortunate that they’re healthy, happy and well-adjusted. When I spoke with Kerry initially, I learned that typically it is people who have a child who is affected by autism that help support autism causes, as opposed to someone who has an affinity for helping children. We are so grateful for our family, we want to express that in some other capacity and that’s to help.”

Beyond their holiday generosity, Valeryia and Andre are active supporters of Spectrum360, sponsoring the Walk for a Lifetime and serving on the board development committee. Their commitment to the S360’s mission returns gratitude all year long.

The Litvak’s story is a heartwarming reminder that the true spirit of the holidays lies in acts of kindness and compassion. Their dedication to bringing joy to the lives of Academy360’s students is an inspiration to us all.