Tanenbaum Keale LLP, a Newark based law firm, has built a reputation for making an impact both inside and outside the courtroom. While the firm is known for its legal success, its partners also place strong value on giving back. One of the organizations they are now proud to support is Spectrum360.

That connection began with one conversation.

Laura Matos, a paralegal who joined Tanenbaum Keale in March, is also a Spectrum360 parent. Her son, Eli, joined Academy360 in 2021 at just six years old, during the height of the pandemic. Like so many families at that time, Laura was navigating uncertainty. What she found at Spectrum360 was stability, compassion, and a true sense of belonging.

Despite the challenges of virtual learning, Eli’s transition was seamless. Laura recalls how quickly he connected with his teachers and classroom staff. One moment that continues to stand out is when Eli learned the days of the week through a song. Years later, he still sings it. What may have seemed like a simple classroom activity meant something much bigger to Laura. It was proof that Eli was engaged, joyful, and learning in a way that worked for him.

Another turning point was Spectrum360’s commitment to Eli’s AAC device. As a nonverbal student, the device is his voice. Laura admits she initially had mixed feelings about it before coming to Spectrum360, but the team’s unwavering belief that “this is his voice” changed everything. They embraced the technology and empowered Eli to use it everywhere, from school to restaurants to home. For Laura, that support reinforced that her son’s voice matters and that he has every right to be heard.

When Laura joined Tanenbaum Keale, Spectrum360’s annual A Walk for a Lifetime  was approaching. Though she had only been at the firm for two months, she felt compelled to share about the community event that meant so much to her family.

image of group of people at a walk
Pictured (L-R): Naomi Vater, Phil McGovern, Kathleen Coyle, Lara Matos, Eli Matos

She placed the Spectrum360 walk pamphlet on her desk. As colleagues passed by and asked about it, she shared Eli’s story. Eventually, she brought the opportunity of a company sponsorship to her supervisor, Kathleen Coyle. From there, the conversation moved quickly to partner Phil McGovern and then to the firm’s leadership. The response was immediate and enthusiastic. The firm committed to sponsoring the walk and encouraged broad participation.

Laura was overwhelmed by the support. Partners attended. Colleagues showed up. Marketing staff became involved. What began as a small display on her desk turned into a firm wide effort.

Phil later shared that attending the walk was deeply moving. Seeing the Spectrum360 community firsthand left a lasting impression. The dedication of the staff and the love that surrounded the families stood out immediately. He noted that when you witness that level of care and devotion in person, the impact on families becomes unmistakable. Since that first sponsorship, the firm has supported additional events and plans to remain involved.

When asked what he would say to other organizations considering sponsorship, Phil emphasized the unexpected internal impact. Supporting Spectrum360 brought attorneys, paralegals, and marketing professionals together around a shared cause. It strengthened connections within the firm while supporting a mission that clearly matters.

For Laura, the experience carries an important message for other parents. Starting the conversation does not have to be complicated. Raising awareness can be as simple as putting information on your desk and sharing your story. Many people are willing to help; they just need to understand the mission. Fear and hesitation are natural, but focusing on what the funds mean for children and families makes it easier to take that first step.

Tanenbaum Keale’s partnership with Spectrum360 is a reminder that meaningful change often begins with one person’s willingness to ask and one organization’s willingness to listen.

To get involved in this year’s A Walk for a Lifetime, visit walk.spectrum360.org.