Not Missing the Moment: Samantha’s Story

For Samantha Caban, participating in the Leap for Autism is about more than just taking a jump, it is about seizing an opportunity that once slipped away.

Having previously worked at Greystone Programs before returning in November 2025, Samantha was already familiar with the impact of the organization and the significance of the Leap. Years ago, she had every intention of participating, but when the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted plans, that opportunity was put on hold.

This year, she made a decision.

“The last time, I was really looking forward to doing it, but I couldn’t,” she shares. “So this time, I wasn’t going to miss the chance.”

Now serving as a Health Care Coordinator at Van Kirk IRA, Samantha plays a hands-on role in supporting individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. Her work is rooted in care, consistency, and connection, and for her, the Leap is an extension of that commitment.

But her connection to this cause goes beyond her role.

“I actually have a lot of family that are on the spectrum,” she says. “It feels close to heart.”

With multiple family members impacted, including the loss of a loved one, Samantha’s decision to participate is deeply personal. It is driven by lived experience, love, and a desire to contribute to something that supports others navigating similar journeys.

For Samantha, raising awareness is about bridging understanding. Not everyone has direct exposure to autism or developmental disabilities, and that gap can lead to misconceptions or lack of awareness.

“Not everybody has had that experience,” she explains. “So it helps people have a better understanding.”

Her perspective is simple but important, awareness creates space for empathy, and empathy leads to stronger, more inclusive communities. When it comes to the Leap itself, Samantha offers a message that many first-time participants may need to hear.

“It’s not as hard as everybody thinks it is,” she says.

That message speaks not only to the act of skydiving, but to participation as a whole. Whether it is signing up, fundraising, or sharing the mission, taking that first step can feel intimidating, but it is often more accessible than it seems.

True to her nature, Samantha’s approach to fundraising has been straightforward and genuine. She reached out to her network directly, texting friends and family, encouraging them to spread the word, and even stepping outside of her comfort zone by posting on social media.

“I just texted everybody I know and said, just spread it,” she shares.

It is a reminder that impact does not require perfection, it simply requires action.

Samantha’s story reflects the quiet strength behind so many of Greystone’s team members, individuals who show up, do the work, and commit themselves to making a difference in ways both big and small. As the Leap for Autism approaches, her journey serves as a powerful reminder that sometimes, the most meaningful step is simply deciding not to miss the moment.

And this time, she didn’t.

Join Greystone Programs, Saturday, May 2 from 10am-4pm at Skydive the Ranch.

Address: 55 Sand Hill Rd, Gardiner, NY 12525

For more information about Leap for Autism visit: https://www.greystoneprograms.org/leapforautism