W. Dean Eastman has generously donated a 40’ x 30’ Monarch butterfly garden for the Island Autism Center. W. Dean Eastman’s estate granted $20,000 “to be used to establish a Monarch Way Station at an acceptable location on the premises of the Island Autism Center at Martha’s Vineyard or for some other purpose for the Monarch Joint Venture and the Island Autism Center to conserve and protect Monarch Butterflies and other pollinators across the United States.”
Future site of the W. Dean Eastman Monarch Way Station
The garden will create a vital habitat for monarch butterflies while offering a beautiful and educational resource for the residents, campers and visitors at the Center.
The W. Dean Eastman Monarch Way Station will be in an area on the farm property with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day that is well-drained and protected from strong winds.
The garden will be planted with a variety of milkweed species – the only food source for monarch caterpillars – and nectar-producing plants that will provide food for adult butterflies. Nectar-producing plants include the New England Aster, Goldenrod, Blazing Star, and Purple Coneflower.
The W. Dean Eastman Monarch Way Station will provide a beautiful and educational resource for the residents, campers and visitors at the Island Autism Center. The garden will attract monarch butterflies and other pollinators, and it will help to raise awareness about the importance of these creatures. We look forward to the Monarch Way Station thriving for generations to come.
About W. Dean Eastman
W. Dean Eastman was a nationally recognized educator of history and social studies who dedicated his life to teaching and transformed the lives of countless students. He was passionate about the plight of the Monarch butterfly as well as supporting the autism community. He passed away in 2025.
Spring on Martha’s Vineyard brings renewal, but for many adults with autism and their families, the future remains uncertain. While we celebrate the incredible progress made possible by your support – including our fully operational day programming reaching individuals across the Island – a critical need demands our urgent attention.
The Success We’ve Built, The Need It Reveals:
Our expanded day and adult programs, thriving through partnerships with local schools and organizations like MV Community Services, MV Hospital, The Lurie Center, the Flutie Foundation, Best Buddies and Jabberwocky, show us daily the potential and spirit of the Islanders we serve. These programs provide vital support, skill-building, and community connection.
However, for adults with the most significant needs, particularly as they age out of school support at 22, the lack of safe, specialized, long-term housing creates immense vulnerability. This is why we must move forward now.
Our Critical Next Step: Phase 2 – Building Homes, Securing Futures
Our building project is now in Phase 2, which is the construction of two dedicated four-bedroom homes specifically designed for adults with severe autism. These homes represent more than just buildings; they offer:
Safety & Stability: A secure haven for some of our community’s most vulnerable individuals.
Lifelong Support: A nurturing environment where residents can thrive with the care they need.
Peace of Mind: Assurance for families that their loved ones have a permanent, supportive home on the Island they love.
Your Support is the Key – Here’s Why it Matters Now:
To bring these essential homes to life, we need to raise $4 million.
Generous support from towns Community Preservation funds has already covered 50% of the costs – a testament to the community’s belief in this project. However, to ensure this remains a truly Vineyard-based initiative solely dedicated to Islanders, we do not accept state or federal funding.
This means we rely entirely on the generosity of people like you to close the remaining $4 million gap. Our goal is to raise $2 million per year over the next four years.
The Urgency Cannot Be Overstated:
In today’s uncertain economic climate, completing this project without debt is crucial. Future residents will depend on Social Security and DDS funding for their daily care – funding streams that can be vulnerable to cuts. Owning these homes outright protects residents from the devastating possibility of losing their housing or essential services.
Supporting an individual with autism is a lifelong commitment, often spanning 90 years or more and costing millions. These homes provide the permanent foundation needed for that long-term care. Your contribution today builds that essential security.
Make a Lasting Impact – Here’s How You Can Help Today:
Now is the time to act. Your donation directly translates into bricks and mortar, specialized care, and a secure future for Islanders with autism.
Donate Today:A gift of any amount makes a difference.
Spread the Word: If you’re already a supporter, thank you! Please consider sharing this mission with 5 friends or family members who might be inspired to join our community of donors. Your voice is powerful.
Your generosity builds more than houses; it builds stability, dignity, and hope. It ensures that vulnerable Islanders have a safe place to call home, today and for generations to come.
We are deeply grateful for your belief in this mission and your potential support for Phase 2. Together, we can provide the security and care these individuals desperately need and deserve.
