“One Powerful Place” campaign with film narrated by Jon Stewart

The renowned center for autism education and research celebrates its 50th year

Colossus has released new work for the New England Center for Children with the launch of a global brand platform and campaign titled “One Powerful Place.” The initiative supports the organization that operates as a hybrid special-education school, global nonprofit, and research and training institute, with campuses in Massachusetts and Abu Dhabi, public school partnerships across New England, and curriculum delivery in 23 states and 9 countries.

The centerpiece is a short film narrated by Jon Stewart that tells “the story of the school for autism that changed the world,” using a fresh, irreverent tone that departs from traditional nonprofit communication and highlights NECC’s large-scale impact in autism education, clinical research, and staff development. The film debuted at NECC’s 50th Anniversary Gala on November 15 and will extend across online video, social, print, and event channels. Distribution will include Meta and other channels and reach audiences in the United States and around the world.

The launch marks a pivotal moment for NECC, as the organization celebrates its 50th year in operation and looks to enhance its impact and awareness worldwide. “One Powerful Place” steps through fifty years of work in treatment innovation, teacher training, legislative advocacy, vocational programming, and family-support services.

“The work we do at NECC often happens quietly and without fanfare,” says Jared Bouzan, VP and chief Development & Strategy officer at NECC. “This short film allows us to take a minute and celebrate how the accomplishments of our students and team have changed the world for the better. We’re thrilled to share our journey and tell that story to a wider audience.”

NECC is a worldwide leader in the autism space. The organization employs more than 1,200 staff members and has awarded more than 2,000 master’s degrees, certificates, and Ph.D.s through its graduate programs. Its ACE ABA curriculum software supports more than 13,000 learners across multiple countries, and the organization continues to expand consulting and clinical partnerships throughout the Middle East.

The website onepowerfulplace.com launches alongside the short film, introducing a multi-year platform that Colossus will continue to build with new work.

Colossus’ executive creative director Greg Almeida said, “The idea of One Powerful Place is based on a core truth. When you walk into NECC, you see the scale and commitment of every part of the organization. From the teachers to the nurses, cafeteria workers, administrators, everyone. The power of what they are doing is obvious and inspiring. To be able to tell this story and share it with the world is a privilege,” he added. “And to have someone like Jon Stewart, who we all really respect and admire, lend his voice to this work is a testament to the school and its incredible mission.”