Dear John,

As we continue to monitor the evolving situation related to COVID-19 (coronavirus), our top priority remains the health and safety of our staff and constituents. While this is a challenging time, we are committed to working together to support the autism community and fulfill our mission. I want to share a few updates with you on how Autism Speaks is addressing and adjusting to the situation. Most importantly, please know that we understand that the uncertainty and unprecedented nature of these times can be tough on all of us, and we are here to support you, your families and the autism community in whatever way we can.

• Now through March 31, we are recommending that staff work from home, to ensure the health and safety of our team, as well as our communities. We'll continue to monitor the situation in real time to determine when circumstances change. We are so grateful for the flexibility and dedication of our employees, who have already shown their commitment to this temporary model, and to ensuring no disruptions to our mission during this time.
  
  
• Additionally, we have made the decision to postpone all events through May 16 to a new date in 2020 - this includes walks, runs, fundraisers, pathways/town halls and service provider events. While we do not yet have confirmed dates, we will announce this information as soon as it is available and look forward to hosting inspiring, meaningful and successful events that will make a lasting impact for people with autism and their families.
  
  
• The Advocacy Forum’s Hill Day scheduled for late April is also being canceled. However, this does not stop our efforts to advocate with and for the autism community. We are as steadfast as ever in this important work. We will reschedule a congressional briefing that was a part of the planned activities.
  
  
• Despite these changes, we remain intently focused on the needs of our community. Every day, our staff and volunteers work tirelessly to make a lasting impact for people with autism and their families - and we will remain dedicated, focused and relentless in remaining a trusted source of resources, support and hope for those we serve. Continuing our work to fund and fulfill our mission through research, advocacy, services and supports is crucial.

Thank you for understanding as the situation evolves rapidly. We will continue our work so that people on the spectrum can reach their true potential and I am so proud to work alongside a team of staff, volunteers and constituents who share this deep commitment to our mission.

As always, we are here to help. Please feel free to reach out to our Autism Response Team for questions and access to tools, resources and supports. For information specific to the coronavirus and the most up-to-date information on the situation, please visit CDC.gov.

Sincerely,

Angela Geiger
President and CEO