It's the final Friday of 2023, John, so I won't beat around the bush:

We need every proud champion for inclusion and unapologetic acceptance in the Autism Speaks family to step up with a donation — $15, $50, $500, whatever makes sense — before the end of the year.

In fact, this is SO important that an anonymous couple who are longtime supporters and volunteer leaders at Autism Speaks are matching every donation, up to $100,000, dollar-for-dollar right now! Give for TWICE the impact for autistic individuals and their families >>

Every one of the faces you see above is a story of perseverance and the power of belonging. We can all hopefully see ourselves in these faces as members of the Autism Speaks family — which is just as unique, unstoppable and beautiful as every person with autism.

Our own story of perseverance and something I am personally very proud of, is our lifechanging Autism Response Team (ART). ART is a free hotline, available to all and exists solely to answer questions, provide resources, offer compassionate support and point people in the right direction while on their autism journey. From the first days after diagnosis to invaluable supports later in life, ART has aided millions of people.

When I think of the rippling impact of Autism Speaks, I think of ART. And when I think of ART, I think of you — every generous, committed supporter who makes this program possible. If you can, please make a 2X MATCHED gift in the next 72 hours (before the end of the year!) so that these essential and transformative supports and services are always here for the autism community:

John, thank you so, so much!

Lindsay Naeder
Vice President, Services & Supports, Community Impact
Autism Speaks