As the year comes to a close, we’ve been thinking about all the ways this community has come together to make 2024 unforgettable. Our Fearless was the spirit that defined our year, guiding and inspiring every step we took. In this newsletter, we’re highlighting moments from the year that embodied that fearless energy.

Living Fearlessly all year long

2024 was all about spotlighting the changemakers who push boundaries and spark change in our community. Armani Williams’ pioneering racing career brought autism to a global stage and proved that anything is possible. Cheryl turned a personal loss into powerful advocacy for people on the spectrum. Our Champions of Change program uplifted inspiring advocates who lead by example and inspire others to follow suit. These stories resonated far and wide: our Fearless campaign won a Shorty Award this year, honoring the boldness of this incredible community!

Taking steps towards new traditions

This year, we came together in new ways. Our Field Day for All events reimagined the traditional Walk experience, offering inclusive activities, interactive games, educational workshops and a Resource Fair—all designed to make everyone feel welcomed and included.

Join us for the Empower Summit and Challenge 25!

Next year, our Empower Summit and Challenge will push this transformation even further, kicking off in five cities across the U.S. to share knowledge, inspire action and keep the fearless spirit alive. Be sure to reserve your spot today in this first-of-its-kind event that will challenge your mind and your body!

Advocating for a brighter future

We’ve advocated yearlong to renew and expand the Autism CARES Act, the single most important driver of autism research, training and data collection programs. The bill provides almost $2 billion in funding over the next five years for programs that allow us to train healthcare professionals, treat co-occurring physical and mental health conditions, develop best practices for nearly every area of autism services, and increase access to communication tools. Want to get involved in the ongoing effort to protect the rights, services and supports of autistic people? Join us and become an Autism Advocate.

Filming of the Autism Speaks employment PSA

Opening doors to meaningful employment

Workplace inclusion was also on top of our agenda this year. Check out our new employment PSA to see why inclusive hiring is not only good for the community, but good for business. Then, sign up for Workplace Inclusion Now (WIN), our easy-to-implement workforce development program designed to boost employment and retention rates for autistic workers. Join forward-thinking companies like Wilson Sporting Goods and Georgia School Nutrition Association who have reaped the rewards from enrolling in WIN.

Make a difference when you donate your vehicles and real estate

Since June 2010, CARS has accepted over 2,500 vehicles and raised over $1.4 million for Autism Speaks. But CARS wants to do more and is now accepting real estate donations! Residential, commercial, or land donations could provide crucial advocacy, research, services and support for autistic people and their families and provide a tax deduction for the donor. Find out how you can donate your vehicle or real estate and help autistic people reach their full potential.

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Autism Speaks | 50 F Street NW, Suite 360, Washington, DC 20001
Mailing address: P.O. Box 37148, Boone, IA 50037

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