Soak it in dads, granddads, older brothers and father figures out there - this is your special day! This Father's Day, we celebrate the role models who not only made a positive impact on our lives, but also made a lasting impact on the autism community.

In this edition of E-Speaks, you'll hear stories from the autism community of fathers and sons, grandfathers and grandchildren and an autistic dad's journey through fatherhood with his two daughters. You'll also get access to online parenting strategies from Family ECHO: Autism and a variety of helpful parenting resources to ensure you and your children always have the support you need as you navigate this journey called life.

In my own words: Meet Andrew K, an autistic man navigating fatherhood for the first (and second) time

Andrew's first Father's Day wasn't everything he had hoped it would be. After a fallout with his father and receiving his autism diagnosis around the same time, his complex emotions made it difficult for him to truly enjoy the day. Five years later, Andrew is now a dad to two beautiful girls and is soaking in all the special moments that come along with fatherhood.

Donor Spotlight: Meet Dave D., grandfather and super-advocate to his 2-year-old grandson

When Dave noticed that his grandson, Hudson, suddenly began showing signs of developmental regression after his first birthday, this first-time grandfather quickly sprang into action. Not only has Dave become a super-advocate for Hudson, but he's become a loyal supporter of Autism Speaks, with plans to help other families in need of support. Learn more about Dave and his grandson's journey in this blog.

A father shares his son's journey into adulthood and the obstacles they've faced along the way

When Ted K.'s son Philip, age 21, was diagnosed with autism at 14 months old and epilepsy at age 13, Ted and his wife Maria knew they would have to make sacrifices to help their son reach his full potential. The years since have not always been easy, but thanks to his parents' strength and dedication, Philip has grown into a driven young man with a bright future ahead of him. In this blog post, Ted shares how he juggled competing demands from his family and career to give his son the best life possible.

Learn parenting strategies online through Family ECHO: Autism

From navigating a diagnosis to learning about new therapies, parents and caregivers of children with autism need knowledge and support to provide the best care for their loved ones. The Family ECHO: Autism program, supported by the Autism Speaks Autism Care Network, can help. In a series of free recorded sessions, you can learn strategies to promote your child's well-being, parenting tips for teaching new skills and parenting tips to reduce harmful behaviors. Look out for the new Family ECHO: Autism series launching later this summer!

Autism Speaks offers free resources for parents

Parenting an autistic child can be a challenge but you don't have to do it alone. Autism Speaks' A Parent's Guide to Autism can support you and promote a positive future for your child and family as you navigate a new autism diagnosis. The WHO Virtual Caregiver Skills Training Program can teach you the day-to-day skills you need to better understand and engage with your child. Lastly, our Autism Response Team (ART) can answer your questions in English and in Spanish and connect you with resources and information.

Adulting on the Spectrum: Former NFL player shares his experience being an autistic dad

Hosts Andrew Komarow and Eileen Lamb speak with Former NFL player Joe Barksdale about his experience being an autistic dad. Joe is a singer, songwriter and producer. Joe played with the Raiders, Rams, Chargers and Cardinals. Concluding an eight year NFL run, Barksdale hung up his cleats in 2019 to pursue music full time settling in Austin, Texas with his wife Briana, and two young daughters.

Local events and information