1 in 36 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Behind that number are families, challenges, joys, fears—and children who see and experience the world differently.

But the truth is, the world isn’t always kind or understanding.

Too many times we’ve read the heartbreaking stories: children with autism mistreated by educators, misunderstood by law enforcement, or harmed simply because they couldn’t communicate their needs. This is the reality for so many families—including mine.

As a mom to a beautiful boy with autism, my worries go beyond the everyday concerns. I worry that my son, who doesn’t yet speak for himself, will one day face a world that doesn’t try to understand him. That his silence could be mistaken for defiance. That his sensory needs could be seen as disobedience. That he won’t be safe simply because someone didn’t take the time to learn.

This is why we walk.

We walk to raise awareness.

We walk to demand understanding.

We walk to raise our voices for the children who can’t yet raise theirs.

When words fail, I as your mom will always speak.

Join us. Support us. Stand with us. Because creating a safer, more compassionate world for individuals with autism starts with awareness, education, and action.

Adrian’s World is more than a name—it’s a movement. And we’re just getting started.

You can find out even more about where your fundraising dollars go at autismspeaks.org/our-work.

Please join the team — set your fundraising goal — and start making a difference today!