Today, more than 70 million children and adults are affected by autism. Each one has unique strengths, challenges, and potential. For us, this became very real when our son, Little Cris, was diagnosed in February of 2021.

The months leading up to his diagnosis were filled with anxiety and confusion?we knew he needed support, but we didn?t yet have the answers. When we finally learned more, it felt overwhelming at first. But finding a community and reliable information changed everything. Organizations like Autism Speaks gave us tools, guidance, and hope. They connected us to next steps, appropriate interventions, and a larger network of families who understand.

Autism Speaks continues to do incredible work?each year their Autism Response Team directly helps tens of thousands of families searching for advice, while over a million people access their free nationwide services and resources. They also invest in research to advance more personalized treatments and therapies, so every child and adult with autism can thrive.

This work is deeply personal to us, which is why we?ve set a fundraising goal of $500 to support Autism Speaks. Your donation?no matter the size?will go directly toward resources, services, and research that transform lives for families like ours.

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

From our family?Cris, Cynthia, Little Cris, and Caitlyn?thank you for standing with us, and with the millions of families touched by autism. Together, we can make a meaningful difference.