The Heart of Autism initiative highlights the work of kind and compassionate individuals on the autism spectrum who give back to the autism community!
We love hearing stories from family and friends, through emails and in the news, about the generosity shown by so many to our loved ones with autism. But the stories that touch us the most are perhaps the ones we hear about the least: stories about people with autism helping other people with autism.
We know that individuals on the spectrum are often willing and able to help their peers, and their efforts are frequent and widespread. That's why we created Heart of Autism so we can share these inspirational stories with all of you!
Painting for the Autism Community
Tyler is a 20-year-old accomplished artist from central New Jersey, and an engaged member of his local community. After Hurricane Sandy, Tyler’s family was without power, water and heat for several days. Tyler decided to have an art show to raise money for AutismCares, an Autism Speaks grant program that provided food, clothing or shelter to families who experienced dramatic or lasting effects of the storm.
Click here to read more!
Little Man and Me
Brian Patrick decided to rollerblade across the US and back to help raise autism awareness and inspire other people in the autism community along the way. His story is an inspiration, and we are so proud of all he is doing for the autism community!
Click here to read more!
Spreading Autism Awareness with Duct Tape
Erin Clemens creates beautiful and colorful autism awareness bracelets using duct tape. She generously donates the proceeds from the sale of her popular bracelets to the autism community! In 2012, she made enough money to buy an iPad AND a military grade case and screen protector for a class of students with autism.
Click here to read more!
Chef Tom Dickinson Gives Back
Tom Dickinson is a professional chef on the autism spectrum. Ever since he was diagnosed, his goal has been to use his own experience on the spectrum as inspiration to help others. Today, Tom is very involved in the autism community. He teaches healthy cooking classes to children with autism and their parents, has his own radio show and is a regular blog contributor!
Click here to read more!
Making Other Kids Feel Proud
Lucas Laliotis is a nine-year-old boy from New Hampshire. When he was 6, he was diagnosed with high functioning autism/Asperger Syndrome. Lucas works with his mom and grandma to create lap pads and other sensory tools for kids just like him. Lucas’ goal is to help other kids like himself, so they are no longer embarrassed by the tools that help them succeed!
Click here to learn more!
Fairy Queen Flutterby: Giving Back Through Storytelling
Robin Borakove is an entertainer, children's book author and storyteller with Asperger's Syndrome. She tells inspiring and motivational stories to children dressed as her favorite character, Fairy Queen Flutterby. She donates the proceeds from her children's book sales to families of individuals with autism. My goal is to raise awareness that Asperger's Syndrome is real and to use my storytelling to teach children important lessons and to make them feel happy and confident.
Click here to learn more!
Do you have a story to share for our Heart of Autism series? We'd love to hear from you! Email us at heartofautism@autismspeaks.org.
