Leadership Giving donors can direct 100 percent of their contribution to the program or project of their choice. Autism Speaks' mission is composed of four main programs:
Science
Funding the best scientific research is the main pillar of Autism Speaks' mission. 76 percent of our program and services budget is applied to research. We seek to uncover the causes of autism, to understand the biology of autism, to develop methods for the earliest possible diagnosis, to discover better therapies, and ultimately we seek to discover cures for autism. For a list of Science projects you can support, click here.
Family and Community Services
Autism Speaks augments the services provided by hundreds of community-based organizations across the country. Resources such as the First 100 Day Kit, the School Community Kit, and the First Responders Kit provide specialized information on addressing the needs of families and individuals living with autism. Our community grants program provides direct support for innovative projects at the local level. For a list of Family and Community Service projects, click here.
Awareness
Although awareness of autism has increased dramatically in recent years, the vast majority of Americans still know little if anything about autism. The Awareness program seeks to increase understanding of autism and compassion for those living with autism. It seeks to draw attention to the growing prevalence of autism and the personal and public costs it exacts. For a list of Awareness projects, click here.
Advocacy
Autism Speaks seeks to influence public policy as it affects individuals and families living with autism. Passage of the historic Combating Autism Act resulted in the infusion of millions of dollars of federal support for autism research (long neglected compared with less prevalent disorders). Autism Speaks has also led the effort that has resulted in fifteen states now requiring insurance coverage for many autism therapies. For a list of Advocacy projects, click here.
