We create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully.

The Autism Society of Indiana is a leading organization dedicated to creating connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. For years, we have been making a significant impact in the Autism community by providing direct care, resources, and training for those with Autism, their loved ones and caregivers, and businesses and corporations. We also work to increase access for families and individuals affected by Autism by hosting support groups and sensory-friendly events around the State of Indiana. Our unwavering commitment to empowering ALL of the Autism community has garnered widespread recognition and support from individuals, corporations, and community partners alike. And it is because of that support that we are able to have the impact we do!

Autism Society of Indiana

Hood Medicine is a nonprofit public health collective dedicated to protecting black and brown lives during the pandemic & beyond.

We focus on health equity, public health communications, and combating health-related dis/misinformation in BIPOC communities to serve our primary mission of using science and technology to improve health outcomes for historically marginalized communities, empower families to make healthy choices & help them find trusted healthcare & vital resources. 

We have research collaborators across industry and academia working with us to understand how health misinformation affects intersectional patient populations and evaluate interventional strategies for public health advocacy at the grassroots level.

We provide vaccine education and promotion to various civic & health organizations using our culturally tailored public health communications framework to develop equity-focused messaging targeting intersectional BIPOC communities.

Hood Medicine Initiative Inc

Nonprofit organization dedicated to inclusion of individuals with disabilities in the Muslim community of Houston

Dar-us-Sakina is a safe space for people of all abilities and their caregivers.  We inspire the community to abandon stigmas and embrace individuals with disabilities with empathy and respect.  Together, we are better!

We are dedicated to providing inclusive opportunities for individuals with disabilities, while empowering the affected and their caregivers with social support and access to local resources.  We envision a Muslim community where individuals with disabilities are fully accepted and included, and both they and their caregivers have adequate access to support.

Dar-us-Sakina offers its services to all special needs individuals and their caregivers within the Houston community, but reserves its Zakat fund for Muslim families who are in financial need or crisis. Our mission is achieved through three key service areas: Education, Support, and Community Awareness.

Education:

Special Needs Weekend Islamic School Programs: At four locations across Houston, children with special needs come weekly to the masjid to learn about their faith using an adapted curriculum and to be included in the community.

Teen Adult Program (TAP): This program helps individuals with special needs take the first step to adulthood by teaching them independent life skills in a supportive social environment.

Support:

Caregiver Support Groups: This allows mothers, fathers, and siblings of individuals with special needs to connect with others with similar life circumstances.

Events: From inclusive family events that make all accommodations to caregiver training events, Dar-us-Sakina engages the local special needs population on a monthly basis.

Zakat Services: For special needs families in crisis, we are committed to providing comprehensive support through our Zakat Fund, including funding of emergency respite care, counseling, necessary evaluations, advocacy and durable medical equipment.

Community Awareness:

Youth Inclusion Training: We visit local Islamic schools, masaajid, and Scouts to train typical youth on accepting and including their brothers and sisters with disabilities.

Community Education: We conduct awareness events and workshops to educate the general community on disability awareness and early childhood intervention.

Sakina Internship: This is a one year commitment for college age students who dedicate one day of the week serving individuals with special needs while learning about related topics.

Volunteer Enrichment Program: This is a volunteer buddy program for High School students.

Dar-us-Sakina

Addresses the needs of people with autism & their families by creating & supporting exceptional educational, clinical & vocational programs

NEXT for AUTISM transforms the national landscape of services for people with autism by strategically designing, launching, and supporting innovative programs. We believe that individuals with autism deserve to live fulfilling, productive lives, supported by excellent services and connected to their communities. We continually ask, what’s next for people on the autism spectrum?

NEXT for AUTISM

Autism Grown Up is an online nonprofit organization creating educational resources to support Autistic people across the lifespan.

Autism Grown Up, Inc. is a non-profit organization that is entirely online, which means that all of our resources are available online so we are able to reach the autism community globally.

We create and provide resources for autistic people and all members of an autistic person’s support network, including family members, teachers, clinicians, therapists, professionals, peers, employers, and other important stakeholders. This is the crew that surrounds an autistic person as they grow up and navigate adulthood. We all don’t do it alone!

We primarily make low-cost resources for professionals and caregivers. This funding gets re-invested into make more resources like these and free resources for autistic adults (like the Lifespan Toolbox).

Autism Grown Up Inc

Committed to educating and assisting African American families with Autistic children. Autism affects children of every race, ethnic group, and socioeconomic status.

The Color of Autism Foundation is committed to raising public awareness about autism spectrum disorders and devoted to empowering families and lessening their isolation. We are dedicated to ensuring that all people with autism receive appropriate, effective services to maximize their growth potential and to enhance the general public's awareness of autism.

The Color of Autism Foundation

An organization focused on advocating or providing services for animals. It received its nonprofit status in 2021.

Spreading animal awareness and companionship through education and rescue.
Founded in 2021, Unforgettable Paws Animal Rescue is a registered Animal Rescue Service run by and for its members. Based in central Florida, we strive to be the voice of the lost paws everywhere. Our team and volunteers work tirelessly to save lives and promote animal welfare.

Our goal is to find forever homes for our fur companions who have have a rough go at life. We aim to achieve this goal through animal rescue, adoption, foster programs, and volunteer activities. We put forth a great focus towards educating the communication on overpopulation and the importance of animal rescue on lowering the euthanasia rate in the country. 
​
Although we are an animal rescue, Unforgettable Paws also aims to aid our two legged friends too. We have a special place in our hearts for war veterans and individuals with autism and would love for members of those communities to be paired with an animal that will change their life. 
​
Our adoptions are a life-long companionship agreement. Our rescue is a life-long family. 

Paws that were once lost will join our rescue and never be forgotten again. 

Unforgettable Paws

Annual Conference

A nonprofit agency that supports children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

The Arc of Essex County was established more than 75 years ago by concerned parents who banded together in 1948 with a desire to ensure a better future for their children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Today, our wide variety of supports and services enables us to deliver individualized care, tailored to everyone’s unique needs while providing support to families and loved ones throughout Essex County and beyond.

Our programs span the lifetime of those with IDD, starting with our Early Intervention Program for babies and toddlers, through our Stepping Stones School that serves children with Down syndrome and other disabilities, and including respite and recreation activities. When children transition into adulthood, our services expand to include 27 residential group homes as well as supportive living environments throughout the county, day programs that focus on creating dynamic and engaging experiences, recreational trips and activities, and more. And every summer for more than 70 years, The Arc of Essex County welcomes hundreds of children and adults with IDD to Camp Hope, where individuals of all ages enjoy a summer camp experience with peers.

Our newest program is Studio Arc, a vibrant gathering space where individuals with IDD can participate in activities that feature visual and creative arts, movement, and technology.

Overall, The Arc of Essex County works to empower individuals with IDD and their families to realize a lifetime of personal achievement and full partnership in the community. Your contribution makes a difference in achieving that mission.

The Arc of Essex County

Mission: To prepare individuals with and without developmental disabilities for life success within their family and community.

Crossroads is a non-profit, ABA organization serving students 2-12 years old, with and without disabilities, specializing in teaching students with autism.
Our center-based school consists of 11 classrooms. 7 are for preschool students and 4 are for school-aged students. Our ABA Clinic serves students on site, or in their own communities. 
Children are provided with highly individualized programming to meet unique needs and ABA/Applied Behavior Analysis is our approach to all learning and therapy. 


Crossroads Center for Children

United Ability envisions a world where disability is neither defining nor limiting.

United Ability's mission is to provide innovative services connecting people with disabilities to their communities and empowering individuals to live full and meaningful lives.  We envision a world where disability is neither defining nor limiting.

For more than 70 years, United Ability has addressed the medical, social, educational, therapeutic, and employment needs of individuals living with disability in the Birmingham Metro Area and surrounding counties. From birth through senior years, individuals - and their families - find hope for a life they may have never thought possible. 

United Ability

We support families touched by autism and fund autism research - autismsciencefoundation.org

Our organization adheres to rigorous scientific standards and values. We believe that outstanding research is the greatest gift we can offer our families. Every research dollar needs to count.

Autism Science Foundation

Whistler Adaptive Sports offers a full range of adaptive sports programs and a dynamic learning centre in Whistler, BC. Canada. 

For over 20 years, the Whistler Adaptive Sports Program Society has been removing barriers to adventure for people with disabilities and neurodiversity, offering a full range of adaptive sports programs and a dynamic learning centre in Whistler, BC. Canada. We currently operate in Squamish, Whistler, Pemberton and Mount Currie. We also serve locals from across B.C. and visitors from Canada and around the world. 
 
Whistler Adaptive is committed to introducing individuals with a disability to sport, recreation and therapeutic sport programming. Whistler Adaptive supports sport for life by breaking down the financial, physical and social barriers as well as creating skills that will lead to future employment within sport and beyond. Whistler Adaptive empowers individuals through access to one of the world's best mountain resorts, providing them with the environment, support and opportunity to become physically active and focus on their abilities rather than disabilities. Programs are accessible to both children and adults with cognitive and physical disabilities. 

Whistler Adaptive serves locals in its community and visitors from across Canada and around the globe. All activities are run in a safe and supportive environment, allowing athletes to learn at their own pace. We pride ourselves on being able to change lives through the innovative sports programs we offer and the help we provide. Whistler Adaptive paves the way by increasing knowledge of adaptive sports through training and coaching clinics and values the consistent support that we receive from our volunteers. We seek to remove barriers to adventure and learning by training athletes with a real sense of passion. OVER 20 YEARS, 18 SPORTS PROGRAMS AND GROWING… The Whistler Adaptive Sports Program Society has been in operation for over 20 years with a record 3,000+ lessons taught in 18 adaptive sports. Through generous donations, we allocate resources for equipment and volunteer training to work with a range of individuals and athletes. Alpine skiing and racing, snowboarding, Nordic skiing, hiking and trail riders, hand-cycling, biking, canoeing, kayaking, rowing, swimming, triathlons, running, yoga and gymnastics are all part of Whistler Adaptive programming and our philosophies on "Grassroots to the Podium" and "Sport for Life". How we do it...The people here at Whistler Adaptive feel that sport builds socialization, leadership skills, healthy growth and development for everyone, whether they have just acquired a disability or have been active all their lives. By providing access to a vast number of sports across the winter and summer seasons, we are opening doors to endless opportunities and creating new levels of independence for individuals with disabilities. 

Whistler Adaptive Sports Program Society

We are a grass roots 501(c)3 family ministry.

Our hearts are to partner with the Lord to restore hope to the heartbroken and show His love to the world through our various outreaches.

Love That Surpasses

Our mission is to put Judeo-Christian principles into practice through programs that build a healthy spirit, mind and body for all.

YMCA of Greensboro

Committed to supporting autistic individuals to achieve their maximum potential, while building connections for a happy life

Optimal Rhythms uses our unique neurologic approach to provide a therapeutic K-12 day school, ACCESS Academy; our A2A K-12 and adult virtual education programs; and an innovative Summer "CAN-Do" Camp for student with complex communication, motor, and sensory needs. We challenge communities to #rethinkautism by providing valuable training to equip parents and professionals to best support the sensory and communication needs of nonspeaking individuals.  Our Rethinking Autism Programs bring crucial training and resources to parents/caregivers, teachers, therapists, medical professionals and first responders.  We help those who care for nonspeaking children and adults to recognize their true potential, provide effective supports and accommodations, and afford them the human rights we all enjoy. Individuals who gain access to our programs experience acceptance, hope-giving opportunities for a true academic education, and meaningful connections with their peers and families. Will you help us extend our reach to more deserving students and families?


Optimal Rhythms / Access Academy

Americas Scholarship Konnection Inc is a national 501c3 focused on equality in education. It  received nonprofit status in 2016.

Americas Scholarship Konnection envisions a system which enables equal educational success and opportunity.

With the conversation in our country about inequality, here at “ASK” we are working to make things better.  We literally function to level the playing field for children starting at kindergarten to make sure that every family can send their child to the school of their choice, one student at a time. 
We are passionate about this, and it reflects in everything we do. 

ASK is moving the needle across the country with measurable results. We strive to make opportunities that facilitate social change, because we believe this is an incredibly worthy endeavor. 

ASK serves underprivileged families, disabled students, students that have been displaced to foster care or any American family that wants to see their child succeed in a private school. 
We facilitate this by providing scholarships for K-12 tuition and other school expenses thus preparing students for ongoing success in and outside of school. 

Please consider a generous donation to Americas Scholarship Konnection.

Americas Scholarship Konnection Inc

Transforming the lives of people with autism and those who care for them through lifetime services and collaborative partnerships

Els for Autism Foundation was established in 2009 by Liezl and Ernie Els. The Els’ son, Ben, is impacted by the disorder which affects 1 in 44 children in the U.S. The world-class pro golfer and his wife have devoted their efforts to a game-changing, philanthropic undertaking – The Els Center of Excellence® Center. The Center is a world-class, 26-acre campus that is home to three distinct nonprofit organizations: Els for Autism Foundation, The Learning Center, a tuition-free, nonprofit, Palm Beach County public charter school serving students ages 3 – 14, and The Learning Academy, a tuition-free, nonprofit, Palm Beach County public charter school serving students ages 14 – 21. 

The Foundation offers innovative, evidence-based programs for families and individuals across the lifespan in three areas of focus: Early Intervention & Education Services, Recreation Services, and Adult Services. Els for Autism Foundation serves families around the world, offering programs and services both virtually and in person at The Els Center of Excellence campus in Jupiter, Florida. 

Your generous donation will help provide services to individuals with autism and their families.  Our staff uses evidence-based practices to guide the development of new and effective ways to provide services and support to individuals of all ages on the autism spectrum.  - Where possibilities are endless - 

Els for Autism Foundation

Answering the dreams of children ages 3-18 who are chronically ill, physically challenged and/or abused throughout US since 1976.

MISSION STATEMENT
Sunshine Foundation answers the dreams of children, ages three through eighteen, who have severe or profound physical/developmental/intellectual challenges or trauma from physical/sexual abuse, and whose families cannot fulfill their requests due to financial strain that the child's illness may cause. Sunshine Foundation answers dreams to children from all 50 states and Puerto Rico with life-long chronic conditions; ones that are turned away from the other national wish granting organizations that require a life-threatening or critical diagnosis.

HISTORY
In the 1960’s and 70's, Philadelphia police officer, Bill Sample, was assigned on protective duty to St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children. He encountered critically ill and chronically ill children, and saw firsthand how these children’s families were burdened, not only by mounting medical bills, but also by the frustration of not being able to provide their child a special dream.

In 1976, Bill took out a $4,000 personal loan and, with the help of volunteers, started the Sunshine Foundation and began making dreams come true for chronically ill, seriously ill, physically challenged and abused children. The first child helped was Bobby, a five-year-old boy diagnosed with Leukemia. Bobby’s nurse told Bill that the boy had a dream to go to the mountains to see snow. Bill brought Bobby, his parents, and siblings to the Pocono mountains in PA for a week of playing in the snow, sledding, and snowmobiling. Not long after, Bobby passed from his battle with Leukemia. Bobby’s mom told us years later that she did not realize at the time how important that dream would be to their family. She said that trip with Bobby, laughing and playing in the snow, was the happiest moment of their lives, and those memories created have lasted a lifetime.

Under Bill’s leadership, the Sunshine Foundation grew into the first national wish-granting organization. In 1990, the Sunshine Foundation Dream Village in Florida opened with nine fairy-tale themed cottages, specially equipped to handle the needs of the children who dreamed of visiting the Central Florida theme parks. Bill also established an annual Dreamlift to bring children with severe special needs on a chartered jet to the Magic Kingdom for a day; and for twenty-seven years, Bill hosted a gathering of children from across the globe who lived with the unique challenges of Progeria (Hutchinson-Guilford Syndrome).

More than 41,500 children have benefited from programs and services of the Sunshine Foundation over the past 45 years. Sunshine Foundation is proud to continuously be ranked as the Top-Rated wish-granting organization serving the terminally ill or chronically ill according to www.charitywatch.org. 

PROGRAM
The most popular dream request is for a family trip to Orlando to visit LEGOLAND Florida, SeaWorld, Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World, Kennedy Space Center, and the Florida coast beaches. Families stay at the Foundation’s 22-acre Dream Village in Davenport, FL, an enchanted accommodation less than 15 miles from Disney World. Since opening in 1990, more than 21,000 children have enjoyed the Dream Village which includes 9 fairy-tale themed cottages, a heated zero-entry swimming pool, handicap accessible playground and a miniature golf course. The Sunshine Foundation provides everything for the entire family including airfare, transportation, lodging, tickets to the attractions and spending money. These Magical Dreams cost approximately $6,600 per family.

We also answer Special Dreams: shopping sprees, computers, iPads, gaming systems, bedroom makeovers, outdoor playsets, above ground swimming pools, family trips, and many more. These Special Dreams cost approximately $2,200 per family.

TARGET
The Sunshine Foundation strives to bring joy to children who need us most, including children from income-limited families who suffer from chronic illnesses, often which has a devastating life-long impact. These are the children who are forgotten and ignored because the initial outcome of their diagnosis is not immediately life-threatening. However, they suffer incredible pain from many incurable diseases that will significantly shorten and hinder the quality of their lives.

The children we serve suffer from several illnesses and conditions including spina bifida, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, Down syndrome, spastic quadriplegia, low functioning autism, brain & spinal injuries, Type 1 diabetes, post-traumatic stress disorder, mental illness, injury from abuse and numerous other syndromes due to mutated chromosomes and rare genetic circumstances. We do not limit our support to one specific illness and address each child’s request with the dignity that is deserved. 

IMPACT
Granting a dream or a wish for a child with an illness is not a part of traditional medicine. However, it often becomes an integral part of a child’s path towards wellness, independence, stability, or recovery. The Sunshine Foundation has many accounts on record from parents and children who attest to the power of a few days away from doctors, hospitals, and treatments. It can make all the difference in the world and the staff proudly pursues its work on behalf of children every single day.

Examples of Special Dreams answered over the last year:

Robert, age 12, Holoprosencephaly, Cerebral Palsy
Special Dream - Wheelchair Swing
“Bobby was so excited to try out his wheelchair swing for the first time today. He kept saying, "Really? I can't even believe it that I can have my own swing at my own house!" Bobby loves to swing and having an accessible swing in his own yard will provide countless hours of fun, relaxation, and smiles. We cannot adequately express our deep appreciation for this wonderful gift!”- Bobby’s Mom

Miracle, age 8, Down Syndrome
Shopping Spree (Birthday Party and Presents)
“In a year full of difficulties, and after losing her dad in 2020, we are thankful that Miracle was able to celebrate her 8th birthday with lots of fun and presents that we would not have been able to do for her without the support of the Sunshine Foundation. We are forever grateful for her special gift!” – Miracle’s mom

Jon, age 18, Cerebral Palsy, Traumatic Brain Injury
Special Dream - Massage Chair
“Thank you very much for this opportunity to get our son, Jon, a heated message chair. Jon has had such a difficult time during covid with medical decline. This heated message chair brings comfort and joy to his aching body. This is truly a miracle at this stage of his life.” - Jon’s dad

MEASURABLE OUTCOMES
We will measure the outcomes using exit surveys and letters of thanks from the families we serve and expect at least 80% of the children will see either a temporary or permanent improvement in their outlook and at least 80% of the families will also experience some relief from the stress of their child’s or sibling’s illness.

Sunshine Foundation

To provide community-based rehabilitation and inclusive education for children with disabilities living in extreme poverty.
 


Kyaninga Child Development Centre (KCDC) was founded in 2014 to provide much needed, high quality, specialized and affordable therapy and rehabilitation to children with disabilities and their families and carers in western Uganda in order to enable them to lead more independent lives.  The Inclusive Education Hub provides professional development for teachers in Inclusive, child-led teaching practices and the Mobility workshop designs, develops and manufactures wheelchairs using locally available materials, suitable for the local terrain.

In addition to this, KCDC acts as a platform for education and support in the field of disability, offering training as well as guidance on best-practice methods to both individuals and healthcare professionals as well as communities and other institutions requiring assistance.

Kyaninga Child Development Centre 

ARI works to advance the health of autistic people through biomedical research and free education.

Established in 1967 by psychologist and renowned father of modern autism research Dr. Bernard Rimland, ARI continues to pioneer in research, outreach, and cooperative efforts with other organizations worldwide. ARI advocates for the rights of autistic people and operates without funding from special-interest groups.

Connecting investigators, professionals, parents, and autistic people worldwide is essential for effective advocacy. Our continued work focuses on education while funding and supporting research on genetics, neurology, co-occurring medical conditions, nutrition, sensory processing, severe and challenging behaviors, and adult and senior issues. ARI is committed to pushing the boundaries of autism understanding, providing practitioners with current research, creating accessible resources for everyone, and advocating for the best possible care for autistic individuals and their loved ones.

- In January of 2023, the Autism Research Institute’s [National Autism History Museum](https://autism.org/visiting-aris-national-autism-history-museum/) officially opened its doors. The museum offers an engaging and comprehensive look at the prolific history of autism research and discovery. Its interactive exhibits highlight prominent autistic figures and underscore critical moments in the evolution of autism research. Leading researchers from many areas are collaborating with ARI to curate a collection of historical artifacts. The museum promises to be a valuable resource in increasing autism acceptance and understanding.

Research

- ARI awarded more than $400,000 in grants to scientists whose work will have a direct impact on the lives of those on the autism spectrum. The funds supported research in immune, gastrointestinal, metabolic, neurologic, and sensory issues. [View ARI’s 2023 Research Grant Recipients](https://autism.org/ari-funded-research-studies-2023/)
- **Robert L. Hendren Research Grant Award**
*Inaugural Recipients – 2023*
Emanuel DiCicco-Bloom, MD
Ed Levin, PhDIn honor of his many years of support for our work, serving as a member of ARI’s Scientific Advisory Board and Board of Directors, the top-scoring research grant proposals funded each year are now recognized as Robert L. Hendren Research Grant Award recipients.
- [ARI’s annual in-person Think Tanks](https://autism.org/ari-scientific-think-tanks/) occurred during Autism Awareness Month last April, convening researchers
and clinicians to discuss emerging findings about autism.
- ARI held its annual online scientific meeting in October 2023. This international conference featured live presentations and discussions to provide researchers with updates on metabolic issues, co-occurring gastrointestinal conditions, and genetics.
- ARI continues to develop a [global research network](https://autism.org/aris-global-networks/) to keep researchers up to date with the latest news in the scientific community; this includes sharing articles on conducting research, informing them of various funding sources, and notifying them of the latest studies published in peer-reviewed journals
- ARI co-sponosored “Autism and/or Intellectual Disability and Older Adults: A Think Tank Promoting Quality of Life and Health” convening autistic seniors, clinicians, researchers, and caregivers to build on previous work to advance priorities related to the quality of life and health of older adults with autism and intellectual disabilities.

Publications

- ARI continues to publish its quarterly science newsletter, *[Autism Research Review International (ARRI)](https://autism.org/subscribe/),* summarizing current medical, sensory, and educational research.
- [ARI’s monthly e-newsletter](https://autism.org/ari-monthly-e-newsletter/) keeps more than 145,000 subscribers up to date on new resources and the latest research.
- ARI publishes a bimonthly e-newsletter, *[Clinical Research in Autism](https://autism.org/clinical-research-e-newsletter/)*, for obstetricians, pediatricians, and nurses who want to keep up to date with research relevant to their practice.

Continuing Medical Information

- ARI filmed a new series of[ continuing education](https://autism.org/cme/) talks during the fall of 2023 offering updates on co-occurring metabolic conditions frequently associated with autism.Connecting physicians to improved standards of care is crucial to amplifying understanding of the health needs of autistic people.

Online Learning

- ARI continues to host [live webinars](https://autism.org/webinars/) multiple times each month featuring top researchers and treatment professionals. In 2023, thousands of viewers registered to watch live presentations on various topics, including research updates, nutrition, behavioral support, assessment, educational therapies, adult issues, and more. One webinar each quarter (four per year) is offered in joint providership with the World Autism Organization.ARI webinars, both live and recorded, offer real-time, captioned translation support in more than 20 languages.
- Clinical webinars, aimed at guiding healthcare providers worldwide, are offered with live Q&A and simultaneous language interpretation.
- [ARI’s YouTube channel](https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCewrICyE_Pl9LiyCHp6GnRQ) offers free access to experts with up-to-date webcasts on medical support and educational videos, social stories, and selected talks from past conferences. Users have tuned in for more than 1 million viewings.

Outreach in the U.S.

- ARI offers a hotline for parents and professionals, who can reach a live person for information and support. [Contact Us](https://autism.org/contact/)

International Outreach

- ARI embraces a global autism community, networking with parent support groups worldwide. The network aims to improve communication among support groups and inform the international community of the current state of the science regarding the underlying biology of ASD and evidence-based treatments. To date, 230 groups have joined the network spanning 77 countries, including Argentina, Belgium, Croatia, Egypt, Germany, Israel, Moldova, Nigeria, Peru, Poland, Romania, Spain, Switzerland, Ukraine, Venezuela, and Vietnam.
- ARI is an NGO (non-governmental organization) registered with the United Nations.
- ARI continues to translate many key articles, as well as our[Autism Treatment Evaluation Checklist (ATEC)](https://autism.org/autism-treatment-evaluation-checklist/), into diﬀerent languages—the ATEC is now available in 25 languages online. On average, more than 150 users per day complete ARI’s ATEC.

Autism Research Institute

Making communities accessible, inclusive for 1 BN+ disabled people. Join us for 21st century social transformation opportunity.

Focused on advocacy efforts, promoting accessibility, inclusion of 1 BN+ Specially Abled People, worldwide with help of VOSAP advoacy tools, VOSAP mass movement, Individual Enablement with Assistive Devices to learn and earn!. Join 11,000 like minded people, changemakers around the world by taking VOSAP pledge to volunteer.

Let us Empower The Specially Abled People with Accessibility, Education and Employment.

Visit us at www.voiceofsap.org to choose opportuntiies to volunteer as high school student or college students or corporate emaployees or as an individual per your role in the society. 

Voice of Specially Abled People

Creating a world for kids with intellectual disabilities in Lusaka, Zambia.

Studies in low income, middle income countries in Sub-Sharan Africa have shown that many parents perceive severe disability as worse than death, and ironically, some families might even view premature death as a welcome relief because of the substantial lifetime costs of supporting disabled children without any social welfare benefits, especially in rural settings.  Special Hope Network has stepped in the Zambian community where the government has not.  We are currently working with 325 children and their care givers in 5 Community Care Centers around Lusaka, Zambia.

We believe every child with an intellectual disability has a God-given right to the following: 1. Home - A space where they are loved, nurtured, cared for and challenged. 2. Health - Resources that allow them to be cared for body, soul and mind. 3. Education - An environment where they are encouraged to grow, learn and progress to their next developmental level.

Special Hope Network

Harmony Theater is an organization focused on performing arts for people with disabilities based in southeastern PA. 

Harmony Theater

At SoléAna Stables our mission is to inspire positive change and empower those we serve through the healing power of horses.

SoléAna Stables

On a mission to provide social, vocational and residential opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities.

“Looking forward, we are gaining momentum with what we can offer. We know the needs will continue because this problem is not going away. We know mentally/physically our members are healthier when they are socialized, feel good about themselves, working and that impacts their entire family. That has always been our True North since our founding, and no matter the growth or needs that increase, that will remain our focus for the future.”

— Cheri Weaver, Executive Director

Wings Special Needs Adult Community

E N C Inc is a 501c3 nonprofit organization since 2019, based in Marsfield, WI focused on older adults and adults with autism.

Adults with autism need society to understand what autism is for each individual.  The education system, in much of the US, has gained a great deal of expertise in meeting individual needs and reliably creating a environment for individuals to be successful.  Unfortunately after high school there is a cliff rather than a bridge to more productive opportunities.

Our older adults in America are very often isolated by circumstances of where they live and how their lives have changed.  Children have grown up and moved away.  The social activities that the children obligated them to attend are gone so many have no social contact for weeks.  Isolation leads to boredom, loneliness and depression.  Loneliness has been shown to be as hard on health as 15 cigarettes a day.  

The Pandemic has taught us how all of us NEED social engagement.   It is not a luxury it is a need and each person needs social engagement differently.   The model for aging in America right now is to stay in one’s home as long as possible, move to assisted living if it is feasible, and ultimately to a nursing home as independence deteriorates.

The people who live the longest active lives on the planet are engaged in family and community and are needed members of the community.  In assisted living and nursing home models our older Americans often feel meaningless and crave a more meaningful life.

What if we could create a multigenerational community that understands autism and cultivates volunteer activities that support one another?  What if we could create a pedestrian community where one could walk down to the community center to meet for coffee and conversation?  What if we had close working relationships with property management, social services and our coordinating staff?  We could create successful long-term places to live for families, older Americans and autistic people in a vibrant connected community.

It has been estimated before the pandemic that up to 40 % of homeless people had intellectual or developmental disabilities.  We don’t really know what percentage have autism, but I can tell you a story about a young man near me.

Tim, not his real name, was 28 years old, with a job and living in his own apartment for three years in a complex for people with disabilities when he was arrested for cutting the cords on the vacuum cleaners for the second time.  For those of us who live with loved ones who are autistic we ask, “Why did it happen a second time?”  Autistic people have a variety of sensory hypersensitivities that may be sounds, sights, tastes, smells, and touch, basically any sensation that can be felt.  The manager could have told Tim when he was going to vacuum so that Tim could put on a headset, or the manager could have vacuumed when Tim was not home.  Likely the vacuum sound was torture for Tim.

Instead of working out a solution Tim was arrested and could have ended up in jail.  Fortunately Tim’s parents were still in the picture, and just as fortunate, the judge recognized that Tim was not competent and as such had not committed a crime.  Unfortunately, Tim was evicted from his housing, and would have been homeless except that his parents found him a place to live.

Many people with autism will never be able to self-advocate.  This is an inherent part of autism.  Navigating the social world is confusing at best and one of the biggest challenges for autistics to navigate the social world of the neurotypicals.

My autistic son has taught me a lot about how different autism perception of the world is from mine.  I like to say that living with him “Everyday is Opposite Day.”

What do we mean by opposite?
 
An autistic person may run back into a burning building after being rescued, seeking their place of comfort.  Unfortunately people have died, both the autistic person and would be rescuer when this has happened.  The person with autism may seek comfort when stressed and want to return to a bedroom.
 
A person with autism is likely to be unable to look at you and listen at the same time.  Most people assume if someone is not looking at them they are also not listening.  This is not only untrue but can also lead to worse issues.  Law enforcement is often trained that avoiding eye contact is a “guilty look.”
 
“Time out” may not be an effective strategy for discipline, as many autistic minds prefer isolation.  The isolation with “Time out” is often exactly what the person with autism likes; it is quieter, much less confusing and overwhelming and can be a situation that they want to experience over and over.

Services are not enough for our older Americans, our autistic loved ones, or any of our isolated people.  What is missing from our choices of assisted living and nursing homes?  A meaningful life.  People need opportunities to do meaningful things on their own terms.

We are interpreting an award-winning model, “Treehouse Community” in Easthampton, MA, that brought together older Americans with families adopting children who have experienced foster care.  They have a high school graduation rate near 100% for those children with near 90% who go on for higher learning.  The community is all about building long term relationships.  The older Americans we met there voiced, "I never imagined I could have a life like this."  The older Americans support one another, the kids, the parents and love what they are doing.

In the model they have a three-way cooperation between Treehouse staff, property management, and social services.  They are able to match peoples’ needs to available services, leveraging what is available already.  It is a neighborhood community that considers itself trauma informed and encourages 6 hours or more a week of volunteering in the community for seniors.  This might be giving rides, teaching a skill like cooking, or taking a walk.

We have spoken to church groups, employee groups and clubs and the most common question is, “Why doesn’t this exist already?”  This kind of community is not for everyone.  Grouches need not apply.  For people who want to build a new social life where they are needed it is a new choice.

Imagine a community where people appreciate one another, where we grow understanding of one another’s’ unique qualities.  I imagine a community where my autistic son can greet everyone enthusiastically and the people get a charge out of it.  I call him “My Tigger” for the way he bounds and bounces from person to person greeting them repeatedly with his big smile.  He seems to understand that greeting people makes them happy so I imagine his repeated greetings as him multiplying the happiness he is spreading.  Who wouldn’t want someone who is happy to see them?

We will be nurturing understanding of one another, not just the autistic individuals.  We will be fostering volunteer activities of all kinds that can introduce people to one another and create teamwork in efforts desired by the community members.   We see many of the needs and abilities that may dovetail, like our older folks needing house cleaning and a few of our autistic people who love to clean.  We see working with local agencies and creating new opportunities to expose our special people to new activities but with agencies that know how to do it.

As a parent I worry about what will happen to my son when I can no longer advocate for him?   Family is not enough.  He needs a community.  We need to grow advocacy both for our aging population and our adults with disabilities.

Autism is very challenging because each person is so different.  The saying in the autism community is, “If you know a person with autism you know ONE person with autism.”  In a neighborhood community it is our aim for people to know one another and look out for one another.  

We are partnering with Wisconsin Housing Preservation Corporation (WHPC), a nonprofit developer to create the rental properties that will include a portion of affordable rental units and a community center.  We would also like to have a home ownership option immediately adjacent to the rental community.

We aim to have an outreach activity that includes the general public and those with autism in the greater community who wish to engage.

We don't have a committed timeline yet, but an estimate is three years.  We don't have a final budget yet but our estimate is $1,000,000 for our part of the capital fund and $500,000 for start up costs and staffing.  The Treehouse model has  a Community Facilitator, an education officer, coordinators for volunteers and outreach coordinators.

We believe our town is the right place for the first community like this.  We have many retired teachers and healthcare personnel who have the passion for helping one another.  A small town has its challenges in fundraising and we are grateful for the opportunity on Every.org.  We believe that this community model will be replicated and will promote a better healthy aging option for our growing population of older Americans.

I imagine a community where people understand and value one another.  I imagine a community where "My Tigger" can greet and spread happiness to all he meets there.  One need only understand that he will not likely be a conversationalist but he has a great smile and enthusiasm that is contagious.

I imagine a community where my son and others like him are safe in the world when parents are gone.


E N C Inc

Climb Work Activity Center A Non-Profit Corporation is a nonprofit organization focused on employment and jobs. It is based in Alhambra, CA. It received its nonprofit status in 1978.

Climb Transition Services

Muslims Understanding and Helping Special Education Needs

Muhsen is a nonprofit umbrella organization serving children and adults with any intellectual, mental, or physical disability. Muhsen’s aim is to establish an inclusive and accessible environment for individuals with disabilities and their families. Muhsen will assume an active role to advocate and educate, conduct training, and implement programs and services across North America to improve the experience within mosques, conventions, related classes and events, as well as to engender a positive and welcoming community for persons with disabilities.

Muhsen

Transparent Hands provides free surgeries, medical treatments and organizes camps across Pakistan for those in need.

Transparent Hands is the largest technology platform for crowdfunding in the healthcare sector of Pakistan. We offer a complete range of free healthcare services including medical and surgical treatments and arranging medical camps for the underprivileged community of Pakistan. Our goal is to reach millions of needy patients all over Pakistan who are suffering because of a lack of healthcare facilities. We continue to serve humanity at large by providing the best healthcare in Pakistan.

Transparent Hands Foundation Us Inc

Multiple is a (501c3) non-profit dedicated to catalyzing innovation and supporting technologies for the autism community at scale.

Multiple is the engine for innovation—a global community of dedicated families, entrepreneurs, funders, and experts collaborating to solve the greatest challenges for people with autism. We are an early-stage autism innovation platform; a force-multiplier, supplying data, resources and relationships to fuel innovation and solve the greatest challenges for people with autism.

Autism innovation lacks the critical support it needs to power positive change for the autism community, which is perhaps a reflection of the spectrum itself, a fantastically dis-integrated community. The solution is Multiple: a hub where we can create greater impact by creating together. 

Multiple

Through our various programs, we aim to provide a solid foundation of assistance to kids who have lost a parent or caregiver. 

Through our various programs and initiatives, we aim to provide a solid foundation of emotional and financial assistance to childen who have lost a parent or caregiver. We understand that these children and young adults not only require support during their toughest times but also need guidance as they work towards building a brighter future. We firmly believe in the power of resilience and empowerment, and we are dedicated to empowering these children to emerge stronger and better equipped to face life's hurdles.

Kimmyz Kidz

The Dojo of Exceptional Wellness (DEWINC®) is a 501c3 nonprofit based in Doral, FL. It received its nonprofit status in 2018.

The Dojo of Exceptional Wellness, Inc. (DEWINC.org), a duly designated 501(c)(3) tax exempt nonprofit and registered Charitable Organization with the State of Florida, improves the quality of life of the Special Needs and General Population communities with our Wellness & Martial Arts (W&MA) programs. 

DEWINC®’s Mission is to empower our youth, adult and senior participants promoting a safe, peaceful and welcoming environment for self-expression, inner strength, self empowerment and self-confidence development through the instruction of traditional martial arts. We believe, as we teach martial arts and its benefits become evident first hand, these benefits shall transcend to participants' routines, their family and community relationships, improving their quality of life.

We have serviced dozens of participants in our W&MA Programs, carried under provider agreements, partnering with Miami-Dade County Municipalities already tasked to service these communities and with the ADA compliant spaces that belong to the communities we aim to serve.

DEWINC®’s goal is to offer the W&MA Program for the Special Needs and General Population Communities throughout Miami-Dade County and beyond, in time. The Special Needs population in our area comprises nearly 10% of the total population, according to the Department of Labor and Statistics (dol.gov). The foundation is governed by a three member Executive Board of Directors.

We believe and understand that a great number of individuals with special needs already receive therapies on a weekly basis. Adding a traditional martial arts, non-fighting, program to their existing regimen of therapies can only assist them in reaching their goals faster. Think about it; when an instructor focuses on YOUR child, sibling, parent or relative’s needs there is no doubt the results are immediate. Focus, concentration, balance, muscle tone, spatial and self awareness, self regulation, core strength, reduced anxiety are just a few of the benefits your child, adult or senior will receive at the right martial arts school, or dojo. Providing repetition of same location, same faces, same class agenda (explore our YouTube video library) and knowing what to expect are all part of the recipe. With continuous structure, discipline and fun exercises, even the individual with multi-sensory issues almost immediately rises to the occasion, peeks to see the other side of the veil.

DEWINC®’s STEP AHEAD W&MA Team courageously participated and proudly brought home ELEVEN (11) GOLD MEDALS from the 2019 Miami Karate Open that took place in Miami, FL on May 25th. Also during Q2 2019, the foundation began operations of a second W&MA Program for the Community at the Legacy Park Community Center in the City of Doral. The Wellness & Martial Arts (W&MA) Program, however, is NOT just a Martial Arts class. We integrate an appropriate number of trained mental health professionals (FL Certified ESE Teachers, Board Certified Behavioral Technicians) in accordance to the applicable ratio of students:teacher (1:6, 1:8, etc.). Our goal is to ensure the proper monitoring, safety and management of the participants’ special needs conditions as they may manifest themselves during the course of the W&MA Program sessions. 

During in-person instructions, metrics are developed on each participant to monitor their progress objectively, based on data metrics for Duration, Frequency and Transition. Karate specifically, and martial arts in general, assists kids on the autism spectrum, for instance, with the ability to concentrate and focus their attention in a consistent and highly structured environment. Budo is a philosophy and a way of life that utilizes Martial Arts as a means for continuous self-improvement; a lifelong tool.  

Briefly recall Q2 2020. In April 2020, all of our programs were asked to stop activities due to COVID-19. DEWINC® along with the rest of the world was challenged to reassess, realign for an uncertain immediate future. Few were more exposed under these circumstances than those in the Special Needs communities, where services were curtailed, interrupted or abolished. 

Our foundation reassessed, realigned and went online, figured out a way to effectively deliver W&MA services to our population. The W&MA Online Program successfully launched during Summer 2020 and provided tools for resiliency, coping, entertainment, exercise, fitness, wellness and overall quality of life improvement for dozens of participants, while the planet was dealing with a kind of crisis not experienced in 100 years. In May 2021, more than a year after mandatory lockdowns and isolation from groups and services, the absence of the expected social dynamics and so much more, seven very courageous participants braved attending the 2021 Miami Open International Karate-do Championship held in Hialeah, FL. This was a USA Karate Federation and World Karate Federation sanctioned event. This was no small challenge to overcome, it was monumental. During the most contentious day of competition, organizers stopped the tournament to allow for the members of DEWINC®’s W&MA Program to demonstrate to the arena. They resoundingly succeeded, garnering seven (7) Gold Medals and positively impressing the more than 430 competitors and additional family members, coaches, referees and judges in attendance at the event. 

Today, subject to the latest Government and Health officials guidelines, we are operating all programs in-person and offer online instruction, upon request. DEWINC® counts and depends on the financial support from donations, grants and financial participation from sponsorship or scholarship programs to ensure the access to and the viability of this quality of life improving program for the Special Needs and General Population communities everywhere.

DEWINC  -  YOUTUBE  -  INSTAGRAM  -  TWITTER  -  LINKEDIN  -  FACEBOOK

Have a healthy day! I hope to speak with you in the near future. You are encouraged to visit our social media outlets and website or our in-person activities, to discover more about our mission, our enterprise and our programs.

Dojo of Exceptional Wellness Inc.- DEWINC®

We are driven by a single goal to do our part to make the world better. Community Resource Hub for the Community  and Nonprofits 

Provide Community Resources & Awareness for Seniors, Children, Veterans, Homeless Out Reach, Disaster Relief, Donation Hub. Help Victims and Survivors of Domestic Violence and Human Trafficking Families, Juveniles with support services for Restoring their lives.

Collaborating Voices Foundation

Provide relief & rehabilitation to uplift deprived, vulnerable groups for socio-economic equality & mainstream participation.

**Introduction:**

Protibandhi Shishu Shiekkha O Paricharja Samity (PROSHIPS) is a non-profit and non-governmental voluntary organization operating in the Jamalpur district, Bangladesh. PROSHIPS is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities through community-based development programs. These initiatives aim to bolster economic security, broaden access to cultural opportunities, and foster independence. Priorities include education, knowledge dissemination, and prevention efforts related to teenage family life, reproductive health, and the restoration of child and human rights. Recognized by the Government of Bangladesh, PROSHIPS is registered with both the Directorate of Social Services (DSS) and the NGO Affairs Bureau (NGOAB).



**Objectives of PROSHIPS:**

The primary objective of PROSHIPS is to uplift the socio-economic conditions of the entire community. This is achieved through the empowerment of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable members, including women, children, and persons with disabilities. By ensuring equal rights and facilitating participation in mainstream development, PROSHIPS seeks to create a more inclusive society.



**Community Engagement:**

Since its inception in 1999, PROSHIPS has been actively engaged in community development. Through targeted programs, PROSHIPS endeavors to dismantle social barriers and empower individuals and communities. Health services, education, socialization, social justice, empowerment, livelihood programs, and advocacy efforts are among the organization's key focus areas. Particularly in rural areas, persons with disabilities often face neglect and limited access to development opportunities. PROSHIPS strives to address these challenges through tailored interventions.



**Planned Programs:**

PROSHIPS has outlined comprehensive programs to address various aspects of community development. These include:



1. **Health Care Program:** Focuses on disability prevention, hygiene awareness, primary rehabilitation therapy, mental health screening, and the distribution of assistive devices.

  

2. **Education Program:** Establishes schools and learning centers for children with disabilities, integrates disabled children into mainstream schools, and provides inclusive educational support.

   

3. **Poverty Alleviation Program:** Offers training in income-generating activities and facilitates access to livelihood opportunities through group formation and collaboration with local government units.

   

4. **Climate Change Impact Recovery Program:** Provides rehabilitation support, food assistance, relief materials, and mental health services to communities affected by climate change-induced disasters.

   

5. **Socialization and Social Justice Program:** Forms protection watch groups, conducts community awareness campaigns, and advocates for the rights of persons with disabilities through various initiatives.



**Long-Term Impact:**

The initiatives undertaken by PROSHIPS are expected to have a significant long-term impact on the community. These include improvements in education, health, economic stability, and social inclusion. By empowering disabled individuals and their families, PROSHIPS aims to reduce poverty, enhance quality of life, and promote sustainable development.



**Contribution to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):**

Aligned with the SDGs, PROSHIPS' initiatives focus on accessibility, equality, and social justice. By addressing the needs of persons with disabilities, especially in rural areas, the organization contributes to the overarching goal of leaving no one behind and fostering inclusive development.



**Conclusion:**

PROSHIPS is committed to empowering individuals and communities affected by disability and social injustice. Through its targeted interventions and collaborative approach, the organization seeks to create a more equitable and just society. By addressing the unique challenges faced by persons with disabilities, PROSHIPS aims to promote sustainable development and ensure that all members of the community can lead dignified and fulfilling lives.



In light of the prevailing circumstances and the urgent need for proper facilities for disabled persons in the community, PROSHIPS seeks grants and partnerships to expand its charitable projects in its operational areas. By leaving no one behind, especially the most vulnerable persons with disabilities, PROSHIPS endeavors to fulfill the vision of the SDGs and contribute to building a more inclusive and prosperous society.

Protibandhi Shishu Shiekkha O Paricharja Samity (PROSHIPS)

We empower & promote the health & independence of people with special challenges through the therapeutic power of horses.

Horses of Hope / Caballos de Esperanza Inc., is a therapeutic riding center, located in beautiful Isabela, Puerto Rico. We are both a 501c3 nonprofit and a Puerto Rico certified charity (EIN # 66-0907166; PR caso # 2019-1101.01-6.

Our mission is to engage the therapeutic power of our horses to nurture the special abilities of people with disabilities, help heal those suffering from trauma, and empower our clients to improve the quality of their lives, their families' lives, and their community. We provide life-changing therapeutic riding, equine education, and equine-assisted activities and have programs suitable for children (4 years and up) to adults of all ages. 

Our therapeutic riding instructors are certified through the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, International (PATH, Int'l). We follow their standards of safety, which are the highest in the world, for clients, volunteers, horses, and staff.

Our equine-assisted services are based on current research and outcomes in the industry.

Horses Of Hope-Caballos De Esperanza Inc

Help us foster unwavering belief in children with disabilities and pave the way for a more inclusive and thriving future.

Every child, regardless of abilities, possesses unique qualities that enrich our communities. 

Family to Family Network creates success for children with disabilities by empowering their families with information, training, referrals and support as try to get help for their children from the complex education, health care and social service systems.

Family to Family Network believes that ALL children should be included and supported in our schools and community in order to ensure the future success of children with disabilities.

F2FN transforms lives by helping people discover possibilities, see potential when others see barriers, and advocate for what their children need to achieve their dreams.  By changing attitudes and mindsets about disabilities, our organization changes lives to make sure every individual gets to live THEIR best life.

By 2031, Our Goal is to Help 25,000 Families See Possibilities in their children with disabilities!
You can help us reach our goal by:
1) Supporting the development of a bilingual learning platform where families can access training at their own pace;
2) Providing intensive case management to families in underserved communities, especially our communities of color and those that are non-english speaking;
3) Updating & maintaining our bilingual website that provides accurate & consistent information on the special education process;
4) Subsidizing our annual conference for 500 family members & youth with disabilities.

Through these services, families and individuals with disabilities have an opportunity to network and learn from one another.

By working together, we can create communities where ALL children belong and excel!
Help create success for children & youth with disabilities!

OTHER INFORMATION:
There are over 127,000 students with disabilities receiving special education services in the greater Houston Region 4 Education Service Center area.  This does not include those receiving accommodations only through 504 plans or children who are home schooled or in private school placements.

Last year, Family to Family served families with the primary disability labels of:
59% Autism Spectrum Disorder
16% Intellectual Disability
10% Other Health Impairment
7%   Orthopedic Impairment
6 %  Deaf/Hard of Hearing, Blind Visual Disability, Deaf Blind
2%   Learning Disability

The age ranges of the children in the families that we serve are:
2%      Age 0-3
10%    Age 3-5
22%    Age 5-11 (elementary)
12%    Age 12-15 (junior high/middle school)
19%    Age 16 – 18  (High School)
8%      Age 18+  (18+ High School)
27%    Adults (Out of School)

The ethnic diversity of the families served are 19% Black, 31%White, 33% Hispanic/Latinx, 15% Asian and 2%  identified as Two or More.

29% Request help with the Individualized Education Program (IEP) special education process. 28% Request help finding resources in the community.  39% Needed help navigating Adult Service systems, Medicaid Managed Care or Social Security.

Family to Family helps families understand their rights & responsibilities, while also aiding them in understanding the right words to use, right place to look, right person to connect with when trying to find services & supports for their children with disabilities.

Education is the only FREE service available to children with disabilities.  Adult services are not free, and there are over 150,000 Texans with disabilities waiting over 10 years for long term services & supports.  That is why it is imperative for children with disabilities to receive the necessary supports and services at school so that they can become contributing members of our community and live meaningful lives after high school.

Family To Family Network

The NLF dba The Greatest Gift Catalog Ever focuses on raising awareness for nonprofits in Tarrant County, Texas.  

Giving through The Greatest Gift Catalog Ever (a program of The National Leadership Foundation) is the best way to give to benefit Tarrant County neighbors in need.
Gifts are matched dollar for dollar, and those dollars are leveraged by each orgnization in amazing ways.  Matching funds are directed to the nonprofits at a rate of 100%.

Each page in the catalog, or on the website, shows where the money goes, and how it is matched.  For example, for every $1000 donated, a neighbor with a long term disability such as cerebral palsy or demetia can be enrolled into a lifetime of attendant care services valued at over $26,000 a year or an estimated lifetime value of $650,000 per client!

Supporting local charities can be a wonderful gift idea as well.  We have a gift card program where the donor gives a set amount, and gifts that amount to a co-worker, family member, friend, neighbor, teacher, or client so that they can read all about the opportunities to give and then decide where that donation should be directed.   It's the gift that puts a smile on more than one face!
.  

The National Leadership Foundation

Theatre starring people with intellectual disabilities and autism. Actors gain confidence, social skills, friends.

Mission: Through collaborative performance and lifelong learning opportunities, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities gain the skills and confidence to engage with the world.

ArtStream fuels students' imagination, creativity, and focus. We offer over 850 classes and workshops each year for 1,617 participants, six Theatre Companies totaling 90 participants and four Cabaret Companies totaling 30-40 participants, all of whom create and perform original theater works.

WHY ARTSTREAM?
People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities - including Autism - frequently face isolation or marginalization, and are excluded from activities and spaces where community, friendships, and connections are made. Creative opportunities are even fewer and farther between. In ArtStream’s drama and performing arts classes, workshops, and theatre companies, participants learn skills that apply to all aspects of life, including how to be present, pay attention, listen to instructions, participate in the activities that the class is doing that day, and perhaps most important of all, build friendships. 

Performance is transformative for every actor. This is also true for people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, including Autism. Whether in classes, workshops, or rehearsals, ArtStreamers play theatrical games that require them to listen, to engage, to communicate, and to collaborate with each other; and improvisational games that teach them how to make eye contact, think on their feet, make connections, synthesize information, and solve problems. ArtStream’s demanding and very entertaining process encourages ArtStreamers to discover their creativity and strengths, and perform with confidence! What’s more, at ArtStream, our participants create their own scenes, dances, and songs for their performances, whereas most other theaters and non-profits serve people with disabilities by enacting or adapting plays or scenes written by professional playwrights. This is the “ArtStream difference.” 

A 55-year-old, 15-year ArtStream veteran expressed it better than we could ourselves: “I don’t get nervous on stage because I feel such happiness. I like to perform 24 hours a day! I love this place! ArtStream is making me happy!” 

ArtStream’s collaborative programming gives people with interest, talent, drive, and creativity – but few opportunities – a unique chance to build skills they will carry with them throughout their lifetimes. Our retention rate is 90%, attesting to the effectiveness of our organization in carrying out our mission. 



ArtStream, Inc.

Honduran organization strengthening the capacities of the vulnerable in situations of emergency, crisis or calamity.

Support vulnerable communities in Honduras 
 
The goal in this project will alleviate the dental suffering of 2000 women and older adults in extreme poverty and live in rural areas of Honduras, Central America, the project will finance supplies, dental equipment, medicines, transportation for volunteer dentists. But as an organization and our work experiences in rural areas of the country, we have seen the suffering of many women and older adults who have never had access to dental treatments requiring extractions, orthodontics, dental fillings, etc.: our desire this year 2023 is provide free assistance to 2000 people, we respectfully invite you to cooperate with this very important project, which our organization cannot currently carry out without a budget. Achieving the goal, we will be able to acquire quality equipment, tools, dental materials, transportation to rural areas, food for beneficiaries and volunteers so that in less than 14 months we can execute the project The Honduras country's population of approximately 8 million people is divided evenlybetween urban and rural areas. However, poverty is essentially a rural problem. Poverty in the country affects 60 per cent of the population, while 36 per cent live under extreme poverty conditions. In rural areas, these figures rise to 63 per cent and 50 per cent, respectively.Poverty is prevalent in central hillside areas in the interior highlands of Honduras,which are home to about 75 per cent of the rural population, including indigenous The highest concentration of rural poverty is found in the western region,which also has the greatest concentration of extreme poverty. Lack of access to land and basic services, a vulnerable environment and low agricultural productivity areamong the problems at the root of poverty in the country. A lack of employment opportunities in rural areas has been a major driving force behind the country's high level of emigration. It is important to inform you that with your cooperation this project will be self-sustaining for the following years, since we will have the installed capacities to continue cooperating with thousands and thousands of people with free assistance to alleviate, assist, prevent, and combat dental treatments for vulnerable people, who never have had access to dental health in our country. A group of 5 volunteer dentists will be in charge of caring for a thousands women and older adults in extreme poverty; The funds will be used exclusively for the purchase of materials, equipment, dental medicines, transportation of dental specialists to areas of difficult access, our organization will support all the logistics to complete this project. Legion Honduras in its humanitarian mandate has different fundamental axes: 1. Education: through this educational program we performed intervention and early stimulation to children with Down syndrome to strengthen their development and inclusion in society, important to mention that we have directly benefited more than 90 children in recent years. We provide training to their parents, transportation expenses to meet the work schedule dictated by our specialist and ensure the welfare of each beneficiary, receive between 7 to 10 children weekly. This program is systematized and coordinated by our volunteer psychologist and master's degree in special education from the University of St. Johns-NYCIn addition it has more than ten years of experience in special schools of the State of New York.Our organization has the installed capacity and possesses all equipment, work tools, didactic material and with its exclusive workplace for its beneficiaries. This project is executed by two volunteer specialists and the organization is an active member of GLOBAL DOWN SYNDROME FOUNDATION based in Denver Colorado, this membership provides us, webinars, scientific research and update the organization on the best recent practices in favor of minors with Down syndrome.In 2023 our mission is to expand the coverage of our program, to execute an advocacy project for the occupational inclusion of young people and adults with down syndrome in the private and public sector. 2. Human Rights; In relation to this fundamental axis, our organization in past activities provided temporary accommodation to migrants in transit through Honduras with special emphasis on women and children, we have benefited last year 16 families from Venezuelan, Cuban, Haitian headed to the United States of America, however our resources are very limited.  Legion Honduras has benefited more than 240 women and girls who have been victims of any kind of gender violence, organized crime, maras and gangs, drug trafficking, displaced by violence; with a comprehensive program that provides shelter, food, medical, psychological and legal assistance, transportation, security, access to and leisure and entrepreneurship activities. Based on our experience and lessons learned, we were invited to the Latin America and the Caribbean Forum on Shelter and Human Settlements in Bogota, Colombia, Invited in coordination with the Interaction organization based in Washington,. As a future activity, the organization aims to expand prevention and response mechanisms for women and girls and any other vulnerable group due to an emergency or crisis due to the alarming rate of femicide every 20 hours in our society. Legion Honduras works in coordination with the office of the Attorney General of the Republic, since in Honduras more than 90% of crimes against women are in impunity, in the very short term we will have a memorandum of understanding between both institutions to strengthen and adopt precautionary measures for our beneficiaries once out of the program to strengthen monitoring and follow-up. Legion Honduras has achieved important alliances with other organizations such as ; International Safe Shelter Foundation based in Las Cruces, New Mexico for the exchange of best practices. The organization has 6 permanent members who require salary; but most importantly we have more than 38 specialist volunteers who do not require salary to implement programs and projects with positive impact in favor of the most vulnerable; the organization has achieved at local and international level through its transparency, accountability and importance of its projects a great support, our strategy for 2023-2025 is to make our core axes completely self-sustainable. Legion Honduras as a local organization are in great growth as a key actor with a short-term goal of increasing the network of municipalities, local leaders, organizations to strengthen the capacities of the most vulnerable and improve living conditions. Our organization also has membership in the international organizations civicus.org and pmnch hosted by the World Health organization. For more information about all the assistance that we carry out through other projects or would like to participate more directly in a project of your interest, you can visit us on our website or write to us by email: informacion@legionhonduras.org   https://legionhonduras.org/en/

Legión Honduras

Celebrate with a cake is bakes and delivers personalized cakes to foster care kids and to kids with disabilities.  

**Celebrate with a cake is powered with a group of volunteers that bakes and delivers personalized cakes to foster care kids and to kids with disabilities.  We try to reach kids and their care givers to create a memory that is personalized to the likes of the child which can make a huge difference in a child's self-esteem and confidence level.**  



 **For Some kids Birthdays are overlooked!!**

[](https://www.celebratewithacake.org/#h.3f4tphhd9pn8) **Our Mission** 

***Our mission is to create a world that everyone is celebrated.***




**Celebrate with a cake wants to empower youth and their caregivers to make their lifestyle situations more encouraging to help aid in youth success while building a healthier community.  Providing a celebratory cake made for them gives them confidence an optimism about the socioeconomic situations that they face.** 



**Our mission focuses on creating custom cakes for children that will provide a temporary escape from worry for their caregiver and themself which will create positive memories. Creating memories lingers for the child and the caregiver.** 

Celebrate With A Cake

To help adults with special needs live, work and spend their free time together with the people who care for them.

To provide partial or full financial aid to special needs residents, whose families cannot afford the boarding/living fees 
 
 Since its creation in 1992, Estia Agios Nikolaos has been recognized by the Greek State as a 'Charitable Foundation'. We also hold the special State Certification as a Charitable Provider of Social Services. Finally, in 2011, the Greek Secretariat of Youth awarded us the right to host volunteers as part of the European Volunteer Service, which finances the stay of volunteers from Europe.

Estia Agios Nikolaos

We provide physical, occupational, oral motor/feeding and speech therapy for children with special needs ages birth to 18.

Empowering children with special needs through the provision of individualized, family-centered pediatric therapy services.

Children's Therapy Center

At SNAPkids, beautiful children with special needs get to swim, exercise, play, make friends, and have fun!

Since 1991, SNAP has empowered children with special needs to exercise, swim, connect with others, make friends and enjoy the gifts of childhood through a community based and accessible adapted aquatics program. SNAPkids gives children with special challenges and gifts a place for their lights to shine brightly, to be respected and included, to exercise, play and have fun! Our volunteers work one-on-one, creating unique bonds with our swimmers and developing insights and sensitivities which ultimately make our communities more accepting and inclusive.

Water is the great equalizer, welcoming and forgiving, enabling the freedom of movement with joyfulness of play. The water can help children with balance, coordination, strength, fitness, focus, communication, social skills, and confidence. Many of the children in SNAP use the water as their primary source of physical activity and exercise. SNAP is a great social outlet and creates a caring and open community for the children, families, and volunteers who participate.

During the COVID-19 crisis we have suspended our in-water classes and we are providing FREE online exercise classes for our special kids. Please help support our efforts to keep our kids active, healthy, and engaged.

SNAPkids (Special Needs Aquatic Program)

Fount for Nations (FFN)  builds a conducive and supportive educational ecosystem for Malawi's differently-abled children so that no child is left behind. We do this by working with parents, teachers and communities through a holistic & inclusive learning experience. 1.  Teacher Training and School Support We offer staff support to implement a specialized curriculum in 11 select schools across Lilongwe and Blantyre, Malawi. We also provide technical support to teachers across other schools interested in incorporating special needs education in their learning facilities. So far we, have supported 431 teachers with creative learning and teaching approaches for differently-abled children.  2. Family Support Through our Stay and Play and Economic Empowerment programs, we provide psycho-social therapy and offer basic entrepreneurial skills to parents to afford the care for their differently-abled children. Our recent projects included a social protection cash transfer program that followed financial literacy training for 499 parents/guardians of differently-abled children. We are currently running a remote psychosocial counselling program for families with children with learning needs through a call centre manned by psychosocial counsellors. To date 717 families have received individual counselling sessions. 3.  Healthcare system support We offer community healthcare workers and volunteers, with basic special needs training, referral mechanisms for differently-abled children and their families for care. We also work with hospitals to ensure continuity of education for hospitalised differently-abled children and support through occupational and speech therapy and counselling through specialist volunteers.  

Fount for Nations (FFN)

MISSION: TO PROVIDE OUTSTANDING THERAPY SERVICES WHILE INSTILLING HOPE IN THE FAMILIES THAT WE SERVE.

Turn Center

STAR Institute is the international leader for research, treatment, and education related to sensory integration and processing. 

We are all familiar with the sensory aspects of day-to-day life. Our brains and bodies are processing sensory information all the time and as this sensory information moves through our nervous system it shapes how we feel and respond throughout the day. Every body has to process sensation in order to stay alive, function and make meaning of the world. How our brain interprets sensory information impacts our physical health, mental health, and general wellness. Sensory processing can influence every area of life including our preferences in diet, exercise, relationships, career, and our hobbies.

STAR Institute is the international leader for research, treatment, and education related to sensory integration and processing. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, we are dedicated to improving mainstream awareness of sensory health and to providing life-changing support and resources for individuals and families across the lifespan. STAR Institute supports all areas of sensory health including mental health, school success, child development, parenting, relationships, and vocational success. For some, disordered sensory processing profoundly impacts daily functioning. However, many differences in sensory processing do not need to be disabling. We believe everyone should have access to high-quality support, resources, and treatment for sensory health.


INDIVIDUALIZED TREATMENT
All treatment programs are different. We pioneer and provide best practice intervention through the lifespan with customized therapy plans focused on individual strengths and needs. 

CUTTING-EDGE EDUCATION
We are dedicated to increasing global accessibility to current information on sensory processing through innovative online and live programming for clinical professionals and families.

LEADING RESEARCH
STAR Institute conducts and collaborates in rigorous research into the identification, characterization, and treatment of sensory integration and processing strengths and needs.

STAR Institute for Sensory Processing

Horse SenseAbility helps youth at risk or with special needs develop life skills by learning about, caring for & being with horses

Every child deserves the chance to experience the joy of horses regardless of their economic circumstances or special needs. Every horse deserves to live in a comfortable, clean and caring environment. Your support makes both of these possible.

Horse SenseAbility gives children who are at-risk, have experienced trauma, have autism, struggle with anxiety and depression or have physical disabilities the opportunity to learn from, care for and be with horses. In return, the horses give the children total acceptance, respect, confidence and a feeling of competence.

Your support of Horse SenseAbility makes all of this possible by providing high-quality care for our awesome equines and scholarships for over 50% of our participants. Make a one-time gift or join our Blue Ribbon Club by becoming a monthly donor.

Horse SenseAbility is based in Sherborn, MA and is a program of Wildstar Equine-Assisted Activities and Therapy, Inc.

Horse SenseAbility

Autistic-led nonprofit empowering youth, adults and families. Home of  Spectrum Life Magazine. Accept, Enrich, Inspire, Empower!

Autism Empowerment is a neurodivergent-led nonprofit organization devoted to enriching and empowering the lives of youth, adults and families within autism and autistic communities. We promote a culture of Autism Acceptance and believe every one of us has gifts and strengths to share with the world.

Come join us as an Ambassador for Acceptance of All Abilities!

💜 Wherever you identify in your life journey, Autism Empowerment is here to meet you along the way with acceptance, enrichment, inspiration, and empowerment for the road ahead. We are an autistic and disability-led nonprofit, publisher of Spectrum Life Magazine, Zoom Autism Magazine, and producer of the Autism Empowerment Podcast. 

Founded in Vancouver, WA in June 2011, Autism Empowerment is a positive and passionate grassroots organization serving neurodivergent individuals and families throughout Washington in a variety of innovative and impactive ways. 

This is our 12th year and so we decided to set a fundraising goal of 12,000 to start and then when we hit that, our next goal will be $20,000! We have started with $6,000 in matching funds and we appreciate partnering with you in both achieving and exceeding our goal!

Everyone on our Board of Directors and in key leadership roles either identifies as on the autism spectrum or has autistic family members. Autism intersects all races, ethnicities, genders and identities. It is estimated that 2% of Washington residents are on the autism spectrum.

In a world where people impacted by autism have a tendency to feel isolated and alone, Autism Empowerment provides a beacon of light and hope through relatable, thought-provoking and meaningful content that encourages the community to come together respectfully and learn from one another. We have learned over the years in the incredible power of a simple equation: Content + Community = Connection.

Here are some of the key programs that we offer:

Spectrum Life Magazine - Autistic-led and written by the autism community for the autism community, this quarterly publication serves over 30,000 readers. All current and past issues are available online for free. We also distribute print copies at over 700 locations. https://www.spectrumlife.org

Zoom Autism Magazine - Autism through many lenses. This digital publication is autistic-led and theme based. https://www.zoomautism.org

Autism Serves Kids Care Club - We promote volunteering opportunities in the community that allow Kids Care Club members to gain life skills and service-learning with topics they choose including: Disability Rights, Social Justice, Autism Acceptance and Awareness, Literacy, Hunger, Animal Welfare, Poverty, Homelessness, Veterans and Military, Kindness, Bullying Prevention, Climate Change and Senior Care. (National award-winning program.)

Autism Empowerment Podcast - New season of episodes being released in Fall 2023 - https://www.autismempowermentpodcast.org

AWEtism We Embrace Support Group - AWEtism We Embrace (AWE) is an online facilitated support group meeting on third Tuesdays from 6:30pm-8:30pm. AWE is a meeting for adults, and is unique in that both neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals make up our members.

Bluebee TeeVee Autism Information Station - https://www.youtube.com/c/Bluebeeteevee

Bluebee TeeVee−the autism information station is a series of webisodes to empower autistic children and educate their peers about autism. Think Schoolhouse Rock meets Mr. Rogers Neighborhood in a quirky blend of educational entertainment. Episodes focus on friendship, bullying, communication, safety and other important autism-related topics. Best of all, this 8 episode webisode series is written, performed, filmed and edited by two young men on the autism spectrum. 

Volunteer, Leadership, Social and Service opportunities

Advocacy and Disability Coalition work

At Autism Empowerment, we support autistic and human potential. For the past 12 years, we have been a mostly volunteer-led grassroots organization, and now it's time to expand and employ our community. We are seeking resources to expand so that all individuals and families impacted by autism within Washington state, the United States and beyond have the power to live awesome lives. We can't do it without the support of kind and generous supporters like you.

Until autistic people of all ages, abilities, and intersecting identities have the resources to be safe, healthy, enriched and empowered to live their best lives possible, we will continue advocating for positive change. 

Come join us as an Autism Empowerment Ambassador for Autism Acceptance! 

Together we're changing the world. Thank you for your generosity!

Autism Empowerment

Providing breakthroughs for children with autism and their communities in Ghana and Nigeria, West Africa.

Autism Compassion Africa provides breakthroughs for children with autism and their communities in Ghana through the application of evidenced-based Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy.   In addition, we provide: world class training in ABA for staff, families, and the community; supervision and support for BCBA/IBA candidates; as well as promote autism awareness across the region.

Autism Compassion Africa

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