Autism Speaks Boise

"Information is power. The more we know about a condition and root cause, the better we can prepare for Alan’s future."

https://okt.to/dMSyPz

Meet Alan | Autism Speaks Meet Alan and his father Barry. Alan, a 34-year-old on the spectrum, has experienced many challenges throughout his life, but his family’s commitment to finding him the support he needs has helped him access the resources to thrive.

Americans with disabilities, including autism, are entitled to vote – and should vote. Yet, a survey issued by the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC) found that one in seven voters with disabilities reported difficulties voting in the 2022 midterms and the likelihood of encountering a difficulty as a disabled voter was significantly higher compared to a nondisabled voter — 20% to 6%, respectively.

With that in mind, we wanted to remind you that your ability to vote is protected by federal laws, and there are accommodations available to you. If you are reading this for someone who cannot read or write, federal law ensures they can vote, too.

https://okt.to/PXD07H

"The minute Kaitlyn was diagnosed, the wheels were in motion and we were figuring out all of the ways we could help."

https://okt.to/85exX7

Meet Kaitlyn Y. | Autism Speaks Diagnosed with autism at age three, working alongside her mom enables Kaitlyn to experience life in the workforce and take on more responsibilities as she navigates the transition to adulthood.

"My son, Jackson, is an incredible and kind 19-year-old with profound autism who attends a daily living skills transition program through his local public school. He is completely nonverbal and communicates using the TouchChat app on his iPad, as well as with pictures and gestures. Last year, we went through the guardianship process with him, and I remember the judge asking if he wanted to retain the right to vote. Since we often discuss current events at home, we felt it was important for him to have a way to make his 'voice' heard.

This year, I wanted to ensure he could vote, so I visited the Autism Speaks website to review their Voter Registration Guide by State and confirm if our state allows voting rights for those under guardianship, where to register him, and more. I registered Jackson for an absentee ballot and indicated that he would vote with assistance due to his disabilities. About two weeks later, his mail-in ballot arrived.
My husband and I decided to have him vote only for the office of the presidency. We showed him pictures of the two main candidates on our phones and asked who he wanted to vote for President of the United States. Jackson chose the same candidate three times in a row, so we had his vote!

I helped him complete the ballot, and the next day we went to an early voting location to drop it off. Jackson was excited to be there, and as we walked in, a poll worker mentioned he couldn’t bring his iPad into the voting area. I explained that it was his communication device (he used it to say 'hi'), and she confirmed that it was allowed. Since we were just dropping off his ballot, we didn’t have to wait in line. Jackson pushed his ballot into the box and left with an 'I Voted' sticker in hand!

I think we both felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. It’s important that our loved ones with even the most profound needs have the opportunity to make their voices heard."

J Jaye, Jackson's mom

"Your heart is so big, and you do so much good for other people. It’s amazing and it’s refreshing to hear."

https://okt.to/DPLwjH

Video: Meet Daniel B. | Autism Speaks Daniel gets the surprise of a lifetime meeting seven-time All Star and former Mets third baseman David Wright.

"We support Autism Speaks because they exceeded our expectations to provide opportunities for those on the autism spectrum to thrive and contribute so much to our society."

https://okt.to/vhSrpK

Meet the Varnedoe Family | Autism Speaks In 2019, through the J. Donald Lee and Laurelle Lee Family Foundation, the Varnedoe family made a generous $3.7 million gift to advance Autism Speaks’ mission

Halloween is a fun night of costumes and candy for kids of all ages. But for those on the autism spectrum, scary sounds and decorations, tight or scratchy costumes and going out at night can be a lot to handle. Helping your child know what to expect from Halloween can help make it a fun time for everyone.

https://okt.to/xNX8Sm

Happy Halloween: A guide for making the holiday fun for everyone | Autism Speaks For people on spectrum, scary Halloween decorations, loud sounds and tight or scratchy costumes can be a lot to handle. Learn how to help them on Halloween.

Developed by autistic adults, this guide addresses what comes next if:
You are an adult currently seeking a diagnosis or were recently diagnosed with autism.
- You are an adult who recognizes you have autistic traits but are unsure what to do.
- You were seeking counseling or support for something else as an adult, and the clinician brought up autism.
- You recently found out that you were diagnosed with autism in childhood, but your parents/guardians did not disclose that to you.
- Your child was diagnosed and/or is being evaluated and you wonder about yourself.
- You are someone who loves or supports someone who fits one of the above.

https://okt.to/Nix4TB

Adult Autism Diagnosis Tool Kit | Autism Speaks This guide is for adults newly diagnosed with autism, seeking an autism evaluation or considering one. It was created by autistic adults for autistic adults. Click here to download.

"In our society, many think that you must make eye contact when communicating with people. People who don’t make eye contact are also seen as not being honest. Silly neurotypicals, am I right? I’m sure they talk on the phone without eye contact just fine!"

https://okt.to/ILMSPQ

Finding job fulfillment after diagnosis: Lessons from Autism Speaks John Taylor | Autism Speaks John Taylor, an autistic employee with 11 years experience at Autism Speaks, shares his challenges and advice to other autistic adults looking for fulfillment in the workplace.

"It was hard for me because I was so closed in and just liked to be on my own and in my own world, but when I realized that I have autism and realized that this is who I am, things changed for me."

https://okt.to/e89Kxz

Meet Taniya H. | Autism Speaks Click here to meet Taniya, a standout athlete at the University at Albany.

In this Q&A, Dr. Adams discusses some of his key research findings and shares his bullying prevention guides for teens, parents and teachers.

https://okt.to/s3wX08

Expert Q&A: Dr. Ryan Adams shares tips and resources to end bullying | Autism Speaks Click here to read a Q&A where Dr. Adams discusses some of his key research findings and shares his autism bullying prevention guides for teens, parents and teachers.

One day, while browsing YouTube, Robin Herrera came across the story of a surfer who used the sport as therapy for his autistic son. Before he could finish the video, Robin’s mind started racing with all the ways he could help the children in his home country of El Salvador by introducing them to a hobby that has been a big part of his life for the last thirty years.

Surftismo

https://okt.to/BASexO

Meet Robin H. | Autism Speaks Learn about Robin and his advocacy work within the autism community in this Q&A.

"Leo makes everything special. He makes a difference wherever he goes."

https://okt.to/INC0rT

Meet Leonardo A. | Autism Speaks Leo, de 4 años de edad, recibió su diagnóstico de autismo hace dos años. Jessica y su hijo Randy, llevaron a Leo a su pediatra cuando tenía dos años.

As we reflect on National Disability Employment Awareness Month, we urge businesses, service providers, communities, and policymakers to take a full-spectrum approach to adults with autism. We are dedicated to ensuring that all autistic adults find pathways to reach their full potential, in the workplace and beyond.

https://okt.to/TD9Mwu

Autism and Employment: The Need for a Full-Spectrum Perspective | Autism Speaks Autism Speaks CEO and the President of the National Council on Severe Autism discuss the importance of employment for autistic people. Click here to read more

New series alert! Introducing Our Team. Our Stories.

Autism Speaks is more than just a workplace; it's a community committed to advancing autism research, advocacy, and personalized support for autistic people and those who love them. Every day, our team — each with a unique connection to autism — works towards that goal.

In this new series, you’ll meet members of the Autism Speaks team each month and get a peek into their lives as they open up about their personal connections to autism, the meaning behind their work, and, most importantly, their why.

Today, you’ll meet self-advocate and autism mom, Sarah Andrews. Sarah has become a valued member of the organization, bringing invaluable personal experience and fearless compassion and understanding to everything she does as part as our employment team.

"I have often heard Mexican parents say, 'Nico is not autistic. He’s just a boy and boys talk later than girls.'"

https://okt.to/Y9Zy0g

Meet Nico L. | Autism Speaks Click here to learn more about Nico in a Q&A with his mom, Raquel.

In this feature, in honor of National Bullying Prevention Month, you’ll meet Halle and Alyssa, two young women who have overcome bullying in their own ways by embracing love, empathy and individuality.

https://okt.to/go1ZOk

In Our Own Words: Embracing empathy and individuality to overcome bullying | Autism Speaks In honor of National Bullying Prevention Month, you’ll meet Halle and Alyssa, two young women who have overcome bullying in their own ways by embracing love, empathy and individuality. Click here to read more.

"With my autism, it’s special to me what I have in my heart. Cooking."

https://okt.to/xa1C6W

Meet Genesis R. | Autism Speaks Chef Andrew Zimmern connected with Genesis, a young, aspiring chef on the spectrum, for a virtual cooking lesson. On the menu: Andrew’s recipe for Garides Saganaki, a Greek classic.

"Don't ever be satisfied with services that are just 'good enough.' Speak up and don’t settle. You will see the difference in your child when you find the right service provider for them and your family."

https://okt.to/7Ptg9u

Meet Cody, Colton, and Madelyn | Autism Speaks Meet Nazik. mother to five children ranging in age from 4 to 18, including triplet boys. Cody and Colton, age 4, and her daughter, Madelyn, age 9, are autistic.

"I often have conversations with parents about what they can do to support their child and the benefits of having an autism diagnosis. And they say that those conversations give them hope, and I really feel that that’s very rewarding."

(Español)

"A menudo entablo conversaciones con los padres sobre lo que pueden hacer para apoyar a su hijo y las ventajas de tener un diagnóstico de autismo. Y dicen que esas conversaciones les dan esperanza, y realmente siento que eso es muy gratificante."

https://okt.to/otMVaD

Llevar el apoyo centrado en la familia a la comunidad latina | Autism Speaks Después de que a su hijo Xavier le diagnosticaran autismo, cambió su carrera de la neurociencia a la investigación del autismo, dedicándose a dotar a los padres latinos de las herramientas que necesitan para apoyar a sus hijos.

Transitioning out of school-based services to adult life is a big change and can be especially overwhelming for an autistic person and their family. Fortunately, transition planning is federally required for all students who have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

This resource is meant to help autistic students and their parents/caregivers create and review an IEP Transition Plan. It includes a section for each of the following:

- Employment
- Postsecondary education
- Community living and integration

https://okt.to/9Eb7SI

IEP Transition Plan Checklist | Autism Speaks Transition planning is federally required for all students with an IEP. It must start before the student turns 16 though most states have mandated it begin at 14. This Checklist will take you through transition planning from age 14 to 21.

"The most beautiful thing you can do is love the image of your true reflection."

https://okt.to/mPt60Y

Meet TeeKayy | Autism Speaks Hi, I'm TeeKayy and I'm autistic. I was diagnosed with autism when I was six years old, and as a result, growing up was a challenge to say the least.

"With more children being diagnosed each year, we need to help secure their futures by speaking out, creating programs and funding research."

https://okt.to/YKiAvo

Meet Tammy A. | Autism Speaks People with autism need us in their corner more than ever and I believe that it’s important to fundraise for the organization that helps those people get through difficult times such as these.

"If you work for a company that hasn’t tapped into our community, tell them why it’s important. The majority of autistic adults are still unemployed or underemployed today. Speak to your company’s Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) or Human Resources (HR) and explain more about this community and if there are any opportunities. Bring in speakers like myself for professional development or consider sending them resources like the Autism Speaks Employment Tool Kit, which provides a guide toward education on this topic."

https://okt.to/A3Vvhq

How companies that hire autistic adults are changing the workplace | Autism Speaks During his professional speaking gigs, Kerry Magro always mentions a fact that he learned from Autism Speaks' Adult Services team. Read more.

"It is about bringing people with big hearts who are passionate and want to make a difference. To impact real people, human behavior, families, and communities."

(Español)

"Se trata de atraer a personas con un gran corazón, apasionadas y deseosas de marcar la diferencia. Influir en personas reales, comportamientos humanos, familias y comunidades."

https://okt.to/On2KNV

Conoce a Karelix | Autism Speaks Para obtener más información sobre la laborde defensa de Karelix en la comunidad y escuchar cómo trabaja para marcar la diferencia en la comunidad, consulte esta entrevista.