“Our vision is a world in which all people on the spectrum can reach their full potential.”

Autism Speaks was founded in 2005 by Bob and Suzanne Wright, grandparents of a child with autism. Early on, they recognized the need for a powerful voice to advocate for the needs of those impacted by autism. Through a generous donation by Bernie Marcus, co-founder of the Home Depot, the Wrights were able to launch the Autism Speaks organization. 

Building upon the legacy of other leading autism organizations, Autism Speaks has made extraordinary advancements in the autism community, including research into causes and better treatments for autism spectrum disorders and related conditions.

Through the years, they have worked tirelessly to provide crucial autism research, and advocacy. They have also developed an online national database of available services and support…

a resource more than 21 million people have accessed.

Some of their most important work has included a significant increase in the awareness of what autism is, better understanding of the autism spectrum, and advocacy to increase research and access to care. Their focus also includes: 

• Increasing global understanding & acceptance of people with autism.
• Creating a more understanding and inclusive world which is core to achieving a world where all people with autism can reach their full potential. 
• Being a catalyst for life-enhancing research breakthroughs 

They define their mission as “dedication to promoting solutions, across the spectrum and throughout the life span, for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.” 

AMA is dedicated to making a positive impact in our communities. We believe in being intentional about creating a better world by coming alongside those in need and being a hand up and we are proud to be doing that through a partnership with this AMAzing organization! 

To learn more about Autism Speaks, check out their website: www.autismspeaks.org