Dear Volunteers, To all our past, present, and future volunteers - YOU
are the reason we exist, and why we continue to flourish to this day since 1998. Truly, none of this would be possible without you. The time you give, the care you show, and the heart you bring to this community make a meaningful difference in more ways than you may
ever fully see. Whether you’ve been with us for years or are just beginning your journey with Autism Today, please know that you are deeply appreciated. You are part of something special - something that continues to grow, support, and uplift so
many. Thank you for being such an important part of our story. With gratitude, Karen
Thank you Friends for reading this newsletter. Please share it with anyone who you feel would appreciate it and encourage them to join our mailing list.
Dear Friends, As many of you all already know, April is Autism Month - a time to honor the
journeys of autistic individuals, their families, and the communities that support them. It truly is a time for awareness, acceptance and appreciation. To celebrate Autism Month, I'm excited to share that something big and meaningful is on the way
soon: an initiative that bridges the gap between those seeking support and those ready to provide it - making the invisible visible. For over 30 years, I've sat with families, listening and wishing the path to support was clearer. We've built strong communities - but the "map"
to the right help has been missing. Families are searching. Providers are ready. Too often, they can't find each other. That's why we're building something new together. Stay tuned! Thank you for being part of this journey, for your trust, your compassion, and
your continued commitment to creating a more connected and supportive world. This Autism Month, we celebrate you - and the difference we can make when we come together.
April is World Autism Month April is recognized as World Autism Month, a time to increase understanding and support for autistic individuals and their families. While Autism Awareness has long been the focus, there
is growing emphasis on Acceptance and Appreciation.
Each perspective plays an important role—from learning and understanding to celebrating strengths and contributions. Together, they help create a more inclusive and supportive world.
In recognition of Autism Month, we’re giving away a professional-grade Wobble Chair to one member of our community - and as a bonus, entering ensures you’ll be on the list to hear the full details of something BIG that we’re about to launch later this month.
World-Wide Celebration of Autism Month
Each April, communities around the world celebrate Autism Month - promoting inclusion and recognizing the strengths of autistic individuals. Countries mark it in different ways, from local events to global efforts like lighting landmarks in blue. While the approaches vary, the shared goal is clear: greater understanding, acceptance, and support for the autism community.
Introducing Little Rainman Too! Autism Through the Eyes of My Child
We’re offering a free sample of Little Rainman Too! - a book that takes autism understanding one important step further. While the
original Little Rainman helped readers observe autism from the outside, this book invites you inside. The story is told in Jonathan’s own voice, sharing what his world truly feels like - the sensory overload, social confusion, comfort in routines, and the joy he finds in the things he loves. Readers often tell me, “This
helped me understand.” That’s exactly why this book exists.
A Family Affair of Upcoming Books!
The inspiration continues! In addition to Little Rainman Too!, keep an eye out for two exciting new releases from Karen’s family - her son Jonathan’s uplifting book Honesty Quest and her sister Susan’s
heartfelt Picturing Gratitude. These meaningful projects reflect the same spirit of growth, authenticity, and celebration that shines throughout the Autism Today community.
Inclusion Unplugged: Karen Talks with Elaine & Aidan
I had a heartwarming conversation with autism inclusion champion Elaine Hall and rising actor Aidan Delbis on my recent podcast, exploring representation, community, and what it truly means to be seen and understood. Elaine, an Access & Creative Coach, and Aidan, making his feature film debut, both had prominent roles in the Oscar‑nominated film Bugonia. They shared personal stories and perspectives that remind us just how powerful our voices can be when we speak with honesty
and compassion. This is a conversation that leaves you inspired and connected - whether you’re learning, listening, or advocating.
Meet Karen’s AI Protégé: Support, Reimagined
Artificial Intelligence is showing up in more and more places - and it’s beginning to offer meaningful support within the autism community too. From tools that assist with communication and daily routines to quick access to helpful information, AI is opening new doors for individuals, families, and educators.
One of the things I’m especially excited about is my new AI Protégé, built on the Apex Replicant platform, which allows you to ask questions and receive guidance shaped by the insights I’ve gathered over many years of working alongside this
community. If you’re curious, I invite you to explore it for FREE here: https://apexreplicant.ai/expert/karen-simmons/#signup
While technology will never replace human connection, it can be a helpful tool - making support just a little more accessible when it’s needed most.
Sleep Smarter: Unlocking Better Nights for Autistic Individuals
Getting a good night’s sleep can be especially challenging for autistic individuals, but small, thoughtful changes can make a meaningful difference. Factors like sensory sensitivities, routines, and environment all play a role, and creating calming bedtime habits can support better rest. With practical, easy-to-apply tips, families and individuals can build consistent routines and supportive sleep environments that may reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Because when sleep improves, so does everything else - from focus and learning to emotional balance and daily life.
From Awareness to Action: A Houston Advocate’s Call for True Autism Inclusion Autism advocate Adam Farris reminds us that awareness is just the beginning—true impact comes from embracing acceptance, creating inclusive spaces, and recognizing the unique strengths each individual brings.
From community events to everyday acts of understanding, this month is an invitation for all of us to listen, learn, and support one another in meaningful ways. Together, we can help build a world where every individual is seen, valued, and empowered to thrive.
Volunteers Help Us Build a Brighter Future - One Volunteer at a Time
At Autism Today Foundation, we’re powered by more than 60 amazing volunteers from around the world. From writers and editors to designers, advisors, and social media champions - they bring a rich mix of talents, cultures, and lived experiences to our mission.
Thanks to our incredible volunteers, we're able to reach more families, share more stories, and build a brighter future for the autism community. Interested in joining our volunteer team? We’d love to connect with you!
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