Dear Reader,
When an individual or family receives the news of an autism diagnosis, the experience can be overwhelming and isolating. Individuals and parents often face a flood of emotions, confusion, worry, and uncertainty about where to turn for guidance and support.
Many feel alone as they try to navigate a complex landscape of therapies, services, and resources. Due to a significant increase in the autism prevalence (now 1:31 in the US) the need to offer support has never been so great.
At the Rochester Area Autism Association, formerly RT Autism Awareness Foundation, we recognized the gap for parents and created the CARES Program. CARES is a 12 week educational support group that provides parents with knowledge, resources, and a supportive community to help them feel informed, empowered, and less isolated.
For the past two years our CARES program has been funded through a special grant from DHS. This grant will end in June 2026. Your donations this Give to the Max Day, will directly work to sustain programs like CARES, ensuring that families continue to receive this vital support without barriers.
Your donation can help us reach families who need this program most and give them the guidance and reassurance that every parent deserves.Would you consider partnering with us to make a lasting impact in the lives of families facing the challenges of a new autism diagnosis?
✨ Thanks to three generous donors, all gifts made now through 12 p.m. CST on November 19, 2025, will be matched up to $5,000!
