Dear Reader, Today is Giving Tuesday and I wanted to introduce you to Shelby. Last year, Shelby’s daughter was diagnosed with autism. Like so many parents, she suddenly found herself facing a world she wasn’t prepared for. She didn’t know many people who understood what she was going through, and navigating the diagnosis, along with the many therapy options for her daughter, felt overwhelming and isolating. Through CARES she met other parents in a similar situation. She was able to share...

Good afternoon, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks for your support during Give to the Max Day! Thank you for caring for autistic individuals and our families! Your generosity isn’t just a donation to us, it’s a direct investment in safety, understanding, and hope for our community. (Drumroll please)....together we raised $5,154! You guys, that's HUGE! While we didn’t quite reach our $5,000 match, we took some really big steps forward! Every single donation counts and will make a real...

Dear Reader, Today is Give to the Max Day—Minnesota’s biggest day of giving. And I wanted to share why supporting the Rochester Area Autism Association means so much to me. In 2022, my daughter Lily was diagnosed with autism, and it has changed our lives. We lovingly call her our "little candle" because she brings brightness to our lives, even while facing intense challenges. At 5 years old motor coordination is very difficult for her, and she isn’t able to speak yet. We work hard to...