Why Give to the Max Matters to Me as a Mom


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 understand her hand pulls and vocalizations, but we know daily we fall short to understand everything she wants to communicate with us.

This is just one example of what we and other families impacted by autism face. Every child is unique, and there is no roadmap. That’s why RAAA walks alongside parents. Helping parents process emotions, understand their options, and navigate difficult decisions. We make sure families know what resources and supports are available so they can make the most informed choices.

Even a small gift today helps families receive the support they need to support their child.

Thanks so much!
Elizabeth

*Thanks to 3 generous donors matching gifts up to $5,000, have been extended until 11/21 at midnight. Every donation will be matched dollar for dollar. Give $10 and make a $20 difference!

Count down to 2025-11-21T05:00:00.000Z

1130 1/2 7th St NW, Suite 208, Rochester , MN 55901
Unsubscribe · Preferences

RT Autism Awareness Foundation

RTAAF is a 501[c][3] Non-Profit Organization That supports persons impacted by Autism.

Read more from RT Autism Awareness Foundation

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, "Knowing we are not alone in this journey... is one of the greatest gifts any parent could receive." This is one parent’s perspective after participating in our CARES program for families. She shared: "CARES is an amazing group. The instructor helps everyone feel included and provides tools for the struggles parents are currently going through. I value the incredibly informative insights and connection to other people who share these difficult challenges of parenting children...