Wishing for Inclusion, Inspiring Change
Every wish sparks change — be the light that inspires inclusion
Founded by Autistic & ADHD parents of Autistic children, we believe in compassionate acceptance of all neurotypes.
Our Impact
Our Mission
Enhancing Autism Education
We provide the knowledge and tools needed to foster autism acceptance and inclusion in all areas of society.
We enhance autism education through the Embracing Autism podcast, resources, training, and educational initiatives to promote understanding and inclusion of autistic individuals in schools, workplaces, and communities.
Advocating for Autistic Rights
We take action to create a more just and inclusive world for autistic individuals through advocacy, outreach, and community-driven change.
We advocate for the rights, needs, and voices of autistic individuals, striving to create a more inclusive world through support, education, speaking engagements, local meetups, and community outreach.
Providing Sensory Support
We offer tangible sensory support that improves the daily lives of autistic individuals by meeting their unique sensory needs.
We provide sensory items through the Embracing Autism Grant to support the well-being of autistic individuals, offering tools that enhance comfort and help manage sensory needs in everyday life.
Testimonials
Love This
As a mom who has had a child recently diagnosed with autism, this podcast, definitely has helped me learn multiple things to better assist not only my daughter but my other children as well!<3
Posted by MorganMonroe24 on December 11, 2024
A must listen to for understanding autism
I recently discovered the Embracing Autism Podcast, and I can't recommend it enough! The hosts bring such a warm and welcoming energy to each episode, making it easy to connect with the topics discussed.
Posted by DaisySunnyDenver on December 11, 2024
Very relatable and informative podcast
I enjoyed the reminders and tips on how to encourage our kids strengths and to remain the lighthouse that they can come to for calm and stability in a world that constantly reminds us of our weaknesses.
Posted by ebbyfreeze on December 8, 2024
FAQs
Have Questions? Browse our FAQs below for quick answers. Can’t find what you need? Contact us, and we’ll respond as soon as possible!
General Questions
What is AutismWish?
AutismWish is a social enterprise dedicated to supporting the autism community through education, advocacy, and sensory support. We operate as a mission-driven business that reinvests a portion of our revenue into community grants, giveaways, and programs to support autistic individuals and their families.
How is AutismWish different from a nonprofit?
Unlike a nonprofit, AutismWish generates revenue through memberships, product sales, and services. A portion of these funds is used to support our mission, including the Embracing Autism Grant and other community support programs. This sustainable model allows us to continue offering impactful resources and support without relying solely on donations.
What does AutismWish do to support the autism community?
- Education: Offering presentations, workshops, training, resources, and educational materials for parents, educators, and caregivers.
- Advocacy: Promoting autism acceptance and neurodiversity through the Embracing Autism podcast, public speaking, community events, and partnerships.
- Support: Providing essential sensory items, therapeutic tools, and resources for autistic individuals through community grants, giveaways, and live events.
Who runs AutismWish?
AutismWish is founded and led by autistic and ADHD parents of autistic and ADHD children. Our lived experience drives our mission to provide empathetic, real, practical support for the autism community.
What makes AutismWish unique?
AutismWish is led by neurodivergent parents who understand the needs of autistic children firsthand. Unlike traditional nonprofits or charities, AutismWish operates as a social enterprise, meaning our mission is sustained through memberships, programs, and partnerships. This model allows us to support the autism community with greater efficiency, flexibility, and independence.
For Donors, Members & Sponsors
How can I support AutismWish's mission?
You can support AutismWish by:
- Becoming a member for exclusive perks and access to grant opportunities.
- Purchasing resources and printables from our site, which helps fund our community initiatives.
- Sponsoring events or giveaways to directly impact the lives of autistic children and families.
What is the difference between being a donor and a member?
- Donors can make one-time contributions to support AutismWish’s initiatives.
- Members pay a monthly or annual fee to access exclusive perks, faster grant processing, free access to webinars, and more chances to be selected for giveaways.
How is AutismWish funded?
AutismWish is funded through memberships, program fees, sponsorships, and revenue from resources sold on our site. A portion of these funds is used to support our Embracing Autism Grant and giveaway programs.
Are donations or memberships tax-deductible?
No, because AutismWish is a social enterprise, not a nonprofit, contributions are not tax-deductible. However, your membership helps fund critical initiatives and grants that support autistic individuals and their families.
Can I sponsor an event or giveaway?
Yes! Businesses and individuals can sponsor events, giveaways, or specific initiatives. Sponsorship opportunities allow companies to promote their brand while supporting the autism community. To learn more about sponsorship, send us an email or read up on our Sponsorship opportunities.
For Parents, Caregivers, & Autistic Individuals
How can I request sensory support items?
You can apply for sensory support items through the Embracing Autism Grant. The application process differs for members and nonmembers so make sure to review the Guidelines & Eligibility before applying.
What types of support items does AutismWish provide?
We offer sensory and therapeutic items that help autistic individuals thrive. This includes sensory swings, noise-canceling headphones, calming tools, fine/gross motor toys, and educational resources. Our goal is to support sensory regulation, emotional well-being, and learning.
Who is eligible to receive support from AutismWish?
Eligibility depends on membership status:
- Members: Must be a U.S. resident but can apply for the grant regardless of which state they reside in. Only needs to apply once and can be selected multiple times a year. Open to both autistic adults and children. No proof of diagnosis is required.
- Non-members: Must be a resident of the State of Georgia, under 18 years old, provide proof of autism diagnosis, and participate in our monthly giveaway process. Will need to re-apply monthly and can only be selected once a year.
How do I increase my chances of receiving support?
Becoming a member increases your chances by giving you access to faster processing and repeat selections. As long as you remain a member, you stay in the grant selection pool.
How can I join the Embracing Autism Community?
Join by becoming a member through our platform Patreon or by clicking on Become a Member. Members gain access to perks like faster grant processing, event access, and exclusive content.
What happens if I’m selected for a grant or giveaway?
If selected, AutismWish will contact you with instructions on how to claim your sensory support item. Members have a much simpler process, while non-members must provide additional verification and meet selection criteria.
Membership & Community
What are the benefits of becoming a member?
Members receive:
- Priority access to the Embracing Autism Grant (faster processing & eligibility for multiple selections)
- Unlimited access to webinars and events (non-members must pay per event)
- Access to printables and worksheets for free or discounted rates
- Exclusive community perks like eligibility for special giveaways and promotions
How much is the membership fee?
Membership starts at $5 per month. Annual members also receive an exclusive Embracing Autism t-shirt as a thank-you for their support.
Can I cancel my membership at any time?
Yes, memberships are flexible, and you can cancel at any time though we are unable to process any refunds. You will keep your access until your membership term expires. However, by staying a member, you continue to enjoy exclusive perks, faster grant processing, and unlimited access to events and webinars.
What events does AutismWish host locally?
AutismWish hosts:
- Sensory Santa holiday events
- Back-to-School Bash community events
- Parent support groups and advocacy workshops
- Autism Training and neuro-affirming education
Members receive free entry or priority access to these events.
Events & Advocacy
How can I invite AutismWish to speak at my event?
Request a speaker by filling out our event form. AutismWish frequently speaks at schools, conferences, and advocacy events. We offer presentations on autism acceptance, neurodiversity, and parent support. We also do live podcasts.
What types of community events does AutismWish organize?
We organize sensory-friendly holiday events, back-to-school bashes, and local advocacy workshops for parents and educators. These events are designed to foster community and promote understanding.
How can I get AutismWish to attend a conference or event?
AutismWish participates in conferences and community events as speakers, exhibitors, and advocacy partners. Contact us to discuss event opportunities.
About the Mission
What is AutismWish's mission?
AutismWish aims to support, empower, and inspire the autism community. We promote autism acceptance and neurodiversity through education, advocacy, and support initiatives like sensory item grants and community events.
How many people have been impacted by AutismWish?
To date, AutismWish has provided direct sensory support to nearly 1,000 autistic children through grants and gifting programs, reached over 108,000 families with the Embracing Autism podcast, and empowered countless others through educational resources and sensory-friendly community events.
How does AutismWish support autism acceptance?
AutismWish promotes acceptance through:
- Educational resources for parents, educators, and community leaders
- Public speaking and workshops at schools, conferences, and advocacy events
- Local sensory-friendly events for autistic children and their families
New episodes every Friday! Available anywhere you stream podcasts.
Recent Episodes
- Bonus EP – Embracing Autism IRL – Meet Matt Sloan January 17, 2025
- EP 761 – Ableism Unmasked January 10, 2025
- Bonus EP – Embracing Autism IRL – Meet Lee Burdette Williams January 3, 2025
- EP 760 – Living in the Present December 27, 2024
- Bonus EP – Embracing Autism IRL – Meet Mitch Leppicello December 20, 2024
- EP 759 – A Blue Christmas December 13, 2024
- Bonus EP – Embracing Autism IRL – Meet Dr. Matt Zakreski December 6, 2024
- EP 758 – Giving Thanks November 29, 2024
- Bonus EP – Embracing Autism IRL – Meet Dr. Alex Klein November 22, 2024
- EP 757 – Running on Fumes November 15, 2024
- Bonus EP – Embracing Autism IRL – Meet Adam Abramowitz November 8, 2024
- EP 756 – A Boo-tiful Halloween November 1, 2024
- Bonus EP – Embracing Autism IRL – Meet Amy McCoy [Sponsored] October 25, 2024
- EP 755 – Weathering the Storm October 18, 2024
- Bonus EP – Embracing Autism IRL – Meet Guy Stephens October 11, 2024
- EP 754 – School Without Limits October 4, 2024
- Bonus EP – Embracing Autism IRL – Meet Cuyler Romeo September 27, 2024
- EP 753 – #ApalacheeStrong September 20, 2024
- EP 752 – Managing Hyper-Empathy September 13, 2024
- Bonus EP – Embracing Autism IRL – Meet Meg Raby Klinghoffer September 6, 2024
- EP 751 – Playful Confidence August 30, 2024
- EP 750- When the Truth Hurts: Tactful Honesty August 23, 2024
- EP 749 – Autistic Vulnerability August 16, 2024
- EP 748 – Milestone: 100,000+ Listeners Q&A Celebration! August 9, 2024
- Bonus EP – Embracing Autism IRL – Meet Dr. Vladimir Barayev August 2, 2024
- EP 747 – School’s In Session! July 26, 2024
- EP 746 – Too Many Choices: Decision Fatigue July 19, 2024
- EP 745 – Prime Time: Autism Amazon Finds July 12, 2024
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