Our Autism Ambassadors truly leveled up this year, raising acceptance in April with dedication, energy, and kindness.
In 2026, more than 700 people signed up to take part in our efforts to spread the message of inclusion across New Jersey. They handed out stickers and buttons, organized walks, concerts and fairs, designed T-shirts, posted on social media, and used our resources to educate students, colleagues, and entire communities about autism. Together, our ambassadors, fundraisers, sponsors, and donors raised $82,259, helping Autism New Jersey expand support programs, reach more families, and build a more autism-friendly state.
We are in awe of schools and districts like Byram Township in Sussex County, which has raised more than $30,000 over 20 years through dress-down days and T-shirt sales. We also celebrate others like Fountain Woods in Burlington County, which hosted a disability Fair and distributed Autism New Jersey pins, posters, and more; and Herma S. Simmons Elementary School in Gloucester County, whose Autism Acceptance Bubbles event celebrated inclusion and individuality.
For David Koenig, a teacher in the autism program at Katharine D. Malone Elementary School in Rockaway, spreading acceptance begins with inviting general education teachers into his classroom. Mr. K, as students call him, said the teachers were moved by the strong relationships between students and staff.
“These students offer powerful lessons in respect and acceptance,” one teacher said. “They show us what it truly means to embrace individuality and celebrate being beautifully unique.”
One of our biggest fundraisers every year is occupational therapist Angie Tener and her team at the Children’s Center of Monmouth County in Neptune. This year, they raised more than $4,000 with sales of T-shirts, baked goods and more. Angie designs a new shirt every April. This year’s featured the phrase, “In a world where you can be anything, be kind.”
“Every year, our community amazes us, and 2026 was no exception,” said Dr. Suzanne Buchanan, Executive Director of Autism New Jersey. “Students, educators and other professionals and community members came together to show us what acceptance looks like. Their commitment strengthens communities and inspires our work every day.”
Our awareness and acceptance efforts are also made possible by the generosity of our sponsors: Greenwich Autism Alliance, sponsor of our Kid’s Guide; Mike’s Seafood Run/Walk for Autism, sponsor of our South Jersey ambassador efforts; and the New Jersey Education Association, sponsor of our bookmark.
As we look toward 2027, we thank everyone who completed our program survey. Your insights help us strengthen this initiative year after year, moving us closer to a New Jersey where every individual with autism is accepted and empowered to thrive.