Ambassadors Start with Respect to Reach Acceptance

April 15, 2021

This week marks the half-way point of National Autism Awareness Month.

To continue to build momentum, we are recognizing the incredible dedication, spirit, and drive of our ambassadors. Each year we count on them to act as role models and promote the powerful message that everyone, regardless of your skill level or ability, differences, or challenges, deserves to be treated with respect. Because of them, our communities have a stronger understanding and greater acceptance of autism around the state.

Nearly 850 people have taken our pledge to make our communities a kinder place to help ensure a better future for people with autism and their families. Help us reach beyond our goal of 1,000 by taking the pledge today!

This year we introduced our newly designed Hub and Facebook Group to encourage ambassadors to connect with others who share the same passion for raising awareness. Visitors are welcomed and encouraged to create and participate in ongoing discussion threads. Our blog highlights important topics and perspectives that can help start these conversations.

“We’re overwhelmed by the energy and enthusiasm our Ambassadors bring to Autism Awareness Month.” said Suzanne Buchanan, Autism New Jersey Executive Director. “In spite of the challenges the social distancing and remote learning has brought, we continue to see the creative and inspirational ways they are connecting to their communities to build acceptance.”

Autism New Jersey participated in an informative session with Wyndham Hotels & Resorts to share information to support parents and families of those caring for a loved one with autism.
Even a little can make a big impact! Tiny "Start with Respect" billboards were placed in a park to remind people strolling by that autism acceptance is important.
The Hackettstown High School Lady Tiger Volleyball team members had three minutes to get as many good serves as possible. Donations were made either per serve or a flat rate to help the team near their $750 fundraising goal.
The "Livingston Super 6" have been celebrating autism acceptance and fundraising for 7 years, beginning in just 2nd grade! This year the team crushed their fundraising goal and plans to team up with a self-advocate to further educate their peers.
As part of her Bat Mitzvah project, Brianna Deutsch has created a fundraiser in honor of her cousin Jacob who has autism. "I want to raise money in his honor to give back to an organization that helps provide services to so many impacted people and families."
More than 500 of our followers are showcasing their support of autism acceptance by using our Start with Respect Facebook profile picture frame.

The Hackettstown High School Lady Tiger Volleyball team

It’s never too late to get involved!

Take advantage of all that our program has to offer:

Download free resources

For the Community	For Teachers & Kids	For Businesses

Attend an upcoming ambassador event

Tim’s Journey to Social Inclusion Presented by the Super 6	Autism Awareness Do-A-Thon	Parapapapa JJ's Team Walk-A-Thon	Acappella for Autism

Shop our marketplace

Start with Respect T-Shirt	K-Deer Anny Stripe Leggings	One Hope Wine	I Love Someone Bracelets

Make a donation

Funds raised through donations, fundraisers, and events directly impact the 1 in 32 individuals with autism in the state.

We continue to work hard to fulfill our mission on behalf of the autism community, advocating for their rights and for essential services, from school to adulthood. There is much work to be done – especially now as so many struggle. Your support sustains us. Your confidence in our work inspires us. Your kindness humbles us.

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