This month, we’re recognizing National Autism Awareness Month, which became National Autism Acceptance Month in 2021, an intentional distinction that reframes the narrative around this type of neurodiversity. Our words matter and the change in terminology has deep significance for – and impact on – people with autism. 

“National Autism Acceptance Month is a powerful shift in language that speaks volumes,” explains Angela Walden, Founder & CEO of Autism Wings Inc., a Give Lively member nonprofit. “While awareness has helped bring autism into the public eye, acceptance is about embracing neurodiversity and recognizing the strengths, individuality and potential of every person on the autism spectrum. At Autism Wings Inc., we believe that true inclusion comes from moving beyond understanding and stepping into a space of empathy, equity and empowerment.”

A neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social communication, autism covers a spectrum  encompassing a wide variation in communication skills. Every person with autism, aka Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is unique. Some have an identified difference in their brain, such as a genetic condition. Some may have exceptional conversation skills, whereas others may be nonverbal. Some need a lot of help in their daily lives, versus others who can work and live with little or no support. Everyone with autism falls somewhere on the spectrum. 

Walden emphasizes that “this month is a reminder that acceptance is action – it’s creating accessible education, amplifying autistic voices and building communities that celebrate difference rather than merely tolerate it.”

Join us in doing just that – celebrating differences – this Autism Acceptance Month and learn about these four nonprofits supporting the autistic community.

The nonprofits

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Autism Wings, Inc.

This nonprofit is dedicated to serving the needs of individuals with autism, as well as their families and caregivers. Autism Wings delivers interactive learning right to the home in the form of a customized recreational vehicle. This service provides relief for caregivers while giving children with autism the opportunity to learn independently under the supervision of a trained staff member, ensuring a comfortable and rewarding experience for all.

Autism Wings, Inc. uses a Give Lively-powered Branded Donation Widget on its website.

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Channing's Joy Foundation 

This organization was founded in 2022 by Lauren, the mother of the nonprofit’s namesake Channing, after her firsthand experience advocating for Channing following his autism diagnosis in 2018. Channing's Joy Foundation is dedicated to promoting inclusion and acceptance of autism and all individuals with special needs. It organizes autism family meet-ups, including kid-friendly and parent-only events, and, in its first two years, donated over $350,000 to families and organizations.

Channing's Joy Foundation used a Give Lively-powered Campaign Page to fundraise $146,000+ through A Walk for Joy 2025. Additionally, the foundation uses a Branded Donation Widget on its website.

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Luv Michael

As he grew older, Michael, like many young adults on the autism spectrum, faced big challenges finding meaningful work, a place to live and a welcoming community. Inspired by their personal experience of this, Michael and his parents, Dr. Lisa Liberatore and Dr. Dimitri Kessaris, launched Luv Michael in 2015 to create meaningful paid work opportunities through a bakery that produces award-winning granola. Michael and his friends not only found jobs but also a sense of belonging. Since its founding, Luv Michael has expanded to include a first-of-its-kind residential model, in addition to educational and advocacy services.

The Give Lively-powered Luv Michael Challenge Campaign Page has raised over $380,000 dollars thanks to the generosity of 9,000+ donors and 5,600+ fundraising teams, including the Join the Luv Michael Granologists. Read our Member Story about how Luv Michael inspired a volunteer-led Team Fundraising effort. 

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Orange Effect Foundation

This organization is dedicated to creating strategic sponsors and partnerships that aid in the funding of research, therapy, education and technology for children with speech disorders. While there are many wonderful organizations that focus on autism and speech disorders, very few provide grants to children who desperately need consistent speech therapy or equipment. Orange Effect Foundation delivers the needed therapy and technology, especially when a child's family doesn't have the financial means.

Orange Effect Foundation links to a Give Lively-powered Campaign Page to collect donations through its website. It is also using an Event Ticketing page for the OEF Golf for Autism 2025, scheduled for this August. 

More nonprofits

Five nonprofits in honor of National Autism Acceptance Month