About
Autism Speaks Inc is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to creating an inclusive world for all individuals with autism throughout their lifespan. Working through advocacy, services, supports, research and innovation, and advances in care, the organization pursues its vision of a world where all people with autism can reach their full potential.
Mission
Autism Speaks is dedicated to creating an inclusive world for all individuals with autism throughout their lifespan. It pursues this by ensuring access to reliable information and services across the lifespan; supporting research and innovation aimed at improved quality of life and well-being; leveraging advocacy, partnerships and collaboration to support the work of service providers; accelerating solutions for adult quality of life needs including transition, employment, housing, and health and wellness; and promoting principles of diversity, equity, access and inclusion.
What they do
- Provide help and information resources, including a resource guide, a services directory, and the Autism Response Team, which is specially trained to connect people with autism, their families, and caretakers to information, tools, and resources.
- Fund grantmaking and research programs, and publish data resources such as Autism by the Numbers.
- Advocate at the federal and state level for rights-based and quality-of-care legislation and improved access to services.
- Offer family programs such as Caregiver Skills Training and screening and diagnosis information, including resources in Spanish.
- Organize fundraising and community events, including the Empower Walk and 5K Run and other special events, and work with corporate partners.
History
Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Bob and Suzanne Wright, grandparents of a child with autism. Recognizing the need for a powerful voice, Bernie Marcus donated 25 million dollars to help financially launch the organization. To build a stronger nationwide footprint, Autism Speaks merged with three leading autism organizations: the Autism Coalition for Research and Education (ACRE), the National Alliance for Autism Research (NAAR) and Cure Autism Now (CAN). The organization cites among its accomplishments increased global awareness and inclusion, better understanding of the breadth and diversity of the autistic community, advocacy to protect the rights of autistic individuals and increase access to services, and research supporting advancements in autism care.
Financials
For the fiscal year ending March 2025, Autism Speaks reported total revenue of 28,799,237 dollars and expenses of 34,172,414 dollars, with contributions making up 96.6 percent of revenue and net assets of 26.9 million dollars (IRS Form 990 data via ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer). ProPublica lists the organization in Washington, DC.
Governance
Keith Wargo serves as President and CEO, per the organization's most recent Form 990 filing. The organization is governed by a Board of Directors and advised by a Medical and Science Advisory Committee.
