Welcome to Student Initiatives of Autism Speaks!
Student Initiatives of Autism Speaks are open to students of any age who want to join together to make a difference in the global health crisis of autism, regardless of their personal connection. Our goal is to create a community that is educated about autism by empowering students to pave the way for acceptance and understanding.

By getting involved in a Student Initiative, you will be taking an active role in your community. Through various activities and peer mentoring, your school and community will be a better place for those affected by autism.

What is autism?
People with autism are as different from one another just as you are different from your classmates. They have challenges, abilities, likes and dislikes just like you. Some challenges for people with autism can include communication, social interaction, and repetitive behavior.  For more information on autism, download the Peers section of our School Communities Toolkit.

College Students
There is now a program specifically for you! Autism Speaks U is designed for college students who host awareness, advocacy and fundraising events. It is an exciting and collaborative way for students to raise funds and awareness for Autism Speaks, while supporting their local autism communities. When you join the site you will have access to:

• Wide variety of event tools and reports
• Fundraising tools, such as sample event ideas, email templates, tips for hosting events and fundraising, etc.
• Complete packet for starting an Autism Speaks U Chapter
• Event sponsorship guide

Visit www.autismspeaks.org/u to become a student leader on your campus or to start an Autism Speaks U Chapter!


We Need Your Help!
We're looking for photos of and stories about student activities for our website. We we're looking for everyone - Student Clubs, Buddies, Youth Leaders, and College Initiatives in action! Please send your photos and stories to studentclubs@autismspeaks.org!