A letter from Autism Speaks CEO: Redefining Possible in our next 20 years

Shortly after Tyler Haynes’ first birthday, his parents noticed a pause—and then a regression—in his development. At age two, Tyler was diagnosed with autism. His mother, Tonya, turned to Autism Speaks early on to find the tools their family needed.

Two decades later, with the right support and a strong community, Tyler has flourished. He graduated from the University of Missouri-St. Louis SUCCEED program, where he lived independently, joined campus clubs, and built lasting friendships. Today, he works as a recruitment specialist helping other students find their path.

Now, Tyler is giving back — not just to his community, but to the broader autism movement. As one of our Champions of Change, he’s helping to shape the conversation, raise awareness and acceptance, and show what’s possible when we listen to autistic stories, remove barriers, and build systems that support everyone. As the father of a young man with autism, it’s stories like these that motivate me each day to wake up and try to make the world a better place for people on the spectrum.

For 20 years, Autism Speaks has worked alongside families like Tyler’s and countless others in the autism community to drive progress. And yet, urgent challenges remain.

Today, 1 in 36 children and 1 in 45 adults in the U.S. are on the spectrum. But too many still struggle to access the healthcare, services, and supports they need to live full and healthy lives.

Today, 1 in 36 children and 1 in 45 adults in the U.S. are on the spectrum. But too many still struggle to access the healthcare, services, and supports they need to live full and healthy lives. Consider this:

• The average life expectancy for autistic people is just 54 years.
• Only 1 in 5 people with disabilities, including autism, are employed.
• And 1 in 4 families experience food or housing insecurity following a diagnosis.

We must do better.

This April, as we celebrate World Autism Month and Autism Speaks’ 20th anniversary, we’re launching a new commitment: Redefine Possible — for autistic people, their families, and communities.

We believe in a future where opportunity is not limited by outdated systems or stigma. A future where every autistic person is recognized, supported, and empowered — across every stage of life.

Since our founding, we’ve made significant strides:

• $220 million invested in autism research.
• More than 28 million people connected to free resources, tools, and support.
• Over $5.2 billion secured in federal funding for autism-related initiatives.

And that’s just the beginning. Looking ahead, we’re focused on creating real, lasting impact in three key areas:

• Health and longevity: Tackling the barriers that prevent autistic people from living long, healthy lives.
• Purpose and opportunity: Expanding opportunities and workplace accommodations.
• Community and living: Helping autistic people build connections, access housing, and develop the skills for meaningful, self-directed lives.

We’re proud of the progress we’ve made — but we’re even more committed to the road ahead.

Alongside the autism community, we will Redefine Possible — creating a world where autistic people are accepted, supported, and celebrated.

I hope you’ll join us. Learn more about how you can help.