April is Autism Acceptance/Awareness Month, a time to celebrate and raise awareness of the accomplishments of our neurodiverse community. At PACE, we are committed to empowering individuals with autism and their families and strive to break down barriers that individuals with autism often face through education, advocacy, and support.

Each year, we celebrate Autism Acceptance/Awareness Month with the theme #kindnessmatters. Throughout this month and beyond, we encourage acts of kindness, both big and small. Whether lending a listening ear, offering a helping hand, or simply spreading awareness, every gesture of kindness creates ripple effects of positivity and acceptance. Join us in spreading the message that #kindnessmatters by participating in our campaign below!

Samantha Sitki has been an occupational therapist at PACE for over five years at the San Aleso campus. She works with students to improve their coordination skills, sensory self-regulation, and overall independence with daily activities and schoolwork engagement.

“PACE has so many amazing learning opportunities accessible to the student population. Everyone at PACE is incredibly compassionate and dedicated to helping their students meet their individual goals,” says Samantha.

In honor of Autism Awareness Month, please consider donating to support PACE’s Annual Fund. Your gift will support the life-changing work of the PACE staff, like Samantha, and all of PACE’s school, residential, early intervention, and therapy programs for children and adults impacted by moderate-to-severe autism.

“I love seeing the students grow and become more confident and comfortable with new experiences, people, and places. It is a privilege to see their hard work over time transform into more mature and engaging young adults.”

Your gift provides vital learning opportunities and services (such as music therapy) that state-funded autism services do not cover and supports staff enrichment and continuing education opportunities. Every gift makes a difference, no matter how big or small.

Ways to participate:

• Make sure to tag us on Instagram and Facebook @pacificautismce and use the hashtag #PACEKindnessMatters
• Donate toward our fundraising goal of $30,000! In honor of Autism Awareness Month, please consider donating toward our goal of $30,000 to support PACE’s Annual Fund. The Annual Fund supports PACE’s school, residential, early intervention, and therapy programs for children and adults impacted by moderate-to-severe autism.
• Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn all month long for special interviews, stories, autism resources, and more.