Our names are Kayla and Chris, and what began as a simple effort to raise funds for a communication board at Downey Elementary School has grown into something truly inspiring. Thanks to an overwhelming outpouring of support, generosity, and action from our community, this initiative is expanding with optimism and purpose to support schools across the city of Brockton that are in need. This growth has been made possible entirely by the people of our community, and we are deeply grateful.

Our son, Coco, is an incredible kid who loves school and is known and loved by many. Coco is autistic and minimally speaking, and like many students throughout Brockton, he faces challenges with communication during recess and playtime. Without the right tools, children with communication needs can struggle to express themselves and fully engage with their peers, making inclusion more difficult than it needs to be.

Communication boards have the power to change that. They provide a visual and accessible way for nonverbal and special needs students to communicate with teachers and classmates, helping make both classrooms and playgrounds more inclusive, supportive, and engaging. As word of this project has spread, teachers, principals, parents, and staff across Brockton have voiced strong support, reinforcing what we’ve come to understand: this need goes far beyond one school or one playground.

As parents and autism advocates, we are committed to giving back to the schools and community that have played such a meaningful role in our son’s growth. With many schools facing ongoing funding challenges, we are reaching out to continue building on this incredible momentum. Our goal is to raise enough funds throughout 2026 to purchase multiple communication boards for both indoor learning spaces and playgrounds, with the hope of unveiling them during Autism Awareness Month in April or at various points throughout 2026 as funds allow.

Your support helps us move closer to a more inclusive Brockton — one where every child, regardless of ability, has a voice, feels seen, and has the opportunity to thrive.