I’m running this 30-day GoFundMe during Autism Awareness Month to give back to a program that forever changed my family’s life: the Summer MAX Program at Canisius University’s Institute for Autism Research.

My son, who is on the autism spectrum, attended Summer MAX from ages 7 to 11. This program didn’t just support him—it transformed him. He learned essential social skills, built lasting friendships, and gained confidence that carried into every part of his life.

At the time, I couldn’t afford the program out of pocket, but through the generosity of others, we received funding—and that gift changed everything for us.

Now that he’s aged out of the program, I want to pay it forward. I’m asking for your help in raising funds so more children like my son can access the support they need, regardless of financial circumstances.

This is my way of saying thank you and helping other families experience the same kind of hope and progress we did.