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Autism Today

About Autism Today

Founded in 1998 as the world's first online autism resource center, connecting a global community where science, creativity, and life meet.

Our Mission

To empower the tens of millions of neurodiverse individuals and their families -- by creating a unified global ecosystem where hospitals, researchers, artists, educators, families, and advocates connect, collaborate, and thrive.

Millions
Reached Globally
120+
Countries
75M+
Impacted Worldwide
Since 1998
A Global Community

Our Founder

Karen Simmons

Founder & CEO

"Queen of Resiliency"

Karen Simmons founded Autism Today in 1998 after her son was diagnosed with autism at two-and-a-half years old. Refusing the prediction of institutionalization, she set out to change the world for him, his peers, and the entire autism community.

A former U.S. Air Force member and gemologist, Karen brought determination and precision to her mission. She has since written 14 books, hosted 73 conferences including the World Autism Summit, and earned recognition as Internet Entrepreneur of the Year.

As a mother of six children -- two neurodistinct -- Karen intimately understands the journey families face. She's also co-authored with Mark Victor Hansen and Jack Canfield.

Notable Achievements:

  • 2007 Independent Publisher Gold Medal for "The Official Autism 101 Manual"
  • Founded Keen Education Foundation (1996) for neurodivergent learning
  • Related to U.S. President Woodrow Wilson, dual U.S.-Canada citizen

Board of Directors

D

Dr. Stephen M. Shore, EdD

Autism Educator & Advocate

Internationally recognized autism expert and author diagnosed with autism as a child.

D

Dr. Alan Kadish

Medical Director

Physician specializing in functional medicine and neurodevelopmental care.

B

Bob Etzel

Business Strategy

Strategic advisor bringing decades of nonprofit and business leadership.

M

Marcia Eckerd, PhD

Clinical Psychology

Clinical psychologist specializing in neurodevelopmental care and family support.

R

Ronald Caissie

Community Outreach

Dedicated advocate focused on expanding autism awareness and community resources.

D

Dr. Sharon Buchalter

Mental Health

Mental health professional specializing in wellbeing for neurodivergent families.

Team

Powered by a heartfelt, dedicated community of individuals who serve.

Laura Chris Green

Community Outreach Coordinator

Connects families with local resources and facilitates peer support networks

Pranjali Khairmode

Technology & Innovation Lead

Develops digital tools and platforms to enhance accessibility

Leila Farshchian

Strategic Partnerships & Growth

Drives partnership development and community growth across the global network

Our Partners

CircaThera

Unified by Science, Driven by Compassion

Learn more about CircaThera →

Proud partner with CircaThera, a comprehensive neurodiversity and autism care provider platform that shares our commitment to empowering individuals and families through innovative technology and compassionate support.

Research Partnerships Clinical Integration Global Reach Family Support

Research Institutions

Partnering with leading universities advancing autism research and clinical care globally.

Nonprofit Organizations

Collaborating with advocacy groups and service providers to extend reach worldwide.

Corporate Sponsors

Working with businesses committed to neurodiversity, inclusion, and workplace support.

Join Our Global Ecosystem

Whether you're a family, professional, organization, or advocate, there's a place for you.

Get Started Today