April 2026

April is a meaningful time for our community as we recognize Autism Awareness—and more importantly, Autism Acceptance—Month.

Awareness opens the door, but acceptance is what truly creates belonging. It’s about seeing, valuing, and supporting individuals with autism for who they are, while making space for their strengths, voices, and potential to shine.

At Hope 4 Autism, this month is a reminder of why we do what we do every day—creating opportunities for connection, purpose, and independence. Through programs like Dress 2 Impress, PEERS®, and our vocational training program, we’re not just raising awareness—we’re building a community where individuals with autism are empowered to thrive.



As you read through this month’s newsletter, we invite you to join us in moving beyond awareness into action—whether that’s sharing our mission, attending an event, or supporting our programs. Because acceptance isn’t just something we talk about—it’s something we live out together.

Interns Take a Behind-the-Scenes Tour at Botkin Lumber!

Upcoming Event Spotlight:

Autos 4 Autism Car Show & Drag Race

Mark your calendar!

Autos 4 Autism Car Show - April 11, 2026

Join us for a spectacular showcase of classic and modern cars while supporting a meaningful cause. The event promises fun activities, concessions with BBQ, and plenty of automotive excitement for the whole family. Proceeds help fund our programs that support individuals with autism.

11th Annual Autos 4 Autism Drag Race - April 25, 2026

Get ready for high-speed thrills at the Autos 4 Autism Drag Race! Experience the adrenaline as cars compete head-to-head on the drag strip—a must-see event for racing enthusiasts and supporters of the autism community.

All proceeds from this event benefit Hope 4 Autism.

Young Adult PEERS session has begun.

PEERS

Program for the Education and Enhancement of Relational Skills

This program stresses the importance of developing and maintaining friendships for teens and adults with autism.

Some of the subjects covered are:

Conversation skills

How to enter and exit conversations

Electronic communication

Using humor appropriately

Organizing get-togethers

Being a good sport

Dating Etiquette (young adults only)

Handling disagreements

Changing a bad reputation

Handling teasing and bullying

The majority of the course cost will be covered through a grant.

If you or someone you know might be interested, please contact

Luann at luann@hope4autism.org or call 573-664-1711.

Click the link below for additional information on our website.

Dress 2 Impress Spotlight: Where Fashion Meets Purpose

Dress 2 Impress is more than a resale store—it’s a hands-on training space where teens and adults with autism build real-world job skills and confidence.

Every donation and purchase directly supports our vocational training program, helping individuals gain experience in customer service, merchandising, and workplace readiness.

When you shop or give, you’re not just supporting a store—you’re creating opportunities for independence and purpose.



New Blog Post:



Why Hope 4 Autism Exists: A Story of Purpose, Possibility, and Community