We strive to develop a greater understanding of the abilities and challenges individuals with autism face.

Such efforts lead to more opportunities for individuals with autism to achieve their fullest potential and, together with their families, experience a true sense of belonging. Many businesses and public spaces are now adapting their services to become more ‘autism friendly’ but there is a still a long way to go for real acceptance and understanding.

History of our Ambassador Program

Autism New Jersey’s Ambassador Program was created in 1999 as a way to spread awareness about autism, which at the time was a growing concern that affected 1 in 166 children. The purpose of the program was to enlist a corps of dedicate volunteers – mostly parents of children with autism or teachers – to raise awareness about autism in their local communities and schools in order to dispel myths and create a better understanding about the disorder.

With April designed as “National Autism Awareness Month,” the Ambassador Program’s activities became a month-long campaign, though awareness can and should be a year round pursuit.

Thanks to the support of donors and sponsors, our Ambassador Program has provided free resources, tools and information to our ambassadors, along with guidance and suggestions on how to go about raising awareness via lessons, activities and events. Over the years, different themes emphasize the core values Ambassadors possess and spread positive messages to inspire others. Approximately 1,000 Ambassadors participate every year throughout the state and across the country.

Why awareness matters

Awareness is the foundation for greater acceptance and opportunity. It can create a path to improve the lives of those with autism and their families by opening the door to treatment, funding for essential services and a better quality of life.

Over time, our program has evolved as basic awareness about autism has increased along with prevalence rates in New Jersey and nationwide, now 1 in 35 and 1 in 44 respectively.

The need for our program continues as the autism community still tackles significant problems like bullying, lack of employment opportunities, insufficient funding to address severe challenging behavior, and racial and socio-economic inequities in diagnosis and access to services.

Since 1965 Autism has been committed to ensuring safe and fulfilling lives for individuals with autism, their families, and the professionals who support them

Our Mission

Autism New Jersey is a nonprofit agency committed to ensuring safe and fulfilling lives for individuals with autism, their families, and the professionals who support them. Through awareness, credible information, education, and public policy initiatives, Autism New Jersey leads the way to lifelong individualized services provided with skill and compassion. We recognize the autism community’s many contributions to society and work to enhance their resilience, abilities, and quality of life.

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Terms and Conditions

Use of “Ambassador”

The term “Ambassador” is not an official appointment by Autism New Jersey; it is used to recognize individuals who volunteer to promote autism awareness in their communities using Autism New Jersey materials and ideas. Autism New Jersey requests that Ambassadors do not use this title to promote personal interests or agendas unrelated to the Autism Awareness Ambassador Program.

Photo and Video Use

Any photos or videos shared with Autism New Jersey (through social media, email, etc.) may be used in future distribution via any medium for the purpose of promoting Autism New Jersey services or events and raising autism awareness. Any concerns should be emailed to aamonth@autismnj.org.