Empowering Autistic and Neurodivergent Youth Worldwide
Autistic Youth International is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting, advocating for, and uplifting Autistic and Neurodivergent children, teens, and young adults. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, and growing through international partnerships, we provide inclusive resources, youth-led advocacy, and community programs that celebrate Neurodiversity and Disability pride.
From inclusive book donations in Title I schools to global events like Neurodiversity Pride Day and Neurodivergent Youth Advocacy Day, our mission is to ensure young people ages birth through 24 have the representation, support, and opportunities they deserve.
Serving Neurodivergent Youth From Birth Through Young Adulthood
- Advocacy and empowerment programs
- Support for Autistic youth and families
- Neurodiversity-affirming resources
- Youth leadership and community engagement opportunities
Creating Inclusive Change Through Representation
To date, Autistic Youth International has donated more than 1,000 inclusive and Neurodiversity-affirming books to Title I schools in Charlotte, helping ensure all students can see themselves reflected in the stories they read.
In 2026, we are proud to celebrate our fourth annual Neurodiversity Pride Day Festival, bringing youth, families, educators, and advocates together to honor Neurodivergence pride and acceptance.
About Autistic Youth International
Autistic Youth International (formerly Autism Kids) was founded by Rebecca Tarrant to expand representation, inclusion, and support for Autistic and Neurodivergent youth in Charlotte-area schools and beyond.
What began as a mission to increase visibility for Autistic children in local education spaces has grown into a vibrant organization dedicated to celebrating Neurodiversity year-round, including through our annual Neurodiversity Pride Day initiatives.
Growing Into a Leading Voice in Neurodiversity Advocacy
As we continue to grow, we are launching exciting new initiatives and strengthening our role as one of the most influential autism and Disability-focused nonprofits in the Charlotte community.And we are only just beginning.
Through international partnerships and global collaboration, Autistic Youth International is expanding advocacy efforts worldwide—bringing Neurodiversity acceptance, education, and youth empowerment to communities across the globe.
Together, we are building a future where Neurodivergent youth are celebrated, supported, and heard everywhere.
Growing Into a Leading Voice in Neurodiversity Advocacy
As we continue to grow, we are launching exciting new initiatives and strengthening our role as one of the most influential autism and Disability-focused nonprofits in the Charlotte community.And we are only just beginning.
Through international partnerships and global collaboration, Autistic Youth International is expanding advocacy efforts worldwide—bringing Neurodiversity acceptance, education, and youth empowerment to communities across the globe.
Together, we are building a future where Neurodivergent youth are celebrated, supported, and heard everywhere.