Empowering Autistic Youth Through Inclusive Books & Advocacy
Autistic Youth International is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting Autistic youth and their families through inclusive books, Autism advocacy, and sensory-friendly community programs.
We expand access to neurodiversity-affirming books and literacy resources while advocating for acceptance, inclusion, and equitable opportunities for autistic youth.
Together, we amplify Autistic voices and build inclusive communities.
Autistic Youth International, formerly Autism Kids, was created by Rebecca Tarrant as a way to increase representation of Autistic children in Charlotte's schools and to spread the celebration of Neurodiversity Pride Day.
To date, we have donated 1,000 inclusive books to Charlotte's Title I schools and are celebrating our fourth Neurodiversity Pride Day Festival in 2026.
Since its inception, Autistic Youth International has grown to serve ages birth to 24 with support, resources and advocacy.
We have many exciting new initiatives as we grow into one of the most influential nonprofits in the city.
But we aren't stopping there - with international partnerships, we are taking the globe by storm and bringing our advocacy to all corners of the world.
In 2025, our work focused on creating meaningful access to representation, community, and belonging for autistic, neurodivergent, and disabled individuals and their families across Charlotte and surrounding areas. With the support of families, community allies, sponsors, and partners, we delivered measurable impact through inclusive education and community-centered events.
250 inclusive books donated in 2025
1,000 inclusive books donated to date
All 250 books distributed in 2025 were donated directly to Title I schools, ensuring students in under-resourced classrooms had access to stories featuring Autistic, neurodivergent, and disabled characters and themes.
These books support literacy while also reinforcing visibility, dignity, and belonging — reminding students that every child deserves to see themselves reflected in the stories they read.
Through book distribution, events, and advocacy efforts, our work continued to:
Our impact in 2025 reflects a shared commitment to equity and representation across education and community spaces.
Neurodiversity Pride Day Festival hosted
In 2025, we hosted a Neurodiversity Pride Day Festival that brought together families, self-advocates, and community allies for a day centered on acceptance, celebration, and connection.
The festival created a welcoming environment where neurodiversity was celebrated openly and joyfully, offering many families their first experience of a public, affirming space designed with inclusion at its core.
Every book donated and every community event begins with the generosity of people who believe inclusion matters.
Your gift helps us:
Support Autistic Youth International today. Every donation helps fund programs and advocacy for Autistic youth.
Email: info@autisticyouthintl.org