Creating Allies for Autism Awareness
April 21, 2025 | Sarasota
On Saturday, April 26, 2025, Behavioral Teaching Solutions (BTS) and its statewide initiative Spectrum Speaks Florida will host Creating Allies for Autism Awareness at Selby Library in downtown Sarasota from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM. This free public event will bring together neurodivergent voices, educators, artists, and community leaders to spark meaningful action toward inclusive employment and support systems.
Despite rising awareness, studies show that up to 85% of autistic adults are unemployed or underemployed. Meanwhile, 66% report suicidal ideation, with autistic individuals facing a seven-fold more significant risk of suicide than the general population. These statistics reflect urgent systemic barriers—not a lack of ability, but a lack of opportunity.
“These statistics aren’t just numbers—they represent people with untapped potential,” said Belle Stikeleather, Executive Director of BTS. “Our goal is to bridge that gap by helping communities move from awareness to action, to provide more opportunities for neurodivergent adults.”
Event Highlights Include:
- Belle Stikeleather: A Constructional Approach to Inclusive Jobs
- Aaron Freed, neurodivergent advocate: Unspoken Barriers in Communication
- Amanda Baar: Empowering Autistic Individuals through Adventure and Community
- Ally Peabody Smith: Advocacy and Accessibility in Healthcare
- Kevin Spencer: Creative Arts for Inclusion
- Sarah Selvaggi Hernandez: Living Sensory
- Live Performances, Panel Discussions, and Interactive Networking Opportunities
Attendees will leave with practical strategies, tools, and insight into inclusive hiring practices, neurodiversity-affirming environments, and how to support long-term community engagement.
Why It Matters
- Employment equity requires coaching, advocacy, and real-world preparation
- Mental health disparities demand identity-affirming spaces and belonging
- Inclusive design creates opportunity—not just for neurodivergent people, but for entire communities
Who Should Attend
Business leaders, educators, nonprofit directors, HR professionals, neurodivergent individuals, families, and allies interested in creating lasting change.
Ways to Get Involved
- Become a Sponsor or Inclusion Advocate
- Offer internships, jobs, or mentorships
- Collaborate on future training and events
- Attend the event and build your network of inclusion
Register Now: Registration Link
Follow the movement: Instagram.com/spectrumspeaksfl
Website: https://btsconsulting.info
