Letter from the CEO: Autism Acceptance Month: Celebrating Inclusion, Opportunity, and the World Needing All Kinds of Minds

Each April, Autism Acceptance Month gives us the opportunity to amplify the mission that drives everything we do at Spectrum Works: building inclusive workplaces where autistic individuals can thrive. It's when we, as a company, celebrate progress, raise awareness, and most importantly, cultivate further understanding about the power of neurodiversity in the workforce.

This year, we were proud to celebrate alongside some of our most committed corporate partners, companies like IKEA, American Dream, Sesame Street Learn & Play, Rent the Runway, Old Navy, Bergen Logistics, Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, ZAGO Manufacturing, and FM Expressions. These partners hosted events throughout the month that celebrated Spectrum Works participants (both hired and still training) in their workplaces, helped further educate their teams, and demonstrated what it looks like when inclusion becomes part of a company’s culture rather than just a conversation.

Across these events, participants and employees alike enjoyed a range of activities that underscored our shared commitment to inclusion. Photo booths were set up, complete with colorful backdrops and props, so participants could capture memories alongside their coworkers and raffles offered chances to win gift cards, branded swag, and even a few experiences donated by participating partners. Trivia contests, focusing on autism facts and workplace inclusion best practices, encouraged teams to learn while they competed for small prizes. Perhaps most meaningful were the “Mentor Awards,” presented at all partner locations: these recognized employees who go above and beyond to support our program and participants, whether by offering extra hands-on guidance during a training shift or by advocating for reasonable workplace accommodations.

At IKEA’s event, our participants not only took part in these activities but also helped unveil custom banners throughout the store that the IKEA team designed to highlight neurodiversity in retail. To underscore the importance of inclusive hiring, the Mayor of Elizabeth attended the event to show his support. His presence was a meaningful acknowledgment of the impact that neurodiverse hiring can have on both individuals and communities. He took time to meet with those hired and trained through Spectrum Works’ program, employees, and staff, and spoke about the City’s ongoing commitment to building more inclusive workplaces for all.

The Autism Acceptance Month event at American Dream deserves a special spotlight. This marked the first year Spectrum Works hosted a celebration within the mall, and it was a powerful kickoff to what we hope becomes an annual tradition. We’re incredibly grateful to Citizen’s Bank for sponsoring the event and to all the participating companies that came together in support of neurodiverse inclusion. One of the most unforgettable highlights of the day was the appearance of world-renowned autistic artist Stephen Wiltshire, who spent the afternoon live-drawing the New York City skyline entirely from memory. Guests had the rare opportunity to watch his process in real time, which was both awe-inspiring and deeply symbolic of the extraordinary talents within the autistic community. His presence was a moving reminder of what’s possible when we create spaces where every kind of mind is seen, supported, and celebrated.

Bergen Logistics went above and beyond this year when their Rutherford staff hand-crafted custom gift baskets for participants who have graduated from our training programs and are now employed full-time in their Value-Added Services (VAS) department. Each basket featured personalized notes, branded water bottles, and snacks chosen by the VAS team, celebrating the fact that these former trainees are now thriving colleagues. It was a touching reminder of how far our participants have come and of how true partnership extends well beyond a single event.

We added something extra sweet to this year’s Autism Acceptance Month by teaming up with Ben & Jerry’s in West New York for Free Cone Day. The line wrapped around the block as the community showed incredible support for Spectrum Works and the students who volunteered their time to scoop ice cream throughout the day. Our students were at the center of the celebration, proudly serving up treats. The whole day became an important reminder of how meaningful inclusion can start with simple, shared moments with those in your immediate community.

Autism Acceptance Month isn’t only about recognition. It’s about action. When companies open their doors to job training and employment opportunities for autistic individuals, they’re not just doing good, they’re getting access to loyal, talented, and uniquely capable employees who think differently and bring fresh perspectives to the table.

At Spectrum Works, we know that inclusion isn’t just the right thing to do…it’s a smart investment in the future of work. Our participants prove that every day. They bring curiosity, dedication, and creativity to their job sites. They challenge assumptions. And they show that with the right support, every person can succeed in meaningful employment.

As we continue to reflect on a month filled with connection, growth, and partnership, we’re reminded that real inclusion happens year-round. It’s in every hiring decision. Every workplace training. Every chance to listen, learn, and lead with empathy.

Thank you to all the companies, employees, interns, students, and supporters who helped make this Autism Acceptance Month such a powerful one. Together, we’re not just raising awareness, we’re creating change.

Let’s keep going.