Since then, Autism Speaks has grown into the nation’s largest autism science and advocacy organization, dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.

Their longtime friend Bernie Marcus donated $25 million to help financially launch the organization.

Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Bob and Suzanne Wright, grandparents of a child with autism.

More donations are needed. For more information, visit autismspeaksscv.com