If you’ve ever felt like you’re standing on a small island while the rest of the world is on the mainland, I want you to know something right now: I see you.
When we first received Marcus’s diagnosis, I remember that overwhelming feeling of being handed a map with no legend. You have the papers, you have the appointments, and maybe you even have a therapy schedule, but where is the community? Where are the people who can look you in the eye and say, "I’ve been there, and here is how we’re going to get through this together"?
That is exactly why we created the Parent Education & Empowerment Program. At We Are Autism, we believe that while therapy for our children is vital, support for the parents and caregivers is the foundation that keeps everything standing. We aren't just giving you information; we are building a support network.
When I say we are building a support network, I mean we are bringing in the "heavy hitters" who truly care about our families. We’ve partnered with organizations and advocates who are dedicated to making sure you have the resources you need to advocate for your child with confidence.
Understanding the system is half the battle. We’ve invited the DDS to help our families connect with real resources, services, and opportunities that many parents don’t even know exist. They are there to help you open doors that might have felt locked.
Communication is everything. Whether your child uses words, signs, or a device, the experts from UMass Amherst will be joining us to talk about language development. For our bilingual families, this is especially crucial. We want to make sure every child has a way to express their heart.
We often talk about the child’s wellness, but what about yours? MetroCare is coming in to focus on caregiver wellness and family mental health. You cannot pour from an empty cup, and we want to make sure your cup is being refilled with support and strategies for your own emotional health.
We are also so blessed to have Abby Care, Respiro Azul, and the incredible Jacqueline Williams-Hines joining us. Jacqueline brings a wealth of lived experience and encouragement that only another parent who has walked this path can provide.
Many of our families find themselves in a "gap." Maybe you’re on a long waitlist for ABA services, or maybe your child has aged out of certain programs and you’re wondering, “What now?”
Navigating the autism journey can feel like a full-time job without a manual. That’s why, starting Wednesday, June 17, 2026, we are gathering at the Hispanic-American Library at Union Station in Springfield to bridge that gap. This isn't just a class; it’s a sanctuary. It’s a place where you can ask the "silly" questions, share the hard wins, and realize that you have a whole team of experts and fellow parents standing right behind you.
This 8-week journey is designed to be practical. I know you’re busy, I’m a mom, I get it! We aren't here to give you more "homework." We’re here to give you tools. Alongside guidance from guest speakers like DDS, UMass Amherst, MetroCare, and our community partners, each week is designed to help families grow in confidence, connection, and everyday support at home.
Our 8 weekly topics include:
Understanding Autism: Myths, Facts & Foundations
Parenting Beyond Therapy Hours
Building Structure & Routines at Home
Understanding Behavior as Communication
Supporting Communication at Home
Partnering with Schools & Providers
Caregiver Burnout & Emotional Well-Being
Real-Life Parenting Challenges, Community Support & Celebration
If you’ve watched our Building Bridges videos, you know we love to break things down into steps that actually make sense for a busy household. This program is the "live" version of that mission.
At the conclusion of this 8-week program, we will also hold a special celebration ceremony for participating families. It will be a time to honor your growth, your commitment, and the progress you’ve made along the way together as a community. That final gathering will reflect the heart of week eight, where real-life parenting, community support, and celebration all come together.
I am so proud to say that this program is completely free for parents and caregivers. We know that the financial strain of raising a child with extra needs is real, and we never want a price tag to stand in the way of support.
This is only possible because of the incredible generosity of our sponsors. A huge thank you to Monson Savings Bank and Country Bank for believing in our families and investing in the Springfield community. Their support means that we can provide high-quality education and a supportive space at no cost to you.
We want to see your face in the room! Whether you are a "pro" at this or you just received a diagnosis yesterday, there is a seat at the table for you.
The Details You Need:
Click Here to Register and Reserve Your Spot
Spaces are limited because we want to keep the group intimate enough for real connection, so please sign up as soon as you can.
I know it takes a lot of energy to show up. I know that by 6:00 PM on a Wednesday, you’ve probably already had a very long day. But I promise you, when you walk into that library, you aren't walking into a lecture. You’re walking into a hug.
You are going to meet other parents who "get it." You’re going to meet experts who want to help. And most importantly, you’re going to realize that you aren't doing this alone.
While you're waiting for the program to start, I encourage you to check out some of our inclusive children's books like Marcus Good Boy or Aaliyah Moves in Her Own Way. These stories are built on the same foundation as our program: celebrating our children exactly as they are.
I can't wait to meet you on June 17th. Let's build this support network together.
With love and connection,
Aunty Charlene
Founder, We Are Autism
Charlene Pinnock is the founder of We Are Autism, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering parents and caregivers of children on the autism spectrum. As a mother navigating her own journey with autism, Charlene brings both lived experience and heartfelt compassion to her work. Through education, community programs, and real-life resources, she is committed to creating a space where families feel seen, supported, and understood. Charlene’s mission is simple yet powerful: to ensure that no parent walks the autism journey alone.
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