1 in 31 — Every Light Matters

Shining a light on autism awareness, acceptance, and opportunity

In recognition of Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, we’re taking a moment to reflect, to understand, and to continue building a more inclusive path forward.

1 in 31 children.*

For many families, that number marks the beginning of a new journey —one filled with questions, adjustments, and learning a different way forward.

Then those children grow up.

They become adults —seeking purpose, connection, independence, and a place where they can truly shine.

Autism Doesn’t End at Childhood

Autism is often talked about in the context of early years —diagnoses, therapies, and school support.

But autism doesn’t end with childhood. It evolves.

As individuals grow, so do their goals, their challenges, and their opportunities.

Because progress doesn’t follow a straight line —and success doesn’t have just one definition.

More Than a Statistic

Autism isn’t one look. Isn’t one level. Isn’t one story.

It’s a spectrum of people —each with their own strengths, perspectives, and potential.

Each with their own light.

And with 1 in 31…

this isn’t something distant. It’s part of our communities, our workplaces, and our everyday lives.

Living the Mission at ACES

At ACES, that belief isn’t just something we say —it’s something we’re living.

We’re proud to have members of our own team who are on the spectrum —a natural reflection of what happens when people are given the space to grow and contribute.

Inclusion isn’t a program. It’s a practice.

And beyond our own organization, we’re committed to strengthening the broader community —supporting and promoting programs that are already creating meaningful opportunities for autistic adults.

Because lasting impact doesn’t happen in isolation. It grows when communities come together.

Creating Space for Opportunity

The ability is there. The drive is there. The light is there.

What’s needed are environments where that light can shine.

When opportunity meets potential, confidence grows. Connections deepen. Futures expand.

Looking Forward

1 in 31 isn’t just a number.

It’s a reminder —to keep shining a light on understanding, to create space for possibility, and to build a world where every individual is valued for who they are.

Because when people are truly seen, their light has a way of reaching further than we ever imagined. ✨

*CDC Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network, 2025. Approximately 1 in 31 U.S. children age 8 have been identified with autism spectrum disorder.

April in Action

April was a month of awareness—but more importantly, it was a month of action.

At ACES, we talk a lot about community, opportunity, and impact. This month, our players showed exactly what that looks like.

2,233 pounds of food were donated to local partners—1,810 pounds to The Pantry at Hamilton Mill and 423 pounds to the North Gwinnett Co-Op—helping support individuals and families in our community facing food insecurity.

In one week of play, 109 players donated over $3,200 to support Adventure Bags, Inc., which provides essential-filled backpacks to children in crisis across Georgia. Each bag includes items like blankets, stuffed animals, toiletries, and heartfelt notes—small items that bring comfort and a sense of normalcy during difficult moments.

This effort brings two forces together: players raising funds and awareness, and Adventure Bags creating and delivering these bags to shelters. It’s a shared mission—supporting children when they need it most—and a powerful reminder of what a caring community can do together.

We also proudly supported employment opportunities through our monthly sponsorship of Special Kneads & Treats as a C.A.K.E. Sponsor (Contributors Assuring Kindhearted Empowerment).

With 83 recurring donors helping sustain this mission, every contribution—monthly or annual—creates meaningful, lasting opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. Learn more or become a C.A.K.E. Sponsor yourself! https://specialkneadsandtreats.org/make-a-difference/sponsorships/

Additionally, we are thankful to continue supporting Spectrum Autism Support Group, including our recent Pathway of Inclusion brick sponsorship. We look forward to celebrating alongside the community as this meaningful project comes to life.

Pathway of Inclusion Celebration

📅 Sunday, May 31

🕑 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM

📍 Spectrum Autism Support Center

2997 Main St., Duluth, GA

This will be a casual, joyful gathering to walk the pathway, find personalized bricks, and celebrate the impact of a community coming together.

What starts here reaches further than we see—into homes, into real needs, and into lives we’re honored to support.

That’s the heart of this community.

Thank you to every player who showed up, gave back, and made April matter.

💙💛❤️