With nearly 17% of the students served by the Special School District (SSD) on the autism spectrum, we’re raising funds today on Give STL Day 2025 for the Special Education Foundation’s new initiative, the Autism Independence Project.
Give STL Day is a 24-hour online giving event that supports over a thousand local nonprofits in the St. Louis region, including the Special Education Foundation.
It's a chance for individuals, businesses, and organizations to unite and donate to the causes they care about, raising money and awareness for the region's charitable organizations.
In its initial pilot year, the Autism Independence Project has profoundly changed the lives of more than a dozen SSD students. It has enabled them to develop essential social skills, build friendships, and gain the confidence they need to thrive in the classroom and beyond.
But we need your help to keep this critical initiative going.
SUPPORT SEF’S AUTISM INDEPENDENCE PROJECT FOR GIVE STL DAY
By donating today during Give STL Day, you can double your donation thanks to a matching challenge from Pat and Ken Schutte, dedicated friends and loyal supporters of SEF. They will match all Give STL Day donations to the Special Education Foundation up to $2,500 for this year's fundraiser.
But remember, the time to act is now. Your support is crucial, and we need your donation today!
Your contribution will help students like Jaedon, who has been positively impacted by participating in the Autism Independence Project:
“Before Jaedon was part of the Autism Independence Project, he preferred sitting outside the classroom. Now, he confidently joins his classmates and even responds to their questions. What a major milestone in his social development!” ~Aniecia, mother
By donating today, your $50 gift will become $100, and your $250 contribution turns into $500, thanks to our match from the Schuttes.
Give STL Day is all about being part of a community of friends who come together through the generosity of giving to support organizations like the Special Education Foundation.
Won’t you please help with a $75 or $100 donation?
Today is the day. We’re counting on you to help push us over the top, and we're deeply grateful for your support in advance!
Together, we can build a brighter, more independent future for students with autism.
