i grew up in and out of non-profits. it was incredible and i adore the community-oriented work i’ve done.

my background.

MY BROTHER ON THE SPECTRUM

I am so lucky to have Henry, my brother. He is everything to me. Here, take a look at me talking about him almost ten years ago. This jump-started me into really supporting Autism Speaks at a young age. They did everything for us and made what was a difficult upbringing into a loving and ideal lifestyle. I went on to work with other autism/disability services, even studying it in school for two years, before moving to design.

MY MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS

I have grown to be a huge proponent for openness in mental health after growing up around so much awareness of it, working with other organizations such as Active Minds. I moved over ten times before I graduated high school, so my mental health took a toll throughout. All being said, I am thankful and lucky that I had this opportunity to struggle so that I can support mental health awareness better as a whole.

MY INFLUENCE ON OTHERS

As I move forward in life, I do some influencing of my own online and I try to propagate an environment of connection and healthy lifestyles in terms of mental health, LGBTQ+, and disability inclusivity, among other social issues that continue to impact me personally. The more opportunity I have to support these social movements, the more satisfied I become as an individual.

Autism Speaks

outside of design.

AUTISM SPEAKS

I grew up with Autism Speaks, volunteering from the age of 8 on. I have been a volunteer, a designer, a supporter, and even a musical act for them. This continues today, still supporting their in-person Chicago events and galas.

PROVAIL

After my school years, I moved straight back to disability services this time with individuals in the workforce. I cherish the memories I had in Seattle working for this non-profit. I supported several individuals in Seattle to get, keep and work jobs usually meant for neurotypical individuals.

SPECIAL RECREATION ASSOCIATION

The first job that I kept from 16-20 was with Western DuPage Special Recreation Association. As a seasonal support aid, I assisted individuals with disabilities to help them be and feel included in recreational activities around the county. I supported hundreds of individuals and will always be thankful for the memories the organization cultivated for me.