From a Mother’s Heart: The Enduring Legacy of KNOWAutism
KNOWAutism’s story begins in 2013, a testament to the unwavering spirit of a mother, Tammy Tran Nguyen. Fueled by a deeply personal desire to empower families facing autism, Tammy envisioned a future where navigating diagnosis, treatment, and education wouldn’t be a solitary struggle.
A relentless spirit and a shoestring budget marked the early years. Tammy laid the groundwork for a supportive community alongside a dedicated team of volunteers, board members, and supporters. They understood the importance of accessible resources and created a curated online library–a vital lifeline for families seeking information and connection.
This commitment to inclusivity extended beyond language barriers. Educational seminars reached social workers, therapists, and counselors at the Asian American Family Services center, ensuring diverse communities had access to vital knowledge. Additionally, KNOWAutism provided crucial financial support for projects like the Light and Salt Special Needs Center at the Chinese Community Center, a testament to their dedication to serving all families touched by autism.
As KNOWAutism’s impact grew, so did its focus. Recognizing a critical gap in Houston’s resources, Tammy and her team played a pivotal role in launching The Stewart Center at The Westview School in 2013. This specialized center provided a much-needed safe haven for comprehensive assessments, diagnosis, and early intervention for children with autism.
Our commitment doesn’t stop at Houston’s borders. A grant provided to Centro De Autismo Cozumel in Mexico for their autism diagnostic program ensured that 400 children received vital testing. This act embodies KNOWAutism’s unwavering belief that “Age Does Not Matter! Autism Affects Everyone.”
The organization’s evolution continued with a shift towards direct financial assistance for families and support for community efforts geared towards children with special needs. As of January 2024, KNOWAutism has transformed the lives of countless families, helping cover diagnostic testing, treatments, special interest programs, and even disaster relief.
KNOWAutism’s impact transcends financial support. By forging powerful community partnerships, the organization has enriched the lives of countless individuals. This collaborative spirit is evident in our work with TUTS/The River, which brought inclusive arts education to hundreds of students through the Community Arts Residencies program. This partnership underscores KNOWAutism’s unwavering commitment to creating a world where every child, regardless of ability, can experience the joy and self-expression that the arts offer.
The momentum continues with the newest partnership–the Houston Ballet’s Adapted Dance Off-Site program. Through KNOWAutism’s support, the program will expand to eight additional series, serving an additional 130 students. This program pairs trained staff with schools, hospitals, and other organizations, providing dance classes specifically tailored to students facing neurological and physical challenges.
KNOWAutism’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of a mother’s love, unwavering dedication, and collaborative spirit. As the organization grows, one thing remains constant: a tireless commitment to empower families, celebrate diversity, and create a world where all individuals with autism can thrive.
