As both the Executive Director of the Autism Society of Mahoning Valley and an Autism mom, I know how the holiday season can bring a mix of joy, pressure, sensory overwhelm, and social expectations. Many of us have experienced the stress of gatherings that feel too loud, too bright, or simply too demanding for our families. And many of us also know what it feels like when invitations become fewer, or when holiday traditions just do not fit our children’s needs.

I am honored to introduce myself as the new Executive Director of the Autism Society of the Mahoning Valley. While some of you may already know me through my years on the Board of Directors, this marks a new and exciting chapter, one that feels both deeply personal and full of promise.

The first few weeks of school are behind us, and if you’re the parent of an autistic child, you’ve probably already experienced both the joys and the challenges of a new school year.

There’s something powerful about watching a young person’s eyes light up when they realize they’ve just written their first lines of code—or built a working robot with their own hands. That light is possibility. That spark is purpose. For our transition-age autistic teens and young adults, that moment of discovery can be transformational.

The Autism Society of Mahoning Valley extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who made our 6th Annual Mahoning Valley Warrior event a success! Held on Saturday, May 31, at the Canfield Fairgrounds, the day was filled with athletic challenges, family fun, and meaningful support for the local autism community.

At the Autism Society of the Mahoning Valley, we believe in the power of connection—and nowhere is that more evident than at our Mahoning Valley Warrior event. Each year, hundreds of families, friends, service providers, schools, businesses, and advocates gather to walk, run, pull tractors, lift, laugh, and share stories.

This may be my first official experience as a Mahoning Valley Warrior, but in reality, I have been preparing for this role for the entirety of my daughter’s life.

I remember the fear. The uncertainty. The loneliness.

It’s labeled transition when a child moves from one task or situation to another. Regarding teens and young adults on the autism spectrum or other special needs, so much time, energy, and worry goes into transitions.

For some, it’s decorating with mums and enjoying the annual Pumpkin Spice Latte. As a parent of two boys with autism, it’s trying to do this while trying to balance our world.

I always take a moment at the start of the calendar year and then again at the beginning of the school year to evaluate how we are doing.