According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects 1 in 36 children in the United States today. In fact, it’s estimated that over 5.4 million adults in the U.S. – over 2% of the population – are on the autism spectrum. Autism affects individuals and families worldwide, and it has touched the lives of many in our GoMacro® family.

Early intervention - including diagnosis, treatment, and support - is crucial as it significantly improves numerous outcomes. Many people with ASD live independently, work, and contribute to their local communities. This high quality of life is more likely when appropriate services and programs are accessible throughout the lifespan. In addition, new research, innovation, and access to accurate information are key to supporting the well-being of those affected by ASD.

That’s why we’re so excited to share that we’re expanding our Give Back Bar® program to support two new annual partners: Autism Society of America and Autism Tree. Last year, we launched a Give Back Day, in which a portion of net proceeds from sales of all Kids MacroBars® were donated to Autism Tree. Thanks to your support, the initiative was such a success that we felt passionate about expanding it.

This year, a portion of net proceeds from March sales of all Kids MacroBars will be donated to nonprofit organizations Autism Society and Autism Tree.

Meet Autism Society

Autism Society is dedicated to creating connections and empowering autistic individuals, their families, and support professionals by connecting them to the resources needed to live fully. Through education, advocacy, support, information and referral, and community programming, they work towards a world in which everyone has access to the support they need when they need it.

As the nation’s oldest leading grassroots autism organization, the Autism Society and its approximately 70 affiliates serve over half a million members of the autism community each year. The organization serves as a trusted leader for autistic individuals and families navigating their unique and diverse autism experience. By championing initiatives that advance equitable opportunities in healthcare, education, employment, policy, and more, the organization uniquely executes a national reach with meaningful, local impact across the United States. Over the last 59 years, the Autism Society network has become a driving force in the pursuit of dignity, equity, and inclusion for all individuals within the autism community.

Meet Autism Tree

San Diego-based Autism Tree was established in 2003 by parents Todd and Dayna Hoff following their son’s autism diagnosis. Autism Tree supports families through their four core values: embrace, connect, empower, and create. “We embrace every family with love and acceptance. We connect every family with a community of resources. We empower you to build a better world by investing in your vision. We create organic relationships, meaningful opportunities, and lasting friendships.”

The organization provides over 200 community-based events annually under their diverse array of programs, each created to engage the autism community in a variety of play-centered activities that build social confidence and communication skills. Along with building a loving and encouraging community, Autism Tree helps thousands of families create a roadmap for their children and navigate the very complex system of care required for some individuals with autism spectrum disorder.

Additionally, the organization offers early intervention preschool screenings in San Diego County and the Bay Area which have impacted over 2.8 million children to date. Autism Tree’s programs and events are designed to give neurodiverse people a voice and build community compassion toward the parents and families of these individuals. They are all offered completely free of charge to any family affected by autism or developmental delays.

How You Can Make an Impact

“Autism has directly impacted the GoMacro family, so these Give Back partnerships are personally meaningful to us,” says Jola Sonkin, CEO and Co-Founder of GoMacro. “‘Be Well’ is one of Our 5 Principles that are foundational to our mission as a company, and we’re proud to support organizations that promote healthy, happy lives for everyone.”

Join GoMacro in supporting autism advocacy by shopping any of your favorite Kids MacroBars online or in-store throughout the month of March. To get connected with resources and support for autism spectrum disorder, visit autismsociety.org or autismtreeproject.org