At the Ackerman Center, we recognized that many women living with autism spectrum disorder, especially those who are newly exploring their identity, often struggle to find spaces where they feel understood, supported, and accepted. Many have spent years masking, second-guessing their needs, or feeling like they didn’t quite fit in.

That’s why we created Craft n Chat: a welcoming and creative space for women living with autism, or those who are exploring whether they might be, to find connection, community, and self-expression without pressure. Whether you’ve had a formal diagnosis, identify as self-diagnosed, or are just beginning to ask questions about yourself, you belong here.

Caring for a child with neurodevelopmental differences is a journey filled with love, advocacy, and connection. But it also brings exhaustion, grief, and isolation. For many caregivers, this emotional labor becomes a silent, unseen burden—rarely acknowledged but deeply felt.

Living with a neurodevelopmental condition—such as autism, ADHD, or fetal alcohol spectrum disorder—comes with unique strengths, perspectives, and challenges. But too often, the mental health needs of these individuals are overlooked, misunderstood, or overshadowed by a focus on diagnoses and behaviors.

At The Ackerman Center, we believe that supporting mental health is just as important as addressing developmental needs. Every person deserves to feel seen, valued, and supported—not just for who they are, but for how they feel.

At the Ackerman Center, we believe every person deserves the opportunity to realize their full potential—regardless of ability or diagnosis. For teens and young adults living with autism and other neurodevelopmental conditions, that path often begins with meaningful employment, skill-building, and support from a community that believes in their future.

Summer is just around the corner, and families across the Las Vegas Valley are looking for ways to keep kids active, engaged, and learning.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently reported that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) now affects 1 in 31 children aged 8 in the United States, marking the highest prevalence recorded to date.

On Saturday, April 12th, the Grant a Gift Autism Foundation - Ackerman Center held its 16th Annual RACE FOR HOPE fun run at Town Square Las Vegas. This year, we set a new record with 1000+ participants — our highest turnout ever! We also welcomed an all-time high of 45 resource fair vendors, each sharing important resources and support with our community.

Ready, set, go! Here are the details you need to know if you are racing for hope on Saturday, April 12th @ Town Square!