(Extra)ordinary experiences

At Will Be Friends, our mission is to bridge the gap between autistic children and their neurotypical peers, creating a world where all children can thrive. 

Many autistic children face challenges in socializing and communicating in ways that others easily understand. Despite these barriers, their desire to connect and share joys—like jokes and games—is profound. This highlights a vital need: to educate neurotypical children about autism, helping them interpret behaviors and communication styles unique to their autistic peers.

Will Be Friends provides essential tools and guidance to foster these connections, enabling neurotypical kids to step confidently into the world of their autistic peers. Our programs focus on shared experiences that naturally promote friendship and understanding. By participating together in simple joys—laughing, playing, and learning—these children discover the immense value they bring to each other’s lives.

Our goal is not just inclusion but mutual enrichment, where neurotypical children learn the significance of empathy and autistic children experience the warmth of friendship. This dual journey not only lights up the lives of autistic children but also empowers their peers to appreciate the profound impact of their companionship. 

Together, we are building a compassionate community where every child can feel understood and valued for simply being themselves.

1. Personal Growth: Participation helps neurotypical peers develop key life skills such as empathy, patience, and communication, which are valuable in all areas of life.
2. Enhanced Social Skills: Engaging with diverse groups, including those with different abilities, can improve social adaptability and problem-solving skills.
3. Sense of Achievement: Being part of a program that makes a real difference in someone’s life can provide a profound sense of accomplishment and pride.
4. Building Friendships: The program facilitates genuine friendships based on understanding and shared experiences, which can be rewarding and enriching.
5. Educational Opportunities: Neurotypical peers gain unique educational experiences that deepen their understanding of autism, potentially sparking interests in fields like psychology, education, or social work.
6. Creating a More Inclusive Community: By participating, they contribute to a more inclusive, empathetic community, which benefits everyone by creating a more supportive social environment.
7. Leadership Skills: Taking initiative in such programs can develop leadership qualities, preparing participants for future roles in any capacity.
8. Civic Responsibility: The program instills a sense of civic duty and responsibility, teaching the importance of giving back to the community.
9. Enjoyment and Fun: The program is designed to be enjoyable, offering fun activities that all participants can share and delight in.
10. Recognition and Rewards: Participants can receive recognition for their volunteer work, which can be beneficial for college applications, job resumes, and other areas where demonstrating a commitment to community service is advantageous.

1. Promotes Inclusion: Ensures that autistic children are included in community activities, preventing social isolation.
2. Enhances Social Skills: Helps autistic children develop essential social skills through interaction with peers.
3. Reduces Stigma: Educates neurotypical peers about autism, reducing misconceptions and stigma associated with the condition.
4. Encourages Empathy: Fosters empathy and understanding among neurotypical children, helping them appreciate the perspectives and challenges of their autistic peers.
5. Provides Joyful Experiences: Allows autistic children to engage in fun and joyful activities they might otherwise miss out on, enhancing their quality of life.
6. Strengthens Community Bonds: Builds stronger community bonds by promoting diversity and understanding among young members of the community.
7. Supports Families: Offers support to families of autistic children by providing a safe and understanding environment for their children to thrive.
8. Cultivates Friendships: Facilitates the creation of meaningful friendships that can provide emotional and social support to autistic children.
9. Improves Neurotypical Awareness: Increases awareness and knowledge about autism among neurotypical individuals, leading to a more inclusive society.
10. Empowers Autistic Children: Empowers autistic children by providing them opportunities to succeed in social settings, boosting their confidence and self-esteem.