🌟 EmPath for Autism: Highlights, Deeper Connections & What’s Ahead
Dear EmPath Families & Friends,
As we embrace a new season, we’re reminded of the incredible strength, resilience, and heart of our community. At EmPath for Autism, this past month has been a beautiful blend of new beginnings, deep conversations, and meaningful progress. Whether you're a longtime supporter or just getting to know us, we’re so glad you’re here — and we’ve got a lot to share with you!
💬 Mom Chat: A Heartfelt Beginning — and the Start of Something Beautiful
On April 12th, we held our very first Autism Moms Chat, and what unfolded was nothing short of extraordinary. Co-hosted by Leslie Williams, our Board President, and Ashley Shinholster, author and creator of Be U Bear, this gathering created a much-needed space for moms to simply be — to exhale, to laugh, to cry, and to connect without judgment.
With warm meals, respite care, and heartfelt conversations, the room filled with shared experiences and powerful honesty. Many moms said it was the first time they felt truly seen — not just as caregivers, but as women navigating an intense and beautiful journey.
“There’s something powerful about being in a room where moms really understand each other.”
📅 Save the Date: Next Mom Chat
🗓 Tuesday, April 2nd
🕛 12 PM – 3 PM
📍 We Rock the Spectrum – Cincinnati
📍 Deer Park Library
We’re bringing the same heart, the same support, and even more opportunities to connect. Whether it’s your first time joining or you’re returning for more, we hope to see you there.
👕 JagSwag Spotlight: Friendship That Lasts
Our current JagSwag feature — created by our very own Bennett — has been a fan favorite! With the beautiful quote:
"The best ships are friendships,"
this design celebrates the meaningful relationships that anchor us in community.
🛍️ Available until May 31st only
⏳ Once it’s gone, it’s gone — orders ship within 10 days of close.
📦 Perfect for gifting to friends, family, or your favorite autism advocate.
Every purchase supports our mission, and more importantly, spreads joy and inclusion.
🏅 Join Us at the 2025 Special Olympics Ohio State Summer Games!
We’re honored to be participating in the 2025 Special Olympics Ohio State Summer Games, where thousands of athletes will come together to compete, celebrate, and inspire.
📍 Ohio State University – RPAC
📅 Saturday, June 14, 2025
🕘 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
🎈 Find us at Family Resource Row with information, giveaways, and warm conversations.
This event is a celebration of inclusion and ability — and we’d love for you to come be part of it.
🎬 JagTagV2 Is Coming — And It’s Better Than Ever!
Your feedback has been heard, and we’re excited to introduce the next generation of our beloved wearable communication tool: JagTagV2!
New Features Include:
✅ Waterproof for everyday adventures
✅ Multiple size options for growing kids and adults
✅ Glow-in-the-dark for fun, safety, and nighttime visibility
JagTagV2 is all about making communication more accessible, stylish, and empowering for our community. We’ll be sharing launch dates, pre-order info, and sneak peeks soon — stay tuned!
🏊 Making Waves: Inclusive Swim Program Launches This Summer
We are overjoyed to announce a new inclusive swim initiative in collaboration with Lakota YMCA and the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities!
These sensory-friendly sessions will offer:
Certified instructors trained in autism inclusion
Smaller class sizes
Adapted activities for comfort and safety
Encouragement for every swimmer — whether they’re beginners or building new skills.
💦 This is about more than swim lessons — it’s about confidence, joy, and belonging.
📅 Registration will open soon — be on the lookout!
🌱 Why This Matters
Every event, every product, and every partnership at EmPath for Autism is rooted in one belief:
Every child deserves to be seen, heard, and celebrated.
And every parent deserves community, compassion, and support along the way.
We are not a one-size-fits-all organization — we are a listening, growing, evolving family. Whether you're navigating a new diagnosis, looking for inclusive programs, or just needing to know you're not alone — we’re here for you.
🤝 Stay Connected — We’d Love to Hear From You
Let’s keep this momentum going together.
📱 Follow us: @EmPathForAutism on Instagram & Facebook
📧 Email: info@empathforautism.com
🌐 Website: empathforautism.com
👩👩👧👦 Join our Parent Support Group to connect with others on the journey
With Gratitude & Love,
💙 Leslie Williams
Board President, EmPath for Autism
"Love Everybody."