Get Involved with Autism Speaks – You’ll be Glad You Did!

Just like the loved ones of the 750,000 children in the U.S. on the spectrum, my life has been touched by autism – a family friend has two young sons named Kevin and Liam who are affected by this heartbreaking disorder. To help them receive the therapy they need, the family moved to North Carolina where both boys are enrolled in a school that is dedicated to helping children with autism.

Over the years, I’ve also met other children with autism through my involvement with the Walk Now for Autism Speaks events. If anyone ever wondered why it was important to support this cause, the smiling faces of the children you meet at these events are the reason to get involved. Each year, I want to do more to help solve the autism puzzle. Beyond participating in my local Walk events, I’ve rallied colleagues to get involved and raise funds. In 2009, my department raised approximately $8,000 for Autism Speaks!

As for Kevin and Liam, they have made remarkable improvements in their abilities to communicate and embrace their environment. I eagerly follow their progress via letters and photos, and I revel in their successes.

A simple donation to Autism Speaks to support the good work they do can positively impact the life of a child with autism. I am proud to work at Toys“R”Us and participate in the company’s fundraising campaign to benefit Autism Speaks. I wish everyone would get involved in some way – you’ll be glad you did!

Dragana Trivic

Sales and Operations Planning

Toys“R”Us, Inc.

Wayne, NJ