Autism Awareness Fair Ignites Joy, Connection, and Practical Support for Neurodiverse Families
By Office of the President | Oct 7, 2025
On Sunday, September 28, 2025, Downstate welcomed children, teens, adults with autism, family members, clinicians, and neighborhood partners for the 2025 Autism Resource and Awareness Fair. Organized by the Department of Pediatrics’ Division of Child Development, Brooklyn Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and other related Disabilities (Brooklyn LEND), and students from the School of Health Professions and the College of Medicine, the fair blended celebration with concrete resources: service tables, referrals, and on-the-spot guidance that families could act on immediately.
The day moved comfortably between play and purpose. A sensory gym, face-painting, participatory art projects, an ice cream truck, a DJ, and live performances from the Epic Players, a Brooklyn program that showcases neurodiverse singers and artists, filled the grounds with energy. At dozens of resource tables, families met behavioral health providers, community programs, and Downstate teams prepared to help with next steps and navigation.
Volunteers and outreach workers connected attendees to community-based services and distributed multilingual guides. They assisted families in registering for follow-up care. The campaign’s community-centered approach amplified the fair’s reach, making it easier for families to move from information to action. Resource guides on Autism Services Across the Lifespan were also provided in Haitian Kreyol, Spanish, and English.
Alishia Goodridge, MBA, Assistant Vice President of Government & Community Relations, served as emcee. At the same time, clinicians, community leaders, family members, and self-advocates spoke directly to the crowd. NYC Council Member Rita Joseph (District 40) described the city’s efforts to expand support for neurodiverse New Yorkers, noting progress on the AIMS program for young children with autism spectrum disorder. Parents and self-advocates described their lived experiences with clarity and courage, helping the audience see how practical supports can change daily life.
Some of the most moving moments were quiet and human: a child who initially refused to join in, then began to draw with a visiting children’s book artist; a youngster who brightened up at the sight of a gifted fidget spinner; parents who watched with relief and pride as neurodiverse singers delivered Broadway-quality numbers. Those moments showed how dignity, joy, and help arrive together.
By the afternoon’s close, clinicians from multiple disciplines and neighbors from across Brooklyn were trading contacts, referrals, and plans for collaboration. The fair celebrated neurodiversity, strengthening ties between families and services, and delivering a clear message that when community, care, and resources come together, we #KeepCareClose and help families find more ways to thrive.
We thank the families, volunteers, clinicians, students, partners, and community leaders whose commitment and care made the fair possible. Among the day’s most compelling voices were Efekona Nuwere, Ed.D., MPH, OTR/L, who underscored the importance of inclusive care and workforce training; Ghulamulah Shahzad, M.D., who spoke movingly as a physician and a parent; Francisco Rivera, who highlighted the FDNY/H+H B-HEARD program’s work with first responders to support neurodiverse individuals in crisis; Silvie Lundgren, a Downstate medical student and self-advocate whose testimony inspired families and providers; and Esti Sperber, who brought a parent’s insight to the conversation. Harris Huberman, M.D., also spoke, adding his long-standing perspective as a pediatrician and advocate for children with autism.
Special thanks go to Neelima Nayyar-Gujral for her leadership in planning, and to Suri Regensberg for her steady support behind the scenes. Their generosity of time and spirit ensured that every moment of the day reflected dignity, joy, and hope.
Tags: Community Health and Wellness, Events, Downstate Health