I volunteer for Autism Speaks because:

..."I believe in the mission that Autism Speaks has established to focus on the bigger picture of helping the families, the community and developing that research piece. I volunteer because, if not me then who will stand up for my children and make a difference." 
         -  Jennifer Smith Currier, mother of Corinne and Cameron

..."I volunteer for Autism Speaks because I want to secure the future of my son." 
         - Stewart Jackson, father of Joshua

We are always looking for volunteers to help plan an event or join an existing committee. Please contact kansascity@autismspeaks.org if you would like to get involved.

Community Leadership Committee Descriptions

• Family Services Liaison Chair
  • Sub-Committee provides feedback from community stakeholders in an effort to ensure that local community needs are addressed.
• Community Advocacy Chair 
  • Sub-Committee activates the local grassroots advocacy efforts in accordance with national autism initiatives.
• Science Ambassador Chair
  • Sub-Committee educates local community about Autism Speaks science initiatives and portfolios.
• Walk Now for Autism Chair
  • Planning Committee - help plan and execute the walk.
  • Team Mentoring Committee - mentor new team captains. If you can volunteer to make some calls and answer some questions about how to recruit and motivate teams this committee is for you.
  • Corporate Sponsorship Committee - create list of prospects and help to reach out to potential local sponsors.
  • Walk Kick-Off Dinner Committee - organize events to help us Kick-Off the Kansas City Walk in style.
  • Youth Committee - plan mini events and volunteer on Walk Day. Opportunities for involvement are available for all age levels. 
  • Community Outreach Committee - recruit new team captains, get your local stores and schools involved and spread the word about Autism Speaks right in your own backyard.
  • Resource Fair Committee – recruit and build the Community Resource Fair.
  • Publicity Committee - responsible for many of the public relations and marketing aspects of the Walk event, including media relations, media sponsorships and public service announcements. 
  • Walk Day Logistics Committee - help with the nuts and bolts of the walk day and all of the equipment needed for a safe and fun day. Many hands make light work.
  • Food & Refreshments Committee - secure food and beverage donations. Lots of walkers means lots of hungry people on Walk Day.
  • Entertainment Committee - recruit entertainers and develop creative activities for Walk Day. Walk Day is family fun day.