SUYL: Autism Speaks & USO

As a Speech Pathology student, I have become more aware of the affects that autism has on individuals as well as families. Autism is, "a lifelong developmental disability that affects how a person communicates with and relates to other people. It also affects how they make sense of the world around them." With that being said, one of my favorite charities has become "Autism Speaks". Here is a little information about the charity: 

Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Bob and Suzanne Wright, grandparents of a child with autism. Their longtime friend Bernie Marcus donated $25 million to help financially launch the organization. Since then, Autism Speaks has grown into the world's leading autism science and advocacy organization, dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. We are proud of what we've been able to accomplish and look forward to continued successes in the years ahead.

Also, I am a huge fan of the USO - for more than one reason. The main reason being that they are wonderful at giving back to those who give US so much, but another reason is they seem to truly appreciate the people that give to their charity. They send personalized stamps, calendars, notebooks every couple of months, and they always keep you up to date about what's going on within their charity and where your money is being spent. Here is some information about them: 

Our Mission: The USO lifts the spirits of America’s troops and their families. 

Millions of times each year at hundreds of locations around the world, the USO lifts the spirits of America’s troops and their families.  A nonprofit, congressionally chartered, private organization, the USO relies on the generosity of individuals, organizations and corporations to support its activities. The USO is not part of the U.S. government, but is recognized by the Department of Defense, Congress and President of the United States, who serves as Honorary Chairman of the USO.