Diversity and Inclusion

At the Special Needs Network, Inc. (SNN) we believe that society thrives when diverse talents, experiences, perspectives, and cultures are welcomed and celebrated.

We envision a world where everyone, especially those on the autism spectrum, can fully participate, contribute, and succeed to their fullest potential. Regardless of neuro-divergence, differing abilities, ethnicity, nationality, race, religion, immigration status, or sexual orientation, every person deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. 

As a part of the global push to create and sustain equitable and inclusive workplace ecosystems, we’ve implemented the following guiding pillars—Empathy, Value, Intersectionality, Compassionate Care, Collaborative Leadership, and Belonging. More than aspirations, these core values shape the behaviors that we expect of our employees, our board members, and strategic partnerships.

We are committed to act with purpose and intention to:

Champion diversity by building a community of equity champions who are as diverse as the community we serve.

Invite open, transparent dialogue among diverse voices and perspectives to shape impactful scientific research, clinical services, and educational opportunities centered around autism spectrum disorder.

Commit to equal and open access for all. We seek to provide our services, programs, and research opportunities to all who could benefit, regardless of racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic background.

Advocate for an end to disparities in access to autism services, healthcare, and community supports in disadvantaged areas and/or in communities of color.

It is with these commitments in mind that we stand in solidarity with those who promote human rights and who work peacefully to end systemic racism and social injustices. We acknowledge these systems create unacceptable disparities in education, support, and services for individuals on the autism spectrum, based on socio-economic factors, race, and ethnicity. We pledge to continually celebrate and cultivate a diverse community, while working to ensure that each person on the autism spectrum can reach his, her, or their full potential, living a life of meaning and purpose.