Happy New Year!

As we embrace 2025, CAAN continues its vital mission of strengthening connections, expanding opportunities, and investing in inclusion for the autistic and neurodivergent community throughout the Baton Rouge area.

2024 Recap:

The foundation we built in 2024 has positioned us to create even greater impact in the years ahead. Through thoughtful strategic planning, we developed a comprehensive multi-year roadmap (available on our website) that focuses on three key objectives: expanding our network, building strong business partnerships, and increasing community support leading to our inaugural annual conference.

At Playmakers for their sensory-friendly performance of *Frozen Jr.*

Our partnerships in 2024 demonstrated the power of collaboration in creating meaningful change. By working alongside respected organizations like LSU Baseball, Manship Theatre, Playmakers of Baton Rouge, and the Arts Council of Greater Baton Rouge, we helped establish new sensory-inclusive programming that enhances accessibility for our community. These initiatives not only provided immediate benefits but also raised awareness about neurodiversity and inclusive practices among business leaders and community members.

A particular highlight was our continuing partnership with Our Lady of the Lake Children's Health Pediatric Developmental Medicine. Together, we've successfully implemented sensory support bags across multiple locations, making our community more welcoming and comfortable for neurodivergent individuals and their families.

Looking Ahead: 2025 Priorities

Building on this momentum, we're excited to announce three transformative initiatives for 2025:

1. Educational Outreach Program

We're developing comprehensive training materials and educational resources to help businesses and community organizations better understand and accommodate neurodivergent individuals. This program will provide practical guidance for creating more inclusive environments and experiences.

2. Inaugural Neurodiversity Conference

This fall, we'll host our first annual Neurodiversity Conference in Baton Rouge. This landmark event will bring together experts, advocates, and community members to share knowledge, build connections, and advance understanding of neurodiversity in our region.

3. Community Impact Research Initiative

We're launching a robust data collection program that combines quantitative metrics with personal stories and experiences. This research will help us better understand our community's needs and measure our impact. Findings will be presented at our annual conference, providing valuable insights for future programming and advocacy efforts.

Your Support Makes a Difference

As we pursue these ambitious goals, your support is more important than ever. Every contribution helps us create more inclusive spaces, develop essential resources, and build a stronger support network for the autistic and neurodivergent community in Baton Rouge.

Here's how you can help:

Make a tax-deductible donation at www.caanbr.org/donate
Set up a monthly giving plan to provide sustained support
Consider a corporate matching gift through your employer
Share our mission with your network and help us grow our community

Your generosity directly funds programs that make a real difference in people's lives. Together, we can build a more inclusive, understanding, and supportive Capital Area for everyone.

Thank you for being part of our journey.

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