Serving Chicagoland families on their autism journey

Supporting Families. Promoting Safety. Creating Opportunities.

Autism is the Norm serves children with autism, families, single parents, and all caregivers seeking guidance and support in the Chicagoland area.

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Autism is the Norm — Support, Educate, Empower, Include

Free Community Event

Coats for Kids — Free Winter Coat Giveaway

No family left behind. Autism Is The Norm is hosting a FREE winter coat distribution for children and families in need. All coats are brand new!

Thursday, Nov 12, 202612:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Broadview Public Library2226 16th Ave, Broadview, IL 60155

Available ItemsCoats (infant–16/18), hygiene kits, socks & underwear

⚠️Youth sizes only — no adult coats available. While supplies last.

Special thanks to our partner Cradles to Crayons for providing the coats and supporting our community.

Monthly Program

Apply for Baby Beginnings

Our Baby Beginnings monthly program supports families with essential resources. Apply below or open the form directly.

⚠️Capacity has been reached for November. Applications for December will be available by mid-November.

Open Application Form

Monthly Program

Guest Speaker Sign Up

Join us for our Baby Beginnings monthly guest speaker series. Sign up below or open the form directly to reserve your spot.

Open Sign Up Form

Our Impact

200+

Families Supported

10+

Programs Available

100%

Community First

What We Offer

Our Programs

From safety and wellness to youth development and family support — we offer over 10 programs designed to meet families where they are on their autism journey.

Baby Beginnings

Diapers, wipes, baby essentials, clothing, and referrals for expecting and new moms.

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Reducing Elopement & Improving Safety

Education, safety planning, and practical tools to prevent wandering and keep children safe.

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Autism Works – Job Readiness

Career exploration, résumé development, and interview prep for autistic youth and young adults.

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Virtual Parent & Caregiver Support Groups

Monthly virtual sessions for caregivers to share, connect, and find support.

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Creative Learning & Self-Expression

Inclusive arts, crafts, and recreational activities that build confidence and social skills.

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Family Support & Resource Navigation

Connecting families to community resources, benefits, healthcare, and educational supports.

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Holiday Hope & Winter Essentials

Toys, gifts, and winter essentials for families experiencing financial hardship during the holidays.

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Safety & Prevention

Crisis support, mental health safety planning, and homelessness prevention for families.

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Food Pantry

Hunger reduction resources and food assistance for families in need.

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Therapy Programs

Connections to behavioral therapy, mental health counseling, and caregiver support services.

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Financial Resources

Financial literacy, assistance programs, and economic empowerment for families.

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Education Workshops

Community workshops on diagnosis navigation, IEP advocacy, and sensory-friendly training.

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View All Programs

Baby Essentials

Request Pull-Ups

Need pull-ups for your child? Fill out the form below or click the button to open it directly.

Open Request Form

Real Community. Real Impact.

Images of Impact: A Visual Journey of Autism is the Norm's Outreach

A Story of Strength

Kameryn's Journey

Kameryn is the son of our founder, Takiyah Edwards, and one of the reasons Autism is the Norm was created. His journey is at the heart of everything we do — a testament to resilience, love, and the power of community.

ResilienceCommunityLoveGrowth

See His Full Story

Baby Beginnings Program

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about the Baby Beginnings Monthly Essentials Program.

What is the Baby Beginnings Monthly Essentials Program?+

The Baby Beginnings Monthly Essentials Program is an initiative of Autism Is The Norm, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting expecting and new mothers experiencing financial hardship. The program provides essential baby supplies, community resources, and referrals to help reduce financial stress and promote family well-being.

Who is eligible to apply?+

Expecting mothers and new mothers experiencing financial hardship are encouraged to apply. Applications are reviewed based on household needs, eligibility, program capacity, and available resources.

What items are provided?+

Approved participants may receive: one pack of diapers, gently used baby clothing (when available), baby books and pacifiers (based on availability), additional baby essentials when donated supplies permit, and a community resource list with information about additional family support services. Please note: Pull-ups are available by request only and are not included in the standard monthly distribution.

Can an expecting or new mom receive services every month?+

Our program is designed to support as many mothers as possible. To ensure fair access to resources, participants may receive assistance up to twice per calendar year, depending on program capacity and supply availability. Monthly participation is not guaranteed.

Do I need to complete an application?+

Yes. All participants must complete an application and receive approval before receiving assistance through the Monthly Essentials Program.

Does submitting an application guarantee assistance?+

No. Submitting an application does not guarantee approval or services. Assistance is based on eligibility, available supplies, and program capacity.

Is there a cost to participate?+

No. The Baby Beginnings Monthly Essentials Program is completely free for approved participants.

When does the program begin?+

The program officially launches on November 2, 2026. Distribution is scheduled for the first Monday of every month, unless otherwise announced.

Where and when can approved participants pick up supplies?+

Location: Broadview, Illinois 60155. Distribution Schedule: First Monday of every month. Pickup Hours: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM. The exact pickup address will be provided only to approved applicants following application review and approval. Walk-ins are not permitted.

Can I pick up supplies without an approved application?+

No. The Monthly Essentials Program operates through an application and approval process. Walk-in assistance is not available.

What if I cannot attend my scheduled pickup?+

We strongly encourage all approved participants to attend their scheduled pickup date and time. If you are unable to attend, please notify Autism Is The Norm as soon as possible. We will make every effort to accommodate alternative pickup arrangements; however, alternative arrangements are not guaranteed and are subject to program availability and resources.

Are specific diaper sizes guaranteed?+

No. Diaper sizes are distributed based on available inventory. We make every effort to accommodate each family's needs. Pull-ups must be requested separately and are subject to availability.

Can I request formula, wipes, or other baby essentials?+

Yes. Applicants may indicate additional needs on their application. However, formula, wipes, and other supplies are not guaranteed and are distributed only when available.

Do I have to live in Broadview to apply?+

No. Autism Is The Norm serves families throughout the Greater Chicagoland area and surrounding suburban communities. Assistance is based on program eligibility and available resources.

How will I know if my application is approved?+

Applicants will be contacted using the information provided on their application. Approved participants will receive instructions regarding their scheduled pickup.

Does Autism Is The Norm provide additional community resources?+

Yes! Participants may receive a community resource list with information about: food pantries and nutrition assistance, WIC and SNAP benefits, housing and rental assistance, maternal and infant healthcare, mental health and postpartum support, childcare and early childhood development, diaper banks and baby supply organizations, and autism and developmental disability resources.

How can I apply or request additional information?+

Visit www.autismisthenorm.org to learn more about the program and application process. You can also reach us by phone or text at (708) 699-3272.

Our Commitment

At Autism Is The Norm, we believe every mother deserves access to essential resources and meaningful support. Through our Baby Beginnings Monthly Essentials Program, we strive to reduce financial barriers, strengthen families, and ensure that no family is left behind.

Serving Greater Chicagoland and surrounding suburban communities.

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We are Here to Support your Autism Journey!

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Our Donors

Made Possible by Generous Hearts

Our programs exist because of the organizations and individuals who believe in our mission. Thank you.

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