| Dear Hcis, After a year filled with heartache, tension, and challenges in 2020, we are hopeful for the road to recovery and growth in 2021. 2020 was a very difficult financial year for the Autism Society; both nationally and for our affiliates across the country. We were required to pivot and immediately respond to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. We were the first national autism organization to provide a toolkit for individuals on the autism spectrum to help assist in dealing with the various effects of the pandemic. We were also the first to launch a Facebook Live series, which hosts conversations with autistic self-advocates, professionals, academic leaders, teachers, and parents all talking about the impact of COVID-19. Throughout 2020 our advocacy team worked tirelessly with our elected officials to make sure that the greater autism community was not forgotten when it came to distribution of PPE, assisting direct support professionals and caregivers, and providing help to group homes. As the nation's oldest and largest grassroots autism organization in the country, we need your ongoing support now. In 2021, we will continue our great work. We have already begun producing more relevant social stories about maintaining your health during COVID-19, interacting with healthcare providers, and providing updates on COVID-19 vaccine developments. Our public policy team will be educating the new Congress on the important work from the Autism Society of America, and the importance of legislation that is mindful of individuals on the spectrum as well as other developmental disabilities. The horizon is bright, the opportunities are boundless, and yet the struggles remain. However, they will not deter us from striving to increase our ability to improve the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum. Please consider making a gift today. Sincerely, | 
