Rising Diagnoses, Growing Demand: Insights, Resources and Pathways to Support the Transition to Adulthood
APRIL 2025 – Autism Speaks will unite more than 50 organizations, experts, self-advocates and industry leaders at the inaugural Empower Summit & Challenge, a two-day event taking place May 16–17 in Miami Beach. Part of a five-city national series, the summit will focus on how to best support autistic individuals during the transition to adulthood by addressing key areas such as employment, postsecondary education, healthcare, independent living, and community engagement.
Florida is home to an estimated 329,131 adults—2.03% of the state’s population—on the autism spectrum. Many face significant challenges after aging out of school-based supports, including limited access to jobs, housing, medical care and educational opportunities.
“Far too many families face uncertainty when structured school support ends,” said Candi Spitz, executive director of Autism Speaks Florida. “This initiative is about bringing the community together to create real, lasting pathways to independence—ensuring that resources, policies and opportunities align with the needs of autistic adults.”
“Far too many families face uncertainty when structured school support ends,” said Candi Spitz, executive director of Autism Speaks Florida. “This initiative is about bringing the community together to create real, lasting pathways to independence—ensuring that resources, policies and opportunities align with the needs of autistic adults.”
Empower Summit: Day One at Loews Miami Beach Hotel, Friday, May 16
The Empower Summit will feature a full day of programming at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel (1601 Collins Ave), selected for its inclusive practices and family-friendly environment. Attendees will hear from keynote speakers and self-advocates, and engage in expert-led sessions on key areas of adult life, including:
- Transition to Adulthood: Guidance on financial planning, healthcare and legal rights
- Employment: Insights from companies advancing neurodivergent hiring practices
- Postsecondary Education: Options from universities and vocational training programs
- Travel and Tourism: Accessibility initiatives in transportation and hospitality
- Housing and Advocacy: Updates on independent living, disability registries and legislation
- Community Safety: Collaboration among law enforcement, policymakers and organizations
Speakers include Dr. Andy Shih, chief science officer at Autism Speaks; Mary Partin, chief executive officer of the Dan Marino Foundation; and Dr. Michael Alessandri, executive director of the University of Miami Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (CARD), along with leading voices from regional and national autism organizations.
Participating panelists for the Summit include the Els for Autism, The de Moya Foundation, Casa Familia, Florida International University, Miami Dade College, Jackson Health System, the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum, Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, American Airlines, Brightline, Royal Caribbean Group, Starwood Hotels, Miami International Airport, Miami Beach Police, Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office and Disability Rights Florida.
The day will conclude with the Champions of Change reception, celebrating individuals and organizations making meaningful contributions to the autism community.
Empower Challenge: Day Two at Altos del Mar Park, Saturday, May 17
The Empower Challenge will bring together families, professionals and advocates for a run and walking event at Altos del Mar Park (7601 Collins Ave). Designed to raise awareness and funds for Autism Speaks, the event also serves as a community-wide display of support and inclusion.
Participants will follow scenic, curated routes:
5K Run & Walk: Runners and walkers will enjoy the oceanfront views of the Miami Beach Boardwalk, with sights including Allison Park and surrounding green spaces.
Challenge Schedule
- Festival Site and Registration Opens: 7:00 a.m.
- 5K Run Start: 7:30 a.m.
- Pre-Walk Program: 8 a.m.
- 5K Walk Start: 9 a.m.
- Closing Program: 10:30 a.m.
For more information on the Summit & Challenge and how to participate, visit https://www.autismspeaks.org.
About Autism Speaks
Autism Speaks is dedicated to creating an inclusive world for all individuals with autism throughout their lifespan. In response to the pressing needs of the 1 in 36 children and 1 in 45 adults with autism in the U.S. today, Autism Speaks provides resources and tools for autistic individuals of all ages and levels of support. Connecting over 28.5 million people with autism and their families to free advocacy, services, supports, research, innovation and advances in care, the nonprofit serves as convener for the autism community with the goal of making a real difference for all people on the autism spectrum. Learn more and join the movement by following @AutismSpeaks on Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
