“I discovered that I was Autistic only after my daughter’s diagnosis. I always knew that I was different, but I didn’t know why. I struggled to fit into a world that didn’t make sense and learned to ‘mask’ or ‘camouflage’ my neurodivergent traits, which impacted my mental health. Learning that my mind wasn’t flawed—just wired differently—was a life-changing revelation,” says Megan, a teacher and board member at CAYR Connections.
CAYR (pronounced “care”) stands for “Come As You Are.” CAYR Connections’ goal is to promote neurodiversity, the natural variation in human brains, and educate our community about ways to be more inclusive, accepting, and affirming of neurodivergent people (e.g., Autistic, ADHD, Dyslexic, etc.) Many late-diagnosed folks like Megan have found that as they accept and embrace their neurodivergence, they feel positive impacts on their mental health and well-being.
Megan adds: “Discovering neurodiversity-affirming practices empowered me to embrace who I am and advocate for both myself and my daughter. I know that accommodating myself and my daughter will have a positive impact on our lives. I hope that my advocacy work with CAYR can help others, too.”
CAYR’s programs support neurodiverse individuals and families of all ages. From our CAYRgiver Circle for parents and caregivers of neurodivergent kids & teens, to our partnership with the Chicago Neurodiverse Social Club for neurodivergent adults, we aim to create a more inclusive, accepting community.
Our next goal is to open an afterschool and summer program! Learn more and join us at www.cayrconnections.org.
CAYR Connections
CAYR Connections is a 501(c)3 nonprofit founded in Oak Park. CAYR stands for “Come As You Are,” and we advocate for embracing neurodiversity, the natural variation of human brains. We believe that there is no “right” type of brain, and that an inclusive, accessible society improves the world for everyone, not just neurodivergent (Autistic, ADHD, etc.) individuals.
Your donation helps us fund current programs and create new ones, too! We are working on a neurodiversity-affirming afterschool and summer program for 2025.
Visit www.cayrconnections.org to learn more. Your generosity helps celebrate “minds of all kinds.”