When 8th grader Riley set out to complete a dual project for school and her Taekwondo Black Belt, she knew it would be challenging. But what she accomplished went far beyond expectations—proving her strength, courage, and heart along the way.
For her project, Riley chose to focus on a cause deeply personal to her: Autism awareness and support. She not only shared facts and knowledge about Autism, but bravely opened up about her own journey living with Autism. She also highlighted Easterseals and the programs that support people with disabilities.
This was no small task. Riley interviewed Easterseals staff, wrote a five-page paper, created a detailed project board, and gave presentations at school and in her Taekwondo community. She even stood in front of the entire Black Belt testing community to share her story—a moment that was intimidating, but one she handled with incredible bravery and poise.
Riley’s project wasn’t just about raising awareness. She set a goal to raise $500 for Easterseals programs—and she did it in the sweetest way possible: by baking and selling cookies. For $10 a dozen, Riley’s cookies quickly became a hit. Through her presentations at both school and Taekwondo, and countless hours in the kitchen, she baked and delivered over 600 cookies! Her hard work and determination paid off—Riley surpassed her goal, raising $555. Every dollar went to Easterseals to support our camp programs for children with disabilities, ensuring more kids can experience the joy and belonging of camp.
But the true success of the project wasn’t just measured in dollars raised. Riley discovered something even more meaningful—her own strength.
“Being autistic, this wasn’t easy for me,” she shared. “But I was able to do this.”
In the process, she learned more about Autism itself and about her ability to overcome challenges.
Riley’s motivation came from the heart. She wanted her project to make a difference for others like her, and she chose Easterseals because of the impact it has on people with disabilities. Her generosity, courage, and determination show the power of one person’s story to inspire change.
Riley’s project may have started as a requirement for school and Taekwondo—but it grew into something much bigger: a reminder that strength is found in sharing your story, courage is found in facing fears, and kindness is found in giving back.
