Autism now affects 1 in 150 children in the United States. But when one child is diagnosed, it affects the whole family.

Why Marbles?

 Tim Wilson, Artist and co-founder

Initially I wanted to create a foundation that would benefit both children and the local community, as well as bring my art into the lives of more than just the people around me. It seemed to relate better with children because I make marbles and being a father that is where my heart lies. So I set out to find the "cause". I talked with several people about their organizations, which I believed to be worthy and successful. In the past I had partnered up with a few organizations which I initially thought to be worthy only to discover there was much to be desired as far as actual progress. So with that history I was a little leery of setting up what might be perceived as just "another" foundation. Then in April of 2006 my 3 year old nephew Clayton was diagnosed with Autism. This put new fire in my soul, so we, my sister Brooke and I, decided to build this organization. After quite a bit of research and planning, a lot of passion and focus, we put Marbles for Miracles together.

About Us About Autism Contact: Brooke Tim Autism in the news: Google Digg


             

What we plan to do

  • Provide funding for families of children with autism to educate them. Empower these families by offering sponsorships and discounted rates toward the attendance of seminars and conferences.
  • Provide a network for families with similar circumstances.
  • Increase public awareness of this epidemic that is overwhelming our youth.
  • Publish a bi-weekly or monthly newsletter – research upcoming interventions, events, Information and statistics.
  • Provide art classes, donated time and space.
  • Have workshops to teach parents different therapies to do with their children. Examples massage therapy techniques, floortime, RDI.
  • Design/develop a rescue dog program with local shelters to provide service dogs.
  • A lending library for families to have access to literature about everything from biomedical to various therapies, including CDs and DVDs from conferences.
  • Hold fundraising events within the art community to provide funding and increase awareness.