Throughout the week, our ACC Team searches through emails and news articles looking for someone who deserves to be the Hero of the Week… Find out how you can nominate a Hero of the Week at the bottom of the page.
This week, we’d like to honor Karen Blake, of Middle Tennessee, for her work on behalf of teenagers and young adults with autism. Karen and her husband Steve were given a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder for their son Matthew when he was 18 months. Today, Matthew is 16.
Karen holds a master’s degree in special education and one in speech language pathology. Over the years, she came to the realization that more needed to be done for children with autism. So, in 2007, she founded the Autism Foundation of Tennessee. And, she didn’t stop there.
Karen knew there needed to be a place for students and young adults with autism to learn vocational skills. So, in 2020, she founded the non-profit Autism Career Training.
Now, young adults can learn vocational skills which they’ll carry with them for life. These skills will give them employment and a sense of purpose. Karen has armed the organization with a great staff but she herself doesn’t take a penny.
Learn more as covered by Nashville’s News 2.
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Kix’s Response:
What an incredible thing for the community! Karen Blake, we are happy to recognize you as our ACC Hero of the Week!
Nominate a Hero of the Week
Now, we want to know who has made a difference in your life. Nominate a local firefighter, police officer, EMT or someone who is serving our country in the military. It could even be a neighbor, family member or friend who lent a crucial helping hand. Let us know all about the person who you feel is a real life hero by emailing us here and please feel free to send us a picture!
