Americans experience communication challenges.
That’s 1 in 6 people.Damar Services
Unspoken Bonds. United for Damar.
Every connection has a story. Every story has the power to move us forward.
A shared purpose
Connection through presence.
None of these mascots have ever spoken a word. And yet they are beloved by hundreds of thousands of fans across this city. They connect through presence. Through joy. Through movement and energy and an ability to make you feel something without saying anything at all.
Stronger together
Many of the kids at Damar connect the same way.
They always have. Every person's journey is different. By listening closely, responding with compassion and working together, Damar creates individualized support that helps people build skills, find belonging and pursue fuller lives.
The bigger picture
Understanding starts with perspective.
8-year-old children have been identified with autism spectrum disorder.
of individuals with autism are minimally verbal or do not have access to language.
Here’s what we know
Families who have a loved one with autism often stay home. They skip games. They avoid crowds.
Not because they don’t want to go.
But because they are avoiding judgment, misunderstanding, and fear.
We are working to change that.
And it starts with you.
Tips to Know Before You Go
TIP 01 · CURIOSITY
Every behavior has a reason.
If you see a child struggling, they aren't being bad. They are communicating something. Curiosity is a better response than judgment.
Tips to Know Before You Go
TIP 02 · HELP
It's okay to ask if a family needs help.
It isn't offensive to offer help. A simple, “Is there anything I can do?” might be the kindest thing anyone says to them.
Tips to Know Before You Go
TIP 03 · FEELINGS
Big moments create big feelings.
A loud stadium. A game-changing play. For fans, that’s overwhelming in the best way. For some, it can be hard. They are doing their best. So is their family. So can you.
Tips to Know Before You Go
TIP 04 · AWARENESS
Sensory kits are available.
Stadiums have sensory kits available in various locations. If you see a family who looks like they could use one, help them find where they're located. The small act of awareness could change their experience.
Tips to Know Before You Go
TIP 05 · PEOPLE FIRST
People with autism are people first.
Same team loyalties. Same passions. Same right to be in the building cheering on the team. Communication looks different for everyone. That has never made anyone less of a fan or less of a person.
Tips to Know Before You Go
TIP 06 · HOPE
The future begins with belief.
Hope grows when people have the support to imagine what comes next. Every bond, breakthrough and shared success helps make that future possible.
Keep scrolling to move through each tip.
Different ways of experiencing the world
What you see may mean something more.
Small moments can look very different through a sensory lens. Pause, notice and respond with understanding.
You Run. So Do I.
Exploring can be an urge, and a child may not realize when they have moved too far.
You Clap. I Flap.
Flapping can be a meaningful response to excitement, emotion or an unmet sensory need.
You Tune In. I Tune Out.
Sensory overload can make it difficult to filter the noise, movement and activity nearby.
You Rock. I Do, Too.
Rocking can offer rhythm, comfort and a natural way to regulate stress or emotion.
A better game-day experience
A sensory-inclusive visit starts with understanding.
Choose the path that fits you today. We’ll share a few simple ways to make game day more comfortable, welcoming and fun.
Which best describes you today?
Tips for fans
Help make game day welcoming for everyone.
The ways autism manifests vary widely from person to person. Each child’s experience and needs are uniquely their own.
Lights, sounds and crowds can be overwhelming. Allow space for a quick break, followed by a return to enjoying the game.
An open expression, a smile or a welcoming presence can bring comfort to both a child and their caregiver.
It’s okay to ask whether you can help. Even when the answer is no, your openness and willingness to understand can mean a lot.
Tips for caregivers
Prepare for a more comfortable, flexible outing.
Prepare for the outing like you would any other. Bring anything your child may need to feel comfortable enough to enjoy the experience.
Different people may need different things. Work together whenever possible so breaks, timing and support can flex around everyone’s needs.
Let accommodating venues know what worked, share constructive suggestions and offer specific examples. Most of all, say thanks.
Take action
Connection starts with showing up.
Whether you give your time or your support, you can help Damar create opportunities for people to thrive.
Who we are
About Damar
60 years of care, connection and possibility.
Started by families. Built for families.
Damar was created around what families need when they hear the word autism and don't know what comes next.
For 60 years, we have helped children and adults with autism and other developmental and behavioral disabilities lead remarkable lives—not despite who they are, but because of who they are. 24 hours a day. 365 days a year.
60 years ago
Families saw a need.
Every step since
Care grew through connection.
Today
Remarkable lives keep moving forward.