April is Autism Awareness Month 💙 which makes this conversation with Valerie Herskowitz even more meaningful.

A speech pathologist turned fierce advocate, Valerie didn’t wait for the system to catch up, she built something herself. What started as a deeply personal mission for her son Blake became The Chocolate Spectrum… a business creating meaningful employment, job training, and purpose for individuals on the autism spectrum.

The reality she shares: Parents of children with special needs are often left asking, “What happens after high school?”

Valerie’s story is a reminder that:

• Community support isn’t optional—it’s essential

• Siblings in special needs families need support too

• Vocational training changes lives

• Inclusion must go beyond childh ...