Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility
In the News

Kalin Bennett Becomes First Athlete with Autism Awarded a Division 1 Basketball Scholarship

Kalin Bennett standing in the gymnasium looking off into the distance with a smile on his face. He's in a black Nike hoodie; blue bleachers and stairs are in the background.
Kent State basketball recruit Kalin Bennett discusses his journey and struggles as a student-athlete with special needs.

Kalin Bennett is an incoming student to Kent State University recruited to play for the university’s NCAA Division 1 basketball team. It will make him the first student-athlete with autism recruited to play for the school. While he was recruited by a number of different schools, Bennett chose Kent State because of their commitment to organic inclusion in sports and special needs awareness. He was told from a young age that he may never be able to walk or talk, but today is excelling in sports as well as music and math.

“I want to make an impact not just on the court, but with kids that are struggling with the same things I am,’’ Bennett said. “I want to use this platform to inspire other kids with autism and non-autism. I want to let them know, hey, if I can do this, you can do it, too. A lot of times they feel alone and by themselves, and I felt that same way growing up.’’

Read More Here

joinpromo_sm.png Join the Revolution Promo Banner

Join the Revolution

As we move forward, we need to know you’re with us. Be a revolutionary and help end discrimination against people with Intellectual Disabilities.

Recommended Content

Cleveland Browns' Baker Mayfield Releases Clothing Line to Benefit Special Olympics

Through a partnership with Barstool Sports, Baker Mayfield will sell a collection of T-Shirts & sweatshirts—with 100 percent of the proceeds to be donated to the Special Olympics in the greater Cleveland area.
1 Min Read

Delivering Jobs Campaign Launch Garners Attention Nationwide

Exemplifying the spirit of the Delivering Jobs campaign, the launch on 22 October 2019 was a truly collaborative effort between Autism Speaks, Best Buddies, and Special Olympics in partnership with the Entertainment Industry Foundation (EIF).
1 Min Read

Changing Society by Changing Attitudes

When society underestimates the capabilities of people with intellectual disabilities, opportunities are lost. We're working to change those minds.
5 Min Read