To ensure quality of life for individuals affected by autism through the development of programs that focus on special education, socialization, and independent skills training in a structured learning and caring environment.

Is a neurological disorder that affects the development of language and social skills. It usually starts before a child is three years old. It may be mild to totally debilitating.

• More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes & cancer combined.
• 1 in 150 children will be diagnosed with autism.
• 1 in 94 boys are on the autism spectrum
• Costs the nation over $35 billion per year
• It is the fastest growing developmental disability, yet it receives only 5% of all research funding.

Although Darryl and Tracy do not have children with autism, they have seen first- hand the affects of autism. “The time we spend with parents witnessing their pain, frustration and fears of not being able to secure proper care and services for their loved ones is heartbreaking and has motivated us to action. We are dedicated to making a difference!” ~ Darryl & Tracy Strawberry

Our primary goal is to address the crucial need for support services to children and adults by:
• Increase funding for operating expenses for the Center for Autism Education’s children’s program by $250,000.
• $3,000,000 capital building campaign for adult day program: education, socialization, job skills training
• Establish opportunities for adults to live independently and gain meaningful employment.
• Ensure wellness of participants via medical and psychological service programs.

To download an information brochure about the Darryl Strawberry Foundation, please click here.

From the heart of Darryl Strawberry,
I have a heart for people, especially those who are faced with conditions, situations or battles in their lives that often bring a deep sense of hopelessness to the soul. As many people know, much of my life has been filled with the battles that have left me without hope. However, that is not the case today.

Today I have hope! No matter what comes your way, or how many times you may fall, you do not QUIT! You never give up! You get up and you keep moving. If there is breath in your body, there is purpose and reason for your life. Sometimes that is difficult, if not impossible at times to see. I do not know why we have to go through certain things in life but I know that there is a purpose and a reason for everything.

I do know that in my life, all my successes, failures and experiences have brought me to where I am today. My strength and the reason that I am here today is proven through the experiences and conditions I have endured. God continues to bring me through, to carry me and breathe life into my body. The spikes are in a box, the bat is retired but the true passion and purpose for my life is just beginning. That passion is being able to make a difference in the lives of others. Today I have hope, a hope I want to instill in others.

Please join me in this fight! TOGETHER we can make the difference!

Sincerely,

Darryl Eugene Strawberry
The Darryl Strawberry Foundation