About Us

Autism Without a Voice was created from a simple realization. Inclusion is often talked about, but rarely designed.

Through firsthand experiences working with individuals with disabilities, we saw that many programs placed participants in the same space but did not truly integrate them. Individuals were present, but often left on the sidelines. This was not because they lacked ability, but because the environment was not built for them to fully participate.

We recognized that the problem was not the individuals, but the structure itself.

Autism Without a Voice was founded to change that. Instead of focusing on encouraging inclusion after the fact, we focus on designing programs where inclusion is built into every activity from the start. Each program is intentionally structured so that every participant has a meaningful role. This allows them to engage, connect, and contribute in a way that feels natural.

What began as a small initiative has grown into a community-based organization partnering with locations such as Marks JCH, The Grace Foundation, and Toner’s Boxing Gym. Across these spaces, we continue to create environments where individuals are not just included. They are valued, empowered, and part of something bigger.

Autism Without a Voice was founded by two best friends, Joshua and Hamza. Hamza Qunaj, who grew up with a little brother on the autism spectrum, saw firsthand how limited real support for the disabled community was, and brought the idea to Joshua Krivoruk. Support existed in name, but genuine inclusion didn’t, and that gap was reason enough to start. Joshua had already seen the impact firsthand too: one child with autism once told him he’d changed his life. Shanna Melamed joined soon after as a co founder, bringing her own passion for advocacy and firsthand experience working with individuals with disabilities. Together, the three built Autism Without a Voice into what it is today.

Autism Without a Voice is powered by a dedicated team of student leaders, volunteers, and community partners who are passionate about creating inclusive environments for individuals with disabilities. Our team is trained to lead structured, engaging programming while prioritizing patience, adaptability, and meaningful connection.

Volunteers play a critical role in our programs, helping facilitate activities, support participants, and foster a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere. Through collaboration and shared purpose, our team ensures that every individual feels valued, supported, and empowered.

At Autism Without a Voice, our mission is to create inclusive, structured, and empowering environments where individuals with disabilities can build confidence, develop social connections, and engage meaningfully in their communities.

We believe that true inclusion comes from designing programs where every participant has a clear and valued role. Through hands-on activities, social engagement, and community partnerships, we aim to foster a sense of belonging, independence, and personal growth for every individual we serve.

Autism Without a Voice is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all children, teens, and participants who attend our programs. Because many of our participants are minors and individuals with disabilities, we take safeguarding seriously and expect all staff members, volunteers, directors, and program leaders to follow appropriate safety practices at all times.

All volunteers and staff working with minors are expected to treat participants with dignity, patience, and respect. Physical, emotional, verbal, or sexual abuse, neglect, bullying, harassment, discrimination, or inappropriate behavior of any kind is strictly prohibited. Volunteers and staff may not be alone with a minor in a private or isolated setting and must follow appropriate supervision guidelines during all programs and events.

Autism Without a Voice requires volunteers and staff to complete onboarding procedures, which may include applications, training, required safety forms, and mandated reporter or child protection training when applicable. Any concern involving participant safety, suspected abuse, neglect, inappropriate conduct, or boundary violations must be reported immediately to AWAV leadership and, when required, to the proper authorities.

Our organization is dedicated to maintaining a safe space where participants and families can feel supported, protected, and respected. Safeguarding is the responsibility of every person involved in our programs.