B E L L A

There are plenty of programs that make a difference for those on the spectrum, but none that specialize on those that are high functioning. The challenge with highly functioning autism is that it goes largely unnoticed and is often misunderstood. These often incredibly bright children seem to many to just be teens with odd behavior and social challenges. The truth is much more than that. Highly functioning autism is a form of neurodivergence (where the brain functions differently than a normal or “neruotypical” person’s brain.) Things that are common sensical to most are often not, and emotions can be difficult to understand and process.

Rather than attempt to wedge such children into a societal behavioral norm without understanding these nuances, our experience is that success is found by supporting them in embracing who they are and the gifts that they have. I found this personally with Bella, who left us over 2500 pages of art, ranging from complete canvases to detailed sketches to complex character studies. Bella learned to embrace who she was and was a happy, fulfilled artist in her last years. She left us with a wealth of content to explore and, in some cases, to better understand the autistic mind.

For too long this band on the spectrum has been neglected or overlooked, which is not only a disservice to these children, it also results in a loss of their contribution to the world. We all have unique gifts, and the same neruodivergence that, unaddressed, can create awkwardness and self loathing can instead create warmth, joy, wonder, and a wealth of material if only embraced.

Our goal at The BELLA Organization is to provide the same opportunity Bella had to as many high-functioning autistic teens as possible, allowing their unique expression and contribution — whether it through music, art, writing, engineering or any other form — can be not only expressed but enjoyed by all.

I hope you will join us in this mission.

It’s what Bella would have wanted.

- James Diorio