We are often asked whether we are a private or non-profit organization. This is a great question because it allows us to give people a better understanding of what projectLD and AutismSpot is all about. First, let me say that there are many organizations that generate big money, pay CEO grade salaries and exhaust enormous resources all under the banner of non-profit. These groups put money into their cause only after the machine is oiled. This is across all non-profits...regardless of the cause or group. Non-profits make money and spend money just like any other company. That's not to denigrate their work or question their motives...it's just the nature of the beast.

We built AutismSpot with our personal finances (and the support of friends and family). As an experienced entrepreneur, I know what it takes to make a business successful. As a parent who has spent nearly everything on therapies and interventions, I know the toll and strain it puts on a family. Our investment in building AutismSpot is nothing short of substantial.

When AutismSpot was just a glimmer in my eye, we discussed the possibility of it being formed as a non-profit organization. We quickly moved another direction for the following reasons:

• We didn't want to seek donations from you. You already get enough of these requests each year.
• We believe grants (and other forms of "free" money) could be better invested in research and education for Autism.
• Red tape is sticky. We would still be filling out forms and jumping through hoops.
• We wanted to have the ability to direct resources anywhere we see fit. The schools, clinics, institutions and groups we support are selected based on need...not the opinion of the government or an oversight board.
• MOST importantly, we wanted to be totally unbiased. If there is a mantra on which we stand, that would be it. Non-profits are constantly being pushed and swayed by outside interests, Groupthink and popular opinion. Our mission is too important to be colored by someone else's motives.

Very soon the AutismSpot store will launch and you will be able to purchase incredible resources, tools and training materials for the home, classroom, university and clinic. We will provide you with many one-of-a-kind products that will only be found at AutismSpot. You can purchase something from us knowing it is of the highest quality and value. Just like AutismSpot, our products are designed to improve lives. Besides keeping AutismSpot going, a portion of all revenue is directly invested into schools, research, clinics, institutions and other groups who are making the world a better place for those living with Autism. If you find something you like in the store and want to help support AutismSpot, then we are glad we could be of service. If not, we hope you can find what you need somewhere else.

We are committed to serving and giving back to the Community...and AutismSpot is a direct example of that commitment. This is our investment in the future. We are here to help, support, inform and Empower the Autism Community. In our model, we can do it better and faster than having enormous amounts of red tape and regulations to jump through. We believe in the world of giving and don't think we need to hang a shingle out on our stoop to try to impress anyone. If a private organization giving back and serving is a "radical approach", then feel free to put us at the head of the line. We hope it catches on...

From everyone here at projectLD and the AutismSpot team, we say thank you for becoming part of this growing Community. We have exciting new features and tools coming that are going to ensure that you find something special here every single day...and we're just getting started...

Your friend-
Kent