The Black Autism Coalition (BAC) is a parent-led grassroots organization founded by Cynthia Laine, a mother of four boys, two of whom have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). BAC was born from Cynthia’s personal journey of navigating educational and healthcare systems that were unwelcoming and culturally insensitive to Black families. With the aim of providing a space for families like hers, Cynthia launched BAC to address the gaps in services, advocacy, and support for Black families raising children with autism.

Cynthia’s journey to founding BAC was driven by the unique challenges she faced as a Black mother navigating autism care. Many families in her community were experiencing similar struggles—feeling isolated and unsupported in a system that didn’t address their specific needs. Cynthia realized that Black families often lacked culturally relevant resources, peer support, and guidance on how to navigate the complex systems of education, healthcare, and insurance. This realization inspired her to create BAC, a space that would offer culturally competent services, education, and advocacy for families of color.

BAC's mission centers on empowering Black families by providing resources, support, and advocacy that reflect their unique cultural and linguistic needs. The organization has grown to provide various services designed to help families navigate autism care with confidence. 

At BAC, we believe no parent should ever feel alone or unseen. Our mission is rooted in the truth that every child deserves access, understanding, and opportunity, no matter their diagnosis, zip code, or language spoken at home. We provide culturally responsive support, advocacy training, resource navigation, mental health programs, and community events—all tailored to uplift Black voices and experiences in the autism space.

We’re running the Flutie 5K not just for awareness—but for action. We’re running for the children who haven’t yet found their voice. We’re running for the parents who feel lost in a system that was never built for them. We’re running to raise the funding needed to keep our programs free and accessible—from school discipline workshops to inclusive family events, language-access resources, and support groups that embrace our culture, our struggles, and our power.

Donations to our team will directly support:
 • Monthly support groups in English and Haitian Creole
 • Emergency advocacy help during school discipline and IEP crises
 • Training and education for parents to become empowered advocates
 • Community healing events, like inclusive sports, family days, and mental health workshops
 • And ongoing one-on-one support for families facing isolation or systemic barriers

Every dollar helps us reach another family. Every share helps lift another voice. Every mile run brings us closer to a future where Black autistic children are not just included but celebrated.
We are especially honored to be part of the Flutie Foundation’s 5K—a platform that allows small, impactful organizations like ours to shine, connect, and grow. Together, we’re not just running we’re building a movement.