CASE STUDY
spark
CLOSING GAPS: MORE CHILDREN OF COLOR ARE DIAGNOSED THROUGH BETTER ACCESS AND AWARENESS.
EXPANDING
THE SPECTRUM
SPARK, the nation’s largest autism research community, needed to reach more diverse participants, especially Black, Latino, and Asian families.
To do that, they needed stories that reflect lived experience with honesty and care.
APPROACH AND
OUTCOME
From Chicago to Mississippi to California, we documented families raising young people with autism. Every shoot required patience, compassion, and flexibility—meeting each child on their own terms, whether non-verbal or highly expressive. Our crew listened first to build trust, adapted to each family’s pace, and let real life guide the storytelling.
By respecting rhythms and capturing moments as they naturally unfolded, we were able to share stories that felt honest and true.
CREATIVE
SOLUTIONS
The films gave SPARK an authentic way to reach underrepresented communities and encourage participation in autism research.
In 2020, children of color were diagnosed at higher rates than White children for the first time—progress in equity, though barriers remain.
By sharing real stories, SPARK helps ensure research reflects the full spectrum of lived experience.
