The latest episode of the Autism Weekly Podcast offers a profound perspective on the power of mentorship programs, specifically focusing on Making Mentors.
Making Mentors bridges the gap between high school and adulthood for autistic individuals by pairing college student mentors with younger mentees. One of the program’s standout stars is T Abbatemarco, a passionate advocate and mentor who is breaking down barriers while sharing their own experiences as an autistic individual.
What Is the Making Mentors Program?
This innovative initiative not only supports neurodivergent high school and college students but also fosters leadership, self-advocacy, and personal growth. Developed as a partnership between the City University of New York (CUNY), NYU, and autism-focused researchers, the program empowers mentees to build vital life skills while developing the confidence to succeed academically, socially, and professionally.
Housed in a highly supportive and inclusive environment, the program does more than prepare participants for college and careers. It creates an opportunity for autistic mentors to guide peers and reclaim leadership roles, shaping the broader narrative about autism capabilities in meaningful ways.
Why Mentorship Matters for Autistic Individuals
For many autistic students, transitioning out of high school into a university, trade school, or the workforce can feel daunting. Traditional education often doesn’t address the specific support needs required for neurodivergent people to thrive in less structured environments. The Making Mentors program fills that gap.
T Abbatemarco’s Role as an Autism Advocate
T Abbatemarco’s story is one of perseverance and transformation. Diagnosed with autism at 19 years old, T struggled with the stigma and challenges often faced by neurodivergent individuals. Nonetheless, they overcame these barriers to become an integral mentor in the Making Mentors program.
Their commitment to sharing experiences and offering authentic guidance has yielded life-changing results for high school mentees grappling with similar challenges. T’s emphasis on “pushing forward” and refusing to conform to societal expectations has resonated deeply within the program, proving just how impactful relatable, honest mentorship can be.
One of the most touching moments T shared was witnessing the growth of one mentee, a young girl who began the program shy and withdrawn. Over eight months, this mentee blossomed into a confident young adult eager to pursue college—something she and her parents hadn't previously considered.
T highlighted the importance of visibility for autistic leaders in schools, workplaces, and public spaces, stressing that empowering others starts with integrating autism advocacy into everyday life.
“I think the most important thing to me is showing kids that you can be successful despite everything,” shared T. “It’s all about normalizing differences and asserting ourselves in spaces that aren’t naturally welcoming.”
Key Takeaways from the Podcast
The transition to adulthood is smoother when self-advocacy starts young. Encourage your child to participate in Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, for example, to give them practice articulating their needs and goals.
Every autistic person is unique, and their strengths should be celebrated. Helping a child recognize and harness their gifts encourages growth and self-confidence. The Making Mentors program models this beautifully by offering neurodivergent individuals ways to channel their creativity into STEM and leadership opportunities.
Programs like Making Mentors thrive because they are rooted in understanding and inclusivity. Whether it’s at school, work, or home, create environments that make neurodivergent individuals feel safe to explore their interests and take risks without fear of judgment.
Parents and mentors can support autistic teens by setting challenging but attainable goals. This gives them a pathway to growth while emphasizing that their future is as full of possibilities as anyone else's.
Autism is a spectrum, which means a one-size-fits-all solution does not work. Tailor goals and interventions to meet each person where they are. Whether it’s pursuing higher education, entering a trade, or taking on leadership roles within their community, what matters most is a focus on individual success.
Actionable Advice for Families Raising Autistic Children
Families can take cues from the Making Mentors program by implementing similar strategies at home.
Why This Episode Is Essential Listening
The Autism Weekly Podcast’s episode on Making Mentors offers moving success stories, practical tips, and eye-opening discussions about breaking systemic barriers faced by autistic individuals. Parents, educators, and autism advocates alike will appreciate the actionable strategies shared by Kristen Gillespie-Lynch, Rita Strickland, Louis Rotondo, and, of course, T Abbatemarco.
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or advocate, this podcast episode gives hope and practical solutions for the future of autism advocacy and mentorship programs.
Listen now to this empowering episode and check out the resources listed under this podcast episode.