Neighbor News
Inspiring Young Man With Autism Speaks At Schools Throughout NJ
April is Autism Acceptance Month, and this young man has a powerful message to share with students.
Freehold, New Jersey-Tim Rohrer, a 23-year-old young man with autism is on a mission to educate the world about the importance of social inclusion. Tim was bullied, isolated and excluded in school. He was able to overcome his pain by educating others. Tim shares his personal story and teaches students about acceptance and inclusion. He has spoken to over 100 schools inspiring thousands of students to be a better friend to peers with disabilities. Many schools have said Tim’s assemblies are the best they have ever seen, including one school principal who said it was the best assembly she has seen in 40 years!
As an individual who grew up with autism, Tim's presentations provide a unique perspective from someone who lives life with a disability. Tim was nonverbal until about age five and couldn't speak in sentences until he was eight years old. Today, he loves engaging with students of all ages. Tim states, "my favorite part of my assemblies is answering the student's questions. They ask me about my challenges, being bullied, friendships and much more. It's so meaningful and I love how they learn from me."
Tim has also spoken at the NJEA teacher's convention, Autism NJ conference, NJ School Boards convention, NJ Coalition for Inclusive Education, Professional Development workshops and Corporate America. He is also the author of two children's books: Timmy's Story: A Story About Autism and Friendship and Timmy's Story: A Sensory Friendly Birthday both available on Amazon. Tim hopes to continue on his mission and become the Martin Luther King for people with disabilities, creating much needed change in the world! You can learn more about Tim on his website or email him at tips4inclusion2018@gmail.com
