WATCH: Holly Robinson Peete and Michele Kong champion resources for those with autism

ABC News' Linsey Davis recently had the opportunity to sit down with actress Holly Robinson Peete and Dr. Michele Kong to discuss their important work within the autism community. Both women are actively involved in organizations that aim to support and empower individuals and families affected by autism, and their dedication is truly inspiring.
Peete, best known for her roles in hit shows like "21 Jump Street" and "Hangin' with Mr. Cooper," is also the co-founder of the HollyRod Foundation. The foundation, which she started with her husband, former NFL quarterback Rodney Peete, is dedicated to providing resources and support to families affected by autism and Parkinson's disease.
During the interview, Peete shared her personal connection to the cause, as her eldest son was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. She spoke about the challenges and stigma that families with a loved one on the autism spectrum face, and how her foundation works towards breaking down those barriers.
"We want to make sure that families know they are not alone and that there is support out there for them," Peete said. "We want to create a world where individuals with autism are fully included and have every opportunity to reach their full potential."
One of the ways the HollyRod Foundation is achieving this goal is through their annual "DesignCare" event. This star-studded fundraiser brings together celebrities, philanthropists, and community leaders to raise awareness and funds for autism and Parkinson's research.
But Peete's work doesn't stop there. She also serves as a board member for KultureCity, an organization founded by Dr. Michele Kong. As a pediatrician and mother to a son with autism, Dr. Kong saw firsthand the lack of resources and accommodations for individuals with autism in public spaces.
KultureCity aims to make the world a more inclusive place for individuals with autism by working with venues and organizations to create sensory-inclusive spaces. Through their Sensory Inclusive program, they provide sensory bags with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, and other resources to help individuals with sensory sensitivities navigate public spaces comfortably.
"We want to break down the barriers that prevent individuals with autism from fully experiencing life like everyone else," Dr. Kong explained. "We believe that everyone deserves equal access to public spaces, and we are working towards that goal every day."
Both Peete and Dr. Kong emphasized the importance of spreading awareness and understanding about autism. They hope that by sharing their personal experiences and working towards a more inclusive world, they can change the narrative surrounding autism and create a more accepting society.
Their efforts have not gone unnoticed. KultureCity has received recognition from the likes of Forbes and the NFL for their work, while the HollyRod Foundation has been honored with numerous awards, including the American Association of People with Disabilities' Image Award.
As the interview came to an end, both Peete and Dr. Kong expressed their gratitude for the platform that ABC News has given them to share their message. They hope to continue their work and inspire others to join the fight for inclusivity and support for individuals with autism.
In conclusion, the work that Holly Robinson Peete and Dr. Michele Kong are doing through their organizations, the HollyRod Foundation and KultureCity, is truly remarkable. Their dedication and passion for creating a more inclusive world for individuals with autism is an inspiration to us all. Let us all join hands and support their cause in any way we can, because together, we can make a difference.



