A Fresh Voice on the Board at Pacific Autism Family Network

Meet Stefan Chiru, the youngest member of the Board of Directors at the Pacific Autism Family Network (PAFN). At just 29 years old, Stefan brings a fresh perspective and a deep passion for supporting young autistic and neurodiverse individuals.

Stefan’s journey with PAFN began in the summer of 2023. Motivated by a desire to give back and make a difference, Stefan embraced the opportunity to contribute to an organization close to his heart.

For Stefan, philanthropy is more than just giving back—it's about generosity, altruism, and investing in the success of one's community. Drawing from his own experiences, Stefan understands firsthand the challenges faced by individuals with autism. Diagnosed at the age of 13, he recognizes the importance of early intervention and support systems in fostering growth and independence.

"I was fortunate to have a lot of help when I was young, and I want to see all people with autism get the support they need so that they too can flourish," Stefan explains. "PAFN helps a large number of neurodiverse people learn and acquire the necessary skills to grow and be part of a vibrant community. As a young man on the spectrum, I can say the ability to be independent and have friends is one of the greatest gifts out there!"

Stefan's unique perspective and personal journey enrich the discussions and decisions made within the boardroom. Despite being a recent addition to the board, Stefan is already in awe of the care and generosity demonstrated by fellow board members. He acknowledges that he has much to learn from their collective wisdom and experiences.

Outside of his philanthropic endeavors, Stefan spends time in nature and channels his energy into the discipline of karate, where he currently holds the rank of a purple belt.

As Stefan continues to advocate for autism acceptance and support through his work with PAFN, he serves as an inspiration to individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Through his commitment to making a difference, Stefan embodies the spirit of community that lies at the heart of PAFN's mission.

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