In 2003, Kimacka began a foreign journey with her husband when their first child was diagnosed with autism. Since that time, all 3 of her children have been diagnosed with autism. They had no idea what autism was, and there were no other couples or support groups to help them navigate doctor’s visits and other community settings. During a time when they needed a village, they found themselves isolated from friends and family who struggled to understand the couple’s new reality. Soon they began to find other families like theirs and the importance of having a village to share information along with a safe space to process it all.
Meet Kimacka Randle, co-founder and President of Black Autism Support Society, Inc. (BASS), a wife, mom, and active community member in various corporate, ministry, and BIPOC advocacy spaces. Currently Black Autism Support Society connects families to community resources, raises awareness in the black church community, Community Healing Circles, parent education, and more. They partner with local ABA centers and others to help bring awareness and resources to the black community.
I would like people to know we are trying to change the world, one interaction at a time
Kimacka Randle
One of their biggest challenges has been fundraising and getting the word out. “We are a small 501c3 that is really focused on normalizing autism in the black community. Most black families impacted by autism feel like they are on an island. Our challenge is showing them they are not alone and creating a sense of community.”
BASS operates through through four pillars: Social Justice, Individual/Family, Education, and Spirituality. Their mission is to address support gaps and challenge the narrative in supporting autism in the black community, and our vision is to provide individuals and families in the black community as well as those who serve them the tools and connections needed to increase quality of life. “I would like people to know we are trying to change the world, one interaction at a time.”
Our greatest accomplishments are the testimonies from our families. We constantly hear stories about how guidance from BASS has impacted thier child’s experience in school or how they see themselves as parents. Our work has helped with push for IEP revisions, earlier treatment, and has resulted in improved outcomes.
What can we expect in 2024 from BASS? Community healing circles will begin again in January. Other events will occur throughout 2024. The BASS Autism Block Party is their flagship event that happens in summer. The Block Party is a great way for families to connect with one another, community providers, and to just be. It’s like a family reunion where most of the children are wearing headphones or carrying fidgets, yet is infused with black culture.
As for future programming from BASS, you can expect “meet-ups” for teens and young adults with autism. Maintaining friendships is challenging for this demographic, and they hope to create connection that will improve overall quality of life. The team plans to increase their healing circles, work with local government agencies to review law enforcement training practices, and engage predominately black faith communities to an inclusive worship and spiritual formation experience.
There is much work to be done and the laborers are few. BASS is always in need of volunteers, donations, partnerships, and sponsorships to help increase their reach.
Want to get involved or learn more? Contact Kimacka and the team through their website at www.blackautismsupport.com or email her directly at krandle@blackautismsupport.com. You can also connect with BASS on various social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram.
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