Autism at Face Value
February 10, 2026 - The York East Rotary Club recently welcomed David and Angela Kot from Autism at Face Value to its weekly meeting, where they shared an inspiring look at how their organization is transforming lives through something many people already love — gaming and comic books. Founded with a passion for inclusion and understanding, Autism at Face Value uses what they call therapeutically applied gaming to support individuals on the autism spectrum. David and Angela explained that gaming is more than entertainment — it is a bridge. Through structured, supportive gaming experiences, individuals build communication skills, confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities in an environment where they feel comfortable. At the heart of their mission is a simple but powerful goal: connecting individuals on the autism spectrum with meaningful opportunities in the gaming and comic book communities. Whether through tabletop role-playing games, video games, comic creation, or participation in fan conventions, Autism at Face Value creates spaces where neurodivergent individuals can thrive socially and creatively.
The organization centers its work around three core pillars:
Feeling Safe – Participants are welcomed into judgment-free environments where they can be themselves without fear of criticism or exclusion.
Feeling Wanted – Gaming communities rely on collaboration. Every player has a role, a purpose, and a voice. Autism at Face Value ensures each individual knows they are valued members of the group.
Feeling Successful – Through guided experiences and achievable challenges, participants gain confidence as they develop skills and celebrate accomplishments.
David and Angela emphasized that these three pillars — safe, wanted, and successful — form the foundation for fostering inclusion, creativity, and genuine community. When individuals experience belonging, their potential expands far beyond the gaming table. The York East Rotary Club thanks David and Angela Kot for their engaging presentation and for the meaningful work they are doing to ensure that every individual has the opportunity to feel safe, wanted, and successful.