About Us

Meet our Staff

Our Staff

Kathryn (Kathy) Adams

About Us “new”

Kathy Adams is the Executive Director of Autism Community Alliance. Before the birth of her 2 children, she worked as a Habilitation Specialist/Teacher at an Intermediate Care Facility in New Bern, North Carolina. In that position, she worked with an Interdisciplinary team to support students with significant developmental disabilities. Inspired by her daughter Claire, a young adult with autism, epilepsy, and an intellectual disability, Kathy founded ACA to create meaningful, community-based programming for neurodivergent individuals after high school. She developed ACA’s original curriculum and visual support tools and continues to work closely with staff to ensure smooth operations and a welcoming, inclusive environment. With a strong focus on maintaining low staff-to-participant ratios, she is committed to fostering independence, sensory regulation, communication, and social connection.

Cynthia (Cyndi) Newton

Cynthia Newton is ACA’s Program Director. She is responsible for creating and sharing the daily agenda for each program day with both campers and their families. Cyndi incorporates visual tools and YouTube videos to demonstrate each afternoon’s activities, ensuring that all participants have a clear understanding of the plans. She also plays a key role in implementing activities that promote community engagement, including shopping for activity supplies, daily community walks, visiting nearby museums, shopping malls, parks, libraries, and community centers. As a parent of a young adult with autism, Cyndi brings a deep understanding of the unique milestones and experiences families face. Her warm heart and sense of humor have made her a valuable addition to ACA. Cyndi has seamlessly taken on her responsibilities and looks forward to expanding her role as ACA continues to grow.