About

My name is Dr. Shirley Sims, and I am the proud founder of AuSome Scholars, a community born out of love, resilience, and a deep commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for individuals on the autism spectrum. As a mother of a child with autism, this mission is incredibly personal and close to my heart.

Our journey began when my daughter, Kali, was diagnosed with Autism (ASD) in 2023 at the age of 4 ½. Since then, our family has embarked on a path of understanding, advocacy, and unwavering support. That same year, we faced the heartbreaking loss of Kali’s father, Albert—who ensured Kali was pushed to her full potential both academically and socially. Together, Albert and Kali loved playing basketball and swimming, creating a well-rounded and joyful childhood experience for her.

Through our journey, I recognized the vital importance of additional services, early intervention, advocacy, and educational support to help children like Kali—and their families—thrive. Living with autism is something I intimately understand because I experience it every single day. It is this personal experience that fuels my passion and commitment to helping other families navigate the challenges and embrace the joys of autism with the right resources, support, and community.

At AuSome Scholars, we provide resources, events, and a network of support designed to empower individuals on the spectrum to grow, connect, and succeed. Every person has unique potential, and it is our mission to help them flourish in an environment that celebrates inclusion and understanding.

We invite you to join our journey and connect with us on TikTok and Instagram @HangingOutWithKali as we share our experiences, insights, and the beauty of navigating life’s beautiful chaos together.