April 28, 2026
Donte Encourages Others to Pursue an “Ausome” Life
During Autism Acceptance Month, a family we support hosted a community fundraiser series to launch a new scholarship opportunity.
For years, Donte Naylor has been known as the “King of Ausome.” The Cheektowaga, NY high schooler embraces his autism and enjoys empowering others on the spectrum. Giving back and forging new connections are top priorities for Donte, as he actively works to spread joy in his community.
In 2021, Person Centered Services highlighted a holiday toy drive run by Donte and his family. This year, the Naylors have taken their charitable efforts to the next level.
“Donte and I had a conversation about what’s next,” said Chuki Naylor, Donte’s mother. “He wants to go to college, so he decided he wanted to host a couple of events to raise money for a scholarship for neurodivergent people like him.”
April is Autism Acceptance Month, and the Naylors hosted three events during this time to fundraise for the new scholarship.
The first gathering was a fish fry (“People in Buffalo love food!” said Chuki) at UAW Local 774 in Buffalo, NY. The second event was an “Ausome Paint & Play,” which featured a sensory-friendly guided painting activity at New Covenant United Church of Christ in Buffalo. The final fundraiser offered a mini-golf experience and scavenger hunt at Adventure Landing in Tonawanda, NY.
Details for the scholarship will be released on May 2 at kingofausome.com. Those interested can also reach out via email at kingofausome@yahoo.com.
The Naylor family has long benefited from Care Coordination through Person Centered Services. Since 2017, they have partnered with Care Coordinator Nikki Daniels.
“Anything I dream, think, or ask, Nikki will follow up and say, ‘This is what I found out,’” noted Chuki. “We are always looking for Donte to get what he needs in the context of his humanity.”
“Person Centered Services has a lot of resources for Care Coordinators,” said Nikki, who appreciates her organization’s approach. “I’m equipped with so much information and so many connections.”
Nikki has supported Donte through major transitions and life planning. She connected the Naylor family to self-directed services and assists them with reimbursement for activities. Recently, Donte moved from an alternative setting to a full public school experience at Cleveland Hill High School, demonstrating his progress.
“I have seen so much growth,” said Nikki. “I’ve watched him transition into more and more inclusive environments. The community outreach he does is amazing. Seeing the lives he touches through his efforts to keep people with autism connected has been a fantastic experience.”
Chuki believes Donte’s success illustrates a larger picture.
“I really want people to know that ‘autism can,’” said Chuki. “And if you want inclusion, you need to practice it.”
Chuki and Nikki are both optimistic about Donte’s life trajectory as they watch him fulfill his dreams and help others fulfill theirs.
“I see nothing but greatness for Donte’s future,” said Nikki. “Chuki and I have advocated for him tenaciously, and now he is close to graduating high school. Go, Donte!”
