July 12th is National Tyler Day — and we're celebrating in a BIG way! Join us at the Arkansas Museum of Discovery for a very special Sensory Sunday honoring Tyler's legacy alongside families across Arkansas.
Learn MoreSeptember 19, 2026 · Little Rock, AR — The Autism Summit brings together families, advocates, and professionals across Arkansas to share resources, support, and hope.
Learn MoreWe partner with Swim Angelfish to certify adaptive swim instructors across Arkansas — trained to work with children of all abilities.
Apply NowTyler's Story
From the time he was old enough to show his personality, Tyler approached every day with a smile, a laugh, and an excitement that was impossible to ignore. He loved people and never met a stranger. In Tyler's world, everyone was a potential friend, and he had a remarkable way of making people feel like one.
At an early age, Tyler was diagnosed with autism and childhood apraxia of speech, making communication one of his greatest challenges. While many children might have become frustrated by the obstacles placed in front of them, Tyler simply kept moving forward. Through years of therapy, hard work, determination, and the support of incredible educators and therapists, he learned to communicate using picture systems and later an AAC device that became his voice.
But Tyler was never defined by what he couldn't do.
He was defined by what he could do.
His World
Tyler loved playgrounds, swing sets, computers, and classic Sesame Street characters like Cookie Monster, The Count, and Herry Monster. He had a lifelong fascination with elevators, spending hours watching videos and celebrating every opportunity to ride one. His passion eventually earned him recognition as an elevator ambassador and opportunities that most enthusiasts only dream about.
His Gifts
Tyler excelled in mathematics, completing his school's Reflex Math program with 100% efficiency — not once, but twice in a single year. He could tell you the day of the week for almost any date and amazed teachers, classmates, and family members with his remarkable memory and calendar skills.
Most importantly, Tyler taught everyone around him how to find joy in the simple things. He greeted life with enthusiasm, embraced every challenge with determination, and reminded us that kindness, perseverance, and a smile can change someone's day.
Tyler passed away in 2018 at the age of eight, but his impact continues to be felt every day.
The Tyler Dannaway Foundation was created to carry forward the lessons Tyler taught us: that every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, communicate, and experience the world around them. Through scholarships, adaptive programs, resources, and community support, we strive to help children and families overcome barriers and discover possibilities — just as Tyler did throughout his life.
This foundation is more than a tribute to Tyler.
It is a continuation of his story.
About the Foundation
The Tyler Dannaway Foundation was established in 2018 to continue the legacy of a little boy who believed everyone deserved a chance to succeed.
Today, the foundation works to support children with autism, special needs, and communication challenges while providing resources, opportunities, and encouragement for the families who support them every day.
Through scholarships, adaptive programs, educational initiatives, sensory resources, and community support, we strive to remove barriers and create opportunities for children to learn, grow, communicate, and thrive.
What began as a way to honor Tyler's memory has grown into a mission that impacts hundreds of families each year. Every program is designed to make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and caregivers.
At its core, the Tyler Dannaway Foundation exists to ensure that no family has to navigate the journey alone — and that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Our Programs
Swimming Scholarships
Learning to swim is more than a recreational activity — it is a life-saving skill. The Tyler Dannaway Foundation provides swimming scholarships that help children with autism and special needs access swim lessons regardless of financial barriers.
To date, the foundation has awarded nearly 300 swim scholarships, helping children build confidence, gain independence, and develop critical water safety skills.
Apply for a Swim ScholarshipWaves of Change
Drowning is the leading cause of accidental death among individuals with autism. Waves of Change addresses this crisis by partnering with Swim Angelfish to certify adaptive swim instructors across Arkansas — trained and equipped to work with children of all abilities.
Through this program, we are building a statewide network of instructors who can provide safe, effective swim instruction to children with autism and special needs.
Waves of Change ApplicationAusum Conference
The Ausum Conference brings together parents, caregivers, educators, therapists, self-advocates, and community leaders for a day of learning, inspiration, and connection. Through expert speakers, practical resources, and shared experiences, attendees gain valuable knowledge and support while building relationships with others who understand the unique journey of raising and supporting children with autism.
Ausum 2026Sensory Sundays at the Museum of Discovery
Every quarter, the Tyler Dannaway Foundation partners with the Arkansas Museum of Discovery to host Sensory Sunday — a special morning designed for children with sensory needs and their families.
The museum lowers the volume, adjusts the lights, and opens its doors for three hours of hands-on exploration, special animal guests, and a world of discovery at your fingertips. It's a welcoming, low-stress environment where every child can experience the joy of curiosity without the overwhelm.
Tyler's Sensory Shop
Sensory tools can make a meaningful difference in a child's daily life. Tyler's Sensory Shop provides weighted stuffed animals and other sensory resources designed to promote comfort, emotional regulation, and a sense of security for children with sensory processing challenges.
By making these tools available to families, we help create opportunities for calm, focus, and confidence both at home and in the community.
Browse Available AnimalsAutism Connections
Autism Connections is a private online support community that brings together more than 600 parents, caregivers, educators, therapists, and advocates. The group provides a safe space to ask questions, share experiences, celebrate successes, and find encouragement from others who understand the challenges and victories that come with supporting individuals on the autism spectrum.
No family should have to navigate the journey alone — and Autism Connections helps ensure they don't have to.
Join Autism Connections