Worldwide, neurodivergent people and those living with mental health conditions encounter systemic barriers—stigma, discrimination, underfunded services, and inaccessible environments—that limit full participation in education, employment, and community life.
An estimated 1 in 8 people globally—about 970 million—experience mental health conditions. Neurodivergence and mental health are part of human diversity and may affect mood, thinking, learning, communication, and behavior. Common experiences include ADHD, autism, depression, anxiety disorders, and schizophrenia. These do not define a person’s value or potential; inequities arise when systems fail to provide inclusive design, accommodations, and culturally safe supports.
This article spotlights seven nonprofits helping to dismantle barriers—through rights-based advocacy, peer and clinical supports, education, and community-building. By learning about and supporting their work, we move toward a future where everyone can access what they need to thrive.
Mental Health America
Mental Health America(MHA) is the leading nonprofit in the United States dedicated to promoting mental health, preventing mental illness, and supporting those with mental health conditions. Since its founding in 1909, the organization’s mission has been to promote mental health as an important part of overall health, identify early signs of mental illness, and support those in need with the goal of recovery. The organization has been a strong advocate for systemic changes, having sent over 3000 letters to Congress and being involved in the passing of the Mental Health Act of 1946, the Community Mental Health Centers Act of 1963, and the Mental Health Parity Act of 1996. MHA can educate the public through campaigns such as Mental Health Month and community events. It offers tools to help with early identification and intervention, reaching over 10 million people through its mental health screening site. The organization has 3 million workers offering direct service through personalized resources. Mental Health America continues to lead the way in mental health advocacy and reform, working towards a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Best Buddies International
Best Buddies International is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to ending the social and economic isolation of those with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Since its founding in 1989, the organization has grown to be one of the largest of its kind, working in over 50 different countries and reaching hundreds of thousands of people each year. Best Buddies International makes a difference through several different programs designed to foster inclusion and build connections for people with disabilities. The organization pairs individuals with mental disabilities with those without them to break down social barriers and promote understanding. The programs operate in middle schools, high schools, colleges, and community settings. Best Buddies International also helps people with mental disabilities find employment, helping them achieve success and independence. The organization also facilitates online friendship between those with learning disabilities and those without, helping develop communication skills. Since its founding, Best Buddies International has helped millions of people, with over 2,000 dedicated employees, to promote change globally. The organization raises nearly $40 million annually and continues to be the leader in promoting inclusion, friendship, and opportunities for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Down Syndrome International
Down Syndrome International(DSI) is a global nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with Down syndrome around the world. Since its founding in 1993, the organization has worked with those with Down syndrome and their families to advance their rights and help them be accepted as equal members of society. The organization gathers information and data to understand the challenges that people with Down syndrome face, and to find ways to overcome them. DSI organizes events such as World Down Syndrome Day in order to raise awareness and encourage support from the community. It comprises individuals with Down syndrome, their families, professionals, and more than 150 organizations worldwide, representing the Down syndrome community and advocating for change globally. Today, the organization remains a leading organization empowering people with Down syndrome, supporting families, and working toward a more inclusive world.
Autism Speaks
Autism Speaks is a nonprofit organization in the United States that works to improve the lives of those with autism spectrum disorder(ASD) and their families. Since its founding in 2005, the organization has merged with several other autism organizations and has grown to become the largest autism research and advocacy organization in the country. Autism Speaks has funded research to help understand the causes and effects of autism to better support individuals on the spectrum. The organization has started many public awareness campaigns, such as establishing April as World Autism Month. Autism Speaks has provided free online information and resources to almost 30 million people across the country to connect individuals and families to support and answer questions. The organization helps autistic people transition to adulthood, supporting them through higher education, employment, and independent living, offering tools for financial planning. Autism Speaks has awarded over $16 million in grants since 2005, funding education, recreation, and other services helping thousands of autistic people across every U.S. state. Today, the organization continues to be a leading nonprofit dedicated to advancing advocacy, research funding, public awareness, and resource development for people diagnosed with autism.
Center for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH)
The Center for Addiction and Mental Health(CAMH) is Canada’s largest mental health teaching hospital, and one of the world’s largest research centers focused on mental health. The organization is dedicated to advancing research and providing patient-centred services to those affected by addiction or mental illness. These services include assessments, emergency and crisis care, continuous care, and family support. Specialized programs include addictions support, rehabilitation programs, schizophrenia, mood, and anxiety programs, and a wide range of therapy options. CAMH trains thousands of health students in areas such as psychiatry, psychology, and nursing, as well as actively spreading awareness about mental health in Canada, overcoming stigma and advocating for equality. The organization has over 5,000 employees, including psychiatrists, researchers, educators, and clinicians, serving more than 38,000 patients annually. Today, the Center for Addiction and Mental Health continues to be a key organization in mental health research, care, and support in Canada and around the world, shaping a more inclusive future through its services, education, and advocacy.
The Arc
The Arc is the largest nonprofit organization in the dedicated to improving the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities(IDD) and their families in the United States. Since its founding in 1950, the organization has been leading the disability rights movement across the country, promoting the rights of people with mental disabilities and supporting their inclusion in society throughout their lives. The Arc has played a major role in the creation of major federal programs protecting the rights of people with IDD, such as Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income, and education guarantees for children with disabilities. The organization has started campaigns raising awareness to overcome stigma and discrimination, and encourages participation and inclusion of people with IDD into communities. The Arc provides specific support, including educational, employment, self-advocacy, and financial planning services. It has over 600 chapters across the country and promotes fair treatment and decision-making in the justice system, employment, and housing. Today, The Arc continues to empower and support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, allowing them to feel included and have the most rights and opportunities in society.
Inclusion International
Inclusion International is a global nonprofit organization led by people with intellectual disabilities and their families, dedicated to advancing the rights, inclusion, and participation of people with disabilities in society. Since its founding in 1960, the organization has brought together federations from 115 countries across the globe. Inclusion International has driven policy changes and implemented and monitored the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. The organization addresses key issues such as inclusive education, employment, supported decision making, and community living. Notable projects include self-advocacy movements and inclusive education in Africa, legal capacity and health programs, and understanding gender based violence against women with intellectual disabilities. Inclusion International also works closely with Down Syndrome International and is one of the founding members of the International Disability Alliance. Today, Inclusion International continues to be a leading force, working towards a society where individuals with intellectual disabilities are valued, encouraged, and given equal opportunities to thrive.
Final Thoughts
The efforts of these seven organizations show how inclusion, advocacy, and well-designed supports can change lives and systems. Programs that expand access to education and good jobs, strengthen peer networks, and confront stigma are building communities of belonging. A more inclusive world is possible—one that recognizes neurodivergence and mental health conditions as part of the richness of humanity. By donating, volunteering, amplifying lived experience, and championing accessible policies, we can each help create equitable opportunities for all.
