Maryland's Kennedy Krieger Institute Empowers Children with Autism

The Center for Autism Services, Science and Innovation (CASSI) provides comprehensive support for young patients and their families.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 9:11pm

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The Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore, Maryland operates the CASSI program, which combines clinical services, research, and training to help children and teens with autism reach their full potential. Five-year-old Xerxes and his mother Kellan Matthews have seen incredible progress since enrolling in the program, with Xerxes going from being nearly non-verbal to now able to communicate with everyone. The institute is hosting a Roar For Kids 5K race and walk to raise funds for its autism services.

Why it matters

Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for the development and future success of children with autism. The Kennedy Krieger Institute's comprehensive approach at CASSI is making a tangible difference in the lives of its young patients and their families.

The details

CASSI at Kennedy Krieger provides a range of clinical services, research initiatives, and training programs to support children and teens with autism. Evelyn Papstein, a staff member, emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and intervention for a child's progress. Xerxes, who enrolled in the program at age 3, has gone from being 'a shell of a child' to now being able to communicate and say his own name, thanks to the support he's received.

  • Xerxes has been going to the Kennedy Krieger Institute's CASSI program since he was 3 years old.
  • This year, Xerxes and his mother Kellan Matthews are participating in the Roar For Kids 5K race and walk at The Maryland Zoo.

The players

Kennedy Krieger Institute

A Maryland-based institute that provides comprehensive services, research, and training programs to support children and teens with autism and other developmental disabilities.

Center for Autism Services, Science and Innovation (CASSI)

A program within the Kennedy Krieger Institute that combines clinical services, research, and training to help children and teens with autism reach their full potential.

Xerxes

A 5-year-old child who has been enrolled in the Kennedy Krieger Institute's CASSI program since he was 3 years old, and has made significant progress in his communication and development.

Kellan Matthews

The mother of Xerxes, who has seen her son's remarkable transformation since enrolling in the CASSI program at the Kennedy Krieger Institute.

Evelyn Papstein

A staff member at the Kennedy Krieger Institute's CASSI program, who emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and intervention for children with autism.

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What they’re saying

“In the beginning, he could only say two words. He was a shell of a child, but now, this program has given him a voice.”

— Kellan Matthews, Mother of Xerxes

“CASSI emphasizes early diagnosis and intervention, which is really important for a child's development and future success.”

— Evelyn Papstein, Staff member, Kennedy Krieger Institute

What’s next

The Kennedy Krieger Institute is hosting its annual Roar For Kids 5K race and low-mileage walk at The Maryland Zoo, where supporters can participate and help raise funds for the institute's autism services and programs.

The takeaway

The Kennedy Krieger Institute's comprehensive approach at CASSI is making a significant impact on the lives of children with autism and their families, demonstrating the importance of early diagnosis, intervention, and a holistic support system to help these young individuals reach their full potential.