OUR HISTORY

Founding and Purpose

Pucks for Autism was founded with the goal of harnessing the power of hockey to raise awareness and support for individuals on the autism spectrum. The organization began as a small, community-driven initiative inspired by families with a personal connection to autism, including its founders who sought to create a welcoming environment where understanding and acceptance could grow through sport.

Since its inception, Pucks for Autism has hosted various hockey tournaments and events, engaging players, families, and supporters in activities that highlight both the challenges and strengths of individuals with autism. These events serve as more than fundraisers—they are platforms to build inclusion, celebrate diversity, and foster meaningful friendships within an accepting atmosphere.

Over the years, the organization has grown significantly, providing grants to other autism-related nonprofits, expanding tournament participation, and making a lasting impact in its local community and beyond. Today, Pucks for Autism continues to rally community spirit around hockey, striving to break down stigmas and ensure every family touched by autism feels seen, understood, and supported.

Grantmaking and Impact

Funds raised from these events are allocated as grants to organizations and programs that facilitate autism-friendly initiatives, promote inclusion, provide educational tools, and support for individuals with autism.

Community Involvement & Partnerships

Pucks for Autism garners support largely through donations and event participation, collaborating with local arenas, professional teams, and universities to expand its reach and inclusivity. The organization’s efforts are recognized within the hockey community and among autism advocacy groups for creating sensory-friendly, accessible spaces for individuals on the autism spectrum.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Pucks for Autism

Founder

SHAWN PFEIFFER

Shawn Pfeiffer is the founder of Pucks for Autism, inspired by his son Henry’s autism diagnosis. Shawn recognized the powerful impact hockey could have—not only for families affected by autism, but also for building inclusive, compassionate communities. Since launching the initiative, Shawn has grown Pucks for Autism from a small local event into a large annual tournament, now welcoming nearly 50 teams and raising vital funds for programs, grants, and resources that directly benefit children and young adults on the autism spectrum. To Shawn, this work is more than a tournament—it’s a way to champion awareness, create joyful memories, and ensure every family feels seen and supported.

Pucks for Autism

Founder

EVA PFEIFFER

Eva Pfeiffer co-founded Pucks for Autism alongside Shawn, driven by her commitment to support Henry and other families touched by autism. Eva’s role has been central to the organization’s growth, especially in outreach and the planning of impactful events that foster both fun and inclusivity for all participants. Her vision helped shape a community where friendship, acceptance, and kindness are core values, and where every child and young adult is given opportunities to thrive and celebrate their strengths.

Pucks for Autism

Board of Directors

Monica Anderson

Monica Anderson serves as the Secretary on the Pucks for Autism Board of Directors, bringing a deeply personal commitment to the organization as the proud aunt of Henry Pfeiffer, the inspiration behind PFA. Monica is passionate about supporting local initiatives that may be overlooked by larger charities, and values Pucks for Autism for its authentic community spirit. She believes in the unique power of bringing people together through hockey, where families and friends can celebrate their love for the game while championing meaningful causes—a true win/win for all involved.

Pucks for Autism

Board of Directors

JUSTIN SMITH

Justin Smith has been a devoted member of the Pucks for Autism Board of Directors since joining the organization in 2020 after his son’s autism diagnosis. Driven by a lifelong passion for hockey and a desire to give back to families like his own, Justin helped champion Pucks for Autism’s mission alongside his wife and daughter, both active participants in the cause. For Justin, the organization’s work is not just about the sport—it’s about fostering awareness, inclusion, and making every child, young adult, and family feel welcome. Through memorable events, meaningful connections, and shared laughter, Justin has seen the community grow and thrive, united by a commitment to create positive experiences and lifelong friendships for families affected by autism. His continued involvement reflects genuine joy and pride in seeing Pucks for Autism become a true family effort and an enduring source of hope and support for many.

Pucks for Autism

Board of Directors

walker aurand

Walker Aurand has been involved with Pucks for Autism since 2017 after being invited to join the Chicago Tournament by the organization's founder. Diagnosed with autism at a young age, Walker found hockey to be a freeing and therapeutic activity that helped him manage stress and build social skills. He values the people involved in Pucks for Autism and the mission of raising funds to support those in the autism community. Hockey has given him a platform to meet diverse individuals and advocate for others with autism, making his connection to the organization deeply meaningful.