Opening Up a World of Possibilities for Children with Autism: Kenji’s Visit to The Claremont Autism Center
Kenji, the grandson of the esteemed author, singer-actress, and humanitarian Lourdes Duque Baron, recently paid a visit to The Claremont Autism Center.
This visit marked a significant moment for Kenji and highlighted the extraordinary work at the Center, which has been in operation for over 50 years. Guided by the principles of neurodiversity and evidence-based practices, The Claremont Autism Center is a beacon of hope, providing clinical, research, and training programs dedicated to enhancing the well-being of autistic individuals and their families.
Located in California, the Center is under the direction of Dr. Rachel Fenning and serves a large region encompassing San Bernardino, Los Angeles, Riverside, and Orange Counties.
Kenji’s presence reflected not just familial love but also the passion and commitment of Lourdes Duque Baron, whose work — both literary and personal — advocates for understanding autism through compassion and storytelling.
Clinical Services: Tailored to Support Neurodivergence
The Claremont Autism Center offers comprehensive clinical services, including assessments and interventions. Through psychological evaluations, they help clarify diagnoses, identify strengths, and provide personalized recommendations for those with autism or related conditions like ADHD, intellectual disabilities, and language disorders.
The Center’s intervention services focus on building social skills through group sessions tailored for school-age children and teens. These weekly meetings foster friendships, teach emotional regulation, and create an inclusive community where neurodivergent individuals thrive. New services are continuously being developed to ensure holistic care for families and individuals across all ages.
Training the Next Generation of Advocates
The Center also plays a pivotal role in training future professionals. Graduate and undergraduate students, working under the supervision of experienced clinicians, gain hands-on experience in providing evidence-based care. These students not only assist in clinical services but also engage in research to further improve autism interventions and enrich the field of neurodevelopmental studies.
Lourdes Duque Baron: Championing Autism Awareness Through Literature
In Lourdes Duque Baron’s book When Silence is Not Golden, Baron recounts the miraculous moment when her son, previously non-verbal, spoke his first words at the age of eight. The breakthrough came after Gregg watched the film This Is Elvis, a biographical portrayal of Elvis Presley’s life and struggles. Captivated by the film, Gregg began to express himself by spelling out the name “E-L-V-I-S” repeatedly, marking a monumental shift in his ability to communicate.
Baron recalls the emotional impact of that moment:
“My son was talking! Hearing him speak turned me speechless and immobile… Yet there was unmistakable joy on my son’s face as he danced and jumped while blabbering incoherently… E-L-V-I-S.”
This moment was more than just a breakthrough in language — it opened a new channel of connection between mother and son, allowing Baron to see the beauty in Gregg’s mind and appreciate his unique gifts.
Faith, Love, and the Miracle of Growth
Throughout her journey, Baron attributes her strength to her faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. She emphasizes how love and faith guided her family through the challenges of raising a child with autism, ultimately allowing Gregg to grow and flourish in his own unique way. The book not only explores the struggles and triumphs of caregiving but also celebrates the profound lessons learned through living with and loving a neurodivergent child.
In her own words, Baron reflects:
“The Miracle of Love is the Mystery of Life.”
Her insights resonate with countless families navigating similar paths, offering hope, inspiration, and practical guidance on how to embrace the gifts that autism brings.
Kenji’s Visit: A Personal Connection to the Mission
Kenji’s time at The Claremont Autism Center reflects the values embedded in Baron’s life and writing: the importance of understanding, acceptance, and the continuous pursuit of opportunities for children with autism. His visit serves as a reminder that through compassion and engagement, a world of possibilities can open for neurodivergent individuals.
Just as Gregg discovered self-expression through Elvis Presley’s music, countless children at the Claremont Autism Center are being given the tools to explore their abilities and connect with the world around them. Thanks to the Center’s dedication — and with advocates like Lourdes Duque Baron and her family — neurodivergent children are not only seen but celebrated for their uniqueness.