Daily Inspiration: Meet Mauria Stonestreet

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mauria Stonestreet

Hi mauria, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I didn’t start my career in education. My first degree was in mass communications from K-State, and after graduating, I took a sales job. However, I quickly realized it wasn’t the right fit. Instead of focusing on sales, I often found myself visiting my friend’s classroom—she was a special education teacher, and watching her work with her students inspired me.

She encouraged me to go back to school and pursue a degree in special education. My parents were incredibly supportive and wanted me to be happy in my career, so with their help, I earned a degree in elementary education and later a master’s in special education with a concentration in autism from KU. It was one of the best decisions of my life.

I spent many years working in public schools, both in Kansas and the Chicago suburbs. While in Illinois, I launched a consulting practice. However, when I later moved back to Kansas City, I struggled to reestablish myself, as I no longer had the connections and reputation I had built in Illinois. Gaining traction was difficult, and I discovered that the services I offered lacked a market in Kansas City. In Illinois, I collaborated with an attorney to help families navigate the special education system and avoid due process. However, Kansas City appeared to be less litigious than the Chicago area there was lower demand for that type of support.

Eventually, I connected with the founders of Building Hope for Autism. For the past five years, alongside a dedicated board of directors—including the same friend who first encouraged me—I have been committed to growing the foundation and supporting its mission.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I was an autism specialist when I met the founders of Building Hope for Autism. I had no experience running a foundation, but I stepped into the director role and have been figuring it out as I go. I’ve never been entirely comfortable asking for donations, so the fundraising aspect of my role has been challenging. Our organization hosts an annual Golf Classic, now in its fifth year. It’s our sole fundraiser and a large-scale event with many moving parts. I couldn’t manage it without the support of my board of directors and a dedicated committee.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m the director of Building Hope for Autism, a small nonprofit serving the Kansas City autism community. Our mission is to support families by providing sensory equipment to help children thrive at home, just as they do in therapy or school. We launched our Sensory Project four years ago, equipping families with essential tools like noise-canceling headphones, weighted blankets, crash pads, iPads, roller machines, and other unique sensory items.

Beyond sensory equipment, we collaborate with existing nonprofits in the Kansas City area to provide scholarships for autistic children to attend summer camp and access adaptive horse therapy..

Additionally, we host inclusive family activities to create meaningful experiences for families who might otherwise miss out. For the past two years, we’ve organized a Sensory Santa Experience, allowing families to enjoy a private 15-minute visit with Santa—eliminating the stress of waiting in long lines under fluorescent lights in a busy mall.

We also host a free Sensory Movie Day, creating an accommodating movie-watching experience for autistic individuals and their families. Many families with autistic members often avoid movie theaters due to sensory challenges, but our event allows them to enjoy a film together in a welcoming, understanding environment—making for a truly special day.

We recently partnered with Union Station to provide scholarships for schools, nonprofit organizations, and community groups serving sensory-sensitive and underrepresented populations throughout Greater Kansas City. These scholarships help ensure that those who may lack funding can access the unique educational opportunities offered through their Science City STEM programs.

“I’ve always believed small ripples make big waves, and I’m very proud that the foundation is doing just that in the Kansas City autism community.

Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
I consider myself a natural connector. I enjoy engaging with people, recognizing their contributions to the autism community, and supporting their efforts. My passion for autism advocacy began the moment I read a chapter in a psychology book and realized this was the population I wanted to work with. My ability to build meaningful relationships with autistic individuals and their families is also a key strength.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.Buildinghopeforautism.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bhfaf/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EJPZoToS3/