Samantha Garcia

“If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve only met one person with autism.” 

Samantha Garcia is using her powers for good. Living in East Tennessee, she works with the team at Autism Breakthrough in Knoxville to teach local first responders about responding to situations with individuals with autism. Samantha has always had positive experiences with law enforcement, growing up around police in her native Key West, Florida. However, she knows that’s not the case for everyone, and she’s sharing her perspective to improve future experiences for others. Samantha also works at her local Buffalo Wild Wings where she enjoys the interaction with customers and fast-paced environment. Despite facing challenges from teachers, friends and the public, Samantha says she’s not giving up anytime soon.