Press Release:  AANE receives $85,000 from the philanthropic arm of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and Tufts Plan, Point32Health Foundation

Contact: 

Cathy Aikman / Director of Marketing & Communications & IT Operations

[email protected]

617-393-3824

Watertown, MA – July 7, 2026 – The Association for Autism and Neurodiversity (AANE), a non-profit that helps Autistic and similarly Neurodivergent people build meaningful, connected lives, received an $85,000 general operating grant over three years from Point32Health Foundation. The funds support nonprofits that improve conditions for older adults and help build thriving, healthier communities for all ages.

“Finding a community of people who take you in for who you are and deeply understand your needs as you age is life-changing,” said Brenda Dater, executive director of AANE. “Older Autistic adults are discovering that type of community at AANE, many for the first time in their lives. If you are searching for that type of community or connection, please reach out to AANE. You are not alone.”

This grant is one of 21 new investments totaling more than $3.5 million from the philanthropic arm of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and Tufts Health Plan, Point32Health Foundation.

“As a not-for-profit health plan, we know that healthier communities ensure better outcomes and more affordable care for everyone,” said Kristin Lewis, president of the Point32Health Foundation and executive vice president of Point32Health. “Through these investments we are working with community organizations to create environments where individuals can live with dignity, connection and opportunity as they age.”

About AANE

AANE is a non-profit that works with Autistic and similarly Neurodivergent people to build meaningful, connected lives. AANE provides individuals, families, and professionals with education, community and support, in an inclusive atmosphere of validation and respect. To learn more, visit aane.org.

About Point32Health

Point32Health, the parent company of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care and Tufts Health Plan, is a leading not-for-profit health and well-being organization dedicated to delivering high-quality, affordable health care. Serving nearly 2 million members, our purpose is to guide and empower healthier lives.

About Point32Health Foundation

Building on values of service and giving, Point32Health Foundation works with communities to support, advocate and advance healthier lives. Point32Health Foundation is the result of the combination of Harvard Pilgrim Health Care Foundation and Tufts Health Plan Foundation and supports communities in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island.