Hope For Three Celebrates Barbie with Autism Launch, Advancing Representation and Neurodiversity in Fort Bend County
In a landmark moment for representation and inclusion, Fort Bend County’s autism advocacy nonprofit, Hope For Three, is celebrating the recent launch of Mattel’s Barbie® with autism—a move that shines a global spotlight on neurodiversity and acceptance. This addition to the Barbie Fashionistas® line features thoughtful design elements inspired by the real-life experiences of autistic individuals and is helping children and families across Greater Houston see themselves reflected in one of the most iconic toy brands in the world.
Hope For Three, a 501(c)(3) organization headquartered in Sugar Land, Texas, has been at the forefront of autism advocacy in the region since its founding in 2011. The organization was inspired by the Montgomery family of Richmond, whose identical triplet daughters—Londyn, Lakin, and Lauren—were all diagnosed with autism before the age of four. Moved by the family’s struggles to navigate insurance denials, costly therapies, and limited support, friends of the Montgomerys launched Hope For Three to offer resources, financial assistance, and community education focused solely on autism.
“Representation matters. For children on the autism spectrum, seeing a doll that reflects their world can foster confidence, self-expression, and a sense of belonging,” said Hope For Three in a statement. “We believe moments like these help move society beyond awareness and toward true acceptance."
Mobile Sidebar Ad
The doll, developed with guidance from the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), includes design elements such as a side-shifted gaze, fidget spinner, noise-cancelling headphones, and a tablet with symbol-based communication apps to authentically reflect common ways autistic individuals experience and communicate with the world around them.
Autism, a bio-neurological developmental disability, affects how individuals perceive, engage with, and respond to their environments. According to the CDC, as of 2025, 1 in 31 children in the U.S. are diagnosed with autism. In Fort Bend County alone, more than 9,600 students are enrolled in public schools with an autism diagnosis, making the work of Hope For Three all the more urgent and vital.
With autism affecting more children than pediatric AIDS, diabetes, and cancer combined, the financial and emotional toll on families can be immense. For the Montgomerys, the cost of therapies, medical interventions, and care for three daughters on the spectrum created both a financial and emotional burden that inspired change. Today, Hope For Three offers ongoing monthly support to families in need—making it the only organization in the area doing so with a sole focus on autism.
Barbie’s journey toward inclusivity has evolved significantly since her debut in 1959. Long criticized for setting unrealistic standards, Mattel began expanding Barbie’s identity in recent years. In 2020, the company introduced dolls with vitiligo, prosthetic limbs, and various body types. In 2023, a Barbie with Down syndrome joined the line, followed by the 2026 release of the Barbie with autism. These developments reflect a growing commitment to showcase real-world diversity and empower children of all backgrounds to feel seen and valued.
Mobile Sidebar Ad
“Acceptance means recognizing and valuing individuals for who they are—not asking them to change to fit the world around them,” Hope For Three emphasized. “While milestones like this Barbie® launch are encouraging, continued education, advocacy, and community support remain essential."
The organization’s programs include caregiver support, teen mentoring through “Teen Huddle,” emergency intervention initiatives like “Project Lifesaver,” and inclusive social gatherings such as “Let’s Get Together.” Through partnerships with schools, law enforcement, and community volunteers, Hope For Three not only brings services to families in need but also fosters broader understanding and compassion for those living with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
As public conversations around neurodiversity grow louder, organizations like Hope For Three are helping guide that dialogue toward empathy, support, and action. For those looking to get involved, donate, or learn more, resources are available at hopeforthree.org.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
