A group for adults with autism continues to grow, and it’s founder says her creation has helped this community come together during Autism Awareness Month.  

Nicole Russell, founder of Autistic Adults NYC, created the group last year, and its roughly 400 members come from all five boroughs and beyond. Russell received her diagnosis of autism just two years ago at the age of 23.  

"Me personally, when I was diagnosed, I feel like I had a lot of questions that were finally answered,” said Russell. “We're trying to build genuine relationships, genuine friendships in our community." 

According to the Centers for Disease Control, 1 in 36 children will have autism. For Russell, the group isn’t a support or therapy group, but more of a social club for those who need.