Cover Photo: Rick Guidotti, Positive ExposureSeptember 2026
To celebrate Craniofacial Acceptance Month, our September cover features Austin Halls. Born with Moebius syndrome, a rare congenital condition that causes facial paralysis, Austin grew up navigating a world that often places enormous value on facial expression and appearance.
After undergoing four surgeries and spending years working toward a full smile, he began to see his difference not as something that needed to be fixed, but as a part of what makes him uniquely himself. Read his story below.
2026 Book of the Year
Crissy Renner
HELEN’s first Book of the Year combines story, music, and interactive learning to help readers better understand autism, inclusion, and the power of self-acceptance. Trevor the Noteable G.O.A.T. extends beyond the page with resources designed for children, families, educators, and caregivers.
Book Review: Systemic Ableism
Elena Salgado
Ableism operates across healthcare, education, employment, and everyday life. Salgado reviews a wide-ranging collection that not only examines those barriers, but also offers practical ideas for building more equitable and accessible systems.
From Our Friends
This month’s From Our Friends shares updates, stories and resources from organizations working across disability, health, advocacy and inclusion. Explore new perspectives, community initiatives, research and opportunities to connect with the work being done by Helen’s partners and friends.
From the Stacks
This month’s From the Stacks brings together timely reporting, research and perspectives on disability, caregiving, health and inclusion. Explore stories on Medicaid and family caregivers, Alzheimer’s and Down syndrome, disability research, accessible care, emerging technology and more—all selected to help readers stay informed about issues shaping the disability community.
Events & Webinars
September is packed with opportunities to connect, learn and celebrate community. This month’s events include webinars on emergency preparedness, dementia, epilepsy, family engagement and accessible housing, along with workshops, conferences and in-person gatherings in New York and beyond. Browse the listings below to find upcoming programs, registration details and ways to get involved.