Nicole Isler

I m so excited for this week s show featuring two inspiring women who felt called to make a difference for children with Autism. Meet Denise Schamens and Chelsea Budde, the unstoppable lady duo that co-founded Good Friend, Inc., a 501(c)(3) public charity dedicated to creating autism awareness, teaching acceptance of differences, and fostering empathy for individuals with autism. Good Friend, Inc. has reached more than 53,000 people directly with its autism awareness-acceptance-empathy message since 2007. Denise Schamens has three children, two of whom are adults with special needs. Due to her first-hand experiences, she served for 10 years as a school district family engagement liaison for CESA #1. Her insight into the needs of children with autism spectrum disorder gave rise to Good Friend, Inc. Denise has served as its co-founder, vice president, and creative director since 2007. Her passion lies in her creative pursuits within and outside the organization, which include editing and directing four sh