40 Under 40: Tiffany Klauba

As the executive director of Autism Society of Idaho, Tiffany Klauba helps individuals and families navigate life with autism, connecting them with support, resources, information and advocacy.

“All I want in the world is for people to thrive in their own time and space,” she said. “I personally fight my own disability on a daily basis, so I understand how challenging life can be when you don’t know what the future holds. I have a big heart and genuinely care about every family or individual I help; and knowing we are making an impact is the reason we keep going.”

Klauba knows firsthand how vital her work is because her son has autism.

When he received the diagnosis, the future became uncertain.

“Possibly the most heartbreaking part was not knowing if I’d ever hear his voice, hear him say ‘Mom’ or ‘I love you,’” Klauba said. “It’s a very lonely path, especially when your child is nonverbal.”

Within the last year, Klauba’s son began speaking. When he said he loved her for the first time, the daily struggles and unknowns became worth it.

“To see him thrive and smile is all I ever want for him,” she said.