Man With Autism Becomes Motivational Speaker To Help Others Like Him Feel Accepted

Ben Hartranft, of Lansdale, Pennsylvania, loves meeting new people and wants everyone to feel accepted.

Diagnosed with autism at the age of two, he has overcome many obstacles. He only knew 20 words, but has since exceeded all expectations of him and has grown into the very wise, intelligent young man he is today.

Now, he is on a mission to motivate people with autism and to educate others.

He wants those with autism to know how unique and special they are, and he wants others t know that having autism isn’t a bad thing, and that is doesn’t characterize who they are.

Ben was given the name “Benergy” for his outgoing personality and named his company “Benergy1” after it. He goes around to businesses, clubs, camps, churches, schools and events, giving motivational speeches and sharing how inclusion and kindness has shaped his life with autism.

“Kindness and inclusion are the core of Benergy1,” he wrote on his website. “I want people to hear me speak and think of me next time they interact with someone on the autism spectrum. Treat all people with respect and kindness even if you don’t agree with them.”

When he isn’t making his speeches, he is working at Dorney Park, where he always brightens park-goers’ days. He is also a member of the Philadelphia Eagles gameday staff, and has been involved with the Eagles Autism Challenge.

Hear more of his story in the video below: