Eight years ago, John’s Crazy Socks launched the Autism Can Do Scholarship with a simple belief: people on the autism spectrum have extraordinary talents, and they deserve a chance to show the world what they can do. Since then, we have awarded scholarships to students across the country who have gone on to pursue graphic design, film, music, engineering, and more. This year, we’re proud to open applications for the 2026 Autism Can Do Scholarship. Applications are due by June 30, 2026.
The Autism Can Do Scholarship
We offer this scholarship as part of our mission to show what people with differing abilities can do. The Autism Can Do Scholarship is co-sponsored by the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism, which works to help people and families affected by autism live life to the fullest.
This year’s scholarship prizes are:
• First Place: $2,000 scholarship plus the opportunity to have your winning sock design produced and sold by John’s Crazy Socks — with 10% of sales donated to autism-related charities
• Second Place: $1,000 scholarship
“People with autism can make important contributions, and this scholarship shines a light on their abilities,” says John Cronin, co-founder of John’s Crazy Socks and a young man with Down syndrome. “We’re thrilled to support these students and celebrate their creativity.”
A note about the first-place prize: The winning sock design won’t just earn a scholarship, it will become a real product. We will produce it, sell it in the John’s Crazy Socks store, and donate 10% of proceeds to autism-related charities. The winner becomes a published sock designer with a lasting impact.
Celebrating Talent and Creativity on the Autism Spectrum
The Autism Can Do Scholarship is open to U.S. residents on the autism spectrum who have graduated high school or will graduate this year. Applicants are asked to submit:
• A simple application form
• A personal statement
• A sock design showcasing their imagination and individuality
“We are a sock company, so it’s only fitting that we ask for a sock design,” says Mark X. Cronin, John’s father and co-founder of John’s Crazy Socks. “You don’t need to be a professional artist—what we care about is your creativity and inspiration.”
“We know what people with autism can achieve and are proud to support this program to help them reach their fullest potential,” adds Nick Savarese, Executive Director of the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism.
Past Winners: Proof of What’s Possible
The Autism Can Do Scholarship has supported students with a wide range of talents and ambitions. Past first-place winners include:
• 2025: Evelyn Walters of South Abington Township, PA, a graphic design student on the Dean’s List at Kutztown University, whose winning “Bee Kind” sock design was produced and sold by John’s Crazy Socks
• 2024: Gracie Earley of Kiefer, Oklahoma, who used her scholarship at Tulsa Community College
• 2023: Thomas Albero of Northport, New York, who used his scholarship at Drexel University
• 2022: Isabella Blake of Irvine, California, who used her scholarship at Irvine Valley College
• 2021: Brandon Cheng of Wilmington, Massachusetts, who used his scholarship at Assumption College
• 2019: Garrett Nichols of Clinton, Arkansas, who used his scholarship to attend the Joey Travolta Film School
Each of these winners represents something we see every day at John’s Crazy Socks: when you give people a chance, they rise to it.
John’s Crazy Socks Giving Back Program
The Autism Can Do Scholarship is part of John’s Crazy Socks’ Giving Back Program, which has donated over $800,000 to our charity partners, including the Special Olympics, the Autism Society of America, and the National Down Syndrome Society. The scholarship exemplifies our commitment to showcasing the talents of people with differing abilities, many of whom are part of our team.
“This scholarship is only possible because of the support from our customers,” says Mark Cronin. “Every purchase helps support programs like this one. Together, we’re creating opportunities and spreading happiness.”
How to Apply for the Autism Can Do Scholarship
The application is available on the John’s Crazy Socks website. Applications are due by June 30, 2026. Winners will be announced in July 2026, and the first-place winner’s sock design will be produced and sold in our store—a symbol of creativity, ability, and the power of what people on the autism spectrum can do.
About the Co-Sponsor
Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism
The Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism works to create a world where people with autism lead productive lives as respected and engaged members of their communities. Through various programs, the foundation supports education, employment, and everyday quality of life for people with autism and their families. Learn more at www.flutiefoundation.org.
About John’s Crazy Socks
For more information about John’s Crazy Socks, visit our webpage, Facebook page, Instagram account, TikTok, or YouTube channel. You can also contact us at 631-760-5625 or via email at service@johnscrazysocks.com.
John’s Crazy Socks: Spreading Happiness™
