Autism Awareness Month means something different to everyone. For some, it’s education. For others, it’s advocacy. For Jessica and Manny Cotto of MJ Salon in Boonton, it’s personal — and it’s action.
Each April, the salon donates $5 from every service to someone making a difference in the special needs community. But instead of writing a check to a large organization where the impact feels distant, they choose someone local — someone they know is doing the work, often quietly and without recognition.
“Caretakers are not compensated as much as they should be and many of them take on extra responsibilities,” Jessica explained.
That realization came from lived experience.
Jessica’s brother Stanley was diagnosed with autism at just three or four years old, and from that moment on, caring for him became woven into the fabric of her everyday life. About five years ago, she officially stepped into the role of his legal guardian. Now 28, Stanley lives in a group home in Lincoln Park, where he participates in day programs and enjoys staying active in the community.
Because Stanley is nonverbal and lives with seizures, expressing his emotions can be challenging — a reality that calls for patience, resilience, and steady, compassionate care.
One caregiver in particular, Shaina, left a lasting impression on Jessica and Manny. Working closely with Stanley at the home, she consistently went above and beyond by maintaining constant communication and treating the residents with genuine compassion. Watching her dedication opened their eyes to something bigger.
“It does take a toll on the caregivers,” Jessica added. “We just want to give back.”
Last year, Shaina became the first recipient of MJ Salon’s April initiative. The response was overwhelming.
“To see someone smile and tear up and say thank you a million times, it just shows we’re here to accomplish something and make a difference, especially in hard times,” Manny explained. “We want to help. We’re hoping we can collect even more than we did last time. I’m really looking forward to giving back again.”
“To see someone light up because you’re giving back to them is the best feeling,” Jessica added.
This year, that giving spirit extends to Mimi and Erik, the owners of No Labels Boxing in Boonton — parents, advocates, and business owners who are building inclusion into the fabric of our community.
Mimi and Erik are the parents of two sons, ages 14 and 11, who both have autism and are nonverbal. Her connection to the autism community runs even deeper — her brother, once nonverbal himself and now verbal, has become an incredible mentor to her boys.
At No Labels Boxing, they’ve created more than a gym. They offer private training and group classes for children and adults with special needs — whether autism or other developmental, intellectual, or physical disabilities. They’ve built internship opportunities for individuals with disabilities because they believe access to the workforce should not be limited.
At the heart of No Labels Boxing is a simple but powerful mission: to create an environment that not only challenges people physically, but supports them personally. It’s a space designed to make you sweat, work hard, and grow stronger — while remaining flexible and accessible to busy families. More importantly, it’s a place that gives back. Each month, they host completely free events for the special needs community, welcoming individuals of all ages and abilities. The goal is inclusion without conditions — no labels, no limitations, just opportunity and belonging.
“I wish more people would offer more opportunities to people with special needs. They can work too.”
The name No Labels reflects their philosophy: everyone belongs.
Erik and Mimi moved to New Jersey during the pandemic, united by their love of boxing and a desire to create something meaningful. But their advocacy goes far beyond their business walls.
“We like to go out everywhere with our kids!” Mimi said. “When you’re a parent of two kids with autism, you’re going to get a lot of stares…but we don’t care. We’re in our own little bubble.”
They take their sons to malls, movies, and local spots — intentionally exposing them to new experiences and challenging assumptions.
“You’ll never know how it is until you walk a mile in someone else’s shoes, so it’s important to be kind and more accepting,” she explained.
This April, they are hosting a “Walk a Mile in Their Shoes” event in Boonton to raise awareness in the community.
“It takes a village to raise a kid, but most of the time when you have a child with special needs, that village disappears.”
That’s exactly why MJ Salon’s initiative matters. It fills a gap. It recognizes the unseen work. It supports families and caregivers who often carry heavy loads without acknowledgment.
“Caretakers need a lot of love and appreciation. If you know someone who is a caretaker, check in on them and reach out,” Mimi added.
For Jessica and Manny, this cause is deeply personal. Manny has been in Stanley’s life since he was eight years old, forming a bond that has only strengthened over time — from haircuts to family dinners and the quiet, consistent presence that means everything. It’s another reminder that care takes many forms. Sometimes it’s medical, sometimes it’s emotional, and sometimes it’s as simple as sitting in a barber chair and feeling comfortable.
Throughout April, clients at MJ Salon can be part of this mission. Each service contributes $5 toward this year’s recipients, and community members are welcome to donate as well. It’s local. It’s visible. It’s personal.
And it’s growing.
Because Autism Awareness Month is not just about wearing blue or sharing statistics. It’s about showing up — for caregivers, for families, for businesses creating inclusive spaces, and for individuals who deserve opportunity long after they turn 21 and traditional programs fade away.
In Boonton, that awareness looks like scissors snipping, boxing gloves lacing up, families stepping forward, and a community choosing to care — together.
To donate, visit MJ Salon in Boonton or @mandjbarbershopsalon on Instagram.
“It takes a village to raise a kid, but when you have a child with special needs, that village disappears.”