Hollywood star, Kate Winslet has founded a non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating barriers for people with autism around the world. Compelled during her narration of a documentary titled, A Mothers Courage: Talking Back to Autism, about a young Icelandic boy named Keli living with autism, Winslet became motivated to make a difference. Upon meeting Kelis mother, Margret, Winslet was deeply moved by her far-reaching journey to find a way for her nonverbal son to learn to communicate. Her experience motivated the establishment of the Golden Hat Foundation. The Golden Hat was the title of a poem written by 12-year-old Keli Thorsteinsson.
The mission of the Golden Hat Foundation is the establishment of innovative living communities that offer people with autism the opportunity to learn to communicate effectively, receive an education, job training and enjoy recreational activities, all within a supportive social network. When given a suitable education and the means to communicate effectively, people with autism can truly realize their dreams.