Today we’d like to introduce you to Blair Boyd.
Hi Blair, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My name is Blair Boyd, and my path to nonprofit leadership was anything but traditional.
In college, I was a dental hygiene major; however, almost immediately after, my career took an unexpected turn into the beverage and hospitality industry. I worked for various beer companies throughout the Raleigh and Charlotte areas, which eventually led to a role as a regional sales and events manager for a group of bars up and down the East Coast. The work was fast-paced and demanding—late nights, endless problem-solving, managing restaurants and staff, and navigating situations involving individuals who had a little too much fun.
In many ways, those chaotic years unknowingly prepared me to become an autism parent.
What nothing could have prepared me for, however, was the isolation that comes with life in the autism world. The last time I met a friend for dinner was October of 2015. As my personal world grew smaller, my understanding grew deeper—especially around how profoundly isolating life can be for autistic individuals and their caregivers, particularly as children grow into adulthood.
That is why I created Next Chapter Connections, Inc. We are a nonprofit organization committed to ending the isolation of autistic individuals and their caregivers/parents. Beginning in January 2026, Next Chapter Connections will launch free virtual meet-ups designed to foster connection and community. NCC will host groups for older teens and young adults, adults, seniors, as well as dedicated caregiver and parent meet-ups. In addition to virtual offerings, we will also be adding in-person meet-ups to further strengthen local connections.
Once an individual with autism “ages out” of school-based services or therapies, they often lose their built-in community. This gap leaves many individuals and families feeling disconnected and unsupported. There is a strong and growing need for an organization like Next Chapter Connections in our area.
Beyond community-building, NCC is committed to advocacy. We plan to advocate for an increased number of autism specialists in South Carolina and for higher Medicaid reimbursement rates for these providers. Therapists and specialists are on the front lines of care and desperately need our support. Every day, our community loses talented providers to Charlotte and other parts of North Carolina. South Carolina must step up and begin following the example set by many other states.
Our website, www.nextchapterconnections.com, serves as a resource hub for the community, offering information on autism-related services available within 25 miles of Fort Mill, South Carolina, along with our calendar of events. We invite you to explore the site, learn more about our mission, and sign up for an upcoming meet-up.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No—it took me more than nine years to find the courage to do something like Next Chapter Connections. When you have multiple children on the spectrum, it can slowly wear down your self-confidence. You’re surrounded by doctors, therapists, teachers, and even strangers who all seem to have opinions about how you should raise your child. As a woman—and as someone who actually knows a thing or two about autism—those comments took a toll. I felt alone, and honestly, I was angry. Life shouldn’t be this lonely.
For the record, I am happily married, but my husband lives a very different experience from mine. He works outside the home, while I carry much of this journey differently.
I spent so much time feeling guilty, like I wasn’t doing enough—until one day, I just went for it. I got online and shared that I wanted to build a website to connect people who can’t simply leave their homes on a whim. There were definitely some unexpected financial surprises along the way—websites aren’t cheap—but I learned so much in the process. In the end, every tear and late night was worth it.
From there, NCC continued to grow. Our Vice President, Danielle Harris, suggested that we step into advocacy, and I agreed wholeheartedly. We’re building something for our community—and for our kids.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Next Chapter Connections is dedicated to empowering individuals with autism and their loved ones through unwavering support, meaningful friendships, and comprehensive resource education across the entire lifespan. We recognize the critical importance of connection beyond school and formal services, and we work to ensure that every individual has a strong, supportive network to thrive at every stage of life.
All proceeds are reinvested directly into our community to combat neurodiversity-driven isolation and to connect individuals and families with vital resources at every chapter. What also sets Next Chapter Connections apart is our commitment to advocacy—not only for autistic individuals, but for the therapists, educators, and support professionals who serve them. We see firsthand the impact these professionals make every day, and we proudly recognize them as the heroes they are.
The name Next Chapter Connections reflects a belief at the core of our mission: everyone deserves connection, community, and the opportunity for a meaningful next chapter.
From a brand perspective, we are proud to bring people together by creating inclusive social spaces where individuals can connect with peers and feel a true sense of belonging.
Above all, we want readers to know that we are committed to improving and empowering the lives of everyone living with—and working alongside—autism. We invite you to visit our website and share Next Chapter Connections with friends and family who may benefit from becoming part of our growing community.
What matters most to you? Why?
Wow, this is a tough one. So you asked “what” not who.
I think what matters most to me, in terms of NCC, is housing and inclusive adult day programs. I think the children of this community with autism deserve to stay in this community. We shouldn’t have to send them away if they want to live in a group home with peers. They are deserving of meaningful day programs. That is my long-term fight.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.nextchapterconnections.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/next_chapter_connections/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61583300937193
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blair-boyd-94702a272/
