“Be the change you want to see in the world”
The Autism Society San Diego (ASSD) has been a pillar of support for the San Diego community for 60 years. The Autism Society is a trusted resource for autistic individuals and their families, offering education, advocacy, referrals, social and recreational programs working to amplify the voices of autistic people across San Diego County. The Autism Society of San Diego’s ongoing commitment ensures that people on the spectrum and their loved ones have access to community, resources, and opportunities to live fully – now and for many years to come. Gilda Adler, a former board member of the Autism Society San Diego, continues to support their mission as an active volunteer.
#1 Gilda Adler was born and raised in Romania during the challenging Communist times. I lived unconditional love because of my Dad. He taught me the importance of loyalty, integrity, honesty and the desire to grow, always learn. Every girl should have a Dad as mine is. Fun fact – he also taught me how to knit and change a tire.
#2 My parents are in Romania, getting older and every chance I get, I try to go back and see them. Romania is a very beautiful country totally worth visiting and just a 2-3 hour flight from France, Italy or England.
#3 I often joke that my job as a professional photographer is my main hobby. I do love everything art related, outdoors, scuba diving, and books!
#4 I am an ex-ballerina that always wanted to learn self-defense so I actually trained (one on one) Muay Thai for a while. I still kick like a ballerina….
#5 The book closest to my heart is THE CHOICE, by our La Jollan “grandmother” Dr. Edie Eager. It is a memoir that makes one laugh and cry and is filled with so much wisdom and inspiration.
#6 Gilda Adler have two furry boys that my daughter and I rescued.
#7 Oftentimes, my kids volunteered with me. How else can you teach the younger generation to help, if one does not model it first?
#8 My kids were very young when I enrolled them in swim classes. The swim school also specialized in teaching kids with Autism how to swim. When my son was 5 years old, he asked if we were going to help with “Splash for Cash”, an event that raises funds for ASSD Aquatic Program.
#9 My daughter is now a swim instructor teaching kids with Autism how to swim and surf at the same swin school!
#10 Together with my close friend Laura Applegate, I will be hosting the “Have a Heart for Autism” fundraiser benefiting the Autism Society.
The Autism Society San Diego
Have A Heart For Autism
February 6th, 2026
Private Residence in Rancho Santa Fe
