Maddie is an extraordinary vocalist, songwriter, actress and student. For the past few years, she's donated her time and her many talents to help raise awareness of autism.

In 2004, she wrote her very first song, titled "Take My Hand," which she dedicated to all children living with autism, including one of her younger brothers, Jake, who was diagnosed with the condition at the age of two. She's donated this song to AutismLink, and now listeners can download the entire MP3 for a small donation of $2 at www.autismlink.com. Through these downloads, Maddie has raised more than $4,000 for the Autism Center of Pittsburgh.

Maddie also contributes to the awareness of autism by performing throughout her city and state. Last June, she sang for more than 12,000 people at the Walk Now for Autism event at Heinz Field in Pittsburgh. That same month, she sang a sold–out show at the Hard Rock Café where she was able to raise even more money. When she's not busy performing good deeds or completing her schoolwork, she competes in local and national singing competitions.

Maddie says it is her passion to help people understand that autistic kids learn differently, and sometimes all they need is a helping hand. For more information about Maddie, visit her website at www.myspace.com/maddiegeorgi.