Autistic Youth Honored For Global T-Shirt Business That Raises Awareness For Autism

By Justin Udo

PHILADLEPHIA (CBS) -- A 10-year-old autistic boy from South Philadelphia was honored Thursday for his t-shirt business that has gained global attention.

City Councilman Dennis O'Brien presented Santino Stagliano with a citation honoring his hand drawn dragon t-shirts and his work to raise awareness of autism.

"Santino is expressing for all of us in a very, very visible and vibrant way the talents that individuals living with autism have and how they enrich all of our lives." said O'Brien.

Santino has sold nearly two-thousand shirts to people all over the world.

His mom, Lisa, said six weeks ago he was a different person, but since he started making t-shirts he has totally transformed.

"It's bringing him out of his shell." said Sara. He never wanted to go out and play with the kids now all of a sudden he's out playing, he's taking pictures with people, he never liked to be touched and he's hugging people. He's really breaking through. We just hope that for every kid that has autism they can find their dragon and shine."

So why does Santino make his dragon shirts? Santino said, "Making people happy and because it's fun to draw shirts."

Part of the proceeds from the t-shirts goes to the Center for Autism.

Santino's work is also being honored at the Roxborough "Art Is Life" festival this Saturday, where he is the featured artist.