A Message From the Executive Director | | |
Dear friends, families, and community partners,
As we cross the finish line of Developmental Disability Awareness Month and hit the on-ramp to Autism Acceptance Month, I am struck by the sheer number of people we’ve already impacted this spring. I am more than pleased that we were able to offer quality events that served so many across the Autism lifespan.
| | What a March it has been! From our Mom’s Night Out, ASMV Book Club and Caregiver Support Group to sponsoring a guest speaker, Eric Garcia, an autistic author and journalist who spoke to the Youngstown Press Club. We've engaged in transparent, real conversations regarding Autism and the many pillars of society that shape the journey. | | |
Our Social Connections Group also had a huge celebration at the Salem Fun Center, which was generously made possible by a micro-grant from the Community Fund Ohio. Additionally, our families took part in a time-honored tradition: our Special Bunny event at the Eastwood Mall, sponsored by the Cafaro Foundation.
We had such a generous outpouring of donations to assist with the goodies and giveaways at these events. Every day, the Amazon driver delivered packages to the front door of the Youngstown Business Incubator, where our office is housed, and I was blown away by the generosity of our donors.
Looking to April
As we move into Autism Acceptance Month, the momentum isn't slowing down! Please make sure to mark your calendars for two of our favorite annual traditions:
Growth and Connection
I truly feel the Autism Society is going to have an outstanding year. Having our donors, volunteers, and families involved is such an important part of what we are going to do. As your Director, please know my phone is always ready to receive your calls, and my email, jodi@autismmv.org, is open for your suggestions.
It is so important to me that we continue to offer relevant programming and build on the programs we already have. While some things may change from how we have always done it, rest assured that we are painstakingly planning for a future of growth and programming that will better serve our tri-county area.
To our volunteers, you make a difference. Please reach out to us. You can serve in ways that fit your availability and also the areas of our organization that matter most to you.
Finally, I want to share that fundraising is a big part of ASMV being able to offer quality programming We are asking partners to join The Change Challenge.
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Our Social Connections groups have officially kicked off The Change Challenge for the next 30 days! They will be collecting change from friends and family members to help support their programming. You are welcome to join in the challenge!
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For Individuals: If you or your family would like to grab a change jar to collect coins, let us know!
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For Businesses: We are looking for local partners to host a donation lockbox at their business during the month of April for Autism Acceptance Month.
Thank you for being the heart of this organization.
Warmly,
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Jodi Glass
Executive Director
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ICYMI: The Business Journal Features ASMV
"The Autism Society of Mahoning Valley has served as a support system for individuals and families across Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties for more than 30 years. As the organization moves through 2026, it is scaling its operations to meet growth in regional demand...."
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A huge thank you to Gina Marinelli for inviting our director, Jodi Glass, to be a guest on her community-focused show, "Doing Good" on WYSU 88.5FM
During the conversation, Jodi shared our organization’s mission to serve and strengthen the Autism community.
We’re so grateful for opportunities like this to connect with the wider community and share the stories, experiences, and goals that drive our work every day.
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Our ASMV families and individuals are invited to join us for a fun, star-studded evening—all ages are welcome! This event is made possible thanks to the generous support of UAW Local 1112. We are truly grateful for their commitment to our community.
Join us on Friday, April 24, 2026, from 5:30 to 7:30 PM at UAW Local 1112 (11471 Reuther Dr, Warren, OH) for a Hollywood-inspired night featuring a red carpet photo experience, games, dancing, and more. Food and drinks, including pizza, chips, cookies, and beverages, will be provided by UAW Local 1112.
The cost is $10 per family (cash at the door). Registration closes April 17.
We hope to see you there for a great night together
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March Recap:
Social Connections & Special Bunny
| | In celebration of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, our recent Social Connections event at the Salem Fun Center was generously sponsored by Community Fund Ohio. Both our teen and young adult groups enjoyed laser tag, skating, concessions, and more. It was a wonderful event full of connection and celebration for everyone involved. | | | |
Our annual Special Bunny event was a joyful celebration filled with smiles, laughter, bunnies, crafts, and treats! This event is what it’s all about—coming together to provide local autism families with the opportunity to participate in cherished holiday traditions they may not have otherwise experienced.
With a calm atmosphere, a timed photo line, an organized treat station without a wait, PLUS gentle bunnies from F5RS Bunnies in Baskets - Therapy Bunnies, games, train rides, and crafts, the event was full of memories being made!
We also saw that many families were able to take their first-ever family photos.
Until next year, Special Bunny will live in our hearts!
Thank you to:
| | The Cafaro Foundation and Cafaro Family for their financial support of this event. | | | State and National Advocacy | | |
For updates on national legislation, you can subscribe to
The Capitol Connection.
ASO has continued its advocacy statewide. Please reach out with comments or concerns.
Your voice is important.
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