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The Missing Link: Rebuilding Community for Those Navigating Autism
In honor of Disability Pride Month, we are proud to feature the Autism Society (ASC), an organization at the forefront of advocacy, support, and empowerment for individuals and families impacted by autism. ASC is dedicated to creating connections and empowering individuals and families impacted by autism. Through vital resources, inclusive programs, and a strong sense of community, ASC bridges gaps and fosters neurodiversity throughout the state. We recently spoke with representatives from ASC to learn more about their current work, their impact, and how others can get involved.
What is your organization’s story and mission statement?
The Autism Society is an affiliate of the National Autism Society, which was founded 60 years ago. ASC was founded in 1970 by parents advocating for the right of their children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to receive a public school education. Initially a volunteer-driven organization, ASC provided information and services to families and direct service providers. In 1975, ASC began formally advocating for the autism community, joining other organizations to support the passage of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act at the state and national levels. Throughout its history, ASC has been a requested partner in policy development by various Colorado state departments, including Human Services, Developmental Disabilities, Health Care Policy and Financing, Vocational Rehabilitation, Education, and Behavioral Health, contributing the perspective of the autism community to inform statewide policy efforts.
More recently, ASC has served individuals with autism, families, providers, and educators, offering state-of-the-art services and educational opportunities that leverage the unique strengths and assets of the ASD community while ensuring access to necessary support systems. In 2017, ASC faced significant challenges, including financial, staffing, and programmatic setbacks, and a change in leadership. In 2022, under new leadership (an executive director, director of programs, and an engaged board of directors), ASC began rebuilding community partnerships and reviving its programming to connect the autism community with needed services and promote neurodiversity and inclusion. ASC creates connections, empowering everyone in the autism community with the resources needed to live fully.
What have been some of the organization's biggest milestones or achievements?
We are proud to have supported the people of Colorado for so many years. Our biggest achievements are the hundreds of families and thousands of individuals who have found community and resources to live fulfilling lives. Our Walk with Autism continues to draw hundreds of people, and we recently expanded the walk to Colorado Springs. In 2024, we supported 30 organizations in learning about autism through our Autism 101 training, offered free or at low cost to families and individuals.
How has the organization impacted the lives of the people it serves?
Many families and individuals feel lost and lonely navigating the autism world. ASC bridges this gap by creating connections and communities, both virtually and in person. We have impacted many by fostering a sense of belonging. We have created sensory-friendly events, such as basketball and baseball games, a bubble bash, and visits with Santa. We have connected individuals in rural and remote areas with others who share similar experiences and challenges. We hope to reach more communities and expand our impact to more cities.
How can GlobalMindED help your organization reach your goals?
Continue to highlight the diverse ways people thrive. We want everyone to feel loved and cared for. Share our social media (@autismcolorado) so people can get involved and join our community. If our work resonates with you, please consider donating so we can continue to support our families for free or at low cost.
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