Mental Health Support & Statistics

• Health and Wellness  (Autism Society resource)
• Social Story: Dealing with Feelings of Anxiety and Depression (Autism Society resource)
• Infographic: What is Mental Health Parity?
• Autism and the Risk of Bipolar Disorder
• Masters of Masking: Autistic Men Who Camouflage
• Healthcare barriers prevent many Autistic people from seeking medical treatment

Suicide Prevention

• Social Story: 988 National Suicide Prevention Hotline (Autism Society resource)
• 988 Lifeline: Resources for Neurodivergent People
• Warning Signs of Suicide for Autistic People
• Autism and the Troubling Risk of Suicide
• My Journey from Suicidal Thoughts, Hospitalization, and Depression to So Much Hope

Summer Activities

• Managing End-of-Year Stress at School
• Tips for an Autism-Friendly Family Vacation
• Summer Camps for Children With Autism 

Water Safety Month

• Water Safety Checklist
• Water Social Story

Public Policy

• As the Public Health Emergency is coming to an end on May 11th, many important policies will come to an end. Be sure to stay updated using our guide.
• As Congress negotiates the budget and lifts the debt ceiling, be sure to use our Action Center to ensure your Members of Congress do not reduce Medicaid and other funding that is critical for the disability community.

The Autism Society’s National Helpline is here to support you and provide you with the resources you need. Our Information & Referral Specialists are available Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (Eastern Time) at 800-3-AUTISM (800-328-8476) or info@autism-society.org.

The Autism Society’s mission is to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. As the nation’s oldest leading grassroots Autism organization, the Autism Society and its 70+ local affiliates serve over half a million members of the Autism community each year. It envisions a world where everyone in the Autism community is connected to the support they need, when they need it – including education, advocacy efforts, and supports and services throughout the lifespan. If you found this article helpful, please consider supporting our efforts through a donation, every bit helps. Donate here!

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The legislation makes across-the-board cuts of at least $142 billion (or 9 percent) for critical government programs. If defense and veterans programs are not included, then the cuts will climb to 22 percent or higher for non-defense discretionary programs. This would result in loss of access to child care, education, employment, housing, food assistance, and longer wait times for Social Security. The legislation further seeks to lock in those cuts for the next 10 years. It also includes a drastic cut to Medicaid (approximately $100 billion by some estimates) and increases work requirements for those eligible for Medicaid.

Christopher S. Banks, President and CEO of the Autism Society of America states, “While it is appropriate for Congress to cut wasteful spending, using the debt ceiling to extract cuts to services for individuals with Autism and families is cruel, wrong and unjust. At a time when families are suffering from insufficient supports and services, Congress should be looking for ways to expand support, not cut it.”

The Autism Society of America signed on to a letter along with more than 160 other disability and aging organizations urging Congress to not make cuts to Medicaid. The organization also issued an Action Alert urging our families to educate their Members of Congress about the harm such cuts would have on families.  

The Autism Society of America urges Congress to lift the debt ceiling without conditions and negotiate budget priorities through the regular budget and appropriations process.

The post National Statement: Autism Society of America Condemns Passage of Limit, Save, Grow Act appeared first on Autism Society.

April 4, 2023, Rockville, MD  –  The Autism Society of America and Chrysler will announce a new long-term partnership initiative that supports the driving needs of individuals with Autism and their loved ones, including through the creation of a new Calm Cabin package that can transform any Chrysler Pacifica into a sensory-supported mobile experience.

On April 5 at the 2023 New York International Auto Show, Chrysler will announce its partnership with the Autism Society, the oldest and largest grassroots Autism organization in the country. The announcement coincides with April’s Autism Acceptance Month, as well as the Autism Society’s fifth annual Celebrate Differences campaign.

Chrysler Pacifica has always served the needs of families with the brand’s purpose of providing calm and bringing harmony to the lives of owners. Chrysler is reinforcing its commitment to providing real solutions for even more families in need. Through its new partnership, the Chrysler brand and the Autism Society will work to make travel more comfortable for all through thoughtful design, support accommodations, educational resources, and local community engagement.

In addition, throughout the month of April, Chrysler will use its platforms to encourage followers of the brand on social media to make donations, spread awareness for early diagnosis of Autism, promote inclusion in the greater community and practice acceptance in everyday life. Donations to the Autism Society can be made at AutismSociety.org/donate.

Chrysler brand will also provide a courtesy one-year loan of three 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Pinnacle vehicles for use by the Autism Society.

“At Chrysler, we believe it’s no longer enough to be ‘aware’ of the millions of people living and thriving with Autism, we must put acceptance into action,” said Chris Feuell, Chrysler brand chief executive officer – Stellantis. “We’re proud to offer life-enriching opportunities for individuals with Autism and their families with initiatives, such as our new Calm Cabin package, that bring a little harmony to people’s lives, whether they are on a long road trip or running a quick errand.”

The Autism Society will help advise the development of Chrysler products and assist with organization-wide inclusion training to build better experiences for the Autism community interacting with dealers across the country.

“The Autism Society of America is proud to partner with Chrysler to create an improved and inclusive driving experience for the Autism community,” said Christopher Banks, president and CEO of the Autism Society of America. “With a trusted partner like Chrysler, our work is amplified as we collaborate to instill inclusive workplace practices, product accommodations and create more opportunities for the Autism community to live fully.”

Chrysler Calm Cabin Package
A 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Limited on display at the New York International Auto Show, featuring branded Autism Society vehicle graphics, will also serve as a showcase for the brand’s new Calm Cabin package, which helps those with Autism feel calm, safe and comfortable.

Available in late spring through Chrysler’s online merchandise retail store, the Chrysler-branded package includes: 

• Seat-back organizer with adjustable straps, five front pockets, interior clear pocket that holds a tablet computer and a black mesh pocket
• Rechargeable, cordless Bluetooth meditative light and sound therapy machine that fits in the center pocket of the seat-back organizer with five LED color modes, four light therapy modes, breathing coach and 15 sound therapy modes
• Comforting seat belt sleeve with soft-touch velvet feel
• Comforting soft-touch travel pillow
• Comforting, seven-layer, 12-pound weighted sensory blanket

Items available as part of the Calm Cabin package will also be available for purchase separately.

As part of the brand’s long-term partnership with the Autism Society, Chrysler will work to identify additional areas where the brand can support and affect meaningful change in the Autism community. In collaboration with its U.S. dealer network, Chrysler will work to roll out dealer-network staff training designed to familiarize dealership employees with the unique needs of individuals and families in the Autism community.

The Chrysler brand’s new initiative with the Autism Society was developed in partnership with Doner, the brand’s creative agency.

Autism and Autos
Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States, with one in 36 children receiving a diagnosis, according to the newly released report from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). In addition to the 5.8 million autistic adults in the U.S., Autism likely touches a vast majority of Americans either through relationships or direct experience, and the support needs across the Autism spectrum are vastly different.

One of the spaces requiring the most support is on the road. Vehicles can be stressful, scary experiences for those with Autism due to an environment that can be overstimulating and uncomfortable. For some, it means every road trip to school, practice, work or on daily errands becomes a difficult, challenging experience.

Autism Society of America
The Autism Society’s mission is to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. As the nation’s oldest leading grassroots Autism organization, the Autism Society and its approximately 70+ local affiliates serve over half a million members of the Autism community each year. It envisions a world where everyone in the Autism community is connected to the support they need, when they need it – including education, advocacy efforts, and supports and services throughout the lifespan. During Autism Acceptance Month, the Autism Society has a goal to fundraise $350,000 to expand acceptance in practice for the Autism community. For more information, go to www.autismsociety.org, Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.
 
Chrysler Brand
The Chrysler brand has delighted customers with distinctive designs, craftsmanship, advanced innovation and technology since the company was founded in 1925. The Chrysler Pacifica continues to reinvent the minivan, a segment Chrysler invented nearly 40 years ago. Pacifica delivers an unprecedented level of functionality, versatility, technology and bold styling along with the most standard safety features in the industry and most advanced available all-wheel-drive system in its class. The available innovative plug-in hybrid powertrain takes this revolutionary vehicle a step further. It’s the first electrified vehicle in the minivan segment and achieves more than 80 MPGe in electric-only mode, has an all-electric range of more than 30 miles and a total range of more than 500 miles. Chrysler Pacifica is also the most awarded minivan over the last six years with more than 170 honors and industry accolades since its introduction as a minivan. The Chrysler 300 lineup delivers on the brand’s promise of accessible luxury, with iconic and elegant design, world-class performance, efficiency and quality. Chrysler is part of the portfolio of brands offered by leading global automaker and mobility provider Stellantis. For more information regarding Stellantis (NYSE: STLA), please visit www.stellantis.com.

Follow Chrysler and company news and video on:
Company blog: http://blog.stellantisnorthamerica.com
Media website: http://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com
Chrysler brand: www.chrysler.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/chrysler
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrysler 
Twitter: www.twitter.com/chrysler or @StellantisNA
YouTube: www.youtube.com/chrysler or https://www.youtube.com/StellantisNA 

For more information, please visit the Stellantis media site for North America at https://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com.

The post Press Release: Chrysler Partners with Autism Society of America appeared first on Autism Society.

As part of our partnership, Pura Vida is launching two new custom styles using our new brand colors. Each purchase from our Autism Society bracelet collection will donate 5% of the purchase price to support our mission of connecting Autistic individuals and their families to education, resources, and advocacy that empowers the community.

These bracelets are now available to order online through the Pura Vida website, and their in-store locations. Shop our Autism Society Style Pack bracelets and our original Autism Society bracelet today. Whether you prefer to browse from the comfort of your own home or enjoy the in-store shopping experience, you can easily get your hands on these stylish accessories.

If you live near one of Pura Vida’s store locations, we invite you to pay a visit to a nearby Pura Vida store. In select locations including Pura Vida’s San Diego, Irvine, Myrtle Beach, and Gilbert stores, you can contribute to our acceptance wall, learn more about your local Autism Society affiliates, and even receive some exciting swag to take home with you. Pura Vida is also hosting a week-long charity donation with 5% of every purchase bought through influencers, which will go to the Autism Society of America from Thursday, March 30th – Wednesday, April 5th. 

By purchasing an Autism Acceptance bracelet, you can join us in our efforts to #CelebrateDifferences and work towards a more inclusive world for everyone. Order yours today as they are likely to sell out!

Learn more about our work with Pura Vida and our other corporate partners.

The post Pura Vida Launches New Bracelets Supporting the Autism Society appeared first on Autism Society.

Rockville, MD – This April, the Autism Society of America is highlighting partners who are demonstrating acceptance in action for Autism Acceptance Month. The organization’s newest partnership is with Goodnites, the #1 bedwetting underwear brand*. Goodnites is donating $150,000 to the Autism Society of America to support education and community efforts to empower the Autism community.

According to a study conducted by Goodnites**, 1 in 10 children who struggle with bedwetting has a disability – including Autism and/or ADHD. As a size-inclusive bedwetting underwear, Goodnites provides a solution to the long-term needs of many children and adolescents in the neurodivergent community, empowering them to wake up dry. This Autism Acceptance Month, the Autism Society and Goodnites are working together to raise awareness for the needs of families and individuals who struggle with nocturnal enuresis, commonly known as bedwetting, while destigmatizing this common challenge.

“Goodnites is dedicated to supporting under-represented families of children with Autism and ADHD who are in need of a longer-term bedwetting solution,” said Aaron Gretebeck, Kimberly-Clark’s North American Vice President of Goodnites. “Our partnership with the Autism Society allows us to support the Autism community by providing tangible solutions through educational resources, destigmatizing bedwetting, and giving parents and children the comfort that they are not alone.”

Corporations have increasingly acknowledged that they have critical roles to play in creating a more accepting and inclusive culture for individuals with Autism, among other developmental disabilities and physical differences. The Autism Society of America has many partnerships with companies looking to support the wider community with tools, resources, and products that serve Autistic individuals and their loved ones, as well as enhance their internal employment and cultural practices. 

For employers, acceptance is an invaluable practice for the 5.8 million Autistic adults in the United States. At more than 70%, the underemployment and unemployment rate for Autistic individuals remains unacceptably high. The Autism Society believes that with appropriate support, and matching an individual’s strengths and abilities, employment is attainable for the majority of Autistic individuals who want to work.

Recently, the Autism Society received a $250,000 grant from the Make Waves Family Foundation to prioritize its employment initiative. This strategic initiative aims to expand employment opportunities and outcomes for Autistic individuals while addressing systemic barriers to employment.

Additionally, the Autism Society of America formalized a partnership with Mentra, a neurodiversity employment network that matches neurodivergent professionals with meaningful careers; together, the collaboration will seek to more effectively match Autistic job-seekers with job opportunities, improve career outcomes, and assist the Autism Society organizationally as it expands its own team.

“Through our partnerships, the Autism Society of America recognizes the individual needs and experiences of the Autism community from childhood, through the school years, to meaningful employment, and throughout the lifespan,” said Christopher Banks, President and CEO of the Autism Society of America. “We are honored to partner with these corporate leaders and foundations to advance opportunities for the Autism community to live fully.

Other highlighted partnerships include:

Collaboration with Nickelodeon 

The ongoing collaboration between Nickelodeon and the Autism Society includes education, content creation, and learning resources for Autistic children. This partnership continues to produce meaningful content like its Autism Acceptance Month guide, back-to-school resource pack, and Autism storylines in Nick media. 

Using its platform to connect with families, Nickelodeon will help amplify critical information for those looking for resources and support. Nickelodeon also continues to develop DIY sensory activities for children and families. It will be celebrating Autism Acceptance Month on social media and will be connecting with neurodivergent talent to highlight their stories throughout the month of April. 

“Nickelodeon is committed to serving all learners as a family and kid-first company,” said Jean Margaret Smith, Senior Vice President, Public Affairs, Nickelodeon. “Our partnership with the Autism Society helps us promote inclusion and acceptance that empowers kids in the Autism community.” 

Pura Vida

This April, long-time partner, Pura Vida is releasing two new Autism Acceptance jewelry styles, with 5% of every purchase benefitting the Autism Society of America. Additionally, Pura Vida will be using social media, in-store activations, and event support with local affiliates to amplify the message of Autism Acceptance while directing the public to tools and resources for more information. 

“We are committed to creating products and partnerships that inspire positivity and give back,” said Mikala Andrea, who oversees Charity Partnerships at Pura Vida. “Pura Vida is proud to continue and expand our relationship with the Autism Society of America to encourage acceptance every day.”

About Autism Society of America

The Autism Society’s mission is to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. As the nation’s oldest leading grassroots Autism organization, the Autism Society and its approximately 70+ local affiliates serve over half a million members of the Autism community each year. It envisions a world where everyone in the Autism community is connected to the support they need when they need it – including education, advocacy efforts, and supports and services throughout the lifespan. During Autism Acceptance Month, the Autism Society has a goal to fundraise $350,000 to expand acceptance in practice for the Autism community. For more information, go to www.AutismSociety.org, Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.   

Contact:

Nathan Wilson
NathanW@strategies360.com

Footnotes:
*Youth Pant Category Share Data
** Goodnites Bedwetting Diary Study, Burke®, Inc. 2021

The post Press Release: The Autism Society Announces New Corporate Partnership with Goodnites®, Among Others, Ahead of April’s Autism Acceptance Month appeared first on Autism Society.

This April is Autism Acceptance Month, and the Autism Society of America will highlight the real impacts of acceptance in action, from interpersonal interactions to national policy choices. 

Rockville, MD, March 23, 2023 — Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States, with one in 36 children receiving a diagnosis, according to today’s newly released report from the Centers for Disease Control. In addition to the 5.8 million Autistic adults, this prevalence means that Autism likely touches a vast majority of Americans either through relationships or direct experience, and the support needs across the Autism spectrum are vastly different. During Autism Acceptance Month, the Autism Society is highlighting the diversity of experiences and needs with a reminder that acceptance happens every day.

“Autism Acceptance Month is a great reminder that we can and should see the individual, not a diagnosis, and work together to advocate for the unique services and supports that help each person live fully,” said Christopher Banks, President and CEO of the Autism Society of America. “It’s critical that we all do our part. At the Autism Society, we are working at local and national levels to ensure that everyone in the Autism community is connected to the resources they need, when they need them.”

In the coming year, the Autism Society plans to expand its Vaccine Education Initiative (VEI) to increase healthcare provider training, accessible vaccine clinics, and more equitable supports; deliver increased first responder trainings with tools and information to serve the Autistic community more safely and effectively for life-saving outcomes; increase employment rates for Autistic adults and advocate for fair wages and working conditions; and deepen the organizational focus on health equity to build a robust system of supports, services and resources aimed at the whole living experience – from health care options that fit the unique needs of an individual, to addressing the 820,000-person waitlist for home and community-based services through Medicaid across the country. 

Annually, the Autism Society has:

• Provided direct supports for 334,000 people.
• Informed 1.2 million individuals looking for information and resources on the organization’s website. 
• Hosted 58,000 people who attended educational events across the country. 
• Taught 2,300 individuals about water safety and wandering.
• Trained 7,500 first responders on safe and effective interactions with the Autism community. 
• Supported 34,000 people who attended support groups including Autistic individuals, parents, and caregivers.
• Coordinated over 3,700 letters to members of Congress through the Autism Society’s Action Center.
• Successfully advocated for critical bills to increase funding and/or supports within the omnibus appropriations bill, ABLE Age Adjustment Act, Money Follows the Person, Kevin & Avonte’s Law, and Assistive Technology Act, among others.

This Autism Acceptance Month, the Autism Society will also be unveiling a new collection of portraits across the country; stories from participants highlight their unique strengths, challenges, hopes, and dreams in an effort to expand visibility and representation as a centerpiece of the Autism Society’s campaign. 

“I struggle a lot with controlling my body, especially if I’m a little bit nervous or even excited,” said Evan, an Autistic photoshoot participant. “The photoshoot was a great example. You were all so welcoming and kind. I could feel your acceptance and understanding in your eyes and your smiles. Thank you. Among Autistics, the non-speaking population is one of the most marginalized. The outsides don’t match the insides. We are in here. We are worthy.”

The organization hosted the photoshoot in early 2023 to capture Autistic individuals with high support needs, specifically, those who use alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) tools, may also have intellectual and/or additional disabilities, and require additional levels of care. Using trained photographers in a calm sensory space, with additional accommodations to create a space welcoming for Autistic participants, the Autism Society delivered an experience that demonstrates acceptance in action. 

Throughout the month of April, the Autism Society will highlight more about these specific initiatives and stories that aim to demonstrate acceptance in action. The Autism Society is encouraging everyone to connect and participate in the #CelebrateDifferences campaign to learn more, share information and personal stories, and join the movement to practice acceptance every day.

About Autism Society of America

The Autism Society’s mission is to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. As the nation’s oldest leading grassroots Autism organization, the Autism Society and its approximately 70+ local affiliates serve over half a million members of the Autism community each year. It envisions a world where everyone in the Autism community is connected to the support they need, when they need it – including education, advocacy efforts, and supports and services throughout the lifespan. During Autism Acceptance Month, the Autism Society has a goal to fundraise $350,000 to expand acceptance in practice for the Autism community. For more information, go to www.autismsociety.org, Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.    

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Telling Authentic Stories

The photography team at Thompson Hommonay carefully planned the look and feel of the portraits to ensure that the captured photos and videos were approachable and authentic. The individuals featured in the photoshoot were involved in the discussions to ensure that they felt comfortable and supported while having their portraits taken. This allowed the team to design a photoshoot focusing on approachability and authenticity. Additionally, the Autism Society encouraged everyone to bring supports, which included caregivers, AAC devices, headphones, service animals, sensory toys, and more. 

The focus of the project was to expand the organization’s photography assets and create new videography assets. With the footage captured by the production company, Remark Visions, the talented team created two PSA-style videos, highlighting the experiences of Autistic individuals and advocating for acceptance and diversity in needs. The team on-site included volunteers from the San Diego affiliate, two videographers, two photographers, the studio team, and members from the national team to support Autistic individuals and their families. Overall, we connected with over 60 community members throughout the course of the day, and are grateful for their vulnerability while sharing their stories, hopes, dreams and challenges.

The Autism Society is proud of the team’s hard work and excited to unveil our new campaign. The Autism Society’s commitment to showcasing the diversity within the Autism community and promoting authentic representation is essential to promoting understanding and acceptance of Autistic individuals. The organization’s efforts to call attention to the needs and experiences of Autistic individuals will undoubtedly lead to greater awareness and understanding, and we can all look forward to the positive impact this campaign will have. On behalf of our National Team, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the individuals and families who participated in this campaign.

The post Supporting the Autistic Community: The Importance of Representation in the Autism Society’s New Photoshoot Campaign appeared first on Autism Society.

Autism Acceptance Month celebrates and recognizes the many diverse and varied experiences across the Autism spectrum. For years, those in the Autism community have advocated to advance April beyond awareness and forward into acceptance. That’s because our community knows – words matter.

It matters that we speak with acceptance of individuals for who they are, in ways that honor their experience, strengths, and challenges. It matters that we not only talk of acceptance but act on it too.

Acceptance happens every day.

The act of acceptance is many things, every day, and different per person. It starts with an understanding that everyone’s unique experiences are valid and creating space for each member of the Autism community to speak openly and without judgment. This month, The Autism Society of America recognizes how individuals, families, and institutions demonstrate acceptance in the choices we all make.

From including someone who thinks differently to join your group, to advocating for services that you know some folks will need – even if you don’t need them – to making accommodations and supports in the workplace to ensure that every team member can do their best. Acceptance is making deliberate choices that help the people around you feel welcomed and safe.

The Autism Society is proud to have made a difference in the lives of 133,000 people who made the connection through our network’s helplines last year. We know that our team makes a difference every day with the simple act of acceptance.

“Thank you so much for your promptness and patience on the phone! I still have no idea whether I’m on the spectrum…but you were the first person I spoke to on the topic who was accepting, welcoming and informative. Thank you!” – Helpline caller

Acceptance is accommodating the unique needs of Autistic individuals.

This month, the Autism Society is proud to unveil our newest brand photos featuring Autistic individuals with higher support needs, their families, and support team members. Our goal was to capture a varied and diverse range of experiences within the Autism community because acceptance is welcoming representation in all aspects of life.

To support our photo participants, our team provided inclusive, considerate experiences including low light, private spaces for calm, sensory supports, and sound management – all things not traditionally provided in a photography studio setting. This meant that for many families, the experience may have been the first time their Autistic loved ones comfortably engaged in professional photo sessions.

Not only that but because of the comfortable and inclusive space created, our participants were able to share their thoughts and feelings. Watch our new brand video here:

“The most loving, welcoming and beautiful team of people held such a comforting space for us to simply BE. Thank you for capturing these moments for us and for others to see they are not alone, and that a diagnosis of Autism can truly be a blessing in disguise.” – Lily, photoshoot participant

Acceptance means that we work together to create the connections for everyone in the Autism Community. 

It is vitally important that we work together to advocate for the services and supports that are necessary for those with Autism, based on their unique needs and experiences, which are vastly different and individualized – not categorized or boxed in. 

That is why the Autism Society of America is working to expand health equity nationwide. With a focus on health equity the Autism Society aims to build a robust system of supports, services, and resources aimed at the whole living experience; this includes but is not limited to, health and wellness care, mental health, housing, employment, and policy related to home and community-based services. This is acceptance in action every day because health equity is the foundation for a healthy life.

Nationally, the organization plans to expand its Vaccine Education Initiative (VEI) to address the unique needs of the Autism community and accessible healthcare; deliver increased first responder trainings with tools and information to serve the Autistic community more safely and effectively for life-saving outcomes; expand employment opportunities and outcomes for Autistic individuals addressing systemic barriers to employment; and deepen the organizational focus on health equity to build a robust system of supports, services, and resources aimed at the whole living experience.

Acceptance is understanding that one size does not fit all.

We make room for the infinite ways in which people experience life. This Autism Acceptance Month, join us on social media using the hashtag, #CelebrateDifferences, to help us make connections across the Autism community. 

Learn more about how you can get involved during Autism Acceptance Month.

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ROCKVILLE, MD, March 3, 2023 – The Autism Society of America announced today that it has received a multi-million dollar grant from the USAging’s Aging and Disability Vaccination Collaborative (ADVC). The ADVC is an initiative funded by the U.S. Administration for Community Living to provide outreach, technical assistance, and support to promote vaccination uptake.  

“This grant will allow the Autism Society to expand our very successful and highly acclaimed Vaccine Education Initiative (VEI), a public health model that promotes vaccine confidence, education, and access to increase vaccination rates for underserved populations,” shares Christopher Banks, President and CEO of the Autism Society of America.

This grant will help the organization expand its impact with dedicated resources for the VEI, which elevates all of its health equity work, as well as helps address organizational needs across our operations and programs. It is the largest funding event in the organization’s 58-year history. The grant provides an incredible opportunity for network-wide growth as the Autism Society positions itself for the future.

Autism Society of America Board Chair Tracey Staley states, “This transformational funding will allow VEI expansion and the continuation for it to be a major national program for the Autism Society network. The program expansion positively impacts the Autism Society’s strategic initiatives and programs tied to health equity, including public policy, employment, suicide prevention, and mental health.”

The Autism Society of America has already begun work on a 15-month work plan that reflects the organization’s goal to expand impact nationwide by engaging its affiliate network and providing direct services to targeted community sites with under-vaccinated populations.

This grant will offer Autism Society subgrants to upwards of 40 affiliates and locations to execute the work at the local and state levels, further expanding the Autism Society’s highly acclaimed VEI program. The Autism Society will mobilize its tremendously powerful network of national, regional, and local collaborators to execute this initiative in major metropolitan, suburban, and rural areas across the United States.

While focusing on COVID and influenza vaccinations —a critical priority in healthcare — the Autism Society has the opportunity to create systemic change to increase health equity for the Autism community.

The grant will support the following areas of impact:

• Increase Vaccine Confidence
• Promote Community Vaccine Education
• Educate Healthcare Providers
• Increase Accessibility of Vaccination

To date, the Autism Society’s accessible vaccine model has supported new partnerships with over 60 partners, including national medical institutions and local community leaders. The initiative has also vaccinated over 550 community members, trained thousands of healthcare providers, and educated hundreds of thousands of people through digital content.

“By rewriting the vaccine experience, we are creating a path for increased vaccination rates for Autistic individuals and those with disabilities and complex support needs,” said Banks.

Learn more about the ADVC grant here. Learn more about the Autism Society’s Vaccine Education Initiative here.

For press inquiries, please contact Kristyn Roth at kroth@autism-society.org.

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Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

• Autism Society Resource: Collaboration Among the I/DD Community (Facebook Live episode)
• CDC Resources on Developmental Disabilities
• 2023 Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
• Building Bridges: Interacting with Adults Who Have Developmental Disabilities (video)

Women & Autism: National Women’s History Month

• Autism’s sex bias disappears after tracking trajectories
• AWN Women’s History Month Community Roundtable
• Women and Autism: Get a Diagnosis, Not Gaslighted
• Unmasking the Stigma Behind Autism in Females (video)

Signs & Characteristics

• Autism Society Resource: The Autism Experience
• Autism Society Resource: Screening & Diagnosis
• Autism Society Resource: Making Informed Decisions
• CDC Developmental Monitoring and Screening flyer
• Ask the Developmental Pediatrician (video series)
• Why Autism Diagnoses Are Often Delayed

Public Policy

• The Public Health Emergency that was declared due to the Covid-19 pandemic will end on May 11, 2023. This means that many of the policies that were enacted due to the PHE will expire. The Autism Society has created a guide to help prepare you for this transition.
• The State Disability Advocacy Toolkit is intended to help affiliates and allies in advocating more effectively at the state and local levels, by providing guidance on understanding the legislative process, contacting local officials, and building statewide coalitions.

The Autism Society’s National Helpline is here to support you and provide you with the resources you need. Our Information & Referral Specialists are available Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (Eastern Time) at 800-3-AUTISM (800-328-8476) or info@autism-society.org.

The Autism Society’s mission is to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. As the nation’s oldest leading grassroots Autism organization, the Autism Society and its 70+ local affiliates serve over half a million members of the Autism community each year. It envisions a world where everyone in the Autism community is connected to the support they need, when they need it – including education, advocacy efforts, and supports and services throughout the lifespan. If you found this article helpful, please consider supporting our efforts through a donation, every bit helps. Donate here!

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