National Autism Acceptance Month: Organizations to support
By Michelle Lunger
April is National Autism Acceptance Month! In honor of this month we wanted to share resources and nonprofits to support those on the spectrum, friends and family members, and others who are looking to learn more about autism. We hope by spreading awareness we can reduce the stigma surrounding autism and help those on the spectrum feel seen, heard, supported, accepted and understood.
Autism Speaks
“Autism Speaks is dedicated to creating an inclusive world for all individuals with autism throughout their lifespan. We do this through advocacy, services, support, research and innovation, and advances in care for autistic individuals and their families.”
In order to fulfill their mission, they make sure those with autism have adequate resources, and reliable information. Additionally, they support research that improves the quality of life and overall well-being for those with autism. To further support adults with autism, they assist them with transitions, employment, housing, health and wellness. Autism Speaks continually shares their mission through advocacy, partnerships, and collaboration while promoting diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion not only in their organization, but outside as well.
“At Autism Speaks, we are working to achieve a world where all people with autism, across the spectrum and throughout their lifespan, can reach their full potential - inclusive of all abilities, ages, races, ethnicities, gender identities, sexual orientations, socioeconomic status, and belief systems.”
Help, Information, and Support
The National Autism Association (NAA)
The National Autism Association supports those with autism by offering programs, a support group locator, and providing downloadable tool-kits and resources. Their mission is to “respond to the most urgent needs of the autism community, providing real help and hope so that all affected can reach their full potential.” They promote their mission through advocacy for federal policy and resources, research, educating and training to friends and family members as well as first responders, and service professionals throughout the U.S. Additionally, they provide direct tools for families and schools. To further their mission, they spread awareness “that promotes understanding, compassion, and respect as well as inspire hope for individuals with autism.”
To find their downloadable tool-kits, further information and education as well as a support group locator, check out National Autism Association’s website.
The Autism Society
The Autism society supports those with autism by providing resources through education, advocacy, and community programs. Something that makes them stand out is that they have a panel of autistic advisors who have a voice and active-role in the organization. The Autism Society recognizes that it is important for those with autism to feel seen, heard, and included. Their mission is to create connections, empower everyone a part of the autism community, and provide them with resources to live a fulfilled life. To do this, the Autism society aids those with autism in making informed decisions in the planning and delivery of individualized, evidence-based services and support. Their vision is to create a world where those with autism feel connected to the support they need and make it easily accessible. Their values include dignity, equity, inclusion-without barriers or exceptions, diversity, and integrity. They have a panel of autistic advisors who have a voice and active-role in the organization. Their organization
Get Support through Autism Society's Helpline
*note this is not a crisis line.
The helpline serves as a platform to help you learn about resources and services in your area. The helpline will connect you to a trained information and referral specialist. Although they cannot provide direct services, they can provide you with resources and providers who can.
If you are experiencing a mental health crisis or are in need of immediate support call or text 988.
Autistic Self-Advocacy Network (ASAN)
A nonprofit that is run by and for those with autism. Through advocacy, ASAN fights for disability rights- because those with autism deserve to have equal access, rights, opportunities, and a say in the policies that affect them. ASAN has an action center page on their website which informs their community on ways they can advocate, support, and/or take action- actively. There, you can also find a policy library, issue tracking, alerts, tools, and look up elected officials. They also have a great resource library which includes books, tool-kits, reports, information about self-advocacy and accessibility, and more.
If you are a fellow autism advocate and want to make change, click on the link to learn more about ASAN and how to become a part of their community.
Color of Autism Foundation
A National US Based “Neuro-Affirming” Non-Profit organization, that is committed to “fostering inclusivity and support for African American families navigating the world of autism.” To promote inclusivity and provide support, their efforts include advocacy as well as education and assistance to these families. The Colors of Autism foundation strives to bridge the gaps in resources, support, accessibility, and ultimately end the stigma for autism in communities of color.
“Autism transcends racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic boundaries, yet African American children often face delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis, leading to unique challenges. Recognizing this disparity, our focus on African American Autism Support is paramount in addressing these underserved communities’ needs.”
Embrace Autism
Embrace Autism is a platform that distributes research, education, experience-based information regarding autism. They also provide remote assessments for Autism/ AuDHD (Autism + ADHD) for adults worldwide.The platform/ organization was founded by two fellow autistics- Dr. Natalie Engelbrecht and Ava Silvertant as a way to empower not only themselves, but the autism community as well. Embrace Autism is a great resource for those enquiring about Autism, AuDHD, and/or a diagnosis.
Autistic Women and Nonbinary Network (AWN)
The Autistic Women and Nonbinary Network (AWN) is a nonprofit organization that is committed to neurodiversity, gender and racial equity, transliberation, as well as transformation, restoration, and disability justice. AWN recognizes and affirms all gender identities and expressions. Their work includes empowerment, solidarity aid, events, meet-ups, fiscal support, publication, and more.
Ultimately, AWN’s mission is to “provide community support, and resources for Autistic women, girls, transfeminine and transmasculine nonbinary people, trans people of all genders, Two Spirit people, and all people of marginalized genders or of no gender. AWN is committed to recognizing and celebrating diversity and the many intersectional experiences in our community.”
