Autism Speaks

Mission:
Autism Speaks is dedicated to creating an inclusive world for all individuals with autism throughout their lifespan. The organization pursues this mission through advocacy, services, supports, research, innovation, and advances in care for autistic individuals and their families.

Who They Serve:

• Individuals with autism across the spectrum and throughout the lifespan
• Families and caregivers of people with autism
• Service providers and communities seeking to improve inclusion and access

Services and Programs:

• Autism Response Team (ART): Specially trained staff connect people with autism, their families, and caretakers to information, tools, and resources.
• Resource Guide & Directory: Comprehensive guides and directories to help families and individuals locate autism-related services, supports, and providers.
• Caregiver Skills Training (CST): Programs to empower caregivers with practical skills for supporting individuals with autism.
• Information & Education: Extensive resources on autism signs, symptoms, screening, diagnosis, interventions, and associated conditions.
• Advocacy: Federal and state-level advocacy for rights-based and quality-of-care legislation, as well as efforts to increase access to services and inclusion.
• Research & Innovation: Funding and supporting research to improve quality of life, including the creation of large-scale autism genomic databases and clinical care networks.
• Community Grants: Investment in community autism-related grants and scholarships to expand service capacity and reach underserved populations.
• Support for Adult Needs: Initiatives focused on transition, employment, housing, and health and wellness for adults with autism.
• Diversity, Equity, Access, and Inclusion (DEAI): Commitment to serving all individuals with autism, regardless of ability, age, race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or belief system.

Impact and Reach:

• Over 28.5 million people have received free autism information and resources.
• Autism Care Network includes 20 top medical centers providing clinical care.
• Over $220 million invested in scientific grants and projects.
• Services and resources are accessible nationally, including to residents of Louisa County, VA and surrounding regions.

Eligibility:

• Services and resources are available to individuals with autism, their families, and caregivers, with no explicit geographic or income restrictions noted.

Collaboration:

• Autism Speaks works with partners, government, and other organizations at local, national, and global levels to expand services and drive systemic change.