There's Autism Society of America - http://www.autism-society.org
This is from their Mission & Vision page:
Quote:
Our Mission
Improving the lives of all affected by autism
Our Vision
The Autism Society is the leading voice and resource of the entire autism community in education, advocacy, services, research and support. The Autism Society is committed to meaningful participation and self-determination in all aspects of life for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. The Autism Society accomplishes its ongoing mission through close collaboration with a successful network of chapters, members and supporters.
Autism Society Mission Areas
The development of five “core competencies” as a means to implement the Autism Society's Mission and Vision is proposed in the Autism Society's new strategic plan. Those areas include:
Advocacy
* Proactively informing, influencing, guiding and developing public policy at the federal, state and local levels in collaboration with the greater disability community
* Advocating for multi-disciplined approaches to autism research
* Advocating for inclusion, participation and self-determination in all aspects of life for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families
Education
* Providing accessible and relevant information that supports stakeholder ability to make informed choices
* Maintaining an authoritative body of autism information and knowledge
* Supporting proactive community outreach and education
Support
* Encouraging and fostering a strong grassroots network that is an integral part of a larger community
* Creating local connections
Services
* Building capacity within local communities for service delivery to individuals and their families
Research
* Translating research results into applied practice in everyday lives
* Identifying and promoting research that will improve the lives of people on the autism spectrum and their families
I'm a member - I think they do good work. They have State chapters, where they organize support groups, run programs for kids & plan fund raising events. What really attracted me, is that the membership isn't all parents with kids on the spectrum - they welcome adults on the spectrum & they have people on their Board of Directors & other leadership positions who are on the spectrum.
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"I am likely to miss the main event, if I stop to cry & complain again.
So I will keep a deliberate pace - Let the damn breeze dry my face."
- Fiona Apple - "Better Version of Me"
11 Jan 2010, 5:49 pm
