Expand Awareness and Embrace Acceptance… April is Autism Acceptance Month! Read below to learn more about autism and how to make a donation to Anderson Foundation for Autism to help us continue our mission of Optimizing the Quality of Life for individuals with autism.
Tuesday, April 2, 2024 is World Autism Awareness Day!
Did you know 1 in 36 people in the United States are diagnosed with autism?
Anderson Center for Autism is on a mission to ensure that anyone with autism or who is neurodiverse isn’t left behind. We want to Optimize the Quality of Life by providing services and passive tools which help individuals navigate this world.
Are you ready to help us achieve our mission? Read on to find out how you can be more inclusive in your approach to individuals who are neurodiverse or donate to our cause by clicking here.
What is Autism?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (Otherwise known as ASD) is a condition which impacts a person’s communication, learning, behaviors, or interests. Some individuals who are more profoundly affected by autism may even be non-verbal or engage in possess restricted movement.
“If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.” -Dr. Stephen Shore
Although these are common traits of an individual with autism, every individual is affected differently. Some may experience one symptom; some may experience many! Other individuals may only mildly experience one or more of these traits.
This is why autism is referred to as a spectrum disorder!
Source: Signs and Symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorders | CDC
What causes Autism?
We don’t know!
There are currently no reliable or honestly conducted peer-reviewed studies which link autism directly to a cause. It is theorized that genetics and environmental factors may play a role in an individual developing autism.
Source: Autism Spectrum Disorder Symptoms and Causes | Mayo Clinic
Do vaccines cause autism?
There are currently no reliable or honestly conducted peer-reviewed studies which can link vaccines to autism.
Source: Vaccination as a Cause of Autism Myths and Controversies | PMC (nih.gov)
What is Anderson Center for Autism doing in my community to help individuals with autism?
Oh, so much!
Anderson Center for Autism is home to 270 children and adults in our residential programs who are profoundly impacted by autism. We operate a NYS approved 4410 preschool, an accredited K-12 school, and adult day habilitation programs.
In addition, Anderson Center for Autism offers support to families and businesses through its Anderson Center Consulting and Training division. These services provide specially tailored support that families can use to help their loved ones. Training and consultation are offered to business owners or organizations so they can better support those who are neurodivergent in their community.
Read more about our preschool services, children’s services, adult services, or consulting services through the links below:
Preschool Services – Anderson Center For Autism
Children’s Services – Anderson Center For Autism
Adult Services – Anderson Center For Autism
Capital Region Services – Anderson Center for Autism
Anderson Center Consulting & Training – Anderson Center For Autism
If I encounter someone with ASD, what do I need to do?
Nothing different than you would normally do!
An individual with ASD is a person just like you or me. They can articulate their wants, needs, and desires – but in a different way than you are used to. Much like everyone else, patience and kindness is the best gift you can give to someone!
How can I support individuals with autism and Anderson Center for Autism?
Consider a monetary donation to us, click here! Your donation directly helps fund our programs which seek to Optimize the Quality of Life for all individuals with autism.
If you’d like to provide more direct support for individuals with autism, we’re hiring! Click here to see our open employment opportunities. Jobs in Autism Field – Anderson Center For Autism
Most importantly though, your willingness to visit this website and become more educated on autism is a huge help in being more supportive and understanding of your neighbors. Consider sharing this link with your friends and family so they too can be informed!