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WHAT
we
DO
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Since 1967, Autism Pittsburgh's mission has been to improve access to support, strengthen advocacy within systems, and build inclusive communities so autistic people and people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) can thrive across the lifespan in Pittsburgh and Western Pennsylvania.
We envision a region where autistic people and people with IDD are respected, supported, and included at every stage of life, and where families and systems have the tools they need to help individuals thrive.
We Provide:
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Information and referral to parents and professionals about diagnosis, care, treatment, educational, medical and habilitative services.
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Solicit funds to help support these programs to the maximum extent possible.
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Names of facilities and individuals locally who can provide such services to those with autism spectrum disorders and their families.
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Advice and guidance to parents and families seeking necessary appropriate services for the family member.
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Autism training to businesses and organizations wishing to gain further information about autism.
We Support:
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Facilities and/or professionals who are unfamiliar with autism and put them in touch with other professionals able to supplement their efforts.
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Development and improvement of new and existing programs.
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The rights of those with autism to a free and appropriate education, appropriate care and treatment, and the rights of parents and families to obtain appropriate services for their family member with autism.
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Parents in resolving problems and obtaining appropriate services, or who feel that their family member has been excluded from an appropriate program.
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We prepare and deliver testimony on all autism-related topics, including those issues that are being litigated or considered for legislative action.
We Innovate:
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Founded a "Higher Contact" program to assist businesses in providing transitional services and pair them with individuals with autism and/or autism organizations.
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Founded S.P.E.A.K. in 1974, a specialized summer program of education and community awareness building to prevent academic and social regression in children with autism spectrum disorders during summer months.
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Co-founded, in 2000, the SPECTRUM CHARTER SCHOOL, providing community based school-to-work education and training for students ages 12-21, including those with autism spectrum disorders.
