OUR MISSION
To improve the services for people with autism spectrum disorders and their families through education and advocacy.
Our Key Beliefs
- Every individual has inherent worth and dignity
- Inclusion, over exclusion, within our communities
- Options and opportunities available for every person
- Services that focus on the individuals and their families
- Obtainable individualized and comprehensive services
- Services that strive to be a model of excellence and incorporate validated innovations
- Consumers receive effective advocacy and leadership
- Consumers deserve to receive current information on diverse therapeutic options
Our Services
The Autism Support of Alabama helps approximately 600 individuals with autism spectrum disorders, their parents and their service providers on a monthly basis. Our current programs and services include, but are not limited to the following:
- Information and Resources
- Education (parents, providers, family members, etc.) through our quarterly newsletter, exhibitions, speaking engagements, etc.
- Connect Groups for caregivers
- Annual Alabama Autism conference for parents, doctors, teachers, service providers, and students
- Collaboration efforts with other state agencies to provide services for persons with autism spectrum disorders
These programs and services are funded through government grants, collaboration with other agencies/associations, donations and fundraising activities. The continuation and future success of these programs and services are dependent on fundraising efforts. The fundraising efforts secure funds, promote awareness and serve as a powerful tool in changing the quality of life for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and their families.
Our People
ASA is currently managed by an executive director and governed by a board of directors. However, ASA relies on the critical component of volunteers. These generous people are the key to the present and future success of this organization.
Our History
The Autism Society of Alabama was founded
ASA held its first meeting in Huntsville, Alabama
Four meetings took place across the state of Alabama to develop a strategic plan for the organization
ASA hosts first annual Autism-Asperger Syndrome FROG Affair, which is now the Autism Shines Gala
ASA received its 501c3 grant from the IRS
First annual Walk for Autism is held at Riverchase Galleria in Birmingham, Alabama
Autism Matters Legislative Day
First Annual Funky Fish Fry
The 5K Race to Solve the Puzzle was added to the Walk for Autism event at Veterans Park in Hoover, Alabama
ASA raises awareness by creating a license plate
Riley Ward Autism Insurance Act of 2012 aimed to improve insurance coverage and reduce the financial burden of the Alabama families affected by autism
The Safety Net Campaign was launched to help save lives of ones diagnosed with ASD who may wander from safety
Autism Society of Alabama presents the Autism Shines Gala, formerly known as the FROG Affair, at the Ross Bridge Resort in Birmingham, Alabama
Autism Society of Alabama helps promote House Bill 535 and Senate Bill 379 which are bills to create a Licensing Board for Board Certified Behavior Analysts.
Governor Kay Ivey signs into law HB 284 requiring certain health plans to cover medically necessary treatment for autism, including applied behavior analysis (ABA), making Alabama the 46th state to require meaningful coverage for treatment of autism
Autism Society of Alabama begins operating as Autism Support of Alabama with the same mission and programs.
