Promoting the independence, health, and happiness of individuals with autism spectrum disorders.
Status:
Autism Ability Advocates, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit, charitable organization.
Programs:
"I CAN" - Independently Communicating And Networking is a program that gives individualized awards to families who care for individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). The awards are based on a plan that focuses on the abilities of the person with the ASD and promotes their independence in the community.
"I HHOPE" - Independence, Health & Happiness through Ongoing Professional Education is a program that conducts training workshops on effective interventions used for individuals with ASD. These workshops are unique because we invite anybody interested in bettering the lives of persons with ASDs, including parents, caretakers, service workers, teachers, therapists, and other professionals.
Philosophy:
Autism Ability Advocates, Inc. feels that focusing on the abilities of individuals with ASDs can promote independence, health, and happiness. By focusing on abilities we can assist them is developing their talents, skills and interests, which ultimately enhances their quality of life. Most importantly we give families encouragement, hope, and optimism that they need to be assured their loved one's future can be bright and rewarding.
Attitude:
Anybody that becomes envolved with Autism Ability Advocates, Inc. will realize that attitude is everything! The organization relies on love and acceptance of those we are advocating for. We totally accept and rejoice in each individual's uniqueness!
Served:
Those served by Autism Ability Advocates, Inc. will include individuals with autism spectrum disorders and their families, as well as, professionals and service providers who serve individuals with ASDs. The individuals served mainly reside in the CSRA area of Georgia and South Carolina. However, our workshops have gathered hundreds of participants from all over Georgia, North, and South Carolina.
With programs like "I CAN" and "I HHOPE" the entire community benifits. These programs increase the individual's ability to become a productive citizen and live worthwhile lives.
Need:
Our programs are based on need and funding. Autism Ability Advocates, Inc. receives input from the families of those diagnosed with autism, the local support group Believe, Aiken County Schools, the local and state Departments of Disabilities and Special Needs, and others to determine the needs of those challenged with autism spectrum disorders. Once the greatest needs are determined, schedules for workshops, support groups, etc. are set up to meet those needs.
Past Events & Scholarships:
Aiken/Augusta CanAm Hockey Game
Art Show
Having a Ball for Autism
Adapting Lessons for Students with Autism; workshop presented by Denice Stout
Biological Advances in Autism; workshop presented by Dr. Jerry Kartzinel of ICDRC
Transition Portfolios; workshop presented by Janet Spearman & Denice Stout
Scholarships include:
Hyperbaric treatment, Boardmaker communication programs, registration for National Autism Conference, the Listening Program for 10 families, financial assistance for upcoming GPL Outreach Clinic, and more
If you need support, would like to be added to our mailing list, or are interested in making a tax deductable donation, please email
DStout6@bellsouth.net
