We Change The World, NOT The Person!
About Us
For more than 30 years, Advocates For Autism has been a community built by parents, caregivers and neighbors who understand the lifelong impact of an autism diagnosis. Across those decades, we've heard one of the most profound fears a parent can express, "I hope I live one more day longer than my child."
That fear leads to the question every family eventually faces, Who will care for my child when I am gone?
When we first formed 31 years as the ASA, autism was considered rare with a prevalence of 1 in every 2,500. Today it is every 1 out of 29! The needs of families have grown and so has our commitment. We continue to stand beside families as they navigate systems, build support networks, and plan for a safe, stable future for their loved ones.
Our Mission
Our mission is to enhance the health and well‑being of individuals with autism and related developmental disabilities by providing social, community, educational, and civic opportunities. We support each person and family through a person‑centered approach that honors dignity, autonomy, and lifelong growth.
Our Vision
Our vision is a future where individuals with autism and related developmental disabilities — and the families who love them — are fully supported, included, and connected. We work to reduce isolation, strengthen community belonging, and help families navigate financial, legal, health, and government systems with compassion, cultural competence, and respect.
FUTURE NEEDS PLANNING:
Certified Special Needs Consultant
We are certified to offer specialized person-centered planning in NY State with you and your family in mind. We offer a menu of services where you can pick and choose for each stage of life. Income and estate size has very little to do with the type of future planning we offer. And if you are a grandparent raising your autistic grandchild, please contact us and we will get your affairs on the right track for this final phase of your life. Book a consultation with our experts today!
BE A FRIEND, MAKE A FRIEND
Neurodiverse Social Events!
We create welcoming spaces where autistic and neurodiverse individuals can connect, build friendships, and enjoy community life. Our events are designed to reduce isolation, strengthen belonging, and offer fun, judgment‑free experiences for everyone.
Some of our free events include:
All‑Abilities Club Nite
Spectrum Connections Social Group
Autism Night at the Hockey Game
Autism at the Ballpark
These activities are offered at no cost to individuals with autism.
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Navigation and Guidance
Making complex systems understandable and manageable.
We help you make sense of the resources, benefits, and services available to you and your family. The system is complicated, and it changes as we move through different stages of life. No one should have to figure it out alone.
We don’t simply “check the boxes.” We provide real, authentic guidance grounded in the lived experience of parents and individuals. We break information down clearly, respectfully, and in a culturally competent way — so you can make confident decisions without feeling overwhelmed.
Look to our Calendar for upcoming virtual info‑sessions designed to help you stay informed, ask questions, and learn about supports available at every stage of life.
Let’s Talk
Do you want you and your family to do more, be more, accomplish more, but don't know where to begin? We're here to help you get started.
Having a plan and having an ACTION Plan are not the same! We can do it!
