Since 1965, the Autism Society in partnership with our over 100 local and state affiliates has supported millions of individuals and families impacted by autism. The Autism Society envisions individuals and families living with autism are able to maximize their quality of life, are treated with the highest level of dignity, and live in a society in which their talents and skills are appreciated and valued.

Advocating for All Affected by Autism

The Autism Societyrsquos public policy and advocacy efforts have continually improved the lives of those affected by autism. At the national level, the Autism Society supports the needs of the millions of individuals impacted by autism in America and their family members. At the state level, the Autism Society helps state Autism Societies advancing advocacy efforts at the state level to advance the wellbeing of individuals and families impacted by autism. Each year, volunteers and staff from around the nation come to Washington, DC to meet with their national elected officials and to promote a responsive and accountable national legislative agenda to advance the quality of life of all diagnosed with autism.

The Autism Society relies upon a proactive rather than reactive approach to advocacy by working alongside policy makers as well as elected officials and their staff to advance the wellbeing of all living with autism. Often working in partnership with other national groups, the Autism Society also values the needs of all living with any disability and does not ever want to deny an opportunity to another person with a disability.

From the 1970s, when we contributed to IDEA which mandated free and appropriate educational services to all children, to today. The Autism Society works to make real, lasting systems change that improves the lives of all affected by autism.