In my current role as director of the Indiana Resource Center for Autism, I have had the opportunity to work in collaboration with Answers for Autism on a number of projects. Through their fundraising efforts, they have worked with IRCA to create statewide training for First Responders in Indiana, to assist with the development of brochures and booklets for families of individuals newly diagnosed on the autism spectrum, and to assist with numerous statewide training events. This is the only organization in Indiana that has a statewide reach and helps families and professionals supporting and living daily with those on the spectrum. Started by a group of mothers, the state has benefited from their efforts. I am truly inspired by them.
The staff of Answers for Autism has worked tirelessly to give individuals with Autism across Indiana increased opportunities in so many ways! They have raised funds and provided grants for many worthy activities to improve the lives of those with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. They are present at numerous community events and disability fairs so that they can reach out to families. As a speech-language pathologist specializing in assistive technology in public school, I saw first-hand the impact of the grant money they awarded. They were among the very first organizations in the state to support the use of iPods for those with Autism, as well as sensory-friendly movie experiences, social skills training, communication devices and more. Answers for Autism also has granted money for professional development so that educators and therapists working with this population can increase their skills and ultimately better the lives of those with Autism. By developing personal connections with families, offering resources, and financial assistance for programming, Answers for Autism's impact in our community is far-reaching and matched by no other group. Thank you for all you do!
I have been involved with Answers for Autism for 14 years, as a parent, professional and volunteer. I have truly seen all sides of the organization and can say this is a dedicated group of folks who have a desire to make a difference in the lives of folks with Autism in Indiana. As a parent I have enjoyed the annual walk where my son can truly be who he is with no worries about what other folks might think or feel. As a professional I have been able to share the grant program as a local resource for the various organizations I work with. As a volunteer I have been able to work towards a common cause with some of the most dedicated parents and professionals in our area.
The dedication of Answers for Autism to the Indiana autism community is second to none! I so appreciate these parents - parents with children with autism - and the time, energy, and heart they give to the community through their grant and outreach efforts. If you've not attended an event - you should!
I have had many experiences with Autism Advocates (Answers for Autism) over the years. My son is now 9 and has autism and we have utilized many of their services. We have always done the annual walk, which is one of the biggest ones I have been involved with. The resources, the entertainment and the overall value is immense for our families in the special needs community. They are very multi-faceted and we have also done the annual auction, the bike ride and even the golf event. All these community outings are great to enhance the awareness to the area about autism. They are much more than just good for our families but the grants that they give for others far exceeds any issue that we may have on a daily basis. Answers for Autism is a fantastic organization and a true credit to central Indiana.
Inspirational, Heartfelt, and Genuine are just a few words to describe this Indiana organization. True to their mission, this organization provides support to Indiana organizations to benefit people with autism, families supporting their loved ones with autism and professionals supporting both the family and individuals. Monies raised from their fundraising stay in Indiana. As Outreach Specialist at Indiana Resource Center for Autism, I have traveled throughout the state of Indiana meeting families and participating in family oriented events. One of my most memorable events is attending the Answers for Autism Walk. Families and professionals coming together to raise funds in support of the work of AAI is truly work from the heart.
This organization is dedicated in the truest sense of the word to those with autism and their families. A grassroots organization, A4A has grown through love and hard work. ALL the money they raise is put back into the needs of those they serve. I serve as the Clinic Director of the Butler University Speech and Language Clinic. At Butler, we now have a chapter of this group and are very proud to be associated with this amazing organization!
What an amazing organization! My family has attended the Autism Walk for the last 10 years. The people within this organization are wonderful, welcoming, and kind! The walk is an outstanding event for families, kids, and folks of all ages. In addition to the Walk, my husband and I have attended the gala event for the last several years. That adults only evening is a wonderful night out. All of the money that Answers for Autism raises goes directly to grants that impact individuals on the spectrum. The entire organization is fueled on dedicated volunteers!!! When I make charitable contributions, this is the kind of organization that I prefer to give to. Knowing that every dollar raised is making a difference is awesome. Thanks Answers for Autism for all you do for families like mine.
This organization is completely volunteer run; there are no paid employees. Most volunteers have direct ties to autism by way of a loved one. AAI takes great pride in putting the highest percentage of money raised back into the state in the form of grants that directly impact programs for children and adults living with autism. For the purpose of full disclosure, I was a founding member, proudly serving on the board for ten years and then moving to the grant committee for two. I have since retired. Grants are painstakingly selected to serve the most people with autism as well as to have the greatest benefit to those people. This is a rare charity completely driven by a desire to improve the lives of children and adults with autism.
Autism Advocates of Indiana is a great organization to volunteer with. I had the pleasure of volunteering with the board as well as at the Answers for Autism walk. I brought employees from my place of employment, whom all had a great time. The work that this organization is doing from those on the spectrum in the state of Indiana is amazing!