My Nonprofit Reviews

I am autistic and my immediate family hails from Chicago, Illinois. We literally epitomize the American melting–pot. We are a multi–racial/ethnic and inter–faith conglomerate. Our family lineage boasts a strong history of advocacy and social activism for human rights at every facet and level imaginable; and, we interpret disability empowerment and inclusion as an inalienable right. Importantly, I understand that I share many of the same idiosyncrasies of my maternal great–uncle, who was born in 1914, predating the history of our modern twentieth century research and diagnosis of Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a complex developmental disability. Our family insisted that he was treated with dignity and respect, and through creating a “village of community support,” he was able to enjoy his life as a highly gifted and accomplished visual artist.

Suffice to say, our family has been affiliated with the Autism Society of America (ASA) and its affiliates for nearly forty–years, since my early childhood. ASA is a great non–profit agency that has a proven track record in its practical applications of increasing public awareness about autism and other developmental disabilities “across the lifespan” throughout our entire society. ASA provides an invaluable wide–range of autism supports and research; information and education; public policy, legislation, and legal resources; competitive, integrated employment; health, home, and community–based services ; and, a commitment to create programs and services that advocate for the rights of all people with autism to live fulfilling, interdependent lives. Our Family is proud to call the Autism Society of America (ASA) our Friend!