Healthcare and Medical News: Building A More Inclusive World

Our Promise During COVID-19: The Autism Society of America promises to remain committed to improving the lives of all affected by autism across the spectrum and throughout the lifespan, and will focus on providing information, resources, and advocacy efforts to address these urgent needs.

These past few days, weeks, and months have been trying. Each day seems to add another layer of challenges threatening our physical and mental health, and now more than ever, we must lean on each other for support.

The Autism Society has always been dedicated to improving the lives of all affected by autism. We know that the only way to ignite change is to build awareness and practice acceptance - we can only build a better, more inclusive world for ALL, by building it together.

This month's newsletter shares our statement of solidarity with the Black community, our June toolkit filled with summer resources, and our newly launched Covid-19 social story resources.

Our June Toolkit resources help autistic individuals and families find new ways to meet socialization needs, build skills through activities, and find summer camp alternatives; in addition, we are proud to highlight resources for LGBTQIA individuals and their families during Pride month.

CHECK OUT OUR JUNE TOOLKIT

The Autism Society recognizes the many added challenges that the autism community faces during the Covid-19 pandemic. Many of our staff members, Board of Directors, and affiliate families are experiencing the same hardships for themselves and/or their autistic loved ones.

As states begin reopening, we will continue to provide support resources to help families throughout this transition. The Autism Society is proud to present Covid-19 social narratives, created by the Autism Society of America in collaboration with our professional committees.

DOWNLOAD COVID-19 SOCIAL STORIES TO EXPLAIN CHANGES.

DOWNLOAD RESOURCES

Autism Society affiliates have gone above and beyond to provide creative solutions to support the autism community during this crisis, including:

Bridge the Distance Virtual Campaign by Autism Society of Northwestern Pennsylvania: weekly challenges & engagement ideas leading up to their virtual walk.
Zachary Hoagland created a Water Safety Video created with friends on the autism spectrum for Autism Society of Florida.
SuperStars Summer Art Camp: Autism Society of Southeastern Wisconsin reformatted their camp experience to be virtual; this also allows the autistic camp employers to keep their jobs.
Autism Society of Minnesota's LGBTQIA support group.

We encourage you to contact the Autism Society affiliate in your area to gain localized support resources.