About Us
The Spokane Chapter has been in Spokane longer than any other Autism group. We were called the Spokane Autism Co-op before we joined ASW. We have been an important resource for people affected by autism.
Mission Statement
The Autism Society promotes lifelong community access for persons within the Autism spectrum including those with Asperger’s Syndrome through family support, public awareness, advocacy and collaboration with community partners. We follow the ASW “options policy”.
What we do in Spokane
In 2009 our free monthly support meetings included these presentations:
- Lisa Shaffer, PhD from Signature Genomics
- Jim Dawson and Karen Bowman, RN & Toxic Toy Testing
- Dr. Luber from Rockwood Clinic on Pediatric Screening for ASD
- Dr. Marion Moore from EWU on School IEPs
- Mr. Bernie Woller from the PanHandle Autism Society about Asperger’s and Employment.
Family Support:
- We provided Free Movie Tickets for the April and December Sensory Friendly movies
- Sponsored a Family Bowling Party in December
- Hosted a Picnic in August for Adults with Aspergers
- Hosted an Asperger’s Pizza Party/Support Meeting in October
- Hosted Monthly Asperger’s Game Day Support Group for Teen/Young Adults
- Coordinated monthly Adult Outings for those with ASD.
Awareness & Advocacy
Published a resource manual with contacts for a variety of services in the Spokane/Eastern Washington Area. (Available at meetings for $5 to cover printing costs.) We distributed free copies to local pediatricians for our April Awareness effort.
OPTIONS POLICY\Autism Society of America
(adopted by Autism Society of Washington)
EACH LOCAL ASW GROUP IS EXPECTED TO ABIDE BY THE OPTIONS POLICY AS ESTABLISHED BY ASA
The Autism Society of America promotes the active and informed involvement of family members and the individual with autism in the planning of individualized, appropriate services and supports. The Board of the Autism Society of America believes that each person with autism is a unique individual. Each family and individual with autism should have the right to learn about and then select, the options that they feel are most appropriate for the individual with autism. To the maximum extent possible, we believe that both the parents and the individual with autism should make the decisions.
Services should enhance and strengthen natural family and community supports for the individual with autism and the family whenever possible. The service option designed for an individual with autism should result in improved quality of life. Abusive treatment of any kind is not an option.
We firmly believe that no single type of program or service will fill the needs of every individual with autism and that each person should have access to support services. Selection of a program, service or method of treatment should be on the basis of a full assessment of each person’s abilities, needs and interests. We believe that services should be outcome based to insure that they meet the individualized needs of a person with autism.
With appropriate education, vocational training and community living options and support systems, individuals with autism can lead dignified, productive lives in their communities and strive to reach their fullest potential.
The ASA believes that all individuals with autism have the right to access appropriate services and supports based on their needs and desires.
For more information contact ASW Executive Director, Patty Gee
1-888-ASW 4 YOU or PattyJGee@comcast.net