Who We Are
ASGA History
The Autism Society of Greater Akron (ASGA) is an affiliate of the Autism Society of America (ASA), the oldest and largest national Autism organization. ASGA serves Summit, Stark, Medina, Portage and Wayne counties, OH and was founded in 1987 by parents of children with Autism who had nowhere to turn for support and guidance.
That all-volunteer parent network changed in 2011 when we hired our first full-time staff person in response to the rapidly growing incidence of Autism. As part of the organization’s plan to provide consistent programs and services to support the community’s needs, we also diversified our Board of Directors beyond parents to include an array of professional leaders throughout the community.
ASGA is not a direct service provider that receives reimbursement through Medicaid or Health Insurance. We depend on the support of the communities we serve, including individual donors, foundations, grants, and corporate sponsorships to provide free, or greatly reduced programs and services to our community. All money donated stays local to help our community.
Our Mission
We create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully.
Our Vision
Creating a world where everyone in the Autism community is connected to the support they need, when they need it
Our Values
- Dignity, where the value and self-determination of every individual is upheld
- Equity, where everyone with Autism achieves the highest possible quality of life
- Inclusion, where every person is integrated into society without barriers or exceptions in a collaborative environment
- Diversity, where everyone is respected for their unique and individual differences
- Integrity, where we conduct ourselves with honor, truth, and respect in our thoughts, words, and actions
Creating Connections
Through the Autism Society, individuals can connect with each other, with resources, and with supports and services so that they may live full, vibrant, self-actualized lives. As the nation’s oldest and largest grassroots Autism organization, the work we do is a reflection of our foundation through grassroots input and ongoing engagement. The Autism Society has local knowledge and connections through a nationwide affiliate network. This extensive network aims to ensure that everyone in the Autism community has the support and resources they need to live fully – no matter where they are or when they start their journey – throughout a lifetime.
The Autism Society is the connection for Autistic individuals of all ages and needs, their families and friends, researchers, and professionals to create a collaborative community where everyone is integrated into society without barriers or exceptions. To do this, the Autism Society continually seeks to build resources across the country, advocates for inclusive policies and practices at local and federal levels, and is always looking to build connections, not just to resources, but to each other.
Our Manifesto
Because the experience of Autism is not one thing. Because it is many things. And because the connection between those experiences is you.
Because we see you. The way you think. The dreams you hold. The talents you bring. Because you can’t be categorized into neat little diagnostic boxes. Because you break the mold.
Because sometimes you’re quiet. Because sometimes you need help reaching for where you belong. Because sometimes what happens is not always right or fair or just. Because there are keys to every door that looks locked.
Because no matter how you were born, the person you are is infinite—and you are the only you there is.
Because Autism is not going away, neither are we.
The connection is you.™
Making Informed Decisions
The Autism Society strives to empower individuals with Autism and their families to make informed decisions in the planning and delivery of individualized, evidence-based services and support. Each individual and family has the right to choose the services that best meet their individual needs.
The Board of Directors of the Autism Society affirms that each person who experiences Autism is a unique individual. To the maximum extent possible, informed decisions should be made by the individual with Autism and their family members in partnership with a multidisciplinary team.
The selection of current evidence-based intervention practices should be guided by objective assessment, goals, and outcomes. Services and support should be delivered with fidelity by qualified and appropriately trained professionals. All services should promote self-determination, enhance inclusive community engagement, and result in improved quality of life. Abuse of any kind is not acceptable.
No single service or intervention is likely to meet the needs of every individual with Autism. Each person should have broad and equal access to high quality, individualized support and services. Selection of a program, service, or intervention method should be based on a comprehensive assessment of the person’s abilities, needs, and interests. Services should be outcome-based to ensure they meet the individualized goals of the person with Autism.
The Board of the Autism Society expects that individuals with Autism will have dignified, productive lives and reach their fullest potential through access to appropriate education, employment, community living opportunities, medical care, mental health services, and family support.
