AASCEND is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization designated a private charity by the Internal Revenue Service, with Employer Identification Number 94-3378338.

AASCEND…

Unites

Adults of all ages on the autism spectrum, their families and friends, academics and professionals in the autism field unite as a community in AASCEND. Our members sit down at the table as peers to support one another and work together to achieve AASCEND’S goals of Education, Networking and Development.

Promotes Self-understanding

Autism’s core challenges can be profound. AASCEND members explore the world of autism through group discussions, guest speakers, films and book selections.

Offers Support

For the past ten years AASCEND members have been meeting monthly to share information resources, support one another emotionally, and in the process learn to appreciate the view points of others. Our group is intergenerational and comes from all walks of life.

“We’ll fall through the cracks no more!” 48-year-old AASCEND member

Raises Public Awareness

AASCEND is getting the word out about our community. AASCEND reaches out through regular meetings, a web page designed by our members, media presentations and educational conferences. It educates the greater community about living with Asperger’s Syndrome (AS) and High Functioning Autism (HFA).

“For the first time, I’m really beginning to understand how to help my AS and HFA students. Thank you” San Francisco Elementary School Teacher

Educates Professionals

While general public awareness is the heart of the matter, professionals often need a great deal more help in understanding AS and HFA. Many of those now in the service area are products of an era of training that did not include information about the autism spectrum. AASCEND advocates for its members.

“After participating in an AASCEND conference and talking to the members, I can better serve my clients with AS and HFA.” Department of Rehabilitation Counselor

Collaborates

AASCEND works with local, national and global organizations to further understanding, support and action for our community. AASCEND hosted the fi rst international conference of groups run by adults on the autism spectrum.

Recognizes Leadership

AASCEND presents annual awards in the areas of Education, Networking and Development to individuals and groups who further the cause of our community.

Initiates

AASCEND supports initiatives such as Conquering Heights that dramatically illustrate the abilities of people on the spectrum. AASCEND awards scholarships so members may attend national conferences.

Sponsors Social Events

We host an annual brunch, a picnic and holiday parties so all of us can relax and have fun!

“This is the first time in my life I’ve been able to sit down with groups of people who really understand us.” AASCEND parent