The Autism Society of Greater Akron is now part of the Autism Society of Ohio! The two chapters merged to gain greater operational efficiencies, allowing us to grow local programs and services.  We are part of a national network of chapters that are affiliated with the Autism Society.  The Greater Akron office continues its focus on Summit, Stark, Wayne, Portage and Medina Counties.

• Advocates on the local, state and federal levels for those with autism and their families;
• Provides information on autism to families, educators, professionals and others;
• Refers individuals to professional services in our area;
• Offers support programs;
• Builds awareness in our community through activities and programs.

Our mission is to improve the lives of all affected by autism in Ohio. ASO's locally based, professional staff serve individuals with ASDs, families, providers and policy makers throughout Ohio by providing accurate information and referrals, implementing programs that promote quality of life, advancing policy to increase funding for treatment and support, and raising awareness of the need for assistance and services.
 
Our Programs:

APRIL, AUTISM AWARNESS MONTH
 
We partner with Akron-Summit Library to create a display on autism that includes books, videos, and other resources for the community to “check out.” Look for our display in the Health and Science Division of the downtown library starting April 1.
 
School Resources: Each year, we donate an item to area schools that supports building awareness and understanding of autism among students and teachers.
 
Family Fun: Activities are planned that families can enjoy together to celebrate Autism Awareness Month.

Bricco Restaurant Night for Autism: Bricco Restaurant donates 20% of the proceeds from food sales to the Autism Society of Ohio. This year's dinner is from 4:30 to 8:00 p.m. on April 25, 2012.


NEIGHBORS


ASD Neighbor to Neighbor program:  Modeled after the Autism Society Cincinnati's very successful program, Greater Akron is working with volunteers to implement the Neighbor to Neighbor program in Summit, Stark and Medina counties. The program is defined as “A special volunteer a parent or other family member touched by autism – who is a liaison to the autism community seeking support and information.”

Volunteers will be trained with 1) how to be a support person; and 2) how to walk a person through the “system.” 

The program will connect people within a few miles of each other so they can meet (if desired) and are from the same “neighborhood.” We will also connect people based on need, such as newly diagnosed, transitioning, etc. The goal is to launch this program in Summit, Stark and Medina counties this year.


FAMILY ACTIVITIES: The Family Activities Committee plans quarterly events, such as bowling, jump houses, game shops, etc., that support families with “safe” activities where all are welcome.  These events target various ages and abilities. These events provide a social opportunity for people to meet and talk in addition to the activity.
 

LOSE THE TRAINING WHEELS:  A summer camp that truly changes lives, LTTW is a one week camp where children with disabilities can learn to ride a two wheel bike (without training wheels!).  The camp will likely be in August and will be at the Copley-Fairlawn Middle School gym.  The program can only take 40 children (all disabilities), and requires 40+ volunteers.  LTTW is a lot of logistics, but is a very rewarding program for ALL.
 
From their website: Lose The Training Wheels™ is more than just a bike-riding program. For many children with disabilities, it’s a seemingly impossible task they can typically master in less than a week’s time. Within days of learning to ride, many children exhibit independent behaviours for the first time ever. This achievement, in turn, creates a gateway of opportunity, helping them gain assurance and self-reliance in many other aspects of their lives.