Autism Society

The Autism Society of America has been improving the lives of all affected by autism for over 50 years and envisions a world where individuals and families living with autism are able to maximize their quality of life, are treated with the highest level of dignity, and live in a society in which their talents and skills are appreciated and valued. We provide advocacy, education, information and referral, support, and community at national, state and local levels through our strong nationwide network of Affiliates.

The Autism Society’s national office is headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland. We are proud to be one of the few organizations to have members on the autism spectrum serving as active members of our board directors as well as in other leadership positions throughout the organization. Temple Grandin was the first member-elected person with autism to serve on the Autism Society Board of Directors, in 1988.

The Autism Society’s Panel of Professional Advisors (PPA) sets the standards for our Options Policy that governs our practices, and we are proud to count the top professional autism experts on our PPA. The Autism Society’s Advisory Panel of People on the Spectrum of Autism (PSA) is a first-of-its-kind advisory panel comprised solely of individuals with autism who help Autism Society staff create programs and services that will advocate for the right of all people with autism to live fulfilling, interdependent lives.