Autism Society of Indiana - Non Profit Spotlight of the Month

By Shannan Penaflor & Rachel Deaton

Our History

The Autism Society of Indiana (ASI) roots are founded in parents with the desire to help their children affected by autism.

Our Mission

ASI exists to ensure that every individual and every family affected by autism in the state of Indiana receives the high-quality services they deserve.

Our Vision

To make our services more readily available throughout the state of Indiana.

Our Values

ASI is dedicated to ensuring that every program, service, or support provided to our community is Person-Centered, and focused on Personal Outcome Measures (POM). Specifically, all of our work is based on the following core values:

• Each person with autism is unique and should be treated as such.

• Every person with autism should have the same opportunities as any other person.

• People with autism should have choices and control over their lives.

Our 2021 Programs

In a world where social distancing has become the norm and wearing a mask in public is commonplace, many individuals with autism and their families have experienced unique and compounding challenges. The Autism Society of Indiana wants you to know, you are not alone, we are here to help, and we hope this year brings more opportunities for connection in all of our lives. Here is a snapshot of a few of our programs that you may be interested in:

Building Bridges

The CDC says that “Black and Hispanic children continue to be less likely to be

identified with ASD than white children.” Many Black and Hispanic children with autism in Indiana lack the proper diagnosis and or services they need. ASI believes we can do better; we must do better! Building Bridges is a program that focuses on building bridges of trust to serve targeted urban settings throughout Indiana. ASI wants to help 100 underserved families find the diagnosis, resources, and support they need to thrive.

Career Services

ASI has provided career services for people with autism through vocational rehabilitation since 2016. ASI understands that each individual with autism is unique, varies in age, educational background, and personality type. Participants can expect one-on-one individualized attention as well as the uncovering of passions, talents, and qualifications to discover what career would be best to pursue. Participants find a variety of jobs, from first jobs in the service industry to full-time work in a permanent position. Once a job is obtained, we also help participants navigate the workplace to increase the likelihood of successful job placement.

Launch into Life

Too often students with autism spend the first several years out of high school without direction or focus. Families often don’t have time or energy to think beyond the high school years. What does life after high school look like for an individual with autism? Launch into Life is a series of eight classes, designed to practically equip individuals ages 16–23 with autism, as they navigate the transition into adult life. This program provides a comprehensive plan utilizing the Life Course model to address goals in the areas of Daily Life, Employment, Community Living, Safety and Security, Healthy Living, Socialization, Spirituality, Citizenship, and Advocacy.

Training for Families & Community

Moving beyond autism awareness and promoting autism acceptance is a priority at ASI. We provide training for individuals with autism, their families, first responders, law enforcement, and professional and community organizations to foster greater

acceptance and inclusion. Some of our training includes:

• Autism 101: A presentation designed to provide basic information on autism. This presentation will talk about challenges faced by individuals with autism and their families, as well as provide helpful tips and strategies.

• Family Support Waiver Workshop: A presentation designed to help families obtain the Family Support Waiver for their loved one with autism. In this presentation, we will answer: What is the Family Support Waiver? Why does my child need the waiver? How can a waiver help?

• Autism and the Internet: A presentation to help protect and keep individuals with autism safe while using the internet

• Navigating the Spectrum: If you have just received an autism diagnosis, this presentation will help you navigate the next steps.

Proud Autism Mom, Shannan Penaflor, Director of Resources and Support at ASI

Proud Autism Mom, Rachel Deaton, Director of Training & Public Policy at ASI

Direct Care ASI

offers direct care, participant assistance and care (PAC) and respite, through the Medicaid Waiver in all 92 counties of Indiana. PAC promotes independence by providing training aimed at the individual with autism living successfully in their own community. Respite provides care for the caregiver allowing them to recharge and reconnect to themselves or others. If you or your loved one with autism does not have the Medicaid Waiver, please contact us to discuss eligibility and the application process.

To learn more about these programs and all our services please visit our website at autismsocietyofindiana.org.