NONPROFIT SPOTLIGHT

Full Spectrum Agency for Autistic Adults

BY ANGIE ARLINGTON

MISSION:

Full Spectrum Agency for Autistic Adults exists to support and foster independence and build a community for autistic adults.

“I started Full Spectrum in 2018 when I was diagnosed with autism at age 38. I was looking for other autistic people to connect with because I knew it would help me better understand myself, but I wasn’t able to find a peer support group for autism or any organization that served autistic adults specifically. Most programs that did include adults seemed to only serve people up to age 26 or so. I didn’t know what kind of support people like me, who are looking for support as a middle-aged or older adult, could find or where to find it. I decided that if I can’t find what I’m looking for, there are likely others looking and that I should start it myself,” founder Katie Oswald explains.

“We started with social activities posted on Meetup and expanded to offer much more for autistic adults age 18 and up, with or without a medical diagnosis, and with any level of support needs. We are a 501c3 nonprofit and also a community of peers. We accept people as they are, offer accommodations as requested, and work through any challenges together as they arise. We help ease isolation and provide a sense of belonging and self-acceptance.”

Full Spectrum Agency (FSA) offers a peer support group, an autism book club, a special interest show and tell, a discussion group, a companion care group (a co-working group for those who need prompting and anchoring to complete tasks), game nights, walks, and other fun activities. The group attends the Wyandotte Art Fair together, goes to Tigers games, and has full-day potluck picnics at local parks. They also have an ally group for neurotypical people to join in on the discussion and learn about autism from their lived experiences.

“Having a group of people who understand your experience is priceless. Unfortunately, sometimes even well-intentioned people make us feel like there is something wrong with us. For example, trying to force eye contact when it isn’t necessary, or stop us from stimming (like hand flapping) when it is important to our emotional regulation and stress management. These experiences in society leave people feeling misunderstood, isolated, and hopeless. Some people have been treated so poorly that they are struggling with trauma and PTSD,” Katie shares.

“Our group provides a sense of belonging that many of our members have not found anywhere else. I’ve had people approach me crying tears of happiness that they found us or say that they never felt welcome anywhere until they found our group. I think that is sad and it doesn’t have to be that way, but I’m also grateful that Full Spectrum Agency is there for people and I’m so glad I chose to start this group rather than waiting for someone else to do it. I’m glad that our members are there for each other.” People can get involved as a volunteer or donor for the agency. The group events are peer-led, but neurotypical allies are welcome for other volunteer activities. The agency tries to match people with their skill set.

TESTIMONIAL:

“I felt a severe loneliness most of my life. I treated myself negatively over mistakes, and my self-esteem was so low. These support groups changed my life. Every meeting I attend, it reminds me I am not alone, and many others are going through the same struggles. I have been very kind to myself, and I have not felt that terrible lonely feeling in a very long time. I know if I ever need them, the support group is there for me!”