AutismUp is the leading 501(c)3 autism support organization in the Greater Rochester and surrounding areas. Founded in 2004, by a small group of parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder, AutismUp has grown to include more than 3,100 family and professional member households.
Our Mission
To support individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, and their families, by expanding and enhancing opportunities to improve quality of life. Parent perspective steers the direction of the organization, with the fiduciary guidance of our Board of Directors. Together, we are providing help for today, and hope for tomorrow.
Our Why
We challenge boundaries that society in general has established for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). We lift families up from uncertainty about the future. We nurture the belief that children and adults with ASD and related disorders can thrive in a world of opportunity and contribution to their communities.
Our Vision
To be the premier model of community support and inclusion for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder by expanding and enhancing opportunities to improve quality of life.
Our Guiding Values
FOCUSED YET ADAPTABLE
We were born of ASD and that guides everything we do and all we create, yet we understand related disorders can benefit greatly from our work.
EMPOWERING FAMILIES
We understand ASD can impact the entire family. Our programs and resources aim to provide parents and families support for today and confidence and optimism for tomorrow.
PIONEERING & INNOVATIVE
We are parents who have sought and will continue to seek all opportunities available to our kids as they mature with ASD. We understand that all parents seek the same. We are proud to be blazing trails for parents and families who come after us.
UNINTIMIDATED ADVOCACY
We are not intimidated by the significant challenges and costs that delivering on our WHY requires. We will relentlessly educate the community about the difference we are making for individuals with ASD and their families.
UNCOMPROMISING
We don’t settle for limited solutions and narrow definitions that can dictate what we offer. We strive to continually learn cutting-edge approaches to deliver through our programing.
THOUGHTFULLY INCLUSIVE & ACCESSIBLE
We know what it’s like to worry about activities and events that are available to individuals with ASD and how they will respond to various situations. We go the extra mile to make everyone feel included and safe AND also part of a wider Rochester community.
Our Commitment
- To support those who care for individuals with ASD
- To identify areas of need for individuals and families affected by ASD
- To create and implement innovative skill building programs for individuals with ASD
- To provide community training and raise awareness about ASD
- To advocate for individuals with ASD
- To collaborate with the community to promote opportunities for those with ASD
Our Focus Areas
- Practical Learning and Application
- Inclusion Opportunities
- Continuing Education and Best Practice Approaches
- Community Awareness and Collaboration