Assisting families in navigating the world of Autism

Autism Society of Northwestern Pennsylvania

We create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully.

For over 25 years, the Autism Society NWPA has provided support for individuals and families living with an autism spectrum disorder in Erie, Crawford, Venango, and Mercer Counties.

As a local organization, Autism Society NWPA provides individuals and families with support, referrals, mentors, education, and most importantly a community of understanding. We are continuing to make efforts to increase our support across the lifespan for individuals and families living with an autism spectrum disorder.

We are creating a world where everyone in the Autism community is connected to the support they need, when they need it.

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Leadership Service

Board & Committee Leadership Opportunities

Volunteers are an invaluable part of our team.  Volunteers increase the quality of services and programming that we are able to provide.  By connecting our volunteers’ skills with our community needs, we will ensure we can continue to provide essential support to individuals and families living with an autism spectrum disorder.

Board of Directors Opportunity ~ Autism Society desires individuals who reflect diversity including, but not limited to, age, gender, sexual orientation, geography, economic status, disability, and ethnicity.  Serving on the board is a rewarding experience and an opportunity for personal and professional growth.

Please email our Executive Director and/or Governance Chair regarding your interest to serve on the Board of Directors.  

Barb

“Working on the board is rewarding because we are able to transform ideas for meeting our members’ needs into actions by planning and funding programs.”

John

“As a board member of the Autism Society NWPA, seeing the kids and young adults that benefit from our programs and services is all the reward I could ever ask for. Seeing the parents and caregivers relieved to have a place where their children are welcomed, respected, and cared for is the icing on the cake!”

Stella

“When a person very dear to you is on the Autism spectrum, you understand more about the gifts they bring to the world, but also you know more about the challenges they face. I volunteer on the board for Autism Society Northwestern Pennsylvania because it is important to me that all of the children and families that need services in our community have those programs and services available to them. It’s one of the most rewarding experiences of my life and I’m proud to be a part of an organization that is making a difference in the lives of our clients and families.”
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About Us

Families recognize us as their trusted resource for therapies, education, and assistance. Families have few options for help. We provide access to the best information and resources available as well as entry into a kindhearted community network of parents, professionals, and educators throughout our service area.

Autism Society Northwestern Pennsylvania is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization

Please get in touch with the office (814) 455-3540 to view a copy of our Form 990

Community Support
NOMINATE! 24th Annual Walk Chair Family

We’re honored to collaborate with families, advocating for Autism through our Annual Walk. Each year, we spotlight one family to amplify our community’s voice.

Nominate a family, yours or another, for the Annual Walk for Autism. Nominations undergo review by Walk Directors to meet Chair Family Criteria. Announcement of the Chair family will be made by September preceding the Walk. Nominations received on or before the annual August 1st deadline, will be considered for the following year’s Walk event.


Annual Walk Chair Family Criteria
– Current Membership: Must be members of the Autism Society NWPA.
– Active Involvement: Participate in family support and/or programming such as family outings, LEGO Club, Teen Club, Adult Social Club, or other Autism Society NWPA-hosted programs.
– Paragraph for Walk Marketing Campaign: Be willing to write a short paragraph on the significance of the Autism Society NWPA to your family.
– Willingness to Share: Share why the Autism Society NWPA is important to your family and how it has helped you. Consent to record and share this information on the organization’s website, social media, publications, and local media.
– Must be registered and attend the Annual Walk for Autism. Be willing to be on stage representing the Autism Society NWPA on the day of the walk.
– Must be available at the Walk from 10:00 am to immediately following the 2-mile Walk. Be available for interviews with the local press.

NOMINATE

Events

Autism Society NWPA offers monthly FAMILY sensory and social opportunities for families to get together. The monthly outings are designed to develop: community awareness and interaction through structured community based experiences; and develop and maintain recreation and leisure skills. The outings are opened to all families living with an autism spectrum disorder.

5th Annual Reverse Raffle

SAVE THE DATE – Win Big, Give Back: Your Ticket to Impact in the Reverse Raffle!
Saturday, September 27, 2025

Join Us for the 5th Annual Reverse Raffle – A Night Where You Don’t Want Your Number Called!

Get ready for an unforgettable evening of excitement, games, and giving back! Join us for the 5th Annual Reverse Raffle, where every ticket brings hope to individuals and families living with Autism in our community.

Event Highlights:
~ Reverse Raffle: The last number standing wins big – $6,250 in prizes!
~ Basket Auction: Bid on incredible items and experiences.
~ Instant Tickets & Tips: More chances to win throughout the night.
~ Dinner & Drinks: Enjoy a delicious meal and beverages, all included.
~ Entertainment: A night of fun and festivities for a great cause.

Each ticket includes admission for two attendees, one Reverse Raffle number, dinner, and drinks.

100% of the proceeds benefit local Autism support programs, helping us build brighter futures for those we serve. Will you help us make dreams come true?
TICKETS GO ON SALE IN JUNE!

Reserve your spot today – these tickets won’t last long!

A (+) icon, next to an event’s date, indicates that the event spans multiple dates. Click “Read more” on the event to view details about the specific dates for the event.
May.
17
Sensory Friendly Movie | Cinemark Tinseltown

🎬 Friendly Movie Screening – Reserve Now! Limited to 75 Tickets – First Come, First Served You’re invited to a complimentary of Thunderbolts– presented by Lake Shore Community Services and Hamot Health Foundation. Saturday, May 17th Check-in: 11:30 PM and 12:00 PM | Movie starts at 12:00 PM Sensory-Friendly Screening This fun, sensory-considerate experience is …

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May.
18
We Rock the Spectrum | We Rock the Spectrum - Erie

Important Details: Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 pm Cost:  $7 per participant (member); $15 (guest/ non-member) Registration Opens 03/18/2025 Admission is free for those not using the gym equipment (e.g. parents, grandparents, waiver staff, and guardians.) Special Sensory Play Experience: We Rock the Spectrum – Erie was created to offer children …

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Jun.
08
Day at the Erie SeaWolves | UPMC Park

Event Highlights: • Sensory-Friendly Space: A designated sensory break area will be available for anyone needing a quiet moment. • Adjusted Atmosphere: Reduced music levels throughout the game to create a more welcoming environment for all. Special Game Day Features: • First Pitch Excitement! • Run the Bases: Kids 12 …

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Jul.
13
Summer Family Picnic – Sunview Miniature Golf | Sunview Miniature Golf Course

Family Fun at Sunview Mini Golf with Autism Society NWPA! Enjoy a sunny day of mini golf and family fun! Join us at Sunview Mini Golf for a light lunch featuring a hot dog, chips, and a fountain drink, along with one round of mini golf. Additional activities, including bumper …

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Our Values

Diversity,

where everyone is respected for their unique and individual differences