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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.

Leadership Service

Board & Committee Leadership Opportunities

ASNWPA Board Committees

Volunteer

Walk Chair Nomination

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.

Contact

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.”

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

Making Informed Decisions

Annual Report

Affiliate of the Year

Learn More

Community Support

On Board with Autism community collaboration

Autism Society NWPA hosted On Board with Autism in collaboration with Erie Regional Airport Authority, United Skywest, and Transportation Security Administration.
REAL-TIME SIMULATION! It was truly real-time as the United Skywest plane was delayed in Chicago for 1 1/2 hours. We had seven families that stayed for the duration. It was worth the wait. The airport staff including TSA, Airport Police, and United Skywest crew were spectacular and welcoming….even with their extra long day….all volunteered their time to make this experience available to our families.

The evening included learning and experiencing the various processes of navigating an airport including ticketing/board passes, baggage check, security screening, walking through the gate to the Jetway, and boarding a plane!

Thank you to all our families for joining us for the real-time airport simulation! Special shout out to Derrick Martin, Executive Director of Erie Airport Authority for making this event happen for our families.

The connection is you.

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.

24th Annual Walk for Autism

SAVE THE DATE – Autism Society NWPA Flagship Event!
Saturday, April 26, 2025

🌟 Save the Date: 24th Annual Walk for Autism! 🌟

It’s time to lace up your walking shoes and start planning for our 2025 Walk for Autism on Saturday, April 26, 2025! 🎉

This beloved event is open, and we’re thrilled to invite you to set up your teams and join us for a day of community, connection, and making a difference.

Together, we’ll celebrate and support individuals and families in the Autism community. Let’s make this the best Walk yet! 🧩💙

📅 Mark your calendars and start building your team today!

Event Details Make a Walk Donation

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.

Apr.

03

Fundamentals of Estate Planning and Special Needs Trust Guardianship 101 | ASNWPA Family Center

Empowerment & Protection: Essential Insights for Parents, Caretakers, and Guardians Join us as MacDonald Illig Attorneys guide us through the essentials of estate planning, special needs trusts, and guardianship. Learn what you need to know, what’s best for your family, and when to address these important concerns for a secure future.

Registration

Apr.

26

24th Annual Walk for Autism | Lake Erie Speedway

Join us for the 24th Annual Walk for Autism! This empowering two-mile walk aims to raise awareness about Autism while funding crucial programming and activities for individuals with Autism in our community. All proceeds, a full 100%, remain here in our local area. Why should you be a part of …

Registration

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 …

Registration

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 …

Registration

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