Assisting families in navigating the world of Autism

Donate Today

Ways To Give Programs Events Newly Diagnosed

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

AS NWPA Vendor or Presentation Request

Learn More

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.

“The Incredible Years” Autism Spectrum & Language Delays Parent Group

SAVE THE DATE – "The Incredible Years" Parent Group
Wednesday, January 7, 2026 – Wednesday, April 8, 2026

How This Program Helps Your Kids:
✓ Better Emotional and Social Skills
✓ Less Aggressive Behavior
✓ Improved Problem-Solving
✓ Stronger Parent-Child Bonds
✓ Support from Other Parents
✓ Better Parenting Techniques

Enjoy brunch on us, and request childcare and transportation support with advanced registration. Spots are limited—secure yours today!

Event Details MORE INFORMATION

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.

Sep.

15+

The Incredible Years | Autism Society NWPA Family Center

Monday, September 15, 2025 – Monday, December 15, 2025

This session is ending soon. We are offering another 14-week session starting January 7, 2026 on Wednesdays at 9:30am. “The Incredible Years” Autism Spectrum & Language Delays Parent Group – Autism Society NWPA Calling All Parents! Join Us for “The Incredible Years” Parent Group The Erie Family Center, in collaboration …

Registration

Dec.

07

Member Appreciation Holiday Party | expERIEnce Children's Museum

As a member of Autism Society Northwestern Pennsylvania, you are cordially invited to attend the Members Appreciation Holiday Party Details: Santa will be visiting our party, If you would like your child to receive a gift from Santa, please bring a small wrapped $10/$15 gift with your child’s FIRST & …

Registration

Jan.

07+

“The Incredible Years” Autism Spectrum & Language Delays Parent Group | Autism Society NWPA Family Center

Wednesday, January 7, 2026 – Wednesday, April 8, 2026

Calling All Parents! Join Us for “The Incredible Years” Parent Group The Erie Family Center, in collaboration with the Autism Society NWPA, is proud to offer a free, 14-week support program specifically designed for parents of children on the autism spectrum or with language delays. Starting this spring, “The Incredible …

Registration

Jan.

10

Sensory-Friendly Karate Demo! (AGES 6 – 12) | Autism Society NWPA Family Center

Join Us for a Sensory-Friendly Karate Demo! We’re excited to partner with Millcreek Karate to offer a free, sensory-friendly karate class specifically designed for kids aged 6-12! This special demo is a great way for families to explore movement, confidence-building, and calm energy in a supportive, inclusive environment. What to Expect:• A fun …

Registration

View Calendar