Family Support
The connection is you™
At Autism Society NWPA, we believe no one should navigate the Autism journey alone. Through family support programs, social opportunities, educational workshops, and community events, we create meaningful connections that bring individuals and families together.
Whether you are newly diagnosed, seeking resources, or simply looking to connect with others who understand, you will find a welcoming and supportive community. Families gain encouragement, share experiences, build friendships, and learn from one another in an environment free of judgment.
The Connection Is You… parents, caregivers, individuals, volunteers, and community partners coming together to support, empower, and strengthen the Autism community.
ASNWPA Membership
Your annual membership helps Autism Society NWPA provide support, education, advocacy, programs, and resources for individuals and families living with Autism throughout Northwestern Pennsylvania.
Membership Benefits
- Discounted pricing on select programs and events
- Early access to registration
- Member-only appreciation events
- Exclusive member flash sales and promotions
- 5% discount on ASNWPA merchandise
- 15% discount at We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym (Erie location)
- Eligibility for ASNWPA scholarships through the Erie Community Foundation
- Entry into the Annual Membership Drawing at the Walk for Autism
Join today and help create connections, empower families, and strengthen our Autism community.
Autism Society NWPA Facebook “private” Support Group
Every parent and person on the spectrum have so much to offer so a forum to help one another has been created. If you have a question, a suggestion for someone else’s question or just want to share a success or struggle, this local on-lone community is here to provide support. This is a closed group, so posts are only visible to members of the group. Please email: info@autismnwpa.org if you would like to join the group.
Family Support Programs
Family Sensory & Social Opportunities
2023 Sponsored by Event Champion: Wm. T Spaeder Company, Inc.
Sensory & Social Opportunities are offered on a monthly basis for families to receive support while building new relationships. Structured community events not only provide ASD children, teens, and adults a calm social environment, but also one in which the entire family may build relationships by including neurotypical siblings and encouraging interaction and support. Local events allow families to socialize safely in an environment that might typically be overwhelming for the ASD family members.
Preschool & Pre-K Meet-Up
Offered bi-monthly to provide parents with the opportunity to network with other parents in a sensory-friendly welcoming environment. The group is for ages 3 to 5 and meets at the Autism Society NWPA Family Center. Registration is required.
Mom’s “Whine” & Cheese
Meets quarterly bringing mom’s together for “self-care” in a relaxed welcoming setting. Great way to build a network of support. The quarterly meets include interactive activities. Registration is required.
Autism 101 for Parents, Grandparents, and Caretakers
Offered twice a year, this program offers information, resources, and connection to other parents for information and support. Autism 101 covers communication, sensory, behavioral, and ways to get help.
Autism 101 is also available as a community training for local businesses and/or organizations to increase understanding and acceptance to best support individuals with Autism and their families in our community. Scheduled upon request by emailing: info@autismnwpa.org
IEP Informational Clinic
Designed to help parents and guardians understand and navigate planning in the school environment. Join us in learning how an IEP provides individualized education. Offered twice a year or in the community upon request.
View Full List of Family Support Events here.
Making Informed Decisions
The Board of Directors of the Autism Society NWPA affirms that each person who experiences Autism is a unique individual. To the maximum extent possible, informed decisions should be made by the individual with Autism and their family members in partnership with a multidisciplinary team.
The selection of current evidence-based intervention practices should be guided by objective assessment, goals, and outcomes. Services and support should be delivered with fidelity by qualified and appropriately trained professionals. All services should promote self-determination, enhance inclusive community engagement, and result in improved quality of life. Abuse of any kind is not acceptable.
No single service or intervention is likely to meet the needs of every individual with Autism. Each person should have broad and equal access to high-quality, individualized support and services. Selection of a program, service, or intervention method should be based on a comprehensive assessment of the person’s abilities, needs, and interests. Services should be outcome-based to ensure they meet the individualized goals of the person with Autism.
The Board of the Autism Society NWPA expects that individuals with Autism will have dignified, productive lives and reach their fullest potential through access to appropriate education, employment, community living opportunities, medical care, mental health services, and family support.
Millcreek Government Channel – Autism Society NWPA
