HomeMonthly ObservancesAutism Awareness MonthAutism Resources for NJ Families

Autism Resources for NJ Families

A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that 1 in every 45 people in New Jersey have been diagnosed with autism, compared to the national average of 1 in 68 people. Behind these epidemic numbers are many New Jersey families who are affected by autism.

National Autism Awareness Month is celebrated in NJ and across the country every April. This is a time to promote autism awareness, encourage autism acceptance and shine a light on the growing number of individuals facing an autism diagnosis each year.

For those families searching for autism resources, Autism Speaks Inc. has compiled a list of major New Jersey organizations to consult for help on such important subjects as early intervention, physical & speech therapies, ABA (applied behavior analysis) training, special education services and family respite. Please see below for their top picks and further details on each group’s services.


 

The Arc of New Jersey

One of Autism Speaks Inc.’s top picks for families is The Arc of New Jersey. The Arc is the state’s largest organization advocating for and serving citizens with intellectual and developmental disabilities, along with their families. The Arc of New Jersey is an affiliated chapter of The Arc, and community-based services are available statewide through their strong network of local county chapters. They offer a wide range of programs including Family Advocacy, Mainstreaming Medical Care, Project HIRE and Self Advocacy.
More info: www.arcnj.org or call 732-246-2525


 

ASAH

This not-for-profit organization represents more than 125 different private schools and agencies in New Jersey. Recommended by Autism Speaks Inc., ASAH provides highly specialized services to over 11,000 infants, children and young adults with disabilities. One of ASAH’s key roles is to share information about special education services in New Jersey–they offer detailed reports for parents on preschool services, private school placement, parental rights and other key topics.
More info: www.asah.org or call 609-890-1400


 

Autism Family Services of New Jersey (AFSNJ)

AFSNJ is a statewide provider of support and information to individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. They are an affiliate of The Family Resource Network, an umbrella organization that brings together several community-based programs that serve individuals and families with a variety of disabilities. AFSNJ offers an array of autism resources for families, including in-home respite, in-home ABA services and behavior analysis. Their annual Beach Bash, held every September in Belmar, is NJ’s largest gathering of individuals living with autism spectrum disorders and their families.
More info: www.autismfamilyservicesnj.org or call 877-237-4477
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Autism New Jersey Inc.

Another top pick by Autism Speaks Inc. is the organization Autism New Jersey, a group committed to ensuring safe and fulfilling lives for individuals with autism and their families. They are the largest statewide network of parents and professionals dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorders. According to Jennifer Barkosky, Communications & Marketing Manager for Autism New Jersey, tens of thousands use their helpline and website each year. “We have two amazing conferences (Transition in April and our signature Annual Conference in October) that draw a huge parent/professional audience. And we have our popular Autism Awareness Ambassador Program,” Barkosky notes.
More info: www.autismnj.org or call 800-4-AUTISM


 

Eden Autism

Eden Autism is a not-for-profit organization aiming to improve the lives of children and adults living with autism. The organization has over 40 years of clinical experience and success in educating individuals with autism, and training family members, educators, and other professionals in these best practices. Eden offers a variety of autism resources, including early intervention, employment training and an outreach program for parents and professionals. They help families through The Eden Outreach Program, The Eden Curriculum and the Eden School in Princeton, as well as Eden Adult Services.
More info: www.edenautism.org or call 609-987-0099


 

FACES 4 Autism

This non-profit pick supports children, teens and adults on the autism spectrum, as well as their families. FACES provides autism education and other resources to families and educators in Southern New Jersey. The organization strives to improve the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum through social opportunities; in addition to programs that promote self advocacy, independence and dignity.
More info: www.faces4autism.org or call 609-412-3750


 

Parents of Autistic Children (POAC)

POAC’s mission is to improve the lives of children and adults with autism; in fact, they do this by providing scientifically-based training to parents, teachers and other direct service providers. POAC supports ongoing quality research on the causes of autism, its symptoms, prevention and a potential cure. The organization also provides free training for parents and free recreational events for families, including movies, bowling and pizza parties.
More info: www.poac.net or call 732-785-1099


Top (Hero) Feature Image Courtesy: enterlinedesign/Dollar Photo Club
Additional Body Images (in order) Courtesy:
The Arc of New Jersey
ASAH
Autism Family Services of New Jersey
Autism New Jersey Inc.
Facebook/Eden Autism
Facebook/FACES 4 Autism
Parents of Autistic Children (POAC)

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