So what does it mean, exactly, to “optimize the quality of life for people with autism”?
For countless families, it means putting compassion into action 24 hours a day, 7 days a week — advocating for their loved ones, pursuing services, implementing strategies to unlock potential, dealing with sleep deprivation, communicating with providers, managing work responsibilities in the context of needs, and so much more.
For the 1 in 44 diagnosed with this neurological disorder, it means having the courage to navigate a world that can feel overwhelming to process — and for many, to do so without the ability to vocalize wants and needs. It means persevering through challenges and tapping into a spirit of determination when working with the educators, therapists, and professionals who are trying to teach much-needed skills. It means taking opportunities to experience the same sense of belonging that every human deserves to have in life.
For human services professionals everywhere, it means taking time to engage in ongoing training on evidence-based practices. It means maintaining a steadfast commitment to the people with autism we serve and their families, no matter what else is happening in our lives. It means fighting for proper funding when there is disparity in pay for direct support professionals and lobbying for legislation that protects the rights of people with special needs. It means helping to lead a movement, ever mindful that our cause knows no boundaries. And it means doing all we can to help build a strong workforce, a culture of inclusivity, and a circle of support that will sustain all who are impacted by autism.
For Anderson Center for Autism, it means all of the above, in the context of carrying out our mission of “optimizing the quality of life for people with autism.” To do so, we must continue to expand awareness and embrace acceptance, and we ask that people in all corners of the world do the same — on World Autism Day and all year long.
People with autism, and their loved ones, are counting on it.
Patrick Paul is the CEO/Executive Director of Anderson Center for Autism, located in Staatsburg, whose organizational mission is to “optimize the quality of life for people with autism.” Visit andersoncenterforautism.org to learn more.
Johnson Newspapers 7.1