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A History of Advocacy
The Autism Society of North Carolina’s primary focus is advocacy. The first statewide effort in the country to obtain services for people with autism began in North Carolina when parents involved with the Autism Society of North Carolina advocated with the legislature for funding of a comprehensive statewide clinical program for people with autism. As a result of those efforts the Legislature provided funding for the establishment of Division TEACCH at the UNC-Chapel Hill School of Medicine in 1970.
Since its inception, the Autism Society of North Carolina has also advocated for appropriate classroom and educational options for children with autism, individualized community-based programs, the inclusion of autism in developmental disabilities program funding and a variety of other measures such as increased residential and vocational options for people with autism spectrum disorders.
Currently, the Society employs 15 parent advocates, including a bilingual (Spanish/English) advocate throughout the state. Our staff advocates offer expertise in a variety of areas including:
- Information and Referral - Help individuals and families network with other families, individuals and providers.
- Mental Health Services - How to access the system and place your child on the waiting list for services.
- School Issues - IEP’s and how to collaborate with school personnel, etc.
- Transition Planning - What issues should you consider as your child nears adulthood?
- Residential and Vocational Support - What options are available? How do you access the available services?
- Crisis Services - Where do you turn when you need help?
- Establishment and Support of Parent Groups - Connecting families in communities throughout the state.
- Parent Leadership Training - Provide an annual Leadership Retreat for Local Group leaders.
- Workshops - Presentations to various groups on a wide variety of topics.
As you can imagine, staff parent advocates spend the majority of their time on the phone answering questions (nearly 12,000 calls are processed annually). If you need to speak with a Parent Advocate in person, please schedule an appointment as far in advance as possible. For a listing of advocates by regional office, visit our staff directory page or click here to view a map of the advocacy regions within our state .
Here are some Advocacy Frequently Asked Questions that staff respond to. After reading if you still have questions feel free to complete our online advocacy info request form. We also have provided links to popular advocacy articles of interest below. Please review this information as it is quite helpful.
- Who do I call to have my child evaluated or diagnosed if I suspect he/she has an autism spectrum disorder? The Autism Society of North Carolina does not offer diagnostic or clinical services, however in North Carolina there are two organizations in addition to many private providers that you can contact for these services. If your child is between the ages of 3-5, the first option to investigate is your local Children’s Developmental Service Agency, or CDSA. Your area CDSA should be listed in the telephone book white pages. Parents can also contact Division TEACCH of the UNC Chapel Hill School of Medicine about diagnostic services. Division TEACCH operates nine regional centers throughout the state. Each center offers clinical services, however there may be a wait. Check with your area parent advocate for information about local private diagnostic services.
- Who do I call for services if my child is under 3 years old and had autism? Call the Developmental Disabilities Service Section for Early Intervention at 919-855-4450.
- What ages are covered by special education laws in NC? As required by the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), special education services are provided to students with autism ages 3-21 unless a student receives a diploma at an earlier age.
- Are there any residential schools for students with autism in NC? No.
- For adults with autism, is there an entitlement to services? No, however at last check there was a waiting list for services of thousands of individuals with developmental disabilities.
- What supports are there for families of children/adults with autism in NC? The Society provides support and resources for over 30 local ASNC chapters and other parent support groups led by volunteer parents. These groups are usually familiar with local resources. Parents also can access support and information through the ASNC advocacy staff, Autism Society of NC Bookstore, and state office. The Society also offers educational conferences and workshops throughout the year and maintains a Calendar of Events listing of upcoming events and training opportunities.
If you would like to know which advocate serves your area, please visit the Staff Directory page for a complete listing with contact telephone numbers.
If you have other questions please click here to complete an Online Advocacy Info Request Form and the advocacy staff will provide an answer as soon as possible.
Articles of interest:
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