About FACES
The mission of the North Carolina State University FACES program is “to inform and strengthen empowerment among Black families and caregivers of autistic children and adolescents by addressing inequities in access to support services.
FACES aims to: (1) improve the quality of life for Black autistic youth and their families, (2) advance the field of education with regard to culturally responsive special education practices and policies, and (3) contribute to autism research by teaching and learning from families, community partners, and related service providers.” (FACES for Autism)
To illustrate the program’s objectives, FACES is an acronym for: Foster family-centered services by listening to the needs and desires of the families we serve; teach Advocacy and the importance of speaking up for autistic loved ones, being a voice for family, and discussing the family’s wishes with the appropriate parties; promote Communication between families and support professionals; enhance Empowerment by informing families of their rights and helping them feel confident in their knowledge and abilities to seek appropriate services; provide Support for all FACES families to improve outcomes for autistic youth.
FACES initiative
The Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) partnered with FACES for Autism to offer five-week training courses led by ASNC team members Felicia Williams Brown, Community Engagement Specialist and Educator and Nicole Harris, Autism Resource Specialist & BFAST Navigator. The trainings were designed to improve knowledge, advocacy, and empowerment among underrepresented parents of children with autism.
This FACES initiative has proven to be immensely valuable. In the Triangle area and across eastern North Carolina, FACES has successfully assisted 26 families eager for information and support.
The richness of this program reflects eight years of dedicated effort in creating a thorough curriculum. Participants have conveyed their appreciation, expressing joy at discovering a supportive community where they feel acknowledged and understood. They have built significant relationships and are already launching projects to connect with other parents and local initiatives. Notably, two participants have collaborated to create a podcast titled “No Manual, Just Love.”
The FACES difference
For Nicole and me, this journey has been remarkable. We have encountered very few initiatives like this, and the quality of the content surpasses all expectations. Each time we witnessed the profound impact on participants, it was both moving and validating. This experience underscored the pressing needs within our Black communities and reinforced our role in their empowerment. From emotional moments to inspiring stories, insights, and examples of resilience, we all departed feeling like integral members of something truly exceptional. We recognized that these experiences would remain part of our journeys forever.
As we wrap up this initial phase, we are filled with gratitude for the progress we have made together. The collaboration between ASNC and NC State’s FACES program has laid a strong foundation for our shared mission.
Ongoing commitment
Our commitment to fostering growth and understanding in the community remains unwavering.
Please stay tuned for exciting developments ahead.
Tags: FACES for Autism, TEACCH Autism