History

1970s

The organization was formally incorporated as a nonprofit and focused on advocacy for clinical services, family support, educational opportunities, and policy changes that would recognize autism as a developmental disability. The summer camp program was established as well as some local chapters.

1980s

The Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) transitioned from an all-volunteer organization to one with employees and continued to work closely with legislators and TEACCH to expand opportunities for individuals with autism. We opened group homes around the state and the ASNC Bookstore.

1990s

The staff expanded family support by adding parent advocates (now Autism Resource Specialists), full-time camp staff, and community-based (Medicaid waiver) services. Camp Royall, the Creative Living adult day program, and some regional offices opened.

2000s

ASNC held the inaugural Autism Ribbon Run (now the Triangle Run/Walk for Autism); we now have eight annual Run/Walk events statewide. We opened or expanded offices in Asheville, Greenville, Fayetteville, Greensboro, Raleigh, and Charlotte and opened additional day options for adults in Greensboro and Fayetteville. ASNC also expanded educational programs, clinical training, and our Autism Resource Specialist staff, including a bilingual Hispanic Affairs liaison.

2010-

ASNC hired its first Clinical Director, started the LifeLong Interventions treatment program, created an Employment Supports Department, increased full- and part-time staff to more than 1,000, and opened the IGNITE program for adults with HFA/Asperger’s Syndrome in Davidson. Camp Royall added year-round programming, and Social Recreation programs opened in Eastern NC. In 2015, coverage of autism treatment under health insurance passed in NC after years of advocacy work by ASNC and partners. After years of growth, the Autism Society of North Carolina now operates with a budget of more than $20 million per year.