A comedy event benefiting Arts 'n Autism and

The Autism Society of Alabama

Arts ‘n Autism (A&A) is an after school program which provides respite care and therapeutic programming for students with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). A&A provides classes in play therapy, social skills, music, art, yoga, and martial arts for children ages 3-18. Each class fosters the child’s self esteem while encouraging language development and interaction with peers. To ensure individual attention Arts ‘n Autism maintains a minimum 3:1 student to adult ratio.

The program was designed to meet three crucial needs:

• Supervised visual and performing arts activities for children who, because of their deficiencies in language and social skills, are unable to utilize existing after school or recreation programs offered by public schools, churches, or other institutions in Tuscaloosa County.
  
  
• Respite for family members and other caregivers who are responsible for round the clock care of these children.
  
  
• Outreach and assistance to low-income families who would otherwise be unable to secure similar after school and summer camp services for their children with autism.
  
  

Like any other after school program, Art 'n Autism meets a practical need that working families have - a safe after school environment for their children until the parents can pick them up after work.

The Autism Society of Alabama (ASA) is a 501(c)3 not for profit organization. The mission of ASA is to improve services for persons with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families through education and advocacy.

The Autism Society provides:

• State level advocacy and representation - Concerns are voiced directly to state policy makers; ASA maintains a seat on the Statewide Interagency Autism Council.
• Information and referral - ASA is the state's leading source for information on autism. ASA makes referrals to providers and houses lending libraries.
• Support groups - ASA has a network of over 20 support groups that are actively engaged in grassroots advocacy at the local level.
• Conferences and seminars - Education and training are essential pieces to developing quality services. ASA offers a limited number of scholarships to statewide programs.
• Family camps - In partnership with Easter Seals, ASA offers weekend family camps. Parents report this shared recreational experience is invaluable.
• Awareness - Walk for Autism is held during April, Autism Awareness Month.

The Autism Society is often the first place a family calls when questions and concerns arise regarding their child's development. Go to www.autism-alabama.org or call 877-4AUTISM extension 803 for more information.