Arkansas Autism Resources: Support Programs & Outreach Centers

Arkansas Autism Resources

Autism is a neurological condition that affects a growing number of children and adults in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 1 in 54 children in the United States has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

This means that there is a growing need for resources and support for individuals with autism and their families. Arkansas has made significant strides in recent years to provide resources and support for individuals with autism and their families.

Arkansas Autism Resource and Outreach Center (AAROC)

The Arkansas Autism Resource and Outreach Center (AAROC) is a non-profit organization that provides resources and support for individuals with autism and their families. AAROC's mission is to improve the lives of individuals with autism by providing education, advocacy, and support services.

AAROC offers a variety of resources and services, including:

• A helpline for families and professionals seeking information and support
• Training and professional development opportunities for educators, healthcare professionals, and other service providers
• Workshops and support groups for families
• Assistance with accessing services and resources

Arkansas Autism Foundation

The Arkansas Autism Foundation is another non-profit organization that provides resources and support for individuals with autism and their families. The foundation's mission is to improve the lives of individuals with autism by providing education, advocacy, and support services.

The Arkansas Autism Foundation offers a variety of resources and services, including:

• Grants for families to help cover the cost of therapies and other services
• Workshops and support groups for families
• Advocacy and support for families navigating the education system
• Assistance with accessing services and resources

Autism Society of Arkansas

The Autism Society of Arkansas is a chapter of the Autism Society, a national organization that provides resources and support for individuals with autism and their families. The Autism Society of Arkansas offers a variety of resources and services, including:

• A helpline for families and professionals seeking information and support
• Workshops and support groups for families
• Advocacy and support for families navigating the education system
• Assistance with accessing services and resources

Arkansas Children's Hospital Autism Clinic

The Arkansas Children's Hospital Autism Clinic provides diagnostic and treatment services for children with autism. The clinic's team of specialists includes pediatricians, psychologists, and speech-language pathologists who work together to provide comprehensive care for children with autism.

The clinic offers a variety of services, including:

• Diagnostic evaluations to determine if a child has autism
• Comprehensive assessments to identify the child's strengths and challenges
• Individualized treatment plans that may include therapy, medication, and other interventions
• Support for families, including education and resources

Arkansas Department of Education Special Education Unit

The Arkansas Department of Education Special Education Unit provides resources and support for families navigating the education system. The unit's mission is to ensure that all students with disabilities receive a free, appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment.

The Special Education Unit offers a variety of resources and services, including:

• Assistance with navigating the special education process, including developing Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
• Training and professional development opportunities for educators and other service providers
• Technical assistance for schools and districts
• Support for families, including education and resources

Arkansas Autism Resource and Outreach Center (AAROC)

The Arkansas Autism Resource and Outreach Center (AAROC) is a non-profit organization that provides resources and support for individuals with autism and their families. AAROC's mission is to improve the lives of individuals with autism by providing education, advocacy, and support services.

AAROC offers a variety of resources and services, including:

• A helpline for families and professionals seeking information and support
• Training and professional development opportunities for educators, healthcare professionals, and other service providers
• Workshops and support groups for families
• Assistance with accessing services and resources
• Resources specifically available for adults with autism

While many of the above-mentioned organizations provide resources to both children as well as adults on the spectrum, there are some organizations that have specific programs designed only for adults living with ASD.

One such organization is Autism Involves Me (AIM). AIM provides social activities, life skills training, educational workshops, job readiness training, employment assistance, transportation assistance, housing assistance as well as counseling services tailored specifically towards adults on the spectrum.

Another unique program designed specifically towards adults on the spectrum is The Arc of Arkansas' Adult Recreation Program. This program provides recreational activities such as bowling leagues or movie nights aimed at promoting socialization and community for adults on the spectrum.

Employer Support for Employees with Autism

Employers in Arkansas can play a critical role in supporting individuals with autism by offering workplace accommodations and training opportunities. Workplace accommodations can include flexible schedules, noise-reducing headphones, or designated quiet spaces to help employees with sensory sensitivities.

Employers can also provide training opportunities to help all employees better understand autism and how to create an inclusive work environment.

The Arkansas Rehabilitation Services (ARS) is a state agency that provides employment services for individuals with disabilities, including those with autism. ARS works with employers to provide job coaching and other support services to help individuals with autism succeed in the workplace.

Additionally, the Autism Society of Arkansas offers resources for employers looking to create a more inclusive workplace. These resources include information on best practices for hiring and retaining individuals with autism, as well as training opportunities for employers and their staff.

By offering workplace accommodations and training opportunities, employers in Arkansas can help create a more inclusive work environment that supports individuals with autism in achieving their full potential.

Medicaid Waivers and Other Funding Options

Families seeking services for their loved ones with autism in Arkansas have several funding options available to them. One of the most common funding sources is Medicaid, which provides coverage for a variety of services, including behavioral therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy.

In addition to traditional Medicaid coverage, families may also be eligible for one of several Medicaid waivers that provide additional funding for services not covered by traditional Medicaid. These waivers include the:

• Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver

• Autism (ARChoices) Waiver

• Independent Choices Program

The DD Waiver provides funding for individuals with developmental disabilities, including autism, to receive home and community-based services. The ARChoices Waiver specifically provides funding for individuals with autism to receive home and community-based services.

The Independent Choices Program allows individuals with disabilities, including autism, to choose and direct their own support services.

Families may also be eligible for other funding options, such as private insurance or grants from non-profit organizations. The Autism Society of Arkansas offers a list of potential funding sources on their website.

The eligibility requirements and availability of these funding sources may vary depending on individual circumstances. Families are encouraged to research all available options and speak with a qualified professional to determine which funding sources may be best suited for their specific needs.

Local Support Groups and Social Clubs for Individuals with Autism

In addition to statewide resources, there are also local support groups and social clubs throughout Arkansas that provide opportunities for individuals with autism to connect with others in their community.

Here are some examples of local organizations:

Northwest Arkansas

• Autism Involves Me (AIM) - offers a variety of social activities and events for individuals with autism aged 16 and up

• Fayetteville Autism Support Group - provides support, education, and resources for families of individuals with autism

• HARK (Helping Autistic Rural Kids) - provides services specifically for families living in rural areas

Central Arkansas

• Autism Speaks U Little Rock - a college-based group that raises awareness about autism and advocates for the needs of individuals on the spectrum

• Central Arkansas Autism Support Group - provides support, education, and resources for families of individuals with autism

• Easterseals Arkansas - offers a variety of services for children and adults with disabilities, including those on the autism spectrum

Northeast Arkansas

• ASU Spectrum Connection Club - a student-led organization at Arkansas State University that provides opportunities for students with autism to connect and socialize

• Jonesboro Area Autism Support Group - provides support, education, and resources for families of individuals with autism in the Jonesboro area

• Northeast Arkansas Autism Society - offers a variety of programs and services for individuals with autism and their families in Northeast Arkansas

These are just a few examples of the many local organizations throughout Arkansas that provide support to individuals on the spectrum. Families are encouraged to research local options in their area or speak with their healthcare provider or school district for recommendations.

Resources Specifically Available for Teenagers with Autism

Teenagers with autism face unique challenges as they navigate adolescence and prepare for adulthood. Fortunately, there are several resources available in Arkansas that cater specifically to the needs of this population.

Autism Involves Me (AIM)

As mentioned earlier, AIM provides social activities, life skills training, educational workshops, job readiness training, employment assistance, transportation assistance, housing assistance as well as counseling services tailored specifically towards adults on the spectrum. However, AIM also has specific programs designed for teenagers with autism.

AIM's Teen Scene program is a social group designed exclusively for teenagers aged 13-18 with autism. The program offers a variety of activities and events throughout the year that allow teens to connect and socialize in a safe and supportive environment.

Arkansas Autism Foundation

The Arkansas Autism Foundation also offers resources specifically for teenagers with autism. Through their Teen Social Club program, the foundation provides opportunities for teens to participate in fun and engaging activities while building social skills and developing friendships.

The Center for Exceptional Families

The Center for Exceptional Families (CEF) is another organization that provides resources specifically for teenagers with autism. CEF's Teen Group is a social group designed for teens aged 14-18 with autism. The group meets regularly to participate in a variety of activities that promote socialization and community involvement.

Arkansas Department of Education Special Education Unit

The Arkansas Department of Education Special Education Unit offers several resources specifically geared towards adolescents with autism. The Transition Services team works with schools and families to develop transition plans that help students prepare for life after high school. This may include vocational training, job placement assistance, or post-secondary education options.

In addition to these statewide resources, many local organizations offer programs and services specifically designed for teenagers with autism. Families are encouraged to research local options in their area or speak with their healthcare provider or school district for recommendations.

Navigating the Legal System in Arkansas

Navigating the legal system can be a daunting task for any family, but it can be especially challenging for families of individuals with autism who may require additional support and accommodations. Here are some resources available in Arkansas to help families navigate the legal system:

Disability Rights Arkansas

Disability Rights Arkansas is a non-profit organization that provides legal representation and advocacy services for individuals with disabilities, including those on the autism spectrum. The organization's mission is to protect and advocate for the rights of individuals with disabilities and ensure that they have access to necessary services and supports.

Disability Rights Arkansas offers a variety of services, including:

• Legal representation in special education disputes
• Advocacy services related to housing, employment, and other areas
• Information and referrals for families seeking legal assistance

The Arkansas Legal Services Partnership

The Arkansas Legal Services Partnership provides free legal services to low-income individuals throughout the state. While they do not specialize in disability law specifically, they can provide assistance with a variety of legal issues that may impact families of individuals with autism.

Some of the areas where they may be able to provide assistance include:

• Housing disputes
• Employment discrimination
• Public benefits eligibility
• Family law issues

Special Education Due Process Hearings

If a family disagrees with decisions made by their child's school district regarding their special education needs, they may request a due process hearing. This is a formal hearing where both parties present evidence and arguments before an impartial hearing officer.

Families should consult with an attorney or advocate familiar with special education law before pursuing a due process hearing. Disability Rights Arkansas or The Arkansas Legal Services Partnership may be able to provide referrals for attorneys or advocates.

It is important for families of individuals with autism in Arkansas to know their legal rights and options when navigating the legal system. These resources can provide much-needed support and guidance throughout the process.

FAQs

How common is autism in Arkansas?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 1 in 54 children in the United States has been diagnosed with ASD. In Arkansas, it is estimated that around 8,000 individuals are living with autism.

What are some options for obtaining an autism diagnosis and assessment in Arkansas?

You can obtain an autism diagnosis and assessment in Arkansas through developmental pediatricians, child psychologists, autism centers and clinics, pediatric neurologists, developmental assessment clinics, and early intervention programs like Arkansas' First Connections.

How can I find information about upcoming autism events, workshops, or conferences in Arkansas?

You can find information about upcoming autism events, workshops, or conferences in Arkansas by checking the websites and event calendars of autism organizations, local community centers, universities, and healthcare providers that specialize in autism support and advocacy.

Summary

In conclusion, Arkansas has a variety of resources and support available for individuals with autism and their families. Whether you are seeking information, support, or services, there are organizations and professionals in Arkansas who are dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with autism.