ABOUT US
We're on a mission to improve the lives of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families in Arizona by sharing resources and affecting autism systems reform through state-wide collaboration and advocacy.
The Coalition goals and objectives are designed to provide and support an inclusive membership organization for all service providers and families affected by autism in Arizona. The Coalition has selected priorities, which include:
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Advocating jointly for better services and improved quality of life at the city, state, and federal levels.
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​Expanding the distribution of early identification and early intervention information to families via hospitals, medical offices, schools, daycare centers or any organization that comes in contact with children ages 0-5.
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Address and implement a coordinated approach for vendors and families with the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) and the Department of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) support services.
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Educating professionals who interface with children, adults, families and caregivers affected by autism and neurodivergent conditions.
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Evaluating all ASD provider services and to come to agreement as to the best standards and practices and implementing those agreed upon standards and practices locally, statewide and nationwide.
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Identifying unique missions of service providers to enhance outreach and connect those in need of services with appropriate support.
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Identifying gaps in services and providing opportunities to further connect and support the ASD community.
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Developing active collaborations and cooperative partnerships.
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Building alliances with respected peers, fostering community allies and promoting community involvement.
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HISTORY
In light of the challenges surrounding autism services in Arizona, community stakeholders clearly recognized the need for better coordination to address the challenges faced by families including an increasing population, the tremendous cost of treatment, and the maze of services through which families must navigate.
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Today the Arizona Autism Coalition operates with funding from various community grants, membership donations and community events including the Annual Autism Expo in April and educational Day of Learning events throughout the year.
Ann Monahan
Board President
President, HONORIS Group
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Barbara Brent
Board Member
Director of State Policy, National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disability Services
Diedra Freedman, JD
Board Secretary/Treasurer
Arizona Parent & Advocate of a Child with Autism
Jo Ellen McNamara
Board Member
Vice President Housing & Health Relationship Manager,
National Equity Fund, Inc.
Bryan Davey, PHD, BCBA-D
Board Member
President, Highland Behavioral
Gina Griffiths
Board Member
Assistant Director of Community Inclusion,
World Institute on Disability