All News and Press Releases

Katie Couric 'Living With Autism' to Air May 30th

alison.dyer — Thu, 23 May 2013 16:12:06 +0000

Tune in on Thursday, May 30th to the Katie Show' when living with autism is spotlighted.

May 23, 2013

Tune in on Thursday, May 30th to the Katie Show when living with autism is spotlighted. This is a very personal episode for Katie, as she speaks to individuals living with autism and their families about their challenges and triumphs. Learn more about this episode here.

Check your local listings or katiecouric.com to find where Katie airs in your area.

Katie Couric to Host a Twitter Chat on Autism

alison.dyer — Wed, 22 May 2013 20:44:11 +0000

Katie Couric will be hosting a Twitter Chat on Wednesday May 29th at 1pm EST about autism.

May 22, 2013

We are thrilled to announce that Katie Couric will be hosting a Twitter Chat on Wednesday May 29th at 1pm EST about autism. She has invited specialists in the field as well as parents to participate. Stay tuned for more details!

On May 30th Liz Feld, Autism Speaks' President, and Lisa Goring, Vice President of Family Services, will appear on the Katie Show where she spotlights autism. Check your local listings.

German Business Software Company to Employ People with Autism

Ali Hines — Wed, 22 May 2013 15:06:00 +0000

SAP will hire people with autism as software testers, programmers and data quality assurance specialists across the world.

May 22, 2013

German business software company SAP will start to employ people with autism as software testers, programmers and data quality assurance specialists across the world as it teams up with Denmark's Specialisterne. Specialisterne works to assess, train and employ individuals with autism as consultants in IT and other sectors with technically oriented tasks and jobs. SAP will become the first company to work with Specialisterne on a global basis.

SAP promised that 1 percent of its 65,000-strong workforce would be people with autism by 2020. This move shows that SAP recognizes that approximately 1 percent of the world’s population is on the autism spectrum and should be equally represented in the workforce. SAP clearly sees a great value in the population of people with autism is showing themselves to be a leader across the globe. It is our hope that other businesses around the world will follow.

Read more about the partnership between SAP and Specialisterne from CNBC, or on the SAP website.

Autism Speaks has created an Employment Tool Kit, written specifically for adults with autism, to help them research, find and keep employment in the current, competitive labor market. Click here to learn more about the Adult Initiatives at Autism Speaks.

Autism Speaks Responds to the Midwest Tornadoes

Ali Hines — Tue, 21 May 2013 14:22:55 +0000

Autism Speaks is working hard to provide resources to families in the autism community affected by the tornadoes in the Midwest.

May 21, 2013

Autism Speaks extends our deepest sympathies to the families affected by this week's devastating tornadoes in the Midwest. We are working hard to provide information, resources, and assistance to families affected by autism who have experienced or continue to experience the effects of these horrible events.

AutismCares

AutismCares provides grants for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders during times of crisis or unplanned hardships. Financial support awards provide financial relief for individuals with ASD and their families to help cover costs associated with critical living expenses.

Autism Response Team

The Autism Speaks Autism Response Team is taking calls from families affected by autism and the tornadoes. Trained staff members (both English and Spanish speaking) are available to provide support and resources during this difficult time. Families can call the Autism Response Team at 1-888-288-4762, en Español at 888-772-9050, or email us at familyservices@autismspeaks.org.

Autism Safety Project

The Autism Safety Project provides information for families and First Responders with information and guidelines for communicating with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in emergency situations.

Resources for Children with Autism

In the wake of the tornadoes, children all over the country are asking questions. Children are likely very frightened and may need help better understanding what happened. Helping a Child Living with Autism to Deal with Disaster is adapted from an article by school psychologists Dr. Peter Faustino and Dr. Andrew Livanis.

Helping Children Deal with Tragic Events in the News, a resource from Mr. Rogers at PBS, is another great tool to help your children better comprehend and cope with yesterday's tragedy.

FEMA's Tips for Helping Children Cope with a Disaster is another tool to help children understand the tornadoes..

American Red Cross

Find help in your area. Find an open shelter, search the safe and well listings, and read disaster recovery guides.
www.redcross.org/find-help

Contact your Local American Red Cross
www.redcross.org/find-your-local-chapter

Find an Open American Red Cross Shelter
www.redcross.org/find-help/shelter

Federal Emergency Management Agency

FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
www.fema.gov

Apply for Assistance from FEMA
www.fema.gov/apply-assistance
If you do not have access to a computer, you can apply for assistance via your smartphone at m.fema.gov, or by phone by calling (800) 621-3362 or TTY (800) 462-7585 for people with speech or hearing disabilities.

Tips from FEMA: What to do Before, During and After Tornadoes
FEMA's ready.gov provides tornado-specific tips, information about putting together safety plans and more.
www.ready.gov/tornadoes

Tips from FEMA: Coping with Disaster
The emotional toll that disaster brings can sometimes be even more devastating than the financial strains of damage and loss of home, business, or personal property. FEMA has put together a page of tips to help you and your family cope with the aftermath of natural disasters.
www.fema.gov/coping-disaster
A special section on Tips for Helping Children Cope with a Disaster:
www.fema.gov/coping-disaster#4

Find a Disaster Recovery Center Near You
A Disaster Recovery Center is a readily accessible facility or mobile office where applicants may go for information about FEMA or other disaster assistance programs, or for questions related to your case. The Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) Locator allows individuals to search for DRCs nearest to their location. DRC Locator also provides additional information about each DRC, such as hours of operation, services offered, and driving directions to the DRC.
www.fema.gov/disaster-recovery-centers

For more information or resources, contact our Autism Response Team at 888-288-4762 (en Espanol 888-772-9050) or email us at familyservices@autismspeaks.org.

Autism Speaks Launches New Ad Council Campaign – “Maybe”

Andrew Leonard — Tue, 21 May 2013 01:18:14 +0000

New series of public service advertisements in English and Spanish designed to reach African American and Hispanic parents

May 20, 2013

Extending its award-winning “Learn the Signs” campaign, Autism Speaks today launched the “Maybe” campaign, a new series of public service advertisements (PSAs) designed to reach African American and Hispanic parents. According to research, children in these communities are often diagnosed later than the national average. The PSAs, which are being distributed to media outlets nationwide this week, show some of the early signs of autism and encourage parents to take immediate action if their child is not meeting standard developmental milestones. Read a story on the campaign launch from the New York Times.

According to the CDC, the average age of diagnosis is 4-5 years, but a reliable autism diagnosis can be made as early as 18-24 months. While early detection is critical, research shows that many parents have very little knowledge about autism and its symptoms. The current age of diagnosis among low income families, as well as African Americans and Hispanics, is higher than the general public. With appropriate early intervention services from ages 3-5, between 20 percent and 50 percent of children diagnosed with autism will be able to attend mainstream kindergarten.

The new “Maybe” PSAs show parents observing the unusual behavior or non-reaction of their child in seemingly ordinary situations. A child’s lack of eye contact, babbling or big smiles invite parental worry and speculation: “maybe it’s this” or “maybe it’s that.” Showing the subtle presence of potential problems in otherwise everyday instances, the PSAs emphasize that these “maybes” are reasons enough for parents to consult their pediatrician or primary care provider for further screening. The PSAs encourage parents to seek further information about the early signs of autism and additional screening resources at autismspeaks.org/signs and autismspeaks.org/aprende for Spanish information.

In addition to the “Maybe” PSAs, Autism Speaks kicked off its Early Access to Care initiative to reduce the average age of autism diagnosis and increase access to screening and evidence-based early intervention services. Autism Speaks’ Early Access to Care initiative focuses on reaching out to underserved communities, utilizing new and existing technologies, leveraging local community resources, engaging federal and state partners, using parents and para-professionals as dissemination channels and training providers of screening, diagnosis and intervention techniques. The program includes new website information and resources, screening events with volunteer clinicians, coordinated activities with federal and regional partners, training opportunities for professionals and the distribution of research findings, tools and resources.

“We know we can diagnose children sooner, and the earlier the diagnosis occurs, the faster a child can start receiving intervention, resulting in better outcomes,” said Autism Speaks President Liz Feld. “While we have seen a great increase in awareness thanks to our partnership with the Ad Council, many parents still don’t know what red flags to look for in their children’s behavior and development. If a parent has a concern, they should not wait – they should talk to a pediatrician immediately.&rdquo

In conjunction with the launch of the campaign, Autism Speaks is also educating through text message. People are encouraged to learn the signs of autism by answering six simple questions via text message*. Users can text MAYBE to 30644 to begin or in Spanish, text QUIZAS to 30644.

Since the launch of the “Learn the Signs” campaign in 2006, the percentage of parents of young children who have spoken with their doctor about autism has increased by more than 60 percent (from 8 to 13 percent) and the number of parents who say autism is very or somewhat common among young children has increased from 45 to 65 percent.

The new “Maybe” PSAs were created pro bono by Autism Speaks’ award-winning lead creative agency BBDO and LatinWorks. The ads will air and run in advertising time and space entirely donated by the media. Since the launch of the campaign, media outlets have donated nearly $376 million in time and space for the ads. The PSAs have also earned numerous awards, including an Effie Award for advertising effectiveness in 2008, a Silver Telly in 2009, a Silver Addy and Gold Ogilvy in 2011.

*Standard message and data rates may apply.

Sharing Condolences with the Families of Mikaela Lynch, Owen Black and Drew Howell

alison.dyer — Mon, 20 May 2013 16:37:25 +0000

In the wake of the tragic events that took place last week, we’d like to express our heartfelt condolences to the families affected.

May 20, 2013

In the wake of the tragic events that took place in California, Florida and Ohio in the last week, we’d like to express our heartfelt condolences to the families of Mikaela Lynch, Owen Black and Drew Howell, and also offer thanks to the searchers. Unfortunately, wandering-related tragedies are far too common in the autism community. In a 2012 study funded by Autism Speaks through our support of the Interactive Autism Network (IAN), nearly half of parents surveyed reported that a child with ASD had attempted to wander or run away at least once after age 4.

Autism Speaks is proud to be part of the Autism Wandering Awareness Alerts Response and Education (AWAARE) Collaboration, a working group of six national non-profit autism organizations whose mission is to prevent autism-related wandering incidents and deaths. The AWAARE website contains a variety of resources, tips and tools for families of individuals with autism as well as first responders, including tool kits and an autism-wandering prevention brochure. The Autism Speaks Autism Safety Project also provides resources designed to help keep you and your family safe both at home and in the community.

DSM-5

Ali Hines — Sat, 18 May 2013 14:00:00 +0000

On May 18th, the American Psychiatric Association released a new version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders

May 18, 2013

On May 18th, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) released a new version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, or DSM. The DSM is the standard reference that healthcare providers use to diagnose mental and behavioral conditions. The new version is referred to as the “DSM-5.”

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about the New DSM-5

Experts at Autism Speaks have put together answers to your questions to help you better understand what these changes mean and how they might affect your loved one's diagnosis and access to services.

Letter from Autism Speaks Chief Science Officer Regarding the DSM-5

Geraldine Dawson, Ph.D. has written a letter to the community about the new changes and what we are doing at Autism Speaks to help the autism community as these changes take effect.

DSM-5 Live Chat

On Monday, May 20th, we hosted a Live Chat with Alycia Halladay, Ph.D., Autism Speaks senior director, environmental and clinical sciences and Lisa Goring, vice president of Family Services. Read a transcript of their answers to your questions regarding the DSM-5 changes.

DSM-5 News and Updates from Autism Speaks

Stay up-to-date on all of the news, information and resources we have related to the DSM-5.

We Want Your Feedback

To ensure that all who need autism-related services continue to receive them, we’ve developed two surveys – one for individuals and families affected by autism and one for professionals.

Autism Response Team

Questions or concerns? Our Autism Response Team is here to help! Call us at 888-AUTISM2 (En Espanol 888-772-9050) or email us at familyservices@autismspeaks.org.

DSM-5 Information from the American Psychiatric Association

This website from the APA provides information on implementation of the manual, answers frequently asked questions, lists DSM-5 corrections, and provides a mechanism for submitting questions and feedback regarding implementation of the manual.

Search for Mikaela Lynch Ends Tragically

alison.dyer — Wed, 15 May 2013 15:48:59 +0000

The body of 9-year-old girl with autism who went missing Northern California was found in a creek near her home.

May 15, 2013

*Update -- We were sadly just informed that Mikaela Lynch was found deceased in a creek near her home in Clearlake County. We'd like to express our heartfelt condolences to the family and also offer thanks to the searchers. For more on this story please visit here.

Safety is a critical part of all of our lives, whether we are at home or out in the community, alone or with loved ones. Being aware of our surroundings and taking precautions to stay safe is even more important for individuals with autism and their families.

Here are some useful links:

Autism Safety Project

Wandering Tips for the Autism Speaks Community

Study Confirms: Wandering Common & Scary

Information for First Responders

The Important of First Responder Training for Autism

AWAARE (Autism Wandering Awareness Alerts Response Education)

Safety Products

DSM-5 Will Be Released this Weekend

Andrew Leonard — Mon, 13 May 2013 20:38:17 +0000

The fifth edition of the Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders will be released by the American Psychiatric Association

May 13, 2013

The fifth edition of the Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) will be released by the American Psychiatric Association this weekend. The new edition introduces two fundamental changes in the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. First it collapses previously distinct autism subtypes – including autistic disorder and Asperger syndrome – into one unifying diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Second, the current three symptom domains of social impairment, communication deficits and repetitive/restricted behaviors will become two – social communication impairment and repetitive/restricted behaviors.

We have been reassured by the DSM-5 committee that all individuals who currently have a diagnosis on the autism spectrum, including those with Asperger syndrome, will be able to retain an ASD diagnosis. This means that no one with a current diagnosis on the autism spectrum should “lose” their diagnosis because of the changes in diagnostic criteria. Also, the committee has stressed that the new DSM-5 criteria represent a “living document,” in which changes can and likely will be made as new studies are conducted. As always, we will remain in close communication as this new information becomes available. Keep checking into the Autism Speaks homepage for more important information for families!

Read an op-ed piece from Sunday’s New York Times here.

Tampa Bay Rays Host Autism Awareness Day 2013!

Christine Hart — Fri, 10 May 2013 14:23:20 +0000

The Tampa Bay Rays hosted more than 500 individuals, families and supporters of the autism community on an Autism Awareness Day.

May 12, 2013

On Saturday, May 11th the Tampa Bay Rays welcomed autism families and friends to Autism Awareness Day at Tropicana Field.

The Tampa Bay Rays hosted more than 500 individuals, families and supporters of the autism community on Autism Awareness Day at Tropicana Field on Saturday, May 11, as part of Major League Baseball’s partnership with Autism Speaks. The Tampa Bay Rays played the San Diego Padres, on a glorious evening that began with the team’s special guests—kids and families affected by autism—taking part in the pre-game ceremonies, including throwing out the ceremonial first pitch and performing Honorary Bat Kid duties.

Leading Tampa Bay volunteers, Stephen Genuardi, threw out the first pitch and Caroline Gaboury served as Honorary Ball Kid. Walk Now for Autism Speaks honored this year’s top three Walk fundraising teams. Team Strivin’ for Stephen, Team Caroline and Johnny’s Angels were presented with Certificates of Appreciation by Walk co-Chairs Julie Reyes and Dion Stoltzfoos, and Media co-Chair, Kate Martin, in recognition of their fundraising efforts which combined, raised nearly $30,000.

Tampa Bay Rays baseball player, Sean Rodrigues and his wife, Giselle, who have a child with autism, proudly stood with Walk leadership during these opening ceremonies.

Tampa Bay Rays provided autism families a spectacular area to use as a Quiet Room before and during the game. "My family and I had a great time at the Rays game on Saturday,” volunteer and Walk co-chairman Dion Stoltzfoos told us. “If it were not for the quiet room, sensory friendly seating in the Press Level Reserved area, and other special accommodations provided I would not have dreamed of my son attending a baseball game.” This opportunity, along with discounted tickets, afforded hundreds of autism families to enjoy a beautiful and sensory-friendly afternoon enjoying America's Sport.

The Tampa Bay Rays not only offered discounted tickets for their guests, invited them to participate in the pre-game ceremonies. They set up a special Quiet Zone for anyone who needed a break from the noise inside the ballpark.

Special thanks go to Major League Baseball, which has teamed up with Autism Speaks in a league-wide effort to raise autism awareness. All 30 MLB Clubs will raise awareness for the disorder during one home game during the regular season. Many of the MLB Autism Awareness games throughout the league will provide special opportunities and a safe, friendly environment for families and individuals affected by autism. For more information about MLB Autism Awareness and to check on respective Club dates commemorating the initiative, please check out MLB's site here.

Stephen Genuardi throws out the first pitch