What is ASCEND?
ASCEND Group Inc., the Asperger Syndrome Alliance for Greater Philadelphia, is a nonprofit organization that was founded in 2001. It was launched by parents of children with Asperger Syndrome (AS) as a means to create a community of people who are concerned about the many ways that AS and other autism spectrum disorders affect children and adults and their families in the home, at school and in every area of their lives. In 2003, it was expanded to serve families of adults, as well. ASCEND refers adults with AS to regional and national resources. (Please see the “Adult Resources” section of our website.)
Who does ASCEND serve?
ASCEND is a fast-growing organization that now serves well over 300 member families and nearly 100 educator and professional members. ASCEND’s contacts extend to more than 3,000 people interested in AS and similar disorders throughout the Greater Philadelphia region and beyond.
Why should I join ASCEND?
Members receive many excellent benefits. Upon joining, new members receive a welcome packet that contains ASCEND’s latest newsletter, a resource directory, membership directories, and more! To read all about member benefits, visit this website’s Membership section.
How can I get involved?
ASCEND is always looking for people who wish to donate time and energy to our many projects. Simply contact ASCEND at info@ascendgroup.org to find out about joining one of the following committees: Programming, Community Outreach, Fundraising, Communications, or Membership. ASCEND needs you!
"I've turned to ASCEND and its tight group of caring families countless times. They’ve helped me find the right psychologist, school, speech therapist, and social skills group. They also help me understand many Asperger-related issues. Perhaps most important of all, our family no longer feels alone in all this."
Julie, ASCEND member mom
"The more we know, the more we can help our children. ASCEND has helped me
connect with other parents. The support meetings are terrific and the
listserv is very helpful. Between us all, we seem to know everything!"
Joanne, ASCEND member mom
"ASCEND's members have plenty of practical wisdom to share for the 'here and now' challenges, from potty training, to finding welcoming religious education classes and sports and cultural programs. For me, access to the members' listserv is worth many times the cost of the annual membership, without even taking into account the speaker meetings and other area-wide programs."
Stan, ASCEND member dad
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