Just Imagine
From the Director
March 3, 2011 Prism Newsletter
by Tonia Ferguson
Welcome to Prism, the Autism NOW Center’s e-newsletter!
Who would have imagined, months ago, that I would have this incredible opportunity to touch the lives of thousands with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and other developmental disabilities, their families, professionals, and other interested groups by just pressing one button. As Director of the Autism NOW Center and the mother of someone with Down syndrome and Autism, I am thrilled to be a part of its mission to change the lives of many. Though the goal of disseminating high-quality resources guided by the principles of inclusion, integration, independence, and self-determination may seem a tall order, the Autism NOW Center and its staff are ready for any challenges. As parents, self-advocates, and researchers, we are determined to accomplish this goal!
Our reason for this determination: imagination! Just imagine a mother who has just found out that her 10-year old daughter has been diagnosed with an ASD or the person who identifies with having a disability who cannot get the proper supports to live on their own. What resources will they need to ensure their own or their loved one’s care, and where will they go to find them?
By creating this central point of entry for high quality resources – Autism NOW—many people in these situations will receive high-quality resources and information on autism and intellectual/developmental disabilities and on related topics, including early intervention and child care, independent living and self-determination, recreation, and much more!
At Autism NOW, we are working to create a world with information that is useful, accessible, evidence-based and personalized just for you! Imagine that!
Tonia Ferguson is the Director of the Autism NOW Center.
