A congressionally mandated study by the National Academy of Sciences recommended that the Defense Health Agency (DHA) cover applied behavior analysis (ABA) for military families as a basic benefit through their TRICARE coverage. As reported by Behavioral Health Business, ABA has been a covered benefit through a demonstration program that began in 2014. But the National Academy report, released…
On September 25, OAR hosted OAR Impact Day: From Research to Reality to bring together autistic individuals, families, researchers, and direct service providers and celebrate the meaningful impact research has on the autism community. The virtual event showcased the many ways OAR’s funded research has translated into practical tools, interventions, and programs. The archived event materials are available to access for free on…
As the Marine Corps Marathon’s golden anniversary approaches this October, OAR is excited to have a team of runners taking on the marathon and virtual 10K in support of autism research. “I’m proud to be running my 6th Marine Corps Marathon in support of OAR—a cause close to my heart. Every mile is for advancing…
Ready…Set…Plan! by Crystal Sanford Ready or not…here comes summer! It’s almost time for family vacations, dipping our toes in the sand or pool, and savoring late-night sunsets. But for some, summer doesn’t bring excitement and anticipation. Unfortunately, for some parents of autistic children, summer only brings more anxiety and fear of the unknown. Autistic individuals…
ARLINGTON, VA, April 17, 2025 – In celebration of April Month of the Military Child, the Organization for Autism Research (OAR) is proud to announce the recipients of the Operation Autism grant. These awards recognize and fund support groups that are making a difference in the lives of military families impacted by autism. Each award…
OAR recently celebrated its 23rd anniversary. At 23, most of us were likely still figuring out who we were and what we wanted to do with our lives. However, OAR’s 23 years represent an incredible body of work: over two decades of funding research and providing free, high-quality resources to the autism community. As many…
OAR’s new Operation Autism Grant Program supports military families with autistic children by providing grants to establish or enhance family support groups. OAR will award three to six grants on a rolling basis through February 21, 2025. At least 50% of the group’s participants must have autism-specific needs, and sessions must be free for military…
Arlington, VA, February 9, 2024 – The Organization for Autism Research (OAR) is publishing the Spanish translation of Life Journey Through Autism: A Guide for Military Families. The guide aims to support Spanish-speaking military families of autistic children. It is currently available online as a downloadable PDF, and will soon be released in paperback. When…
Tory Ridgeway wanted to be an aerospace engineer in the U.S. Navy, but the Navy didn’t seem to want him. Tory is my son, who also happens to have an autism diagnosis. My hope is that our family’s experience with exclusionary military recruitment policies can be used to open doors for others with exceptional needs.…
For autistic children, who often crave routine and “sameness,” the frequent moves that characterize the lives of most military families can pose particular challenges. This resistance to change often leads to anxiety and disruptive behaviors. But if given ample time to anticipate, understand, and practice dealing with anticipated changes, most children can learn to successfully…
