When we talk about supporting autistic individuals, we often rely on models and strategies developed in cultural contexts very different from our Arab reality. While these tools may be scientifically sound and effective, their true success emerges only when they are understood and applied in the child’s language, within the family’s culture, and in harmony…
Each year, OAR lays out ambitious goals for engaging community members in celebration of Autism Acceptance Month. Throughout the beginning of this year, OAR staff worked with parents, educators, autism professionals, autistic individuals, and employers to support their local initiatives and promote autism acceptance. Thanks to the dedication of community partners like you, OAR helped foster…
“We are people of color, we’re Black, that’s part of our culture…the experience as a Black caregiver, it’s very, very layered.” The caregiver went on to say that the experiences of Black caregivers of autistic children are layered due to intersecting identities led by how they perceive themselves and how they are perceived and treated…
For Latinx families in the United States, healthcare services are not always easy to navigate for reasons beyond mere language barriers. The challenges encountered while pursuing health services for their autistic loved one can escape even the most culturally competent healthcare settings. Susana, the mother of an autistic nonspeaking 6-year-old boy says it best: “When…
In October 2025, OAR’s Board of Directors authorized funding for eight applied autism research grants. These new research grants, totaling $397,372, bring OAR’s total research funding to $5.8 million since 2002. This article is the fourth of the previews in The OARacle this year. Applied behavior analysis (ABA) is a widely-used, evidence-based, cost-effective therapy for…
Diversity, equity, and inclusion, or DEI, are trendy topics in today’s world. So, what do they mean? Diversity, equity, and inclusion are interconnected concepts that aim to ensure fair treatment, representation, and a sense of belonging for all individuals, particularly those historically marginalized. The concept of DEI has roots in social justice movements of the…
Did you know that OAR offers a variety of autism resources in multiple languages? Accessing resources in a familiar language makes learning about autism easier and more meaningful for families, caregivers, and professionals worldwide. From guides for parents to educational tools, OAR has translated key resources into Spanish, Korean, Arabic, Turkish, and more, making vital…
Thank you for being part of this year’s Autism Acceptance Month campaign. Our collective impact did not end when April did. Whether you continue to spread the word, explore and share resources, donate, or volunteer your time, you will continue to contribute to OAR’s progress and the progress the wider autism community is making. OAR…
Five-hundred and fifty virtual and in-person participants took on the annual Active for Autism 5K and Kids Dash to support autism research during Autism Acceptance Month. Participants hailed from 19 states, as well as Washington, D.C., and ranged in age from 1 to 78. They raised over $60,000 to support new OAR research and programs.…
This spring, OAR’s Hire Autism Program sprang forward with eight new talented volunteers who became navigators. With their assistance and those of all our navigators, job seekers gain new confidence and skills to prepare them for their job search. Please congratulate Melanie C., Sarah D., Nick D., Marcy E., Pamela H., Vanessa R., John S.,…
