The Ever-Changing Path to Independence—Step by Step
Our 32-year-old son, Matt, has what I call “classic” autism. With limited communication and social skills — and generally unaware of danger —…
Scholarship Recipient Shares Her College Experience
OAR interviewed Samantha Harker, a 2020 Schwallie Family Scholarship recipient and member of OAR’s Scholars’ Society, to ask…
In today’s interconnected world, no one is immune to social media’s portrayal of perfect parenthood, but reality is rarely seamless. This immaculate portrait of…
Two fathers, both members of OAR’s RUN FOR AUTISM team, describe what is like to raise autistic children, from diagnosis to achievements to lessons…
Mental Health and Wellness for Autistic Teens
Autistic teens with intellectual disability are at risk for mental health disorders, particularly anxiety. In fact, anxiety occurs at higher rates…
Including Neurodiverse Students
Students with autism make up one-fifth of students receiving special education services in the United States, and according to the…
Neurodiversity as a Super Power
“The world needs different kinds of minds to work together.” – Temple Grandin That’s right…I said it: Neurodiversity is a superpower. In this article,…
Building an Inclusive Higher Education Environment
The need for resources and support in higher education is paramount for autistic individuals who are interested in obtaining post-secondary education. Research suggests…
Last month OAR celebrated its 21st anniversary. For any nonprofit, this would be a special occasion in and of itself, but for OAR this…
Promoting Youth Engagement in Transition Planning
Transition teams are critical to building effective plans for youth who are preparing to embark on their adult lives after high school. These teams…
It ain’t over until it’s over. – Yogi Berra December 13 will be OAR’s 21st birthday, and my final day as OAR’s executive director.
Promoting Better Criminal Justice Outcomes for Autistic Individuals
With multiple high-profile stories of negative interactions between autistic individuals and law enforcement, coupled with the fact that autism impacts individuals throughout their lives,…
