Autism Society Inland Empire Inc

Support & Family Services - Formal support groups served 476 individuals. The Autism Society Inland Empire realizes that support groups can be an essential resource for adults with Autism and family members. These groups provide Emotional Support, a place to share information and practical advice and foster friendships and a strong support network.

Advocacy - The Autism Society Inland Empire engages with our communities, raises awareness, and encourages others to contact their local, state, or federal policymakers to advocate. This empowers people to advocate directly for their communities' needs and priorities. Additionally, we sit on several local and state task forces to ensure that the voices of individuals with Autism and their families are heard in policy discussions and decision-making processes. This involvement helps shape policies and programs that are inclusive and responsive to the needs of the Autism community. In 2024, the Autism Society Inland Empire worked on various legislative issues.

Community Outreach -

Safety initiative - Since 2020, the Autism Society Inland Empire has developed comprehensive training programs for law enforcement, fire, and emergency personnel, offering four- and twohour courses. These trainings, delivered by experienced law enforcement officers, include valuable Q&A sessions with a panel of adults with developmental disabilities.

Employment - With an 89% unemployment rate for the 19,000 Inland Regional Center clients, the Autism Society Inland Empire is committed to improving employment outcomes for individuals with Autism and other developmental disabilities. We offer paid and unpaid opportunities for adults with Autism and developmental disabilities to explore different types of employment.

Decrease Disparity - In 2024, the Inland Regional Center awarded $150,000 to the Autism Society Inland Empire to strengthen relationships with First Nation communities in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. This initiative focuses on outreach, case management, and trauma-sensitive early intervention services, addressing each tribe's unique needs and traditions.

Systems Navigation Services: The Autism Society Inland Empire served 5,854 individuals with the Systems Navigation program, which helps families and individuals with Autism navigate the many services and resources that become part of our lives: special education services, Regional Center support, healthcare, In-Home Supportive Services, social security, and community resources, to name a few. Our Resource Specialists provide individual support to help families prioritize and learn how to navigate these systems, ensuring that individuals with Autism and their families receive the support needed to thrive.

Recreation Programs: Served 11,783 individuals. Autistic people are up to four times more likely to experience loneliness than non-autistic people. Research shows that loneliness is linked to adverse mental and physical health outcomes, including increased anxiety, depression, and even higher mortality rates. Our recreational programs provide meaningful connection opportunities that combat isolation and enhance well-being. Our events create a supportive environment where children and adults with Autism and their family members can forge friendships, find emotional outlets, and experience belonging.