What Is The Autism Society Of North Carolina?

Empowering Lives Through Support and Advocacy in North Carolina

June 12, 2025

Introduction to the Autism Society of North Carolina

The Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) is a vital organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with autism and their families across the state. Committed to fostering acceptance, inclusion, and understanding, ASNC combines advocacy, education, and community-based programs to serve as a comprehensive resource for the autism community.

Core Mission and Purpose of ASNC

Discover the Mission of ASNC: Promoting Understanding, Acceptance, and Inclusion for Autism Awareness

What is the mission and purpose of the Autism Society of North Carolina?

The Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) is committed to enhancing the lives of individuals with autism and supporting their families through a wide range of programs and resources. At its core, ASNC’s mission is to promote understanding, acceptance, and inclusion by advocating for policies and services that benefit people on the autism spectrum.

One of their primary objectives is to ensure access to critical services like Medicaid and support programs, which can be threatened by potential federal budget cuts. They actively work with policymakers and state legislators to secure funding and sustain vital resources that impact the autism community.

ASNC provides specialized programs including peer-to-peer community centers called IGNITE for young adults with autism or Asperger’s Syndrome, and an ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) clinic for children under seven. These initiatives aim to foster social connection, developmental progress, and behavioral support.

The organization also offers educational opportunities through webinars, resource guides, and Autism Resource Specialists available in every North Carolina county. These services help families navigate complex service systems, access evaluations, and understand autism characteristics.

Community events are a cornerstone of ASNC’s efforts to promote acceptance and raise awareness. Events such as the Fall Run/Walk for Autism and Camp Royall, the nation’s oldest and largest autism camp, celebrate and empower individuals with autism.

Overall, ASNC strives to create an inclusive environment where individuals with autism are respected and valued. They believe that when given the right opportunities and support, every person can contribute meaningfully to their families and communities.

In summary, the Autism Society of North Carolina serves as a comprehensive advocate, educator, and support system dedicated to fostering acceptance, promoting opportunities, and ensuring quality of life for all individuals affected by autism in North Carolina.

Programs, Resources, and Services Offered

Explore ASNC’s programs & Resources: From IGNITE Centers to Webinars and Camp Royall The Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) provides a variety of programs, resources, and support services designed to enhance the lives of individuals with autism and their families. One of their notable programs includes IGNITE, peer-to-peer community centers located in Davidson and Raleigh, which serve young adults with autism or Asperger’s Syndrome. These centers focus on fostering social connections, skill development, and community engagement.

Beyond community centers, ASNC offers educational resources such as over 50 free online webinars that cover important topics like behavior management, educational planning, and transitioning into adulthood. These webinars aim to equip families, caregivers, and professionals with practical information and strategies.

Support services are a cornerstone of ASNC’s efforts, including Autism Resource Specialists available in every county across North Carolina. These specialists assist families in navigating complex service systems, finding local resources, and understanding autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The organization also hosts events like the annual Fall Run/Walk for Autism and Camp Royall, the nation's oldest and largest autism camp, providing recreational and social opportunities for individuals with autism.

In addition to community-based initiatives, ASNC collaborates with clinical providers such as TEACCH and the Carolina Institute for Developmental Disabilities to deliver diagnostic assessments, therapeutic services, and family support programs. The organization is actively involved in advocacy efforts, maintaining relationships with policy-makers to promote autism-related legislation and funding.

Through a comprehensive approach that includes education, support, and clinical partnerships, ASNC continues to work toward a more inclusive and supportive environment for people on the autism spectrum.

Support, Education, and Advocacy Initiatives

Join ASNC’s Support & Advocacy Initiatives: Building Awareness, Providing Education, and Influencing Policy

What support, education, and advocacy does the Autism Society of North Carolina provide?

The Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) offers a comprehensive range of services aimed at improving the lives of individuals with autism and their families. One of their notable programs is the peer-to-peer community centers like IGNITE, located in Davidson and Raleigh, which serve as support hubs for young adults with autism or Asperger’s Syndrome. These centers foster community engagement and provide a space for social interaction.

For younger children, ASNC has established an ABA Clinic in Raleigh dedicated to children aged seven and under, providing specialized behavioral therapy to support developmental progress. The organization also offers extensive educational resources, including over 50 free webinars covering topics such as behavior management, navigating school systems, understanding Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and transitioning to adulthood. These webinars are complemented by toolkits and social narratives that equip families and professionals with practical strategies.

ASNC actively advocates for the autism community by engaging with the state legislature and policy-makers to protect crucial programs like Medicaid, which fund essential services. They persistently work to influence legislation that brings positive change for people with autism. Furthermore, the organization provides resources to help families navigate educational opportunities by offering IEP advocacy, scholarships, and collaboration with educational institutions to enhance learning outcomes.

Through these initiatives, ASNC strives to foster an inclusive environment that respects the uniqueness of every individual on the spectrum and promotes awareness and acceptance within communities across North Carolina.

The Role of ASNC in the Community

ASNC’s Role in the Community: Supporting, Advocating, and Fostering Inclusion for Autism Families

What is the role of the Autism Society of North Carolina within the autism community?

The Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) serves as a vital supporter and advocate for individuals with autism, their families, and the wider community.

ASNC provides essential programs and services aimed at improving lives and fostering inclusion. This includes peer-to-peer community centers such as IGNITE, which are dedicated spaces for young adults with autism or Asperger’s Syndrome. Located in Davidson and Raleigh, these centers help young adults build social skills and confidence.

In addition to community centers, ASNC has launched targeted services like an ABA Clinic in Raleigh. This clinic offers specialized behavioral therapy for children ages seven and younger, ensuring early intervention and support for young children diagnosed with autism.

The organization also actively promotes public awareness and acceptance through campaigns such as Autism Acceptance Month and Water Safety Month. They provide families and professionals with vital resources, including Autism Resource Specialists available across all counties in North Carolina. These specialists connect families to localized support networks, educational workshops, and government services.

ASNC's advocacy efforts are central to its mission. The organization maintains relationships with state legislators to influence policies and funding, notably warning about potential federal budget cuts that could impact Medicaid and autism services.

Community engagement is further strengthened through events like the 2025 Fall Run/Walk for Autism and Camp Royall — the oldest and largest autism camp in the nation. Such initiatives promote community participation, awareness, and inclusion.

The organization’s work is not only about immediate support but also about creating long-term change. Through research, education, and policy advocacy, ASNC aims to foster a more understanding and accepting environment for all individuals with autism.

In summary, ASNC plays a multifaceted role: they serve as a support system for families, a voice for policy change, and a catalyst for community inclusion and awareness, all dedicated to helping individuals with autism lead fulfilling lives.

Contact Information and Additional Resources

The Autism Society of North Carolina provides multiple avenues for support, resources, and information for individuals with autism and their families. You can reach them by phone at 800-442-2762. Their main office is located at 5121 Kingdom Way, Suite 100, Raleigh, NC 27607. For those in the Asheville area, there is a local office available at 828-236-1547.

To facilitate communication, they also offer an email contact at gbyrd@autismsociety-nc.org. The organization’s official website, https://www.autismsociety-nc.org, is a comprehensive resource hub where you can explore their programs, upcoming events, support services, and educational resources.

Additionally, they run various programs and campaigns aimed at increasing awareness and acceptance, such as Autism Acceptance Month and Water Safety Month. Their online portals include webinars, resource specialists available in every North Carolina county, and community-based programs like IGNITE and Camp Royall.

Whether seeking guidance on autism spectrum disorder signs, screening, or diagnosis, or looking for support groups and advocacy efforts, the Autism Society of North Carolina remains a trusted partner across the state. Their services are available during weekdays from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm, and they offer assistance in both English and Spanish to serve North Carolinians better.

Concluding Remarks: Making a Difference in the Autism Community

The Autism Society of North Carolina stands as a comprehensive advocate and resource hub dedicated to empowering individuals with autism and their families. Through a diverse array of programs, steadfast advocacy, and community engagement, ASNC fosters a supportive environment focused on acceptance, inclusion, and opportunity. Their ongoing efforts to expand services, promote awareness, and influence policy underscore a deep commitment to creating a more inclusive world where every person with autism has the opportunity to thrive. As a trusted partner within the North Carolina autism community, ASNC continues to make a meaningful difference in countless lives.