Autism Organizations In Tennessee

Autism Organizations in Tennessee

Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects communication, social interaction, and behavior. In the United States, approximately 1 in 54 children is diagnosed with autism, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

In Tennessee, there are several organizations that provide resources and support for individuals with autism and their families.

Autism Society of Middle Tennessee

The Autism Society of Middle Tennessee (ASMT) is a nonprofit organization that serves individuals with autism and their families in the Middle Tennessee area. ASMT provides support groups, educational workshops, and social events for individuals with autism and their families.

They also offer resources such as a lending library, a directory of service providers, and an online forum for families to connect with each other.

Autism Tennessee

Autism Tennessee is a statewide organization that provides support and advocacy for individuals with autism and their families. They offer a variety of programs and services including parent support groups, educational workshops, social events, and summer camps for children with autism.

Autism Tennessee also offers resources such as a resource directory, a lending library, and an online forum.

The Arc Tennessee

The Arc Tennessee is an organization that advocates for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including autism. They provide education, advocacy, and support services to individuals with disabilities and their families.

The Arc Tennessee also offers resources such as a directory of service providers, information on disability rights and benefits, and an online forum.

Vanderbilt Kennedy Center

The Vanderbilt Kennedy Center is a research center at Vanderbilt University that focuses on developmental disabilities including autism. They provide clinical services such as diagnostic evaluations, behavioral interventions, and counseling for individuals with autism.

The Vanderbilt Kennedy Center also conducts research on autism and offers training programs for professionals who work with individuals with autism.

Schools and Educational Programs for Individuals with Autism in Tennessee

In addition to support organizations, there are also schools and educational programs in Tennessee specifically designed for individuals with autism. These programs offer a specialized curriculum and individualized instruction tailored to meet the unique needs of students with autism.

The Spectrum Academy

The Spectrum Academy is a private school in Nashville that serves students with autism from pre-kindergarten through high school. They provide a comprehensive education program that includes academic instruction, social skills training, and therapy services.

The Spectrum Academy also offers vocational training programs for older students to help prepare them for employment.

Bridges Autism Center

Bridges Autism Center is an educational program located in Memphis that provides academic instruction, life skills training, and therapy services for children and young adults with autism. Their curriculum focuses on developing communication, socialization, and daily living skills to help students become more independent.

Chattanooga Autism Center School

Chattanooga Autism Center School is a non-profit organization that provides individualized education plans for students with autism in the greater Chattanooga area. Their curriculum focuses on developing communication, socialization, and life skills through hands-on experiences and real-world applications.

These schools and educational programs offer valuable resources for families of individuals with autism who are seeking specialized education options.

Getting Involved and Volunteering

If you are interested in getting involved with any of the organizations mentioned in this article, there are several ways to do so. Many of these organizations rely on volunteers to help with events, fundraising, and other activities.

The Autism Society of Middle Tennessee welcomes volunteers to help with their support groups, social events, and educational workshops. They also have opportunities for volunteers to assist with their lending library and resource directory.

Autism Tennessee offers volunteer opportunities for individuals who want to get involved in advocacy efforts or assist with their programs and services. Volunteers can also help with special events such as their annual Walk for Autism.

The Arc Tennessee relies on volunteers to assist with their advocacy efforts and fundraising events. They also offer volunteer opportunities at their Thrift Store locations throughout the state.

The Vanderbilt Kennedy Center has several volunteer programs including a mentorship program for college students interested in working with individuals with disabilities. They also accept volunteers for research studies related to autism.

If you are interested in volunteering at one of the schools or educational programs mentioned in this article, contact them directly to inquire about available opportunities. Volunteering your time can be a rewarding way to make a difference in the lives of individuals with autism and their families.

Support Services for Adults with Autism in Tennessee

While there are several organizations and educational programs that offer support for children and families affected by autism, it is also important to consider the needs of adults with autism. In Tennessee, there are various support services available to help adults with autism lead fulfilling lives.

Employment Opportunities

One of the biggest challenges faced by adults with autism is finding employment. However, there are organizations in Tennessee that provide job training, placement, and support services to individuals with disabilities including autism.

• Tennessee Vocational Rehabilitation is a state agency that provides vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities including autism. They offer a variety of services such as job training, job placement assistance, and assistive technology.

• Project SEARCH is a national program that partners with businesses to provide internships and on-the-job training for young adults with disabilities including autism. In Tennessee, Project SEARCH has partnerships with several hospitals and businesses throughout the state.

Housing Opportunities

Another challenge faced by many adults with autism is finding suitable housing options. Fortunately, there are organizations in Tennessee that provide housing and support services specifically tailored to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities including autism.

• The Arc Tennessee offers housing options such as group homes and supported living arrangements for individuals with developmental disabilities including autism. They also provide support services such as transportation assistance and life skills training.

• Developmental Services of Dickson County provides residential services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities including autism. Their residential facilities are designed to provide a safe and supportive environment while promoting independence.

By providing employment opportunities and specialized housing options, these organizations are helping adults with autism lead more independent lives.

Sensory-Friendly Events and Activities in Tennessee

For individuals with autism, attending events or activities can be overwhelming due to sensory sensitivities. However, there are several organizations in Tennessee that offer sensory-friendly events and activities designed to accommodate individuals with autism.

Nashville Zoo

The Nashville Zoo offers a sensory-friendly morning once a month for individuals with disabilities including autism. During these events, the zoo is closed to the general public and the environment is modified to reduce sensory stimuli. There are also quiet areas available for those who need a break.

Adventure Science Center

The Adventure Science Center in Nashville hosts sensory-friendly days where the museum is modified to reduce noise and light levels. They also offer social stories and visual schedules to help prepare individuals with autism for their visit.

Memphis Botanic Garden

The Memphis Botanic Garden offers sensory-friendly days where the garden is modified to reduce noise and light levels. They provide special activities such as sensory hikes and art projects that are designed to engage visitors with autism.

During these events, the garden also provides quiet areas for individuals who get overwhelmed by sensory stimuli. Additionally, they offer resources such as social stories and visual schedules to help visitors with autism plan their visit.

AMC Theatres

AMC Theatres offers sensory-friendly film showings on certain weekends throughout the year. The lights are turned up, sound is turned down, and there are no previews or advertisements before the movie starts.

These are just a few examples of the many sensory-friendly events and activities available in Tennessee. By providing these accommodations, organizations are making it possible for individuals with autism to participate in community events without feeling overwhelmed.

Legal Services for Individuals with Autism

Access to legal services is an important aspect of ensuring that individuals with autism receive the support they need. There are several organizations in Tennessee that provide legal assistance and advocacy for individuals with disabilities including autism.

Disability Rights Tennessee

Disability Rights Tennessee is a nonprofit organization that provides legal representation, advocacy, and education for individuals with disabilities including autism. They offer assistance with issues such as disability rights, discrimination, and access to services.

Disability Rights Tennessee also provides resources such as fact sheets and guides on disability-related topics.

Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands

The Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands is a nonprofit organization that provides free legal services to low-income individuals in Middle Tennessee. They offer assistance with a variety of legal issues including disability rights and discrimination.

The Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee and the Cumberlands also provides resources such as self-help guides on various legal topics.

Tennessee Protection & Advocacy

Tennessee Protection & Advocacy (TP&A) is a nonprofit organization that provides legal representation, advocacy, and education for individuals with disabilities including autism. They offer assistance with issues such as abuse, neglect, discrimination, and access to services.

TP&A also provides resources such as fact sheets and guides on disability-related topics.

By providing legal assistance and advocacy, these organizations are helping individuals with autism navigate complex legal systems while advocating for their rights.

Resources and Support Services for Families Dealing with Financial Hardship

Families of individuals with autism who are dealing with financial hardship or poverty may face additional challenges in accessing resources and support services. However, there are several organizations in Tennessee that offer assistance to families who need help.

Tennessee Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The Tennessee Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (DIDD) offers a variety of services to individuals with disabilities including autism. They also provide financial assistance to families who meet certain income requirements.

These services include respite care, home modifications, and assistive technology.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families. Families who have a child with autism may be eligible for SNAP benefits if they meet the income requirements.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to low-income families with children. TANF benefits can be used to cover expenses such as rent, utilities, and childcare.

United Way of Greater Nashville

The United Way of Greater Nashville offers a variety of programs and services designed to help families in need. They provide financial education classes, job training programs, and emergency financial assistance.

By connecting families in need with these resources and support services, organizations are helping to alleviate some of the financial stress that can come with caring for an individual with autism.

Transportation Services for Individuals with Autism in Tennessee

Access to transportation can be a challenge for individuals with autism, especially those who may have difficulty traveling independently. Fortunately, there are several transportation services available in Tennessee that offer specialized assistance and accommodations for individuals with disabilities.

TennCare Transportation Services

TennCare is Tennessee's state Medicaid program that provides health coverage to eligible individuals and families with low incomes. TennCare also offers non-emergency medical transportation services to eligible members who require transportation to and from their medical appointments.

This service is available through contracted transportation providers who offer accessible vehicles and trained drivers who can provide assistance as needed.

AccessRide

AccessRide is a door-to-door transportation service provided by the Nashville Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) for individuals with disabilities including autism. The service is available for both medical and non-medical trips such as work, school, or shopping.

AccessRide uses accessible vehicles and drivers are trained to provide assistance as needed.

MATAplus

MATAplus is a paratransit service provided by the Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) for individuals with disabilities including autism. The service is available for both medical and non-medical trips within the MATA service area.

MATAplus uses accessible vehicles and drivers are trained to provide assistance as needed.

Disability Rights Tennessee Transportation Advocacy Program

The Disability Rights Tennessee Transportation Advocacy Program provides advocacy and legal representation for individuals with disabilities who are experiencing issues related to transportation access. They can assist with issues such as denial of services, lack of accessibility, or discrimination related to transportation services.

By providing specialized transportation services and advocacy, these organizations are helping individuals with autism overcome barriers to accessing essential services and activities.

FAQs

What kind of employment opportunities are available for adults with autism in Tennessee?

Tennessee Vocational Rehabilitation provides vocational rehabilitation services to individuals with disabilities including autism. Project SEARCH partners with businesses to provide internships and on-the-job training for young adults with disabilities including autism.

Are there any support groups for parents and caregivers of individuals with autism?

Yes, many autism organizations in Tennessee offer support groups specifically designed to help parents and caregivers connect with others facing similar challenges. These support groups provide a safe space to share experiences, gain valuable insights, and find emotional support.

Are there any costs associated with accessing services from autism organizations in Tennessee?

Some services provided by autism organizations may be free or low-cost, while others may require a fee. It is best to contact the organization directly to inquire about specific costs associated with their services.

Can I donate to support the work of these autism organizations?

Yes, donations are often welcomed and appreciated by autism organizations in Tennessee. Donating can help further their initiatives and expand the support they offer to the autism community.

Check their websites for donation options and instructions.

Summary

Autism organizations in Tennessee provide a variety of resources and support services for individuals with autism and their families. Whether it's through support groups, educational workshops, or clinical services, these organizations help individuals with autism reach their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.

If you or someone you know is affected by autism, consider reaching out to one of these organizations for help and support.