Top 5 Autism-Related Organizations

In recognition of National Autism Awareness Month, HealthNews would like to recognize the top autism-related organizations that assist both parents and medical professionals in their quest to diagnose and treat autism spectrum disorders.

National Autism Association: The mission of the National Autism Association (NAA) is to respond to the most urgent needs of the autism community, providing real help and hope so that all affected can reach their full potential. NAA, which has chapters across the united States, provides breaking news, information and resources, a library, message boards, and support services with families dealing with autism.

Autism Speaks: Autism Speaks aims to bring the autism community together as one strong voice to urge the government and private sector to listen to concerns and take action to address this urgent global health crisis. They are dedicated to funding biomedical research into the causes, prevention, treatments, and cure for autism. Since its inception, they have committed an unprecedented $128 million in new research funding through 2014 to uncover the cause(s), prevention, treatments and cure for autism, making it the nation's top private funder of autism research. Their website provides information on autism, what to do about it, and how to cope. Their community section contains resources for families, outreach, and they have launched a social networking site, allowing member to blog, join forums on a range of autism-related topics, and post photos and videos. There is also an extensive collection of research, science news and resources for both families and medical personnel

U.S. Autism and Asperger Association: U.S. Autism and Asperger Association (USAAA) is a worldwide nonprofit organization for autism and Asperger education, support, and solutions. Their goal is to provide the opportunity for individuals with autism spectrum disorders to achieve their fullest potential. They provide immediate solutions through expert guidance and support, consolidate information and resources for families, and provide networking opportunities for parents, professionals, students, educators, and individuals.

Autism Society of America: The Autism Society of America, with over 200 chapters nationwide, provides information, education, supporting research, programs, and services for the autism community.  They do this by increasing public awareness about the day-to-day issues faced by people on the spectrum, advocating for appropriate services for individuals across the lifespan, and providing the latest information regarding treatment, education, research and advocacy.

Center for Autism and Related Disorders: The Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) s among the world’s largest and most experienced organizations effectively treating children with autism and related disorders. Following ABA treatment, CARD develops individualized plans. With a network of trained supervisors & therapists, CARD can provide services to families throughout the world, regardless of geographic location.