Autism Center for Enlightenment

1
Autism Center for Enlightenment

• Putting the pieces together for families impacted
  by Autism

2
Leadership Organization

• Illinois corporation with 501c(3) status.
• Board of Directors
• Dr. Anju Usman world-renowned autism
  specialist
• Marci Leibowitz occupational therapist with 18
  years of experience treating autistic children
• Beth Hynes Mom, -- J.D., MBA.
• Jennifer Hooten Mom True Health Medical
  Center.
• Kurth/Lampe media /pr consultants.

3
Epidemic of Autism a Crisis in IL

• Government task force identified 8 major areas of
  unmet need (Sept. 05).
• Increase is dramatic 32 per year and growing.
• Newsworthy topic.
• Government must be pressed to prioritize.
• Private resources must be harnessed and
  leveraged.

4
Extraordinarily Challenging Situation

• Epidemic proportions, not predicted.
• High level of Critical needs.
• Shifting Scientific-Medical Paradigm.
• No Established Support Mechanisms in place.
• Code Red emotional content
• Our Kids lives at Stake.

5
ACEUnique Approach

• Basis Emphasizes New Paradigm
• Autism is a medical disorder
• Autism is treatable
• Children can recover
• One Stop Shop for Parents/Caregivers
• Medical, Therapeutic, Educational, Legislative
  bases covered
• Dynamic outreach, organize, empower

6
Center of ExcellenceImpactful Activities, Best
Practices

• Routine seminars targeted toward strengthening
  Parents.
• Educate Parents about the science, treatments,
  and options.
• Advocate for necessary state programs (Medicaid
  Waiver, Mandatory Insurance).
• Enforce IDEA

7
Leverage Resources, Teach Skills

• Encourage Government to do its Share
• Provide Services (e.g., In-home support)
• Train Teachers, Therapists, Caregivers
• Fund Scientific Research
• Teach Schools to follow IDEA.
• Attract Media Coverage to broadcast Key Messages.
• Recruit Celebrities.
• Work with Parents to transfer Skills, Knowledge.

8
ACE 2008Vision for the Future

• Replicable model.
• Ready access to Effective treatments, services,
  and support.
• Organized Community of well-
  informed Parents.
• Strong Families able to serve Rescue Angels.