The Autism Foundation of the Carolinas is dedicated to making a difference in our local community for children and families affected by autism. When we developed our program agenda, the board met with various organizations (CMS, County government, parent support groups) to better evaluate and validate the needs of our community. The Board chose to focus its efforts on creating inclusion-based opportunities and programs for affected children. It is not our intention to duplicate services nor is it our intention to create programs without the input and participation of those who are knowledgeable and serve children with the autism and their families. Below is a summary of our programs:
Inclusion Based After School Enrichment Program For Children With Autism
Locations:- Siskey YMCA’s Hemby Center
- Lake Norman YMCA
- McCrorey YMCA
An innovative, therapeutic program serving children with autism, their typical peers, and high school/college volunteers
(click here for more information and application materials)
Lose the Training Wheels™
A weeklong camp that teaches children with a variety of disabilities to ride a conventional two-wheel bike. It is a national program that utilizes highly trained coaches and technicians, uniquely adaptive equipment, and a proven methodology.
(click here for more information)
University Autism Outreach Program
A unique partnership between AFC and area colleges/universities designed to integrate undergraduate and graduate students into the autism community. We do so by matching students seeking internships/clinical/volunteer hours to families dealing with autism who are looking for help with life skills, academics, and other specific needs.
(click here for more information)
All Faith’s Autism Initiative
A program designed to help places of worship build programs and services so that they can better include and serve families affected by autism.
(click here for more information)
Financial Assistance Program
A program that provides much needed scholarships to affected families so their children can attend our Afterschool Program, Lose the Training Wheels summer camp and summer camps in our community.
(click here for more information)
Professional Awareness Campaign
A collaborative effort of Autism Foundation of the Carolinas, Autism Society of North Carolina, and Autism Speaks to educate providers who diagnose and treat children with autism spectrum disorder regarding early intervention tools, resources and programs provided/sponsored by these three organizations.
(click here for more information)