Autism Connection of Pennsylvania

08/12/2026

Join us as a vendor at the 2026 Autism Safety Expo
Friday, October 30th
9:00am - 5:00pm

Vendor highlights:
Pitt Reacct: An NIH Autism Center of Excellence
Achieva Family Trust
Passavant Memorial Homes
Pressley Ridge
Inglis

08/11/2026

From Erie County Bar Association:
Live ECBA Seminar: Understanding the Autistic Defendant: Reframing Risk, Responsibility and Representation

In-Person and on Zoom
Wednesday, August 19, 2026

12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
This course has been approved for 1 Hour Substantive CLE Credit
"ASD cuts across socioeconomic, racial, ethnic and intellectual levels. It is often called the 'hidden disability,' and people on the highest end of the spectrum may be most at risk within the criminal justice system. Unfortunately, those in the justice system often don’t know what ASD is, or why it matters in every case. Therefore, we must better understand the facts about ASD, and work together to find just and creative solutions to achieve fair and positive outcomes that serve the dual purpose of keeping society safe and rehabilitating the person on the spectrum."
**Details and registration link in comments.

08/10/2026

ConnectAAC is an assistive communication app currently in development to support autistic people who are nonspeaking or have limited speech.

EqualSpeaks is currently looking for Android users to test the app.

If you're interested in testing the app, scan the QR code or email [email protected] or visit the link in comments...

08/07/2026

A Heartfelt Thank You to Opportunity Fund

We are taking a moment to shine a light on a partner whose generosity makes a real difference in our community.

No cost should ever stand between someone and the support they need to thrive. Thanks to the Opportunity Fund's investment in our mission, that's a promise we can keep.

Every conversation in our support groups, every family guided through a tough moment, every voice we help amplify in advocacy spaces is made possible by partners who believe in what we do.

Thank you, Opportunity Fund, for standing with our community and helping us build a world that's more understanding, more accessible, and more connected.

08/06/2026

This is an important opportunity for legal professionals. Understanding the Autistic Defendant: Reframing Risk, Responsibility, and Representation explores how a better understanding of autism can lead to fairer outcomes in the justice system. We're grateful to see conversations like this happening.

TIME Registration: 11:45 a.m.Seminar: 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. COST $50 - ECBA Members (Judges & Attorneys) and their Paraprofessional Staff$65 - Non-me...

08/05/2026

We vehemently condemn devaluation of autistic children and their families as evidenced in the August 4th Westmoreland County criminal court proceedings. Those who pled guilty to multiple counts were merely sentenced to probation. This is gutting to families, destroying trust in schools and the courts, places legally obligated to nurture and protect the most vulnerable.

08/04/2026

Tuesday, August 11th at 6:30pm on Zoom
Caring for Loved Ones with High Support Needs
Support Group

Join Autism Connection of PA's Caring for Loved Ones with High Support Needs virtual support group. Connect with other caregivers who understand the unique joys and challenges of supporting a loved one with complex needs. Share experiences, ask questions, exchange resources, and find encouragement in a welcoming, judgment-free space.

Whether you're joining for the first time or returning to reconnect, we'd love to have you with us. Registration in comments.

08/03/2026

From Erie County Bar Association:
Live ECBA Seminar: Understanding the Autistic Defendant: Reframing Risk, Responsibility and Representation
In-Person and on Zoom
Wednesday, August 19, 2026
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm

This course has been approved for 1 Hour Substantive CLE Credit

"ASD cuts across socioeconomic, racial, ethnic and intellectual levels. It is often called the 'hidden disability,' and people on the highest end of the spectrum may be most at risk within the criminal justice system. Unfortunately, those in the justice system often don’t know what ASD is, or why it matters in every case. Therefore, we must better understand the facts about ASD, and work together to find just and creative solutions to achieve fair and positive outcomes that serve the dual purpose of keeping society safe and rehabilitating the person on the spectrum."

**Details and registration link in comments.

07/31/2026

New blog post: Chrisoula Randas Perdziola, Autism Connection of Pennsylvania's Resource Specialist, writes about her experience at the 2026 National Council on Severe Autism Authentic Awareness Autism Assembly in Washington, DC.

Beyond Awareness: Reflections from My First National Council on Severe Autism Authentic Awareness Autism Assembly

"...services may exist on paper but remain difficult to access because providers lack the staffing or specialized training needed to support people with complex needs."

Beyond Awareness: Reflections from My First National Council on Severe Autism Authentic Awareness Autism Assembly Published July 30, 2026 Leave a comment SummaryChrisoula Randas Perdziola, Autism Connection of Pennsylvania's Resource Specialist, writes about her experience at the 2026 National Counc...