ABOUT US

The mission of the Desert Autism Foundation is to enhance the lives of those on the autism spectrum, as well as to support and assist families as they care for individuals with autism.

HELPING THE LOCAL AUTISM COMMUNITY

We use funds raised to help cover the cost of therapies that are vital to the development of individuals on the autism spectrum. These include occupational, social, music, and speech therapies. Parents are able to access these therapists through a small copay versus full hourly rates, allowing for more affordable and consistent therapy that can truly have a positive impact on these kids' lives.

We advocate for more understanding, acceptance, and awareness about autism by supporting the Certified Autism Center initiative spearheaded by Visit Greater Palm Springs. Under this program, businesses have their staff take training about autism so they may better serve individuals on the spectrum and their families. When complete, the organization earns the Certified Autism Center designation. Our foundation offers a select number of grants to help businesses pay for the training and certification. We know that when more citizens of this valley learn about autism, the more empathetic, supportive, and welcoming the community becomes.

We support organizations and activities that provide opportunities for those on the spectrum to have positive experiences within our community. By sponsoring these programs and events, we hope to spread moments of joy for individuals on the autism spectrum that they may not have been able to have otherwise.

Advocacy for individuals, support for families, and growing a more welcoming community - these are the pillars of our mission.

WHAT IS AUTISM?

Autism is a developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. Autism impacts the normal development of the brain in areas of social interaction and communication skills. A person with Autism may exhibit repeated body movements, unusual responses to people or attachments to objects, and resistance to changes in routine. Autism has been estimated to occur in as many as 1 in 33 individuals and is the fastest growing developmental disability in the country.

Please consider donating to help support local families! Click below to donate today!