The Autism Society of Northern Virginia (ASNV) builds community for over 5,000 individuals and families affected by autism through education, advocacy, and support. As a chapter of the Autism Society of America, we support, empower, and build connections to improve the lives of all affected by autism. Search About About ASNV Our Mission About Autism Get To Know Our Team Self-Advocacy Members Blog Get Involved Events Advocacy Donate Videos Programs Resources Military Notifications Search Results Welcome to ASNV We are here for you Creating a world where everyone in the Autism community is connected to the support they need, when they need it. Our Mission The mission of the Autism Society Northern Virginia is to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. Our Vision The mission of the Autism Society Northern Virginia is to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. Support Us The mission of the Autism Society Northern Virginia is to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully.

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)? Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) , hereafter referred to as Autism (which includes Asperger’s Disorder and Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified [PDD-NOS]), is a complex, lifelong developmental condition that typically appears during early childhood and can impact a person’s social skills, communication, relationships, and self-regulation. Autism is prevalent across the world , although tracking rates can vary due to differences in reporting. In 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) updated the Prevalence Data & Statistics for Autism . The report concluded: The prevalence of Autism had risen to 1 in every 31 – more than three times as great as the 2004 rate of 1 in 125. Children who receive an Autism diagnosis by age 4, are fifty times more likely to receive services. More White and Black children were identified with Autism than Hispanic children. Stigma, lack of access to healthcare services due to non-citizenship or low income, and non-English primary language are potential barriers to the early identification of Hispanic children and children of color with Autism. Boys are approximately 4 times more likely to have an Autism diagnosis than girls of the same age. However, recent research suggests that girls may not display characteristics of Autism in the same way as boys and might go undiagnosed because of their different presentation. For additional facts & statistics about autism, click here , or visit the Virginia Commonwealth University Autism Center for Excellence (VCU-ACE) .

Get in Touch Need to speak with someone at ASNV? Please fill out the form below and someone will reach out to you as soon as possible, or you can call us at 703.537.9487 Email Subject Your message SEND Thanks for submitting! By sending your message, you have also been added to our mailing list where periodically, you will be notified of upcoming events, program and group updates, helpful resources, and more exciting news! We are so happy that you are apart of our ASNV Community. You can always unsubscribe at anytime or change your notification preferences. If you have any questions, feel free to email us at info@asnv.org . Get Directions Autism Society Northern Virginia 4094 Majestic Ln., #164 Fairfax, VA 22033 Office: (703) 537-9487 Please Note: The address above is a post office box, not a physical address. Please contact us at (703) 537-9487 regarding in-person meetings. Subscribe to our email list Stay informed of ASNV news, events, and programs by subscribing to our email list below! ASNV sends out newsletters on a monthly basis, and occasionally sends other important monthly updates. Subscribers should only receive an average of 2 emails per month. Subscribing to the ASNV email list guarantees that you will be the first to hear about and sign up for our upcoming ASNV programs and events! Email Address Subscribe to our email list SUBSCRIBE

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Military With nearly 130,000 active military families stationed in Virginia, and an unknown number of retired personnel, Virginia is the second largest active-duty population in the country. If you have a dependent that has special needs, you have many options and excellent resources available to make your tour here successful! INFORMATION OF INTEREST FOR OUR MILITARY FAMILIES Reach out to the Exceptional Family Member Programs ‘EFMP’ office near you at one of the following locations : Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall, Virginia EFMP Fort Belvoir, Virginia EFMP Marine Corp Base, Quantico, Virginia EFMP Naval Support Activity, Bethesda, Maryland & NSA-Washington EFMP Fort George G. Meade, Maryland EFMP Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, DC EFMP Langley Air Force Base, Virginia EFMP TIMELY TOPICS “Life Journey through Autism: A Guide for Military Families” This free guide includes information about services, resources, & support available to active-duty and retired military families. Organization for Autism Research website at https://operationautism.org State -versus-state comparisons for adults with a disability. Families should search many sources for information, such as local Autism Societies and Centers for Independent Living. All states have developmental disabilities organizations (like the Virginia DBHDS) where they can find information on the state’s waiver programs. Using several sources provides a better overall picture of states’ services. Also, services can differ significantly from locality to locality and county to county in some states. In addition, while some states provide better independent living services, they may be lacking in special education services and vice-versa. Please read: http://caseforinclusion.org . Special Needs Trusts Information The DOD Policy letter, dated 31 Dec 15 on "Enabling Payment of Survivor Benefit Plan Annuities to a Special Needs Trust (SNT)" and a copy of the "Template for Special Needs Trust Certification" have been uploaded. You will need to get it filled out by the attorney or agency who wrote the Special Needs Trust for your child. The Special Needs Trust Certification, a copy of the whole SNT, and a cover letter is mailed to Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS), U.S. Military Retired Pay, 8899 E 56th Street, Indianapolis IN 46249-1200. The letter must list their relationship to the beneficiary (the child), state their decision to make direct payment to an existing SNT, and include the beneficiary's SSN. Please call DFAS at 800 321-1080 for more information. More DFAS info on this option can also be found at https://www.dfas.mil/retiredmilitary/provide/sbp/special-needs-trust.html . If you need help or would like a copy of these documents, please reach out to info@asnv.org Military Families have a list of "what to do before and when their child turns 18". "Enabling Payment of Survivor Benefit Plan Annuities to a Special Needs Trust (SNT)" and a copy of the "Template for Special Needs Tr ust Certification" need to be filled out by the attorney or agency who writes the Special Needs Trust for your child. The Special Needs Trust Certification, a copy of the whole SNT, and a cover letter is mailed to Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS), U.S. Military Retired Pay, 8899 E 56th Street, Indianapolis IN 46249-1200. The letter must list their relationship to the beneficiary (the child), state their decision to make direct payment to an existing SNT, and include the beneficiary's SSN. If you have questions about where to send it or anything else, call DFAS at 800 321-1080. More DFAS info on this option can be found at https://www.dfas.mil/retiredmilitary/provide/sbp/special-needs-trust.html. If you need help or would like a copy of these documents, please reach out to info@asnv.org

Meet The Team Director Madeline Sumner This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio. Board, Chair Andy Jacks, Ed.D This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio. Board, Vice Chair Rachel Payne, Ph.D This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio. Board, Treasurer (Past Chair) Scott Campbell This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio. Board, Secretary Sharon Cummings This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio. Board Member Francis Bertulfo This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio. Board Member Nicci Dowd, Ed.D This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio. Board Member Meghan Stubbs This is your Team Member description. Use this space to write a brief description of this person’s role and responsibilities, or add a short bio. Board Member This Could Be You! Meghan is Director with Didlake and our newest board member. We are excited to have her! Apply Today This is a Paragraph. Click on "Edit Text" or double click on the text box to start editing the content. info@mysite.com 123-456-7890

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Programs ASNV manages several different group programs, listed below. Donations are always welcome to assist in the purchasing of accommodations, outings, or refreshments for these programs. TAP GROUP TAP Group is a life and social-skills support group made up of and run by adults on the spectrum ages 18+ and up. This group is distinctive in that it is both composed of and facilitated by individuals with autism. Members engage in activities and discussions that enhance life skills, foster social connections, and promote independence. TAP offers a supportive community where adults on the spectrum can thrive, share experiences, and learn from one another in a setting that appreciates and understands their unique perspectives. This group meets at a minimum of once-a-month hybrid. Email director@asnv.org to register or for more information. PARENTS & CAREGIVERS Parent/Caregiver Group is a supportive network specifically tailored for parents and caregivers of individuals with autism. This group serves as a vital resource by providing a space for sharing experiences, receiving support, and accessing information essential for navigating the challenges and opportunities of caregiving. Meetings are designed to offer both educational and emotional support through discussions, and the sharing of practical strategies. By connecting with others who understand the unique journey of caring for someone with autism, members gain not only insight and advice but also a sense of community and solidarity. Meetings held same date and time as the TAP meetings. This allows you to drive your adult to the meeting and take advantage of this separate meeting. Email director@asnv.org to register or for more information. TEEN TIME Teen Time is designed to foster friendships and shared experiences among teenagers 14-18 with autism. This vibrant community allows members to enjoy outings and participate in group activities. They learn practical skills together, ranging from cooking to managing finances. The group's activities are tailored to meet the specific needs and interests of its members. Through these engagements, teens enhance their social interactions and personal growth. Dates and times to be announced. AUTISM SOCIAL CLUB Autism Social Club is a virtual community designed to bring together individuals on the autism spectrum for regular social interactions and shared experiences. This club provides a safe and welcoming space where members can connect, share interests, and build friendships. While primarily meeting online, the club also organizes occasional in-person outings to local attractions like movie theaters, amusement parks, etc. These gatherings and virtual meetings are opportunities for members to enjoy social interaction and community support in both virtual and physical spaces. This group caters to a wide range of social preferences and accessibility needs. This group meets on the 1st Saturday of the month at 2:00pm. Register here. SPANISH GROUP La Sociedad de Autismo del Norte de Virginia puede proporcionar recursos en español. Haga clic aquí para dejar su información si desea que un representante de habla hispana le brinde recursos adicionales o participe más.

What is Autism? "...a developmental disability that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. There is often nothing about how people with ASD look that sets them apart from other people, but people with ASD may communicate, interact, behave, and learn in ways that are different from most other people. The learning, thinking, and problem-solving abilities of people with ASD can range from gifted to severely challenged. Videos ASNV Show of Talents 2023 Subscribe to our email list Stay informed of ASNV news, events, and programs by subscribing to our email list below! ASNV sends out newsletters on a monthly basis, and occasionally sends other important monthly updates. Subscribers should only receive an average of 2 emails per month. Subscribing to the ASNV email list guarantees that you will be the first to hear about and sign up for our upcoming ASNV programs and events! Email Address Subscribe to our email list SUBSCRIBE

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Whether you choose to make an immediate impact with a gift today, amplify your investment with an employer-matched contribution, or make a lasting impact with a legacy gift, your donation will support education, awareness, and advocacy through Northern Virginia. Ways to Help All funds raised here, stay here! Whether you choose to make an immediate impact with a gift today, amplify your investment with an employer-matched contribution, or make a lasting impact with a legacy gift, your donation will support education, awareness, and advocacy through Northern Virginia. DONATE NOW Monthly Giving With our online donation portal, you can choose to have a gift - no matter what size - automatically charged every month. You'll get automatic receipts, and at the end of the year, ASNV will provide a summary to you for your records. Just click here to visit our online donation page and select the "monthly" option. GET STARTED Bequests, Trusts & Other Planned Giving We would be honored to be named in your will or be the recipient of a trust! Please contact our Executive Director at info@asnv.org to ensure that you have accurate, up to date information to include. Gifts of Stock, Real Estate, & Other Assets ASNV is able to accept most assets, including gifts of stock and more. Please contact info@asnv.org for more details. Give Together Nothing brings people together like feeling like they're making a real difference. Whether it's friends, family, school, or workplace, consider making your next donation a team effort! Ask for Donations at Your Celebration Every year, generous donors of all ages choose to make their birthday, holiday, wedding, or end of life celebration more meaningful by asking their friends and family for donations to ASNV. We can set up a special donation page for your event by emailing us . Host an Event Want to host a fundraiser at your school, workplace, church, or other organization? Or maybe you're already having a great event and just want some of the proceeds to go to a good cause. We'd love to help you set this up! Make a Match Want to double your impact? Commit to giving a match for every dollar other people donate! It's your decision how much to match and when to do it; email info@asnv.org for more information Give Smarter We know planning and financial management are important to you and your family! There are several ways you can fit giving into your financial planning. Volunteer Want to host a fundraiser at your school, workplace, church, or other organization? Or maybe you're already having a great event and just want some of the proceeds to go to a good cause. We'd love to help you set this up! Email info@asnv.org for more information.

Your support helps the Autism community live fully from birth all through their adulthood. Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States, with 1 in 36 children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. By making a gift today, you can help us in our mission to create connections, empowering everyone in the Northern Virginia Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. Events Your support helps the Autism community live fully from birth all through their adulthood. Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States, with 1 in 36 children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. By making a gift today, you can help us in our mission to create connections, empowering everyone in the Northern Virginia Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. ASNV Walk Date: Saturday, May 17th 2025 Get ready for the return of our Annual ASNV Autism Walk and Family Fest! Enjoy delicious food, unique vendors, bounce houses, music, and fun for the whole family. Easy walk around the track and hear from some our own families. We will offer a fun raffle where you can select from numerous handmade baskets and popular gift certificates. Stay tuned for more opportunities to support the autism community and join this inclusive, sensory-friendly event. Watch 2023 Video Holiday Party December 14, 2024 Join us on December 14th for our annual ASNV-POAC holiday party. We will have two shifts with Santa present at both. First Shift 12-2pm. Second Shift 12-4pm. Please register/reserve one spot for each family member and for only one shift.We will have reduced volume holiday movies, and music, quiet room, Legos, and arts and crafts. There will be a give-away-table with assorted free items.We will provide pizza, veggies, snacks, and drinks. You are welcome to bring your own food and/or to bring a dessert or snack to share but it is not required. Location is the Service Source building. Stay tuned for further information as it gets closer. Watch 2023 Video Watermine Event Date: TBD Summertime is when we get together for our annual Watermine Family Fun Day. Great family time accessing the public water park. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Stay tuned for further information. Picnic lunch and drinks provided with entry fees in our own separate area. Location- 1400 Lake Fairfax Drive Reston, Watch 2023 Video YouToo Tennis Date: TBD YouToo tennis is an individualized tennis program for children. Twice a year (dates will be announced) Potomac HS students come together to teach tennis, play games, and just have fun with the kids. No tennis experience is required. We welcome all students to join and have fun. It is also a great way to meet other families. Location is Potomac School tennis courts in Mclean. 15 children per session max. It fills quickly once announced. Email: director@asnv.org for questions. Watch 2023 Video Show of Talent November 2024 Join us for our 4th year as we host Show of Talent. Your talent can be whatever is your passion. We love the singers and musicians which are always popular and a crowd favorite. We also include so many other talents and passions that truly reflect our versatility and uniqueness. We have had a mermaid, fire breather, a person who made crafts, magic tricks, a person who drew a picture, other artists, a rodeo barrel racer, water skier, a model/pageant winner, someone spoke all about trains, an advocacy video, someone who play jacks, American Idol contestant, an animator and so much more. The talent is endless. It does not matter where you live, it does not matter your age. We just want you to have the opportunity to showcase your passion-your talents. You simply make a video with your phone of your talent no more than 3 minutes with specifics coming soon once the date is confirmed. Watch 2023 Video Sensory Friendly Movies Check Local Listings AMC is proud to partner with the Autism Society to offer movie showings where they turn the lights up and turn the sound down so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing. Sensory friendly film program is available on the second and fourth Saturday (family friendly) and Wednesday evening (mature audience) of every month. Please check your local listings for specific show times and locations. AMC Potomac Mills, AMC Tysons Corner. Watch 2023 Video