Who is ABOARD?

Since being founded as a nonprofit 501(c)(3) in 1996, ABOARD has served thousands of Pennsylvania families confronted with the challenges of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as well as the professionals who work with them.

ABOARD envisions a community where children, adolescents, and adults with ASD achieve NO LESS than their maximum potential in social, educational, and vocational environments.  We give families both hope and help by advocating and providing Family Support, Education, and Information Resources.

ABOARD is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and a staff of parents with children with autism.  The Board of Directors is comprised primarily of parents of children with ASD and is assisted through the volunteer support and guidance of a Professional Advisory Council, consisting of physicians, therapists, educators, and other individuals with strong connections to the autism community.

ABOARD's ability to serve Pennsylvania's ASD community is based solely upon support from donations, fundraisers, conferences, sponsorships, grants, organizational membership, and designated employee contributions through the United Way (#9817).

Our Policy & Promise

There is considerable debate throughout the autism community about the cause of autism and issues such as vaccination, diet, inclusion, and appropriate therapies.  Legislative acts can also influence services to those with autism.  Our policy is to inform.  We trust that individuals will assimilate the information we provide and make the best decision for their children and clients.

We believe that families challenged by autism are entitled to accurate and timely information.  Through our parent support groups throughout Pennsylvania, they receive emotional and practical support from other families.  ABOARD also provides information regarding advocacy assistance, education rights, and training.  Armed with this information, families can effectively maximize their use of treatment, educational, and vocational opportunities in the community.

The autism diagnosis rate is climbing, and the demand for services is skyrocketing.  ABOARD directs 100% of its resources and services to assisting Pennsylvania families and professionals.