About ASBC

Mission:

The Autism Society of Boulder County seeks to help individuals with autism spectrum disorders and their families by developing a strong and united community, which in turn empowers us to advocate at local and state levels. To promote such community, we:

  • create opportunities for families to connect with each other, to share experiences and resources, and to build new relationships that enrich their lives;
  • support communication and continuing education among local service providers, schools and families;
  • and support programs for our adolescent and adult populations to expand their opportunities.

Services

When a local family receives an autism diagnosis for their child, the Autism Society of Boulder County (ASBC) is often the first organization to which they turn to find therapists, navigate government agencies, learn about the latest research and connect with others in similar circumstances. This organization, comprised solely of volunteers:

  • staffs phone support year-round to respond to information requests in a timely fashion;
  • hosts a lecture series that brings in recognized experts to educate its members;
  • partners with the Boulder Valley School District to craft autism training workshops for educators;
  • provides respite funds for families;
  • sends out timely news updates via a bi-monthly e-newsletter and Facebook feeds;
  • updates its website with a resource list of area service providers;
  • hosts monthly support groups for parents, young adults and Spanish-speaking populations;
  • and posts timely legislative alerts and news.

ASBC History

The Autism Society of Boulder County (ASBC) was founded in 2001 as a parent support group and evolved into a local national Autism Society chapter supporting Boulder and Broomfield Counties in Colorado. It is a volunteer-run, charitable 501(c) (3) non-profit corporation that relies on donations and proceeds from an annual fundraiser to fund its activities …

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ASBC Board

Michelle Dyson, President: Michelle is a returning board member, having served the Autism Society of Boulder County from 2003 to 2005. In the interim, Michelle helped establish and grow Autism Speaks’ Colorado Community. In her 20-year marketing career, Michelle worked for various high tech and consulting concerns and is eager to put those promotional skills …

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What is Autism?

Autism is a developmental disability that affects a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others. Sometimes it affects a person’s cognitive abilities, and many report concurrent medical issues (gastro-intestinal symptoms, inflammatory disorders, anxiety, etc.). Autism manifests itself differently in each individual, and while causes are little understood, increased awareness and funding can help families …

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Where to Start?

Most families use one type of intensive behavioral and cognitive remediation intervention that best meets the needs of their child and their parenting style. Examples of this type of therapy include ABA, DIR, Floortime, The Denver Model and TEACCH among others. Such treatment requires multiple hours of therapy per week to address behavioral, developmental and/or …

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