Autism Society of America facts for kids
| Founded | 1965 |
|---|---|
| Founders | Bernard Rimland, Ruth C. Sullivan, and others |
| Legal status | 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization |
| Headquarters | Rockville, Maryland, United States |
| Tracey Staley | |
| Vacant (since July 4, 2025) | |
| Subsidiaries | Autism Society of America Foundation |
|
Revenue (2021)
|
$3,404,989 |
| Expenses (2021) | $2,808,051 |
| Endowment | $50,000 (2021) |
|
Employees (2021)
|
22 |
|
Volunteers (2021)
|
50 |
|
Formerly called
|
National Society for Autistic Children |
The Autism Society of America (ASA) is an organization in the United States. It is a non-profit organization, which means it works to help people rather than to make money. Its main goal is to "improve the lives of all affected by autism."
The ASA was started in 1965. It was founded by Bernard Rimland, Ruth C. Sullivan, and a small group of other parents. These parents had children with autism. The group's first name was the National Society for Autistic Children. They changed the name to the Autism Society of America. This change was made to show that autistic children grow up and continue to need support.
In the past, the ASA shared ideas that vaccines caused autism. This idea has been proven wrong by science. More recently, the ASA has clearly stated that there is no link between vaccines and autism.
In 2021, the ASA introduced a new look. This included a new logo with colorful lines. Their new slogan is "The Connection Is You." Before this, the ASA used puzzle-piece images. These included a puzzle-piece ribbon and a picture of a boy's head with puzzle pieces.
Founders of the Autism Society
The Autism Society of America was started by dedicated people. They wanted to make a difference for individuals with autism and their families. Two key founders were Bernard Rimland and Ruth C. Sullivan.
Bernard Rimland's Contributions
Bernard Rimland was a research psychologist. He was born in 1928 and passed away in 2006. He was an important person in the field of developmental disorders.
In 1964, Dr. Rimland wrote a book called Infantile Autism. This book helped many experts understand autism better. It showed that autism is a physical condition, not a mental or emotional problem.
Rimland helped start the Autism Society of America in 1965. He later left in 1967 to create the Autism Research Institute. He also promoted some ideas about autism that were later shown not to be true.
Ruth C. Sullivan's Advocacy
Ruth C. Sullivan was born in 1924 and passed away in 2021. She was an American organizer and a strong supporter of education for autistic people.
Sullivan was a founder of the Autism Society of America. She also served as its first president. Later, she left the ASA to start the Autism Services Center. This center is located in Huntington, West Virginia.
