Autism Speaks (Bay Area, LA, OC, SD, Sacramento) is the nation's largest autism science and advocacy organization, dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families.
*Highlight: This website is a great source for employment resources. Visit this site for more information on Autism in the Workplace.
The Autism Society improves the lives of all affected by autism through education, advocacy, services, research and support. The organization also boasts a quarterly journal, The Autism Advocate, for its members, as well as several free publications available on their website.
Autism Tree Project Foundation (SD and surrounding area): is a grassroots foundation that provides programs at no cost to children and families. Some of their programs include the Parent Mentor Program, preschool screenings, and fundraising for autism research.
California Autism Foundation aims to provide people with autism and other developmental disabilities the best possible opportunities for lifetime support, training and assistance in helping them reach their highest potential for independence, productivity and fulfillment.
Alta California Regional Center(ACRC) works in collaboration with other social service agencies, linking consumers to existing community resources. According to ACRC's website, the center is under legal obligation to attempt to meet the needs of its consumers first through existing community resources. If none can be located, ACRC can then utilize its own Purchase of Services (P.O.S.) monies to provide a service or an item for a consumer. In this manner, ACRC is considered “payor of last resort.”
The Autism Education Network is a California non-profit that provides information and training about the best practices in autism treatment. This site is launching an e-training education center for families, educators and professionals which will have videos and powerpoints to download.
FEAT, Families for Early Autism Treatment, is described on its website as a non-profit organization comprised of parents, family members, and treatment professionals dedicated to providing the best outcome in Education, Advocacy, and Support for the Northern California Autism Community.