The Autism Council of Rochester, Inc. (ACR) is the only nonprofit agency (501c3) in the state of New York that offers individualized services specific to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD).

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a complex developmental disorder with symptoms that differ from person to person. The severity by which ASD affects a child’s ability to communicate, interact socially, and their behavior also varies greatly. That is why there is a great need for individualized services, and it’s what The Autism Council of Rochester is committed to providing. We develop individualized treatment plans for youth and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders, and train community agencies and parents on the complexities of this disorder so that they help children with Autism reach their full potential.  

Our staff is experienced in developmental disorders. We understand that ASD children need assistance in making sense of their world, that parents need a support network to help them understand the disorder and work through the challenges it presents, that the community lacks factual awareness of the disorder, and too many people have misconceptions about the abilities of an individual with ASD . We work to change those perceptions with a three-prong approach – (1) youth programs including training, education, and integration services, (2) family and sibling support services, and (3) community Autism Awareness Training workshops. All our efforts are focused on ensuring children with autism have the same advantages in life as everyone else.

By providing transition services tailored specifically to young adults with ASD or other pervasive developmental disorders, we ensure that they have a plan and are prepared for life after completing their high school special education program. Our goal is to help youth and young adults with ASD break through the physical and mental walls that keep them from reaching their full potential. Our programs help teach them the skills needed to be able to live as independently as possible, work or volunteer successfully, and learn accepted social and communication skills so that they can contribute their unique talents to community.

But we don’t stop there. We help these talented young people have the same work and life experiences as the rest of us by partnering with businesses that are able to offer them real-work opportunities.