Autistic Services Inc., the only regional agency whose primary mission is to provide personalized services to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, announced today that the N.Y.S. Education Department has approved expansion of their current facilities. This was accomplished through the invaluable efforts of Lisa Kowal, a concerned parent of a child with Autism and retiring NYS Senator Mary Lou Rath. Additional support came from various supportive school districts, local social services districts and developmental disabilities services offices. Support was also provided by coordinated children’s service initiative committees in, and around Western New York. Senator Rath brought the parties together to work towards a common goal; helping those children with disabilities.

For young children through adulthood, Autistic Services functions as a school with a specialized curriculum with staff members who are trained to work with this special needs population. Once graduated from the school program, the student may continue in the adult program which involves continued support in self-care and integration with the community. Prior to approval of the expansion, Autistic Services’ waiting list included 29 children for entry into the school program and 30 individuals for adult services.

The expansion project will see two new facilities developed; one in Williamsville and another on Hertel Ave in Buffalo. This includes the addition of five classrooms to Autistic Services current facilities, which will increase the school to seventy-two students. Expansion is already underway. The agency hopes to have both new facilities completed by the end of 2008.

“This is huge, not only for us, but for the Autism community and the parents who want their children to receive schooling and services tailored specifically for people on the Autism Spectrum,” said Veronica Federiconi, Autistic Services’ Executive Director.

Autistic Services is located at 4444 Bryant Stratton Way in Williamsville, NY. The agency began with a twelve month education program 1989 and has since extended its services to include residential, habilitation, vocational, and cultural programs. More information about the agency can be found at their website at  www.autisticservices.org or by visiting their community website at www.friendsofasi.org.