New program helps Central Virginia businesses support autism community

The Autism Society of Central Virginia has launched a new training and designation program to help business leaders create inclusive and supportive spaces for people impacted by autism.

The ASCV developed the Autism Friendly Communities training program and designation to provide local businesses and organizations with expertise, resources from local professionals, and training to help make their businesses more accessible to the autism community -- with information tailored specifically to the type of business.

Because autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States – one in 36 children currently receives an autism diagnosis – the training will fill a growing need in the community.

KidMed, the first for-profit business to pilot the AFC program, contracted with the ASCV to provide Autism 101 training to their staff, design tailored training for clinical staff, conduct a sensory audit of their facility, and organize a review of their website and patient materials. ASCV staff, with input from members of the ASCV Self-Advocate Council and caregivers, created a list of recommendations for KidMed to implement, and staff of both organizations collaborated to develop a customized plan. KidMed will complete the program and receive their official designation later this summer.

The AFC program is offered for a fee based on the size and scope of each organization and the extent of individualized resources and accommodations. For details about the AFC program, visit https://ascv.org/afc/. Businesses interested in learning more about how the program can benefit them can email the Community Engagement Manager at rachel.pretlow@ascv.org.