About ADS

Autism Directory Service, Inc. (ADS), is a not-for-profit organization that was started in 1991 by three women, each of whom has a son with autism. They realized that in order to best serve their children, they needed to get input from as many sources as possible. Herein lies the reason for the creation of this networking service, "Parents Helping Parents."

The main objective of ADS is neither to prescribe nor advise the specific direction one chooses for families or a child with autism, but to obtain and disseminate information and ideas, and to share feelings and experiences. The bylined articles in the facilitator do not necessarily reflect the viewpoint of the editors. Not only do we need all of you to help make ADS a success, but we need each other to help make our children's lives as productive as possible.

Fifteen years ago, autism was considered to be a rare disorder and was virtually unheard of. Today, autism and related disorders are a syndrome known in many households, but gravely misunderstood. Therefore, another goal of ADS is to enlighten and educate the public regarding this spectrum disorder. Ignorance or misinformation creates fear and misunderstanding. The public needs to be more aware of this perplexing syndrome, thereby assuring that our children can obtain the educational services and inclusion they need and deserve. Increased public awareness would create a more positive environment for our children, thus enabling them to live and function harmoniously in today's society.