A consortium of agencies is partnering to host the Upstate South Carolina Autism Forum on Saturday, September 13th, from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., at Brookwood Church .

The free event aims to bring parents and professionals together, to provide information about autism and resources available in South Carolina to assist families affected by the disorder with treatment and other supports.

Autism is a complex neurological spectrum disorder that impairs a person's ability to communicate and interact in social settings. It varies widely in its severity. The resulting behaviors often require accommodations in educational, employment and community environments.

A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that one out of every 150 U.S. children over the age eight has autism or suffers from a related disorder. Families seek answers to a range of questions: Where do parents turn for a diagnosis? What services are available and where do we find them? What treatments are available? What are IEP’s and how are they effectively implemented? Will insurance cover the treatments for autism? Where can I find other parents like me that understand what I am going through and can help? Where can I find a support group and social network for my teenager with autism?

In South Carolina , the wait lists for evaluation for autism by medical professionals are long. Families often struggle to find effective treatment, appropriate child care and other services, before and after a diagnosis. Cuts in the state budget will affect available services, making increased collaboration among support agencies an important factor in assisting families.

Forum speakers include representatives from Walgreen's Distribution Center , GHS Developmental- Behavioral Pediatrics, S.C. State Department of Education, local DDSN Boards, and others. Event will also feature a Resource Fair of booths and exhibits.

This event is co-sponsored by Autism Speaks, South Carolina Autism Society, Family Connection of SC and Brookwood Church . Brookwood is located at 580 Brookwood Point Place , Simpsonville , SC 29681 , just north of the intersection of I-385 and Hwy. 417.

To register for this free forum, visit http://autismspeaks.kintera.org/Upstatescforum.


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Julie M. Kellett
Family Partner
Family Connection of Greenville
864-331-1340