The Global and Regional Asperger Syndrome Partnership (GRASP)

At GRASP we envision a world where all individuals on the autism spectrum are respected, valued, and fairly represented; where appropriate supports and services are readily available to those in need; and where people on the spectrum are empowered to participate in policy and personal decisions that affect their lives. With an emphasis on community outreach and individuals advocating for their own needs, GRASP?s by-laws stipulate that the Executive Director, 100% of the Advisory Board, and 50% of the Board of Directors of GRASP must be people who are diagnosed on the autism spectrum. On a national level, GRASP speaks up to make sure the views of adults and teens on the autism spectrum are represented in the media and in public policy. On the local level, GRASP advocates for the needs of individuals in crisis. Through a network of regional peer-run support groups and online discussion groups, GRASP helps adults and teens across the country. GRASP also offers support to family members and clinicians, through an online discussion group. GRASP?s in-school programs offer schools a simple yet highly effective way to help students on the autism spectrum learn advocacy skills, social ability, and gain self-esteem. GRASP helps educate the public and raise awareness by delivering presentations and workshops developed and run by adults and teens on the autism spectrum. GRASP also maintains a website with a library of free online resources.