OUR STORY

Bluestone VOICES for Autism is a 501(c)(3) created to support the treatment of children with autism. It was the brainchild of some people who have worked in the field for more than a decade and who have watched families and clinics struggle to provide the best possible therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability that affects a child’s ability to communicate and to interact socially. The US Centers for Disease Control estimates that 1 in 59 children have ASD. Skill deficits and challenges associated with ASD vary greatly from child to child, but without expert help and treatment, many children with ASD will be non-verbal and may have other behaviors that make it difficult for them to function in their homes and other settings.

Research has shown that access to early intervention is critical. At an early age (between 18 months and 7 years) the brain is most able to modify. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA Therapy), coupled, when appropriate, with speech therapy and occupational therapy, can lead to significant improvement in behaviors and social interaction.

Despite the significant benefits, many children with ASD will not receive these services. The cost of treatment for a year of ABA Therapy may run close to $50,000. Insurance may not cover the costs of treatment and, even if covered, annual co-pays and deductibles for years of treatment is simply beyond the means for many families.

In addition, because there is a critical shortage of qualified Board Certified Behavioral Analysts (BCBAs) and quality clinics, there are long wait lists to get into a good program.

Bluestone VOICES for Autism was created to step into the void for some of those families and to ensure that effective treatment is provided to as many children as possible. VOICES is not just an organization, we are a village, a Village Of Individuals Contributing to Education and Support for children with ASD.

VOICES will provide financial support through scholarships for families in need, scholarships for individuals entering the field, and by providing grants for projects that benefit facilities working with these children. 

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We can only achieve these goals with the assistance of generous donations from members of our community.

Since VOICES relies on the generosity of individuals like you, we ask you to consider a donation to our cause. With your contribution we can help reach our goal of serving these children in need.