Feature Stories

Heartspring introduces the CARE Program to help families of children with autism spectrum disorders

The Community of Autism Resources and Education (CARE) Program at Heartspring was established to provide parents and professionals opportunities to increase their understanding of the characteristics and nature of autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities. The CARE Program opens the door to resources for families with children who have autism spectrum disorders in a unique way. While providing families with ongoing access to local and national resources, the CARE Program's vision is to also provide children and young adults with autism spectrum disorders various programs with which to increase their opportunities for success within their family, their school, and their community.

The CARE Program at Heartspring will focus on resources that are established through a variety of services beginning with monthly parent workshops. These workshops are designed to deliver resources that are research based, and specific to the needs of families. Make it Take it sessions will be offered so that parents can learn about specific interventions for their child, make the actual intervention support, and take it home for immediate implementation. As the Care Program grows, parents will continue to experience the network of services which will include an online parent handbook, one on one in-home consultations, a summer camp for children with autism spectrum disorders, as well as a summer technology camp for children with Asperger syndrome...and that's just the beginning! The CARE Program will provide a comprehensive network of supports and services specific to the needs of families of children with special needs.

“I have long been searching for an opportunity to provide parents with resources that respect each and every family's particular journey through the world of autism,” says Coulter. “In establishing the CARE Program at Heartspring, I've been afforded the challenging opportunity to create just such a place. I have great respect for the love that parents have for their children as well as their resilience in finding solutions and ways of coping that work best for them and their families in the face of intense needs and stresses. Together I hope to work with all families according to their needs, strengths, resources, challenges, and preferences. Through the various programs offered, all parents will have experiences based on up to date research based information, comprehensive services, professional guidance and emotional support. “

The CARE Program kicks off in January 2008. Learn more about Connie.