Thank you to our supporters!
Autism Services is a Saskatoon-based charitable organization dedicated to supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families.
Who is Autism Services of Saskatoon?
Autism Services is a Saskatoon-based, charitable organization dedicated to providing advocacy, support, education, recreational, and social and residential programs and services to individuals with autism spectrum disorder and their families. Any family having an individual with characteristics or a diagnosis of autism, or any other disorder on the Autism Spectrum, may qualify for service.
What Are Autism Spectrum Disorders?
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a complex lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder that typically appears within the first three years of life. It is considered to be a spectrum disorder meaning the primary symptoms can be expressed in varying degrees of severity. Individuals with autism will have difficulties with verbal and non-verbal social communication, social interactions, and can display a range of rigid or stereotyped, repetitive behaviors, often with insistence on a specific routine that they will show resistance to changing. Hyper- or hypo-sensitivity to sensory stimuli is also often observed.
What Are the Causes of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDS)?
Exactly what causes ASD is still unknown. Current research suggests that a predisposition to autism might be inherited. Researchers have not found a specific “autism gene” but instead a nonspecific factor, which may increase the likelihood of having cognitive impairments. Over the last five years, scientists have identified a number of rare gene changes, or mutations, associated with autism. Researchers have also found neuro-biological differences in the brains of individuals with autism. The current theory is that ASD is caused by a combination of “risk genes” and environmental factors in the early brain development period.
Are There Online Resources on Your Website That I Can Access?
YES. Visit our Resources page!
- What is autism
- Resources for Families
- For Autistic Adults
- Autism Info Links
- 3rd Party Programs
- Inclusion in the Community
- Studies
How is ASD Supported?
There is no one therapy for ASDs; however, it is widely accepted that the earliest interventions allow the best outcomes. Therapies generally address both cognitive and behavioral functioning. They may include a combination of medications (for challenging behaviors), behavioral therapy, psycho-education, family support groups, educational interventions, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and specialized training to develop and improve the acquisition of necessary skills.
Research has found that a newer class of atypical antipsychotic medications may better treat serious behavioral disturbances in children with autism who are between 5 and 17 years old. Applied behavioral analysis may be an effective adjunctive therapy in reinforcing desirable and reducing undesirable behaviors. Other work focuses on improving social communication in children with autism. Some have found that structured multidisciplinary behavioral programs are more successful. Parental involvement, a predictable schedule, regular behavior reinforcement and active engagement of attention in highly structured activities to enhance a strength or ability may all contribute to creating an effective therapeutic program.
How Can I Donate to Autism Services?
Autism Services of Saskatoon relies on the generous support from individuals, businesses, and organizations across Canada. Your generosity helps to sustain and grow our existing programs and services and allows us to respond to and address emerging needs or challenges facing the autistic community. Whether large or small, all donations, create impact and support the autistic and autism communities. You have the option to direct your donation to one of our targeted programs or causes. Please see the next question below for more information about these programs. Charitable tax receipts will be issued for all donations of $20 or more.
What Does My Donation Support?
Your donation supports Autism Services of Saskatoon autism programs, initiatives, and resources including:
- General Operating Support
- Family Programs
- ABA Little Tots programs
- AIP Autism Intervention Program
- CHAP Community Holmes and Programs
- Mental Health & Wellness Team
