The American Autism Association’s mission is to increase awareness of the many and varied difficulties individuals with an Autism Spectrum Disorder face as children and adults. We exist to help low income families struggling with autism to reach their potential and live life free of discomfort, anxiety and pain. Through hard work and the contributions of others we will provide the educational services and financial assistance that will enable individuals with autism to function as meaningfully and as independently as possible in their everyday lives. The American Autism Association provides community-based sports and recreational programs that improve the functioning, health and self-esteem of children and youth with autism to low-income children and their families. The programs designed by AAA vary widely and we focus our efforts on being able to work to meet the specific and often complex needs of a variety of children on the Autism Spectrum. With everything from dance to arts and crafts, AAA continues to expand our program offerings by forming partnerships or funding pilot programs, which can demonstrate both need and effectiveness. AAA also provides non-diagnostic referrals to service providers we have reviewed and researched and assistance to parents in accessing health and educational resources available through government agencies.