ASRC is the state leader in advocacy, training, and family supports. As an approved 501(c)3 non-profit organization, ASRC believes strongly in the mission of helping families walk the daily journey of autism, and to promote lifelong access to opportunities for persons on the autism spectrum with the goal of being fully included and participating members of their communities. The merger in 2012 of the original ASRC (CT Autism Spectrum Resource Center) and ASCONN (Autism Society of CT) created a dynamic force providing parents, educators, state government, and service professionals the means to enhance the lives of all affected by autism spectrum disorders. This is accomplished through advocacy, public awareness, education, and training. Together, we are the most experienced family advocacy organization for Connecticut's autism community. ASRC is responding to these needs in a variety of creative ways. A full cadre of autism training programs have been tailored to suit not only parents new to the diagnosis, but also professionals working directly with the autism population, the broader community of peers, recreation providers, faith communities, potential employers, emergency responders, and the general public. We feel that while it is important to prepare those with an ASD for the world, we also need to prepare the world for those with an ASD. ASRC offers education and information on the complete range of interventions without advocating for any one approach so that families, and to the extent possible individuals with autism, can select the services and supports that are most appropriate for their circumstances. We offer individual consulting and support groups to aid families in navigating the systems and resources available. Tweens, teens, and adults have a variety of social and recreational opportunities to choose from, and currently in development are program that will address employment and housing as our families' loved ones grow into adulthood.