Information and Referral
AuSM provides telephone services for callers to ask for community resources, referrals, and packets of information. Parents of recently diagnosed children can request parent packets which explain ASD and offer helpful tips for families. Telephone service also includes parent-to-parent networking.

Clearinghouse for National Research
Because research about autism spectrum disorders is emerging, AuSM provides information about current findings through reprints of journal articles and quarterly research review called the RAPP Sheet.

Advocacy
AuSM provides advocacy to individuals and their families regarding educational services and social services. AuSM also works through its Advocacy Committee for legislative changes which affect the lives of individuals with ASD.

Behavioral Consultation for Families and Agencies
Consultation for families and agencies is provided by a licensed clinical psychologist, Dr. Barbara Luskin PhD, LP. The focus of the consultation is to blend current research on autism with practical experience in the process of discovering the causes of behavior problems and working through practical proactive strategies. Click here to find more information.

Newsletter, Workshops, Lending Library, Lectures and Listserv
AuSM publishes a newsletter, "The Society's Page," to keep members informed about events related to ASD and to provide information helpful to families. Workshops and lectures presented by national speakers are offered throughout the year. The AuSM library is open daily to the public. Over 1000 resources on autism can be checked out by members.  Join AuSM's listserv and keep up-to-date on events and community happenings.  Send an email with your name to ldixon@ausm.org to join.

Resource Directory

AuSM publishes a list of professional services and providers in Minnesota and Western Wisconsin who work with individuals and families with ASD.  All entries are services and/or providers that have been deemed helpful by consumers.  Their listing should not, however, be considered an endorsement or recommendation by either the Autism Society of Minnesota or its Board of Directors.  You can download the Resource Directory for free, or you may purchase a hard copy for $5.00 to cover printing and shipping.

Discovery Series, Parent Education Classes
The Discovery Series is a series of classes for parents of children recently diagnosed with ASD or Asperger's syndrome. The classes, which include insights from a variety of parents, present basic information on diagnosis, helpful intervention strategies for the home, proactive behavioral strategies, and suggestions for working with schools and service agencies.

Minnesota State Autism Conference
The Minnesota Autism Conference is held each spring, attracting over 1500 participants. The conference features national speakers on research and education, and breakout sessions where Minnesota parents, teachers, and other professionals share information. The conference also includes a special section for individuals who have ASD and their families. Both the brochure and the call for papers are available on request.

Parent Support Groups
AuSM provides a variety of support groups to meet the needs of parents (and their family members) to share problems, solutions, joy, and sorrows with one another. Most groups meet monthly. Advance registration is required. There is no cost. Call for a list of AuSM groups or click here.

Camps
AuSM offers two residential camps for children ages 9-21. Both programs feature recreation in a woodland setting and modern sleeping quarters. All sessions include swimming, boating, hiking, and group activities. Camp Hand in Hand, serving children with autism/PDD is held at Camp Knutson, Brainerd MN. Courage North's Camp Discovery, serving children with high functioning autism and Asperger's syndrome, is held near Lake George, MN. AuSM is also offering a Wilderness Inquiry Camping/Canoe trip and a Wahode Day Camp this year. Click here for a Camp brochure (PDF).

AuSM Board of Directors
AuSM is overseen by a twelve-member Board of Directors who meet monthly. Board members are parents and professionals who work with individuals with autism spectrum disorders. One member is an individual who has ASD. Any AuSM member who interested in serving as a director should contact the current board president. Board terms are for one year, beginning in June.

AuSM Committees
AuSM has a number of active committees on which members are encouraged to serve. Call AuSM to express your interest or to find out more information on committees.