Trying to figure out which service and support options fit the needs of your child or for you is not an easy task. Autism is a complex condition and navigating hundreds of systems for resources can be daunting. AuSM's Information and Referral team is available to listen, help and sort through options. Our Information and Referral team can help connect you to the many effective programs, therapists, services and support agencies. 

Get in touch with our Information and Referral team by e-mailing  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  or calling 651.647.1083 ext. 10 or ext. 19. AuSM's Information and Referral team will respond to your request as soon as possible.


Part of enhancing the lives of individuals with autism is ensuring that our laws and public policies support families living with autism. That is why AuSM is committed to being your voice at the Minnesota legislature as well as creating public policy by maintaining a presence on key committees, task forces and organizations.

AuSM publishes and sends e-newsletters twice a month to keep members informed about topics such as advocacy, AuSM services, AuSM events, other community events and more. A printed newsletter is sent to members twice per year.


The AuSM Mental Health Services team works in partnership with you to develop a plan based on your needs. For many, working with mental heath service providers is a new experience; we want you to feel comfortable and knowledgeable as we undertake this journey together, striving for positive, individual-focused goals.

AuSM Skillshops are designed for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their parents, family members and caregivers. Skillshops also are a valuable resource for educators who work with individuals affected by ASD. Intended for small groups, AuSM Skillshops allow you the opportunity to participate by discussing and solving problems on topics that concern you the most. 

Click here for more information.

Workshops and lectures presented by national speakers are offered throughout the year.

The AuSM Social Skills Program, (formerly Eagle's Nest) led by ASD experts, focuses on fostering self-awareness and self-esteem by exploring the complexities of making friends, engaging in conversations, and understanding the unwritten rules as individuals journey from the schoolyard to the workplace. Sessions for each age group will be held in the Fall, Winter and Spring.

Click here for more information.

The AuSM Discovery Series is designed for parents, family members, relatives, and caregivers of individuals who are newly diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Topics are tailored to meet specific needs on the spectrum, and participants come away with practical strategies and suggestions to help guide their journey through the age-specific stages of life.

Click here for more information.


AuSM offers camps tailored to fit the needs of children who have autism and who are ages 9-21. Our residential camp programs feature recreation in a woodland setting and modern sleeping quarters. Camp Hand in Hand, serving children with autism/PDD is held at Camp Knutson in Brainerd, Minn. Camp Discovery, serving children with high functioning autism and Asperger's syndrome, is held near Maple Lake, Minn. AuSM also offers Wahode Day Camps.

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 our members. Their listing should not, however, be considered an endorsement or recommendation by either the Autism Society of Minnesota or its Board of Directors.

Click here for the AuSM Resource Directory (pdf).

The AuSM Bookstore travels to many events throughout Minnesota including AuSM Workshops,  the annual education symposium, AuSM's annual autism conference, Steps of Hope, and more. Please visit the Recommended Books section of this site to learn more about what AuSM has to offer. Shop Amazon through AuSM to support AuSM's mission of enhancing the lives of those affected by autism.

An AuSM Membership benefit, AuSM Lending Library materials are available for loan to all current AuSM members. You may check out up to 6 items for 3 weeks at a time. By checking out library materials, you assume responsiblity for them; you may be asked to replace lost or damaged items. Visit the AuSM office to search and borrow from AuSM's extensive Lending Library.

The Minnesota Autism Conference is held each spring, attracting more than 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.


 


 
 The Autism Society of Minnesota has several committees that drive our events and advocacy efforts. One of the best ways to get involved in our organization and make a lasting impact on individuals with autism spectrum disorders is to join one of these committees.

AuSM is overseen by a Board of Directors who meets monthly. Board members are parents, educators and professionals who work with individuals with autism spectrum disorders.

Any AuSM member interested in serving as a director must complete a Board of Directors application. Board terms are for one year, beginning in June.

Keep up-to-date on the latest information about autism, events, AuSM projects, fundraisers, programs, services, advocacy and more. To join our mailing list, click here.