Through Steps of Hope Support Grants, the Autism Society of Minnesota awards thousands of dollars each year to worthy proposals supporting individuals of all ages with autism.  These grants are made possible because of the generous donations AuSM receives at our annual Steps of Hope fundraising walk. It is our hope that these grants will stimulate creativity, encourage successful programming and expand opportunities for individuals living with ASD for many to come.

In 2009, $24,131 was awarded to 31 projects.  Projects funded for individuals, families, schools and adult facilities included vital therapy options for individuals of all ages, social skills classes, support groups for parents and siblings, increased home security and much, much more.

Steps of Hope support grants should encourage teambuilding. Proposals that maximize collaboration and partnerships with other organizations that support people living with ASD will be our priority in 2010. A SOH Grant must benefit children or adults with ASD who live in our membership area. Grants can be used to support projects at school, in a work or day program setting, in a residence or group home or in the family home.

A Grant Selection Committee will evaluate all proposals. A maximum of $1,000 will be awarded to the winning proposals. AuSM will only consider on proposal from an individual , family, school or organization. Multiple proposals will not be considered, so please coordinate your efforts with staff and co-workers.

Steps of Hope Support Grants cannot be used to fund the following:
Projects initiated prior to August 31, 2010
Monetary compensation for the applicant
Long term use of medications or dietary supplements
Maintence expenses for service animals
Food and beverages for social events
Proposals from employees and/or board members of AuSM or their families, directly impacting their situation
Camps or summer programming
Proposals from individuals or organizations awarded a grant in 2009

Check out past Steps of Hope grant winners!

Click here to download a list of past grants (PDF)

2010 Steps of Hope Grant Proposal Application: Due Friday, June 28, 2010
If you would like to apply for a Steps of Hope grant in 2010, click on the link below to download the grant guidelines and application form. The form can be completed online by tabbing through the application. Hand written applications should be clearly printed.  Proposals must be postmarked or hand-delivered by 5:00 pm on Friday, June 28, 2010 to AuSM.  AuSM will not accept or consider proposals delivered via fax or email.
Click here to download a Grant Proposal Application for 2010 (DOC)

2009 Grant Award Evaluation: Due June 1, 2010
If you received a Steps of Hope Support Grant in 2009, please download the evaluation form below and return to AuSM.   These forms are due in our office by June 1, 2010.

Click here to download a Grant Evaluation for 2009 (DOC)