About FAU Center for Autism & Related DISABILITiES

Center for Autism Boca Raton

Who We Are

The Florida Atlantic University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (Florida Atlantic CARD) plays an essential role in supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and related disabilities throughout Southeast Florida. Funded by the Florida Legislature through a legislative appropriation, CARD operates as a community-based program offering a range of services and support at no cost to our constituents. These supports are designed to assist not only individuals with autism, but also their families, professionals, employers, and the broader community. CARD’s primary aim is to enhance understanding of autism, provide resources, and facilitate effective support for eligible constituents within Palm Beach, Martin, Indian River, St. Lucie, and Okeechobee counties.

As a 501(c)(3) non-profit under the Florida Atlantic Foundation, we rely on the community and our philanthropic partners or support.

 

Who We Support

Florida Atlantic CARD supports individuals of any age, with a medical diagnosis or educational eligibility, of the following:

  • Autism Spectrum Disorders (Levels 1-3)
  • Autistic Disorder
  • Asperger Syndrome
  • Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)
  • Rett Syndrome
  • Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD)
  • Dual Sensory Impairment or Deaf-Blind 
  • Sensory Impairment with another disabling condition

Florida Atlantic CARD's supports extend beyond individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) themselves to include a wide range of stakeholders within the community including but not limited to:

  • Family members and caregivers
  • Employers
  • Professionals supporting individuals with ASD and related disabilities
  • Community agencies

What We Do

Florida Atlantic CARD provides direct assistance tailored to the needs of individuals with autism and related disabilities, and their families. Consultation helps them navigate challenges and access necessary resources. The CARD team is entrenched in the community, building infrastructure and bridges to enhance the capacity of our communities to support individuals with autism and related disabilities more effectively. Professional development is provided to teachers and professionals, creating opportunities to expand knowledge and skills in working with individuals with autism and related disabilities. Public education events are held in the community to promote an increased understanding of autism while distributing informational materials to provide valuable updates to stakeholders and connecting individuals and families with relevant community resources.

Florida Atlantic CARD provides a comprehensive array of services aimed at enhancing support for individuals with autism and related disabilities, as well as their families and the community at large.

  1. Direct Assistance to Individuals and Families:
    • Direct support and assistance tailored to the needs of individuals with autism and related disabilities, helping them navigate challenges and access necessary resources.
  1. Consultation and Assistance with Schools and Community Agencies:
    • Support to schools and other community agencies to improve their capacity to support individuals with autism and related disabilities effectively.
  1. Trainings for Family Members:
    • Training sessions for family members to enhance their understanding of autism and develop skills to better support their loved ones.
  1. Professional Development for Teachers and Professionals:
    • Trainings for teachers and professionals to expand knowledge and skills in working with individuals with autism and related disabilities.
  1. Public Education:
    • Public awareness events to promote understanding of autism within the broader community.
  1. Information Dissemination:
    • Development and distribution of informational materials, newsletters, emails to provide valuable information and updates to stakeholders.
  1. Referrals Community Agencies:
    • Connecting individuals and families with relevant community resources and agencies to ensure comprehensive support and services.
  1. Supporting Businesses:
    • Assisting businesses in creating inclusive environments and providing guidance on accommodating individuals with autism in the workplace.

What We Don’t Do

It is important to recognize that there are some activities beyond the scope of our work. These include the following:

  1. Direct Therapy Provider:
    • Florida Atlantic CARD and its staff do not administer direct therapy to children or adults with autism or related disabilities.
  1. Assessment, Testing, or Diagnosis:
    • Florida Atlantic CARD does not conduct assessments, testing, or diagnostic evaluations for autism spectrum disorder or related disabilities. Referrals to qualified professionals or agencies that offer these services can be provided to individuals seeking diagnostic assistance.
  1. Advocacy Services:
    • While Florida Atlantic CARD does not offer advocacy services directly, referrals to individuals to organizations or groups specializing in advocacy for individuals with autism and related disabilities are available