Autism Community Network empowers families and caregivers to create Big Futures for their autistic loved ones. Located in the heart of San Antonio, Autism Community Network is a nonprofit that offers autism screenings, autism diagnostics, and PACT autism therapy, among many other family-focused autism programs. Empowering families to create BIG futures. Autism Community Network is the expert autism organization of South Texas, here to provide innovative and evidence-based support focused on enhancing quality of life and self-actualization for neurodiverse children and the village supporting them. Start Now "I am proud to support the important and impactful work ACN provides our community." -Corinna Holt Richter President and Chief Administrative Officer HOLT CAT Donate About our organization. Autism Community Network is a non-profit organization identifying as an ally of the neurodiversity movement, focused on empowerment, connection, and communication between exceptional children, their loving families, and their communities. Read More We are in this together . At ACN, autism empowerment is personal. The majority of our Board of Directors, clinical and administrative staff, doctors, and leaders/advisors are parents or family members of neurodivergent individuals or are neurodiverse ourselves. We know firsthand the pathways that our caregivers face. We've traveled them too, and we are dedicated to making sure you don’t travel them alone. At Autism Community Network, we are committed to illuminating the strengths of your children, while supporting those areas in which they may struggle. We bring together familial and professional caregivers, autistic self-advocates and researchers to assure that the research-backed services we offer are cutting edge. Through autism screenings, diagnostic evaluations, child-led therapies, parent empowerment groups, and educational classes we can provide the necessary resources to better outcomes in a BIG way. We are here to walk beside you, to help you harness your own strengths, to form a circle of security around you, and to support you in learning to advocate for your child until your child can advocate for him or herself. Assessments Autism Diagnostic Pathways ACN provides strengths-based autism screenings and medical diagnostic evaluations, individually tailored to meet each unique family's needs. ACN offers both telehealth and in-person evaluations. Additionally, we provide assessments in both Spanish and English. Read More Therapy Therapeutic Offerings ACN proudly leads the nation in bringing innovative, neurodiversity-affirming approaches to familial and professional caregivers in the United States. Our agency offers holistic and parent-mediated interventions for children and families impacted by autism and developmental differences. Read More Outreach & Advocacy Neurodiversity ACN prioritizes formal partnerships and alliances with like-minded organizations supporting the autistic community. We endeavor to create harmony, relational safety a wider network of support and a broader understanding of neurodiversity. Read More Professional & Familial Caregivers Caregiver Empowerment At ACN we believe the caregiver is the expert of their child. We also believe that when a child receives a diagnosis, so too does the whole family system. We work diligently to surround the family, much like a herd, to walk alongside them on their journey. Read More Events Fundraising Events ACN is proud to host our premier fundraising event, Le Brunch des Chapeaux, every April as a fun kickoff to San Antonio's FIESTA season. We close out the year with another fundraising event, All Tee'd Up for Autism Golf Tournament in the fall. Read More Collaboration & Training Mentorship & Training Students of all ages choose ACN as a training site because of the strong reputation of our clinic staff. We are happy to host the next generation of young professionals as they discern if early childhood developmental differences is something they want to pursue. Read More Autism community Network provides Autism Diagnosis San Antonio, Autism Therapy San Antonio, PACT Therapy, ABA Therapy alternatives, and Autism Screenings in San Antonio Finding resources should be easy. At Autism Community Network, we strive to make the San Antonio community more accessible for people living with autism and those who care for them. Resources at your fingertips. Autism is a unique journey for every family. ACN’s staff has researched and curated a collection of trusted local, national, and international supports and educational offerings. These resources are meant to supplement your journey as you travel along your pathways in relationship with ACN. Resource Library Renee T, TX "Be a part of the change ACN is bringing to autistic children and their families in San Antonio and South Texas." Joseph D, TX "Through a stroke of luck we came across ACN, and the people at ACN have helped us understand our child better and the best way to support his challenges. Be it the therapists working with our child or the Coffee & Connections sessions on Friday; every interaction is a positive one." Lisa M, TX "You know, there are just so many people out there that claim they know what is best. 'Oh you should try this', or 'maybe try that.' Most of them are just random voices online. ACN was really there to work along side us and took the time to get to know our kiddo. There is no one-size-fits-all method for all this. Each child presents so differently." Get Involved - Make a lasting impact! Donate Monetary donations of any amount make our work possible and sustainable. The board and staff of ACN greatly appreciate your financial consideration and support. It is only through the generosity of our individual and community donors that we can continue the important work on behalf of the neurodiverse community. For additional information please email info@acn-sa.org . Donate Volunteer ACN welcomes enthusiastic individuals willing to support the children and caregivers we serve. Opportunities include, but are not limited to, special events, family events, quality-of-life programming, and administrative support. If you are interested in volunteering for ACN, please email info@acn-sa.org . Volunteer Powered by: Understanding Executive Functioning and How to Support It Katie Benson Jan 21 6 min read Cultivating Comfort and Community Through Presence This Holiday Season Katie Benson Dec 4, 2025 5 min read 🎃Navigating Halloween with Neurodiversity in Mind 🎃 Katie Benson Oct 23, 2025 2 min read

Resource Library Our Resource Library provides a compilation of helpful resources aimed at helping parents and caregivers navigate the world of autism in San Antonio. Here, you can find a variety of useful materials such as educational materials, support groups, and counseling services, as well as links to other relevant organizations, all tailored to the needs of the autism community in San Antonio. While we've gathered these resources for you, ACN does not directly or indirectly endorse any product or service that will be provided by these organizations. Categories ADULT & TRANSITION AGE SERVICES Here you will find a curated collection of day programs and vocational programs in Central Texas ADVOCACY Advocating for Progress: Resources and Support for Advocates and Activists in the Autism Community AUTISM DIAGNOSIS Navigating the Diagnostic Journey: Support and Information for Families Seeking an Autism Diagnosis CAMPS & RECREATION Fun, Friendship, and Growth: Summer Camps and Recreation Programs for Autistic Individuals CASE MANAGEMENT & FAMILY SERVICES Comprehensive Care and Support: Case Management and Family Services for Autistic Individuals CHILDCARE Quality Care and Support: Resources and Information for Childcare Providers Serving Autistic Children COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE Building Strong Communities: Resources and Community-Based Assistance for Autistic Individuals EARLY CHILDHOOD INTERVENTION Early Intervention for Positive Outcomes: Resources and Support for Early Childhood Intervention in Autism EDUCATION Empowering Students with Autism: Resources and Support for Inclusive and Accessible Education FUNDING & MEDICAID WAIVERS Accessing Autism Services: Resources and Support for Funding and Medicaid Waivers MEDICAL Comprehensive Care and Support: Resources and Info for Medical Services for Autistic Individuals MONEY MANAGEMENT & ESTATE PLANNING Securing Your Future: Money Management and Estate Planning for Families of Autistic Individuals NUTRITION PROGRAMS Accessing Nutritional Services: Strategies and Tools for Families of Autistic Individuals PARENT EDUCATION Collaborating with Professionals: A Guide to Parent Education and Support in Autism RESIDENTIAL SERVICES Supporting Independent Living: Strategies and Tools for Accessing and Navigating Residential Services RESPITE SERVICES Taking Care of Caregivers: Resources and Support for Respite Services for Families of Autistic Individuals STATE & FEDERAL SUPPORT Accessing Government Support: Resources & Support for State and Federal Assistance for Autistic Individuals SUPPORT GROUPS Connecting with Others: Resources and Support for Support Groups for Families and Autistic Individuals THERAPY RESOURCES Therapy resources for traditional Occupational & Speech therapy across South Texas TRANSPORTATION Promoting Independence: A Guide to Transportation and Support for Autistic Individuals

Reserve Your Spot Now! Tickets, tables, and sponsorship information below. Bet on BIG Futures! Your donation makes a direct impact in the lives of the children and their families who walk through our doors each each day. With your support, we can continue to provide life-changing services at ACN. Why Support ACN? Event proceeds will be used to support autistic children and the people who love them. ACN provides diagnostic services, innovative therapies, camps and after school clubs, support groups, educational offerings, free community events and more. All in For ACN Casino Night Order Form After clicking “Submit,” you will automatically be redirected to our payment page. First name Last name Email Ticket, Table, or Sponsorship Opportunity If purchasing individual tickets, how many? Submit

All About All in for Autism Place your bets on BIG futures! On Friday, October 30, from 6–10 PM at Club Giraud , guests will step into an Old Hollywood Glamour–inspired evening filled with classic casino games, signature cocktails, and chef-curated selections from Club Giraud. Sparkling conversation, lively music, and exciting raffle prizes set the stage for a night to remember. This glittering night promises lively gaming, elegant dining, and the joy of knowing your play creates lasting impact . Dress in Black Tie or Formal – Old Hollywood Glamour is encouraged and prepare to roll the dice for a cause that changes lives. Whether you sponsor a table, purchase individual tickets, or simply come to play, every chip on the table helps build a more inclusive, neurodiversity-affirming future. Reserve Your Spot How to Attend Whether you’d like to bring a full table of friends, attend with a single Joker ticket, or make a bigger impact as an event sponsor, there’s a perfect way for you to go All in for ACN. The evening calls for Old Hollywood Glamour – Black Tie or Formal . Think timeless Old Hollywood glamour—cocktail dresses, floor-length gowns, and sharp suits or tuxedos are all welcome. Think classic silhouettes, luxe fabrics, statement accessories, and a touch of vintage movie-star elegance. Individual Tickets ● $200 per guest ● Enjoy a full evening of casino-style games, signature cocktails, artisan dishes, and raffle prizes Table Purchase Options Ideal for companies, friend groups, or families who want to celebrate and support ACN together. Various sponsorship opportunities available. HIGH ROLLERS - $5,000 This VIP table for 8 comes with elevated favors and table decor, a premier seating location and two bottles of chilled champagne waiting for you on your reserved table! CARD SHARK - $2,500 Reserved table for 8 attendees. Enjoy dinner, drinks, live entertainment and all of the fun and glam of this signature event! Reserve Your Tickets Now Sponsorship Opportunities Elevate your impact and visibility while supporting autistic children and their families. Sponsorships include premium seating, recognition, and added perks such as raffle tickets and casino chips. Every chip played and every dollar raised goes directly toward Autism Community Network’s mission to provide diagnostic services, innovative therapies, camps and clubs, caregiver education, and free community events that strengthen and celebrate neurodiverse families. Become a Sponsor A Full House — $25,000 CASINO & AGENCY ATTENDEE SPONSOR Two reserved tables of eight AND one respite table donated for families to attend, elevated favors, table signage, event signage, 10 raffle tickets and $300 in chips per attendee! (Unused reserve seating will be allocated to respite attendees.) Texas Hold'em — $15,000 VENUE SPONSOR Two reserved tables of eight, elevated favors, table and event signage, 8 raffle tickets and $250 in chips per attendee! High Stakes — $10,000 DINNER SPONSOR One reserved table of eight, elevated favors, table and event signage, 6 raffle tickets and $200 in chips per attendee! Royal Flush — $5,000 COCKTAIL SPONSOR One reserved table of eight, table and event signage, your company logo on the evening’s cocktail napkins, 16 raffle tickets, and $800 in chips! Become a Sponsor Ace of Smoke — $5,000 CIGAR SPONSOR Reserved seating for two people, event signage, 10 raffle tickets, and $500 in chips! Lucky Hand — $3,000 DESSERT SPONSOR OR SMALL PLATES SPONSOR Reserved seating for two people, event signage, 10 raffle tickets, and $500 in chips! Winning Pour — $2,500 SIGNATURE COCKTAIL SPONSOR Reserved seating two people, table and event signage, 6 raffle tickets and $500 in chips! Garden of Luck — $2,000 FLORAL SPONSOR Reserved seating for two people, event signage, and $500 in chips! House of Fortune — $1,000 CASINO TABLE SPONSOR (4 AVAILABLE) Reserved seating for two people, event signage, and $250 in chips! Jackpot Sponsor — $1,000 RESPITE SPONSOR (4 AVAILABLE) Reserved Seating for two AND two additional respite seats donated for parents, table signage, 4 raffle tickets, and $200 in chips! High Rollers — $5,000 This VIP table for 8 comes with elevated favors and table decor, a premier seating location and two bottles of chilled champagne waiting for you on your reserved table! Card Shark — $2,500 Reserved table for 8 attendees. Enjoy dinner, drinks, live entertainment and all of the fun and glam of this signature event! Event Details Date & Location Friday, October 30 · 6:00–10:00 PM Club Giraud 707 N St Mary's St. San Antonio, TX 78205 [view map ] Ample on-site parking is available. The club is fully accessible; if you need specific accommodations, please email info@acn-sa.org. Dining & Drink If you or a guest have dietary restrictions, kindly email info@acn-sa.org so we can ensure an exceptional experience for everyone. Reserve Your Tickets Now Games & Entertainment Place your bets on a variety of classic casino experiences, including: Craps tables Blackjack tables Roulette tables (additional games to be announced) Enjoy a festive atmosphere with live entertainment and a dedicated cigar area for guests wishing to indulge in a selection of fine cigars. Raffle Prizes Try your luck with exciting raffle drawings offering premium prize packages. Every ticket purchased fuels ACN’s mission to support autistic children and their families. Dress Code The evening calls for Black Tie or Formal – Old Hollywood Glamour is encouraged. C ocktail dresses, floor-length gowns, and sharp suits or tuxedos are all welcome. Think classic silhouettes, luxe fabrics, statement accessories, and a touch of vintage movie-star elegance. Why Support ACN Every chip played and every raffle ticket purchased at All in for ACN helps Autism Community Network create BIG futures for autistic children and the people who love them. Proceeds from Casino Night directly fund ACN’s year-round programs and services, including: Early and accurate diagnosis so families can access vital supports at the right time. Innovative and evidence-based therapies and supports such as Pediatric Autism Communication Therapy (PACT), sensory-based interventions, and neurodiversity-affirming care. Enriching camps and after-school clubs, where children build skills and confidence in a sensory-safe environment Family and caregiver education through free programs such as Coffee & Connections. Free community events that reduce stigma, strengthen relationships, and celebrate neurodiversity. By attending or sponsoring Casino Night, you help ensure that children across San Antonio—especially those in historically underserved neighborhoods—receive compassionate, evidence-based care and opportunities to thrive. Your evening of fun makes a lasting impact! Together we can build a community where autistic individuals are celebrated, supported, and empowered to live their fullest lives. Reserve Your Tickets Now

Autism Community Network Annual Fall Summit Toward Neuroharmony: Welcome to the Autism Renaissance Keynote Speaker: Elizabeth Torres, PhD Plenary Speaker: Rosemary White, OTR/L Friday, October 2, 2026 ACN 2026 Summit Conference Day Location: Tobin Center for the Performing Arts: 100 Auditorium Cir, San Antonio, TX 78205 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM Saturday, October 3, 2026 Clinical Intensive Training Day Location: Autism Community Network: 535 Bandera Rd. San Antonio, TX 78228 8:15 AM - 4:30 PM Click here to learn more about Clinical Intensive Keynote: Elizabeth Torres, PhD Clinical Scholar, Neurodiversity Ally, and Head of the Rutger's University Sensory-Motor Integration Lab Please find more information on Dr. Torres and ACN Summit 2026, Toward Neuroharmony below. To register for the event, click below. REGISTER Agenda 7:30 - 8:15 AM Registration, Breakfast, and Resource Fair 8:15 - 9:45 AM Keynote Address 10:00 - 11:15 AM Morning Breakout Sessions Caregiver, Educator, and Clinician Tracks 11:30 - 12:30 PM Lunch & Learn: Experts by Experience Panel 12:45 - 1:30 PM Second Keynote Address 1:40 - 2:40 PM Plenary Address 2:45 - 4:00 PM The Every Voice Matters Panel 4:00 - 4:30 PM Closing Ceremony Summit Sessions. KEYNOTE ADDRESS: Autism: The Movement Sensing Perspective Time Presenter/Facilitator 8:15-9:45 AM Elizabeth Torres, PhD Outcomes & Disclosures Caregiver Track: AM Breakout Session Listening Differently: How to Honor Your Autistic Child’s Brilliance, Autonomy, and Voice Time Presenter/Facilitator 10:00-11:15 AM Tiffany Hammond Outcomes & Disclosures Educator Track: AM Breakout Session: Brains, Behavior, and Belonging Time Presenter/Facilitator 10:00-11:15 AM Rebecca Engle, MEd Outcomes & Disclosures Clinician Track: AM Breakout Session: The Movement Sensing Perspective UNPACKED Time Presenter/Facilitator 10:00-11:15 AM Rosemary White, OTR/L Outcomes & Disclosures Expertise by Experience: Amplifying Autistic Voices Panel Time Presenter/Facilitator Lunch & Learn - 11:30 AM-12:30 PM TBD Outcomes & Disclosures Second Keynote Address: Autism Autonomy: In Search of our Human Dignity Time Presenter/Facilitator 12:45-1:30 PM Elizabeth Torres, PhD Outcomes & Disclosures Plenary Address: Supporting Individual Differences While Promoting Relationships through DIR®/Floortime Time Presenter/Facilitator 1:40 - 2:40 PM Rosemary White, OTR/L Outcomes & Disclosures The "Every Voice Matters" Panel Time Presenter/Facilitator 2:45-4:00 PM Dr. Carrie Alvarado, PhD, OTR Outcomes & Disclosures Clinical Intensive Day -Additional Day of training for Professionals only 10/3/2026- At Autism Community Network Time Presenter/Facilitator 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Dr. Elizabeth Torres and Rosemary White, OTR/L Outcomes & Disclosures PENDING APPROVAL Autism Community Network is a registered CPE provider for the Texas Education Agency. ASHA CE Provider approval and use of the Brand Block does not imply endorsement of course content, specific products, or clinical procedures This program is designed to meet BHEC continuing education requirements for Texas behavioral health professionals. Fees. Availability based on venue capacity. Packages are sold on a first come first served basis. Early Bird Registration (June 12 - August 16) $125 Regular Registration (August 4 - September 30) $150 Late Registration (October 1-2) $175 Caregivers / Adult Autists Scholarships Available $100 Group Rate/Students Email Carrie@acn-sa.org Conference and Clinical Intensive Bundle (10/2 & 10/3) - $200 Clinical Intensive Day only (10/3) - $125 ACN Clinical Intensive Day - 10/3/2026 Learn more about our Clinical Intensive Day Polices & Procedures. Accommodations Search Find the full policy here. We strive to create a conference experience that is accessible to all. Our goal is to identify and address any barriers that may prevent full participation, in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other relevant legislation. Refunds Search Find the full policy here. We understand that circumstances may change, and you may need to cancel your registration for our conference. Our refund policy is designed to be fair and transparent, ensuring that attendees can plan with confidence. Complaint Policy Search Find the full policy here. We are dedicated to maintaining a high standard of service and support. We encourage attendees to provide feedback and report any concerns or complaints. All complaints will be treated with respect and confidentiality. Sponsors Sponsorship Opportunities Search For more information on sponsorship opportunities, please email Cortney@acn-sa.org For more information on becoming a vendor/exhibitor, please email Carrie@acn-sa.org Star Additional Information. For questions related to credentialing information and receiving CEUs, scholarships, or any other information not included on this page or the registration website, please reach out to Carrie@acn-sa.org .

In the news. Get the latest in autism news here. Apr 20, 2024 Spurs coach Gregg Popovich's support of autism acceptance reached global audience His inclusive message about the need not to treat autistic people as the "other" touched those with the disability and their advocates. Read More Apr 2, 2024 SAPD cadets learn how to respond to incidents involving people with autism San Antonio nonprofits have teamed up to create a training program to help San Antonio police cadets better understand autism spectrum disorders. Read More Feb 4, 2024 LOCAL Closer Look: Autism Community Network Felipe Aguilar talks with Adrienne Gaither, Director of Caregiver Empowerment and Occupational Therapist, Autism Community Network (ACN) in San Antonio. Read More Dec 20, 2023 Sound and vision: How San Antonio is building inclusivity in arts and culture Sensory-friendly events are primarily designed to accommodate those with autism spectrum disorder who might have difficulties adjusting behaviors to social situations or communicating their needs effectively. Read More Aug 28, 2023 'Emergent and transactional': How Jonathan Green is Rethinking Autism and Interventions Jonathan Green is professor of child and adolescent psychiatry at the University of Manchester in the United Kingdom and an honorary consultant child and adolescent psychiatrist. He is also a long-practicing clinician. In this interview, he discusses the genesis of his recent article, “Debate: Neurodiversity, autism and healthcare,” and how it has been received by colleagues and the neurodiversity self-advocate community. There have been two commentaries published in response to Green’s article, with a third still in production. Read More Mar 27, 2023 Pediatric Autism Communication Therapy Improved Long-Term Child Outcomes Pediatric Autism Communication Therapy is currently the only scientifically evidenced early social communication intervention to demonstrate long-term improved child social communication outcomes into middle childhood. Read More Jun 18, 2022 We Should Tell Children They Are Autistic As Soon As Possible Many parents in our community feel they don’t know the “right” way or time to tell autistic children about their autism. For this reason, we are grateful for a recent study showing that “it is probably best to tell people they are autistic as soon as possible.” We talked with Bella Kofner, an author on the study who is also autistic, about what the study reveals; the personal experience of being told about one’s own autism; why it is crucial for autism research to include autistic direction; and some takeaways for both parents and/or autistic people themselves. Read More

Who we are. At Autism Community Network, we are passionate about empowering families and caregivers to be the principal advocates, caregivers, and champions in their children’s lives. Our mission is to provide support, education and resources to those affected by autism. We strive to make a difference in the lives of autistic individuals and their families by providing educational resources, support groups, and community events. Our goal is to ensure that those affected by autism get the support and resources they need to lead a successful life. Our organization. Autism Community Network (ACN) was established as a 501(c)(3) in 2008 by a consortium of health care funders concerned about the lack of child development services available to children suspected of having autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This initiative was led by Palmer Moe, former executive manager of the Kronkosky Charitable Foundation. ACN addresses the diagnostic, therapeutic, educational, and recreational needs of families impacted by autism living in South Texas. Our mission. Our mission is to maximize the potential of children with autism by providing early diagnosis for those with limited access and educating and empowering the community to support them. Elephant-sized values. You may have noticed our larger-than-life mascot. As an autism nonprofit dedicated to forming relationships and nurturing the wellness of the autism ecosystem, we thought of nothing more fitting than the elephant. Elephants live in tightly bonded herds, also known as “packs” or “parades.” The herd, led by the oldest and largest matriarch, can consist of up to 100 individual elephants. Known for their high intellect and ability to store memories, elephants have been observed to display signs of emotions such as playfulness, joy, anger, and grief. These beautiful giants communicate through subsonic rumbles, which travel through the earth under their feet more quickly than through the air above them. Interestingly, elephants receive the rumbling messages through the skin on their feet and trunks, indicating highly attuned sensory systems. When a baby calf is born, the entire herd helps to raise and protect their young. ACN believes our commitment to holistic community support mirrors this natural phenomenon, and we are happy to take cues from our mammalian friends! Read More Team Our team. Tiffany Fresher Chief Executive Officer Read More Adrienne Gaither, OTR, CSIPT, C/NDT Chief Programs Officer & Occupational Therapist Read More Teresa Camacho Medical Billing Manager Read More Gabriel Gonzalez, OTD, OTR/L Bilingual Occupational Therapist Read More Jarrod Purkeypile, MA CCC-SLP Speech Language Pathologist Read More Angela Sanchez-Concha Caregiver Coordinator Read More Carrie Alvarado, PhD, OTR Chief Operating Officer Read More Cortney John, MA Chief Development & Outreach Officer Read More Casey Garza, MPA Community Engagement Coordinator Read More Cathy Kersey Accounting Manager Read More Arjai Ramos Front Desk Coordinator Read More Anna Paola Smith, LCSW Licensed Clinical Social Worker Read More Alma Patricia del Angel, MD Chief Medical Officer & Developmental Behavioral Pediatrician Read More Vanessa Amaya Referral Coordinator Read More Noelia Cheatham Billing Specialist Read More Lisa Martinez-Jimenez Board Certified Behavior Analyst Read More Nicolle Reyna, MS CCC-SLP Speech Language Pathologist Read More Reach out. Each family's journey with autism is AUsomely unique. Let our staff walk beside you on your pathway. Start Now Our board of directors. OFFICERS Joshua Behnke - President Behnke Legal Consulting, PLLC Denise Garcia - Vice President Texas Partners Bank Matthew Occhipinti - Treasurer Northwestern Mutual Greg Hanson, DO, FAAP - Secretary Southwest Children's Cente r MEMBERS Wendy Faldet HEB Beth Jones Assistant Superintendent - SAISD Manny Nsien President and CEO of Superior Living Foundation Ursula Pari Former KSAT 12 News Anchor & CEO of San Antonio Polo Club Michael Thompson Merrill Lynch Kristen Williams, PhD Executive Director of Disability Services - SAISD, Retired Ashley Yarborough Advocate/Sibling Bobby Sims Jr. HEB – Senior Facility Leader of Super Regional (Dry Grocery) Neurodiversity-Affirming Practice Advisory Committee. We're excited to introduce our Neurodiversity-Affirming Practice Advisory Committee. This committee, including neurodiverse individuals of all stripes, serves to provide our board and our staff with ongoing guidance and support from a position of lived experience to assure our consistent alignment with strengths-based and neurodiversity-affirming practice.

< Back FUNDING & MEDICAID WAIVERS About Waiver Services Our funding and Medicaid waiver resources provide information on funding and support programs available to individuals with autism and their families. These resources can help families access financial support for necessary services and supports. FUNDING & MEDICAID WAIVERS AACOG, Alamo Local Authority for IDD 210.832.5020 Web: https://www.aacog.com/IDDServices 8700 Tesoro Dr., Ste. 160, SA TX 78217 Provides Eligibility Determination (autism is a related condition), service coordination for General Revenue Services and Texas Home Living program, enrollment into the Home and Community-Based services program, In-Home Family Support Program and admissions into Intermediate Care Facilities-MR and State Schools Bluebonnet Trails Community Services 844.309.6385 Web: https://bbtrails.org/autism/ 1009 North Georgetown St., Round Rock, Texas 78664 A family-centered approach to teaching individuals’ skills necessary to succeed in the home, school and community (Bastrop, Burnet, Caldwell, Fayette, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Hays, Lee, Travis, and Williamson counties). Camino Real Community Services 210.357.0300 Web: www.caminorealcs.org P.O. Box 725, Lytle, TX 78052 Early Childhood Intervention Services, Mental Health Services, Intellectual & Developmental Disability Services. Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS) 877.438.5658 Web: Click Here Provides home- and community-based services such as respite care, nursing services, adaptive aids/supplies, home modifications and other related services; long interest lists. Disability Benefits Assistance 210.732.6078 814 West Euclid Ave, SA TX 78212 This program offers assistance and information for people with disabilities who are applying for benefits. Hill Country MHDD Centers 830.792.3300 Web: http://www.hillcountry.org 819 Water Street, Ste. 300, Kerrville, Texas 78028 Providing mental health, individual developmental disability, and substance abuse, services throughout the greater Texas Hill Country (Bandera, Blanco, Comal, Edwards, Gillespie, Hays, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, Kinney, Llano, Mason, Medina, Menard, Real, Schleicher, Sutton, Uvalde, and Val Verde counties) Home and Community Based Services (HCS) 210.832.5020 8700 Tesoro Dr., Ste. 160, SA TX 78217 Intake application: Click Here About: Click here HCS is a Medicaid waiver program that supplies services and supports to Texans with an intellectual disability (ID) or a related condition so that they can live in the community. HCS services are intended to supplement rather than replace services received from other programs, such as Texas Health Steps, or from natural supports, including families, neighbors or community organizations. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) 1.800.772.1213 Web: http://ssa.gov/ Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is a federally run benefits program that provides aid to people who are unable to achieve gainful employment due to a permanent disabling condition. SSDI is financed by the Social Security tax. Therefore, any person that qualifies as disabled according to the definition provided by Social Security Administration (SSA); and who has paid Social Security taxes long enough to achieve sufficient work credits; can qualify for SSDI. Social Security Disability Insurance; also known as SSDI or SSD; provides income to individuals no longer able to work because of a physically or psychologically restrictive disability. SSDI is funded by payroll taxes and does not depend on the recipient’s income level; as it is based solely on work history and the degree of disability. Supplemental Security Income; or SSI; offers monetary assistance to low-income individuals who are at least age 65; blind; and/ or disabled. SSI pays cash benefits to supplement the cost of food; clothing; and shelter. Provides Medicaid coverage and monthly cash assistance to eligible individuals; eligibility is based on citizenship status, financial status and disability. TX Dept. Of Aging & Disability Services-Medically Dependent Children Program (MDCP) 1.877.438.5658 Web: Click Here The program provides services to support families caring for children and young adults who are medically dependent and assist with the transition of children in nursing homes. Services include: Adaptive aids; adjunct supports; minor home modifications; financial management services; respite services; transition assistance services and more. To qualify, applicants must have a child with a disability less than 21 years of age; be a U.S. Citizen or an alien with approved status who lives in Texas; be low income and eligible for Medicaid; must meet the medical necessity determination for nursing home care and cannot be currently enrolled in another waiver program. Call to get on the interest list. Previous Next

< Back Adrienne Gaither, OTR, CSIPT, C/NDT Chief Programs Officer & Occupational Therapist Adrienne Gaither has been a pediatric occupational therapist for over 25 years. She received her degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and began her pediatric therapy career, eventually gaining experience in every setting available for the provision of children’s Occupational Therapy services. Adrienne has had the opportunity to serve as a member of ACN’s team since 2009. She is a Pediatric Autism Communication Therapy Accredited Practitioner, supporting families impacted by autism through dyadic coaching and a part of ACN’s interdisciplinary diagnostic team that uses a strength-based, neurodiversity-affirming approach to address the unique presentation of the child and family. Adrienne also holds specialty pediatric certification in the Sensory Integration and Praxis Tests (SIPT) and has completed advanced training in Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) for children. Locally, Adrienne had the privilege of serving on the planning team for the development of Morgan’s Wonderland; in particular, contributing recommendations for the Sensory Village portion of the park. In addition to her work with ACN, Adrienne is a part-time Program Director and Sensory Consultant with Kinetic Kids, Inc., a local non-profit agency providing sports and recreation activities for children and teenagers with special needs. When she is not working, Adrienne enjoys life with her husband, 2 children, and 2 dogs, running, singing, and traveling. adrienne@acn-sa.org (210) 435-1000

< Back Alma Patricia del Angel, MD Chief Medical Officer & Developmental Behavioral Pediatrician Dr. A Patricia Del Angel graduated from medical school at the Universidad Autonoma de Tamaulipas. She did her pediatric residency training at Lincoln Hospital and Mental Health Center/New York Medical College, where she also served as chief resident. In addition, she completed a fellowship in child development-behavioral pediatrics at King Drew Medical Center in Los Angeles, and received her specialist certification in infant mental health from the Early Childhood Center at Cedars Sinai in Los Angeles. Dr. Del Angel has most recently served as a pediatrician at People’s Clinic in Austin and as a developmental-behavioral specialist in the pediatric residency program at UTMB Austin. Previously, Dr. Del Angel was the clinical director of the Southwest Area Children’s Hub in Los Angeles for thirteen years. She is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Del Angel is the proud aunt to two neurodivergent children. ap.delangel@acn-sa.org (210) 435-1000