Our efforts are focused on meaningful participation and self-determination in all aspects of life for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. We promote individual, parental and guardian choice to assure that people on the autism spectrum are treated with dignity and respect. It is our belief that no single program or treatment will benefit all individuals with autism. Furthermore, the recommendation of what is “best” or “most effective” for a person with autism should be determined by those people directly involved – the individual with autism, to the extent possible, and the parents or family members.

As part of the nation’s leading grassroots autism organization, our chapter exists to improve the lives of all (from 0- adult) affected by autism. We do this by increasing public awareness about the day-to-day issues faced by people on the spectrum, advocating for appropriate services for individuals across the lifespan, and providing the latest information regarding treatment, education, research and advocacy.

 Join our free email list and receive a monthly notice of upcoming events and resources focusing on Autism Spectrum Disorder. 

• E-Newsletter.  Distributed twice a month to over 600 families and professionals with the latest in autism news and events in the Inland Empire.
• Information and referral.  Free service by email or phone.  Contact ieasa@sbcglobal.net or (909) 204-4142 x339.
• Parent-to-parent support.  Talk to a parent who has experience in advocating, educating and living with ASD.  Contact Karen Wilgus at (951) 340-0894 or karen4autism@yahoo.com.
• Teen & Young Adult Group in Murrieta (recommended ages 14-24 years).  Meets at least twice a month for a fun event.  Occasionally have lectures on topics that pertain to adults and adolescents on the spectrum.  Contact Kelly Londenberg at (951) 678-8666 or autismtoday@aol.com
• Social Recreation Programs.  In a state-wide survey done in March 2009, the Autism Society of California found that 53% of parents reported that their child had no friends.  The lack of social skills was the number one concern of parents of children of all ages here in California.  It's a simple idea - people make friends with others with the same or similar interest.  We are working hard to give our children, teens and adults a chance to socialize in a safe place with others that have the same interest. 

• Art Classes - We are currently offering art classes in Corona and Colton taught by Ms. Linda Cooper from MonArt Corona.  Students will learn the elements of shape and how to use them in creating drawings from a variety of realistic, abstract, and expressionistic styles. 

• Cooking Classes on Saturdays in Claremont - Sat, 24th- from 9:30am -10:30am at the Young Chef Academy in Claremont .   Sign up directly with the Academy at (909) 625-7505.

• DANCE CLASSES BEING OFFERED THE HIGH DESERT - Beginning dance class for tweens, teens and young adults.  Come have fun with us and learn simple dance steps and routines to popular music.  Absolutely no dance experience required! Limit of 8 people.  Cost is $50 per person for the 5 week session.  High Desert - To Be Determined if there is enough interest.

• Gamers Teen Group in Colton- Meets twice a month Thursday's in Colton from 6:30-8:30pm.

• Sensory Friendly Films - held each month at the AMC Ontario Mills 30 Theaters.  This program allows us to bring families affected by autism a special opportunity to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment on a monthly basis.  With Sensory Friendly Films, the movie auditoriums will have their lights brought up and the sound turned down.  Movies are $6.00 per person. No RSVP required.

• Writer's Club in Colton -We are trying out a new Writer's Club for teens and young adults interested in in writing.  Have you ever wanted to know where to get ideas?   Do you have  ideas but can't seem to put them on paper?  Do you want to take your writing to a deeper level?  Here is an opportunity to share and learn and meet others who enjoy writing.   Facilitated by a woman who has published her own poetry and has experience teaching young adults. Cost is $30 per 6 week session.   

• Inland Empire Resource Guide.  Updated each year, this resource provides families and professionals with over 150 pages of local resources at their fingertips.    Available for free download on our website.
• Inland Empire Autism Transition Collaborative.  Founded by the Autism Society, this group is composed of representatives from school districts, SELPAs, Universities, other governmental agencies, businesses, parents and individuals on the autism spectrum who are dedicated to finding employment and higher education options for adults and teens with disabilities. 
• Social Events.  Our families have enjoyed a day at a ranch, train rides on the Polar Express, and a day at the ballpark. These outings provide families with a safe environment that they can expose their child to a new experience.  Look for more fun events coming in 2010!
• Workshops.  We have offered low-cost workshops on a variety of topics inlcuding IEP training and micro-enterprising.  Look for information about our 2010 workshops soon!
• Travelling Art Exhibit.  We are proud to partner with the KVCR Autism Initiative for "The Art of Autism” Art Show – scheduled for April 2010-August 2010.   This will be a traveling Art Exhibit made up of children, teens and young adults of autism to promote the abilities of our children throughout the Inland Empire.

New Board Members

 We want to say thank you to our old board members and welcome in our new ones.  Many thanks to Daniella Putnam, Pacific Child and Associates; Dr. Kathleen Roberts, Director of Special Education-Lake Elsinore USD; Donita Remington- Associate Director, University Center for Developmental Studies, Cal State San Bernardino and Tami Bakewell Director of Community Education, The Wylie Center for Children, Youth and Families.  Your service to the autism community was much appreciated!

 Welcome to our new board:

President:  Beth Burt, author & parent

Vice-President:  Lillian Vasquez, Coordinator of  
Marketing, Autism Initiative Manager  KVCR Public Television/NPR radio & parent

Secretary:  Rick Gutierrez, M.S./B.C.B.A, Regional Director of Applied Behavioral Consultants, Inc

 Treasurer:  Philip Hannawi, Riverside City Principle Engineer & parent

Board Members: 

Stephani Congdon, community member

Pete Gennaro, Director of Special Education Alvord Unified School District ,

Teresa Johnson, parent

JJ Johnston , MA.  Director Autism Spectrum Intervention Program, The Carolyn E. Wylie Center

Dr. Glen Kuck, Executive Director Distributed Education and Technology Services, San Bernardino Community College District & parent

Kelly Londenberg, person on the spectrum, Instructional Assistant in ASD class

Theresa McFarland, Special Education Teacher 

Federal Tax ID:  33-0597359