Almost all government spending for people with developmental disabilities is dedicated to supporting the individual with developmental disabilities. There’s little help to support the families of those with disabilities. Yet the quality of life for people with autism depends on understanding and intelligent support from the people closest to them.
This month, Pacific Autism Center for Education (PACE) launched its Porchlight Project (www.porchlighteducation.org), a free, online education series designed for parents and caregivers of people with autism. The series provides information about autism, as well as practical guides for building a supportive environment and positive interaction.
Porchlight’s modules take under 10 minutes to complete, and concentrate on practical ways to address specific needs and situations. Future plans include online workshops for more hands-on experience.
“With the addition of Project Porchlight, PACE will expand the high-quality services we already offer through our school, children’s services and residential program, allowing us to connect, support and educate throughout the larger community,” said PACE Executive Director Kurt Ohlfs in a press release.
For more than 25 years, PACE has provided services for Bay Area children and adults with autism, including a children’s program, PACE School and its young adult transition programs, and residential homes. For information, visit pacificautism.org.
