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Autism Info > More Info About Autism What is Autism Spectrum Disorder? In 1943, Professor Emeritus Leo Kanner (left picture) identified autism as a distinct and different disability from other known handicaps. Classic autism was characterized by severe impairments in several areas of development. There are impairments in reciprocal social interaction and communication skills. There is the presence of stereotyped behaviors, interests and activities. The disorder is also behaviorally defined. Autism is not a mental illness nor is it psychologically caused. The impairment is present and identifiable in the first two or three years of life. It is not outgrown, therefore, autistic children will be autistic adults. In recent years, there have been a variety of misleading and cruel allegations of a cure. Unsubstantiated claims serve only to give false hope to families. As parents grow older, they worry about the future! What will happen to their children when they are no longer here to protect and care for them? This disability knows no race, color, creed or socio-economic distinction. Autism Spectrum Disorder covers a wide range of functioning from classic autism to Asperger’s Syndrome where there is no significant delay in language. However, these consumers still suffer social impairments, some limited comprehension and often poor judgment. In 1976, a group of parents of autistic adolescents came together to advocate for ongoing programs for their growing children. The parents were determined not to become victims and moved forward, establishing SCF as a not-for-profit organization. Aware that no group homes or day programs were in existence for children over the age of 21, we amended our legal papers to become providers of service. In 1981, we opened our first residence. Cortlandt Hills Group Home serves autistic adults in Westchester. In 1986, we opened the DeClemente Group Home for autistic residents in Riverdale/Bronx. The Following year, SCF opened its first vocational program! The Value Plus Shop, a women’s retail clothing store, has provided employment or our consumers since 1987. Autistic employees also made hand sewn saleable craft items. We remain a fixture in the community. In 1993, we opened another group home, the Grace Cavanagh Residence. In 1995, Delafield dwelling was created to meet the challenge of high functioning young adults. In 1999, Corlear Apartments opened providing a home and support services in two apartments. The Munch Center opened its doors as a work readiness program. This endeavor is geared towards better functioning autistic adults. Job skills may lead to viable employment. While we recognize inappropriate behaviors will prevent some from achieving competitive employment, we believe that sensitive employers may accept their deficits and learn that the autistic can be very reliable workers. In an effort to preserve overwhelmed families, our In-Home-Residential Habilitation began in 2000. Part-time staff provides training, and assistance to autistic children as well as adults in the Bronx and Manhattan. In 2003, we opened our first Manhattan residence. Others will follow. Once considered a low incidence disability, the growing statistics on autism are staggering. Despite tremendous research efforts, the scientific community remains baffled as to the cause or causes of autism. The most current report from the Institute of Child Health and Human Development indicates that there are now 1 or 2 cases in every 500 births. Autistic Spectrum Disorder is exploding in numbers. Autism’s impact on families, community and society is devastating. Special Citizens’ view is that we must continue to provide all kinds of programs to meet varied needs of autistic people at all levels. We hope to become a more positive force in this ambitious goal. Special Citizens Futures Unlimited, Inc. |
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