Community Resources for People with Autism Changes Its Name

EASTHAMPTON — Community Resources for People with Autism announced it has changed its name to Autism Connections, effective Nov. 14. The new name better reflects the mission of the 27-year-old autism center, Director Karen Serra said.

Autism Connections was founded in 1989 by parents of children with autism and has served thousands of local families as they navigate the sometimes-complicated world of autism.

Autism Connections is staffed by autism professionals and works closely with family members to provide a wide variety of services through autism centers in Easthampton and Pittsfield, as well as family and individual supports through referrals by the Department of Developmental Services. It offers trainings, support groups, family activities, and ongoing collaboration with local organizations. In addition, Autism Connections provides direct services to families and people with autism, including educational advocacy, behavior supports, and more.

“Autism Connections is a name that truly reflects all we do,” said Serra. “We help hundreds of families calling into the center; we offer social-skills training groups, support groups, intensive case management; we organize family fun community events, and so much more.”

Autism Connections is a program of Pathlight, a social-services organization based in Springfield that is a leader in services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Western Mass.