“If human beings are perceived as potentials rather than problems, as possessing strengths instead of weaknesses, as unlimited rather than dull and unresponsive, then they thrive and grow to their capabilities.” – Bob Conklin
Facts: The truth about autism
Growing 10%-17% per year and could afflict 4 million Americans in the next 10 years (US Department of Education)
Occurs in approximately 1 of every 150 individuals (1 in 90 boys) (Centers for Disease Control)
As many as 1.5 million Americans today have autism in some form and this is rising at a shocking rate (Autism Society of America)
The number of children with Autism in Illinois has increased an average of 21% per year for the last 5 years
There has been a 945% increase in students ages 3-21 in Illinois
Currently there are 12 times more students with Autism in the age range of 6-11 than other ages
This means a large wave of students with Autism will be hitting the transition and adult service system
There is a desperate need in Illinois for Autism supported adult service agencies for these students to transition into adulthood.
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