The Northwest Autism Foundation was founded in 1997 and authorized to operate as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization by the federal government and the state of Oregon in 1999. NWAF is committed to providing valuable and accurate education and information to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) as well as to families, caregivers and professionals of individuals with ASD. In the decade since its inception, NWAF’s efforts have dramatically improved the lives of many children with ASDs, especially in the Pacific Northwest area of the United States, but with important spinoffs of our work helping individuals across the country and around the world. All activities and services the organization provides for individuals with ASD and their families are free of charge, an extremely important feature since so many families with a member with ASD find their financial resources totally depleted. NWAF is committed to working with other groups – nonprofits, universities, hospitals – to bring the ASD community closer together in an effort improve the lives of those affected by ASD.
NWAF’s Services Include:
- NWAF publishes and disseminates a detailed Autism Resource Directory, an extensive annotated listing of local and national resources for ASD information and services. This directory was first introduced at our 2nd annual Autism OASIS conference in 2001. It is thoroughly updated at least every two years. Download the 2009 NWAF Resource Directory (PDF) or you can call our office (503-557-2111) for a copy.
- NWAF provides continuing professional education in Oregon, including continuing medical education (CME) for medical professionals.
- NWAF sponsors workshops and lectures on the most up-to-date ASD-related topics. The times and dates of these events will be announced on our website.
- NWAF organizes and sponsors the Autism OASIS conferences, which are regional events held every 1-2 years that have attracted thousands of parents and caregivers of children with ASD. The mission of these conferences is to enlist the best scientists and doctors to provide information about the most effective current treatment options for children with ASD.
