ASERT Does Not Offer Crisis Services
If you or someone you love is experiencing mental health distress or thoughts of suicide please call or text 988 for support.
Community Members
In 2018, the CDC determined that approximately 1 in 59 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As part of the broad Pennsylvania community, individuals with autism live and work among us, making these resources for the community a valuable and necessary asset.
Characteristics of Autism
This resource, designed for direct support staff, provides a basic introduction to the different characteristics of autism.
View ResourceAutism Society of America
The Autism Society of America (ASA) provides advocacy, education, information, referral, support and community at national, state and local levels through their nationwide network of Affiliates. Their website includes information on autism for individuals, parents, professionals and community members.
View ResourceAutism Speaks
Autism Speaks funds global biomedical research into the causes, prevention, treatments, and cure for autism; raises public awareness about autism and its effects on individuals, families, and society; and brings hope to all who deal with the hardships of this disorder.
View ResourceSearch within Community Members resources
Secondary Transition
The transition service requirements of IDEA 2004 recognize that education can improve the post-school outcomes of students with disabilities by doing a better job of preparing students and their families for the complexities of the adult world.
Read moreSexual Abuse and Assault: Definitions and Statistics
This resource provides information for self-advocates, parents/caregivers, direct support staff, professionals and the general public on what is sexual abuse and assault, statistics on sexual abuse and assault, ways to reduce risk, and the importance of educating about sexual abuse and assault.
Read moreSigns of Autism: A Guide for Librarians
This visual resource was developed by ASERT for librarians to use as a reference guide when working with individuals with autism.
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Social Distancing Social Story
This resource provides a visual guide for individuals with autism about social distancing and why it's important when people are sick. This resource has also been translated into Spanish, Arabic, Russian, and Chinese. An animated version is also available.
Read moreSummer Safety During COVID
This resource provides tips and suggestions on staying safe while enjoying activities during the summer with COVID-19.
Read moreSupport Group Map
This resource provides a listing of known support groups across the state. Groups are organized by county, and cover groups for parents/caregivers, individuals, and family members.
Read moreSupports Coordination Organizations
This resource provides an overview of what Supports Coordination Organizations (SCO's) are, the services they provide and what organizations are available by county across Pennsylvania.
Read moreThe Juvenile Justice Process
There are many differences between the Juvenile Justice System and the Adult Criminal Justice System. This document shows the Juvenile Justice Process in PA.
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The Spectrum of Communication
Communication permits us to advocate for our needs, develop relationships, and participate in our community. When supporting someone with Autism, the most important thing to keep in mind at all times is that speech does not equal communication.
Read moreTransition Toolkit
A collection of transition toolkits across the life span, organized by time periods from infant through adulthood. This resource page was designed to allow you to find these toolkits in one place to help make the journey a little easier.
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