Eden Autism Services One of Six Organizations in U.S. Recognized for Innovative High-Quality Autism Programs

Eden Autism Services is pleased to announce that it was one of six organizations nationwide, and the only New Jersey organization, to be selected as an AFAA Applauds winner. AFAA Applauds, a national initiative launched by Advancing Futures for Adults with Autism (AFAA) recognizes innovative, high-quality support programs for adults living with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs).

Princeton, NJ, March 01, 2013 --(PR.com)-- Eden Autism Services is pleased to announce that it was one of six organizations nationwide, and the only New Jersey organization, to be selected as an AFAA Applauds winner. AFAA Applauds, a national initiative launched by Advancing Futures for Adults with Autism (AFAA) recognizes innovative, high-quality support programs for adults living with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). AFAA will promote the winning programs as cutting-edge models for other organizations across the country to replicate. The goal is to meet the increased demand for effective services, provide accurate information on promising practices and generate awareness about ASDs and adult concerns.

Through a competitive application process, AFAA selected six organizations for exemplary results-oriented employment, residential support and community life programs. Community life includes social skills, transportation, recreational, safety, spirituality or other categories of service that improve life experiences and outcomes for those living with autism.

“We are honored to receive AFAA’s inaugural award,” says Dr. Tom McCool, president & CEO of Eden Autism Services. “Eden currently operates 16 group homes and 4 adult employment centers. Our goal is for all of our adults with autism to lead productive and fulfilling lives as contributing members of their communities.”

Steve Hunter, whose daughter Shari resides in an Eden group home and is employed through Eden Adult Employment services states, “Without Eden, it would have been much more difficult to cobble together anything close to the experience she (Shari) has at Eden every single day.”

As an AFAA Applauds winner, Eden received a $5,000 grant for the development of a video about its adult program which will be released in April.

“AFAA Applauds shines a bright light on the most innovative programs in the country to assist organizations in developing services that will enrich the lives of individuals with autism. As the 500,000 children with ASDs enter adulthood this decade, ensuring they participate in effective programs is critical to their quality of life,” said Christina Whalen, vice president and director of the Vocational and Life Skills Academy at the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC) in Phoenix. Whalen also serves as a member of the AFAA Leadership Council.

About Eden
Since 1975, the not-for-profit Eden Autism Services has provided early intervention, education, employment training and residential services for children and adults with autism. Eden offers both in-person and online support and training programs for families and professionals. Recognized nationally, Eden is headquartered in Princeton, NJ. For more information about Eden visit www.edenautism.org or call (609) 987-0099. Follow Eden on Facebook, Twitter, and EdWeb.net.

About AFAA
AFAA is a national consortium of organizations working together, led by the vision of individuals with autism and their families, to promote a collaborative spirit and develop both public and private sector support that improve the lives of adults living with autism. AFAA Leadership Council and affiliated members are listed below. Please refer to the AFAA website for more information about AFAA and its member organizations: www.afaa-us.org
Contact
Eden Autism Services
Aileen Kornblatt
609-987-0099
www.edenautism.org
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