GRASP’s Origin:
The idea of the Global and Regional Autism Spectrum Partnership (GRASP), was first discussed by a group of NYC Autistics seeking to form an organization run by Autistics with a mission to support their peers. In 2003, GRASP was gifted a generous grant by the FAR Fund and subsequently filed for 501(c)3 status to become a non-profit.
GRASP’s Transformation:
Since 2013, the GRASP team has expanded the organization to include more programming specific to increasing the empowerment of Autistics, Neurodivergent, and disabled individuals. They have established regional and international programs, as well as increased the visibility of Autistic, Neurodivergent, and disabled adults within society through collaborative work with high profile regional, national, and international organizations. GRASP’s team also advocates for cross-disability inclusion in policy, research, and collaboration as well as acknowledgement of and respect for intersectional experiences among community members.
GRASP’s Current Programming:
As an Autistic and Neurodivergent led 501(c)3 non-profit, we are committed to meeting the needs of Autistic and Neurodivergent teens and adults. Coming from years of lived, occupational and educational experience, our team of professionals applies multiple marginalization perspectives to inform our organization’s best practices.
In order to support our peers at the individual level, GRASP provides assistance by offering autism assessments, neurodivergent coaching, free information and referral services, and virtual supports. At the larger level, we also offer educational workshops and programs to schools, post-secondary organizations, and companies.
Finally, we work to ensure our programs are accessible by offering free and low-cost services in the above programs, and by engaging with critically underserved communities.