Panhandle Autism Society

The Panhandle Autism Society (PAS) wishes to enhance the lives of individuals with an autism spectrum disorder in Idaho’s five northern counties. We seek not to eradicate autism, but to alleviate the suffering associated with autism spectrum disorders. We believe this happens through: 1) Enhancing local services to help individuals with autism better function in their lives; 2) Educating the community about autism spectrum disorders to lessen the prejudice towards and ignorance about these individuals in our community.

Description:
PAS began as an information and referral agency with a monthly Parent Support Group meeting and has grown to include a Summer Camp, respite days for parents, professional workshop trainings, and a yearly conference. As the population of people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders has increased, our agency has grown to meet that demand. In Fall of 2009, PAS will open its Sensory Lending Library, a unique opportunity for parents and professionals to check out Sensory equipment to use with their child/client to help them better focus and reduce negative behaviors. When a child's sensory needs are met, they are more comfortable and organized for learning and social opportunities.

History:
In 1997, a group of concerned parents and professionals recognized a dramatic increase in the number of children being diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders. They saw a need to provide support and information to the rapidly growing number of people affected by autism spectrum disorders and their families. Furthermore, they realized the importance of providing the latest research and training methods to professionals working with persons on the autism spectrum. Panhandle Autism Society was created as a Chapter of the Autism Society of America to fill those needs.

Contact people:

Denise Wetzel, Executive Director, (phone), (email) Amy Yardley, Secretary, (phone), (email) Jenna Fassbender, President, (phone), (email)

Address:

P.O. Box 3950 Coeur d'Alene, ID 83816

Web Site: http://www.panhandleautism.org

Directions:

PAS Facility is located at 1323 East Sherman Avenue - right on the corner of 14th and Sherman in Coeur d'Alene.

Last updated on October 9, 2009