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= AANE: Asperger/ Autism Network =

Overview:
Asperger's or Asperger Syndrome and Autism are developmental disorders that impair an individual's ability to to communicate and interact. AANE or The Asperger/Autism Network is an organization working to provide resources for individuals living with the diagnosis with the goal of empowering individuals and building community.

History:
AANE was founded in 1996 and was one of the first organizations in the United States primarily focused on Asperger’s Syndrome. The organization was originally named The Asperger’s Association of New England but changed the name to AANE in October of 2014. The name changed to reflect the organization’s goal to serve a wider population even outside of the New England region with the use of online resources.

What Does AANE Do?
Individuals living with Aspergers or Autism have varying degrees of independence based on the severity of their diagnosis. Some living with a diagnosis on the spectrum are very independent and high functioning while others require more assistance in their day-to-day lives. AANE provides resources to three main groups. The individuals diagnosed with Aspergers, Autism or related disorder, the individual’s family and friends and the professional community.

Resources AANE provides  include life coaching sessions, interview prep, couples counseling, housing consultations, school/college support, training/ conferences and more.

Clients of the organization are connected with tons of professionals in the field to provide the individual and those around them with the necessary tools to build a successful path for these individuals.

AANE also has events for their clients at their physical location in Watertown, Massechutess. These are events that vary from social events like pizza and game nights to support groups and educational sessions.

Advocacy:
In addition to providing resources to empower individuals and build supportive communities, AANE also works to advocate for appropriate and quality services for those with Aspergers or Autism. They also lobby for funding at all levels, locally, statewide and nationally.

As of 2019 the current advocacy focuses of the organization include seeing changes in the diagnosis manual and comprehensive mental health services for the individuals they serve.