About FACES

The mission of the FACES program is to inform and empower historically underrepresented families and caregivers of autistic children and adolescents by addressing inequities in access to support services. FACES aims to: (1) improve the quality of life for Black autistic youth and their families, (2) advance the field of education with regard to culturally responsive special education practices and policies, and (3) contribute to autism research by teaching and learning from families, community partners, and related service providers.

We Foster family-centered services by listening to the needs and desires of the families we serve. We teach Advocacy and the importance of: speaking up for autistic loved ones, being a voice for family, and discussing the family’s wishes with the appropriate parties. We promote Communication between families and support professionals. We seek to enhance Empowerment by informing families of their rights and helping them feel confident in their knowledge and abilities to seek appropriate services. We provide Support for all FACES families in an effort to improve outcomes for autistic youth. We put thoughts into words, and words into actions that remove the barriers our families face while navigating services for autistic loved ones.