FACES is a family-centered advocacy program for Black families raising autistic children. The mission of the FACES program is to inform and strengthen empowerment among Black 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. 

FACES uses a psychoeducation model that combines elements of cognitive-behavioral and group therapeutic approaches with education. The aim of FACES is to strengthen empowerment and advocacy, and thus increase service access and utilization among Black families raising autistic children. 

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.