Center for Leadership in Disability awarded $600,000 grant

Georgia State University's Center for Leadership in Disability (CLD) has received a two-year, $600,000 grant from the Maternal and Child Health Bureau of the Health Resources and Services Administration to support implementation of the Autism Plan for Georgia, aimed at improving services for children and youth with autism spectrum disorder.

In preparing for this project, CLD worked with an Autism Advisory Council composed of key stakeholders from across Georgia. The resulting plan addresses priorities of increased awareness of autism spectrum disorder among families, providers and the public, enhanced access and coordination of services and supports across the lifespan and improved awareness and use of effective practices in serving children and youth with the disorder.

Dr. Daniel Crimmins, the center's director, said, "We are very excited to receive this grant award. The health and well-being of children, youth and adults with autism spectrum disorders and their families depend on the availability of family-centered and culturally competent services in our communities.

"This implementation funding is critical for a variety of reasons. It will assist us in continuing to convene our partner organizations and agencies. Together we will identify and address our shared goals of disseminating resources and effective practices to service providers, educators and families across Georgia."

Provided by Georgia State University