Autism Delaware Marks 10-Year Anniversary with Open House, New Name, New Location

Autism Delaware—formerly chartered as the Autism Society of Delaware—will celebrate its 10th year of helping people and families affected by autism in Delaware with an Open House on December 5 at the organization’s new offices, 924 Old Harmony Road, Suite 201, Newark.

WILMINGTON, Del. (Business Wire EON) November 25, 2008 -- "We have a new name, a new home, and soon, an updated Website that reflect the amazing growth of our organization during these past 10 years," said Rob Gilsdorf, president of the board of Autism Delaware. "Today, we are better able than ever before to provide the statewide services, education, resources, and advocacy that members of the Delaware autism community have asked for and need."

Despite the growth and changes, Autism Delaware remains an organization of family members and friends of people with autism, and professionals who work in the autism field—all committed to offering lifelong opportunities and providing support for people with autism in Delaware.

In addition, the organization provides welcoming social events for its members. Autism Delaware sponsors parents' coffee hour, weekly bowling nights for families and friends, and an annual holiday party. They also bring the communities together with support groups, conferences, special fundraisers and many other events to raise public awareness and extend the community.

"In 1995, the prevalence of autism was 1 out of every 2,500 births; today, it is 1 in every 150 births," said Theda Ellis, executive director of Autism Delaware. "The needs of the autism community in Delaware have grown and we have grown as well, to better manage those needs. We are fortunate and proud to have a very talented staff and dedicated volunteers who are absolutely committed to improving the lives of people with autism and their families."

About Autism Delaware

Founded in 1998 by a group of just 10 volunteers, Autism Delaware has grown into a professionally-staffed nonprofit organization dedicated to helping people and families in Delaware who are affected by autism. The goal of Autism Delaware is to educate Delawareans about and raise awareness of autism within the state as well as to provide youth and adult services for people with autism. Autism Delaware is located at 924 Old Harmony Road, Suite 201, Newark, Delaware 19713 and has a satellite office in Milford, Delaware. For more information, please visit http://www.delautism.org/.