Partner Spotlight: University of Washington Autism Center & AS360
For 25 years, the University of Washington Autism Center (UWAC) has supported autistic individuals, their families, and providers with high-quality clinical services, innovative research, statewide resources, and training—reaching more than 15,000 people since 2000. With locations in Seattle and Tacoma and a strong focus on equity, UWAC works to make supports more accessible across Washington.
What they do
UWAC’s interdisciplinary team—speech-language pathologists, behavior analysts, occupational therapists, and psychologists—provides assessment, diagnosis, and intervention grounded in evidence-based practice. The center also trains professionals, caregivers, and students to strengthen community capacity, while an internationally recognized research program advances earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment approaches. A key statewide resource is AS360.org, an online platform that helps individuals, families, and providers navigate services and connect with community supports.
Dan Thompson grant impact
Through Dan Thompson funding, UWAC built a robust, statewide database of recreational opportunities for autistic individuals and strengthened the Resources Near Me search tool on AS360. Families and providers can now quickly find nearby, up-to-date recreation options and identify DDCS-contracted services—including Community Engagement and respite—closest to home.
A new phase: adult services on AS360
Thanks to ongoing support from the Dan Thompson fund, UWAC is launching the next phase of AS360 to better support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Co-designed with self-advocates and community partners, the expansion will add tailored tools for transition planning, independent living, employment, continued education, and social connection—closing gaps many people encounter after aging out of youth systems.
Community in action
When a parent shared their child’s story on AS360, they were looking for guidance and hope. This child, a bright and active young adult studying abroad, had worked hard on their communication skills since childhood. Still, they found social interactions—especially building friendships and exploring dating—challenging and exhausting. The parent wondered whether working with a speech therapist or communication specialist might help them move past first impressions and strengthen their connections.
Within days, the post sparked thoughtful responses. AS360 members reached out to speech-language pathologists (SLPs) at the UW Autism Center, who confirmed that SLPs can play a crucial role in helping autistic individuals communicate in ways that reflect their values and goals. They explained that therapy can support not only speech patterns, but also broader access to relationships and everyday life.
A community member followed up with practical next steps, sharing UWAC’s intake process so the parent could connect her child with services directly. What began as a parent’s uncertain question quickly turned into a clear path forward—rooted in professional expertise and a supportive community willing to walk alongside them.
For this parent, AS360 was more than just an online forum. It was a lifeline—offering empathy, expertise, and actionable resources that turned worry into direction and opened new possibilities for this child’s future.
What’s next
UWAC and AS360 are continuing to grow a connected, statewide network—expanding adult-focused resources, deepening partnerships, and co-creating solutions with the people who use them. The goal is simple: make it easier to find the right supports, build bridges between communities, and ensure every person with IDD has opportunities to thrive.
How to connect
