Pennsylvanians in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Laurel Highlands, Lehigh Valley, Blair County embody the mission of Autism Speaks in their local communities.  We invite you to find out more and participate in statewide advocacy efforts, local community resources, upcoming events, and ways to get involved.

Advocacy:

Autism Speaks Applauds Pennsylvania House Speaker Dennis O'Brien and State Lawmakers for Passing Strongest Autism Insurance Mandate in the Nation.

Family Services:

Via of the Lehigh Valley in Bethlehem was awarded a $23,770 community grant to assist with furthering its "Customized Employment" program.  The grant supports Via of the Lehigh Valley's initiative to advance employment opportunities for young adults and adults with autism.

Science:

University of Pittsburgh/Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh recently named an Autism Treatment Network site. This grant is valued at almost $450,000 over the next three years.

Thomas Jefferson University Researcher, Roseann Schaaf, Ph.D., receives 3-year grant to look at the effectivness of sensory based strategies for improving adaptive behaviors in children with Autism.  The grant is valued at $449,450.

Events:

Greater Pittsburgh - The 2009 Greater Pittsburgh Walk season was another great success! Thanks to the many walkers, team captains, sponsors, service providers and volunteers for another amazing year!  We are still accepting donations to the 2009 Walk events - please help us meet our goal by making a donation to your favorite walker or team today by clicking on the appropriate link below. We still need your help!

• Laurel Highlands - Sunday, May 17, 2009 - www.walknowforautism.org/laurelhighlands
• Wheeling - Saturday, May 30, 2009 - www.walknowforautism.org/wheeling
• Blair County - Saturday, June 6, 2009 - www.walknowforautism.org/blaircounty
• Pittsburgh - Saturday, June 13, 2009 - www.walknowforautism.org/pittsburgh

Philadelphia - www.walknowforautism.org/philadelphia

Lehigh Valley - The 2009 Lehigh Valley Walk is scheduled for Saturday, April 18, 2009 at Lehigh Parkway in Allentown, PA! We are now accepting registrations and donations. Please register today by visiting www.walknowforautism.org/lehighvalley

Thank you to our 2009 Lehigh Valley Walk Sponsors! - Josh Early Candies, Good Shepherd Rehabilitation, Primerica Financial Services, Valley Preferred, Budget Maintenance, Carol Walck & Associates, Plumbing Council of Chicagoland, Air Products Foundation, East Penn Bank and Lehigh Valley Hospital.  Thank you to our Media Sponsors - Clear Channel Radio, 69 News and The Morning Call.