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People Often Ask

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SMART Link to information
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Image explaining that the "Hugs worth their weight" Initiative is no longer accepting applications for 2024
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Mission

The Coalition promotes lifelong inclusion and independence for  autistic, neurodiverse, and developmentally disabled individuals, along with their families through empowerment, community collaboration, self-advocacy, and equitable access to education, recreation, and employment. 

Our Beginnings

Inspired by Dr. Isaac Pope of Pope’s Kids Place, the Coalition was started when the state Department of Health identified Lewis County as a pilot Community Asset Mapping project and invited a couple dozen agencies and parents to participate in a February, 2010 meeting to map assets and identify service gaps.

The Lewis County Autism Coalition was launched!

As a formal 501c3 nonprofit, the Autism Coalition is often known for its annual Southwest Washington Autism Conference, and the invention of the SMART (School-Medical Autism Review Team) model for building local capacity for autism diagnosis and services referral. 

In addition to these largely recognized initiatives, the Coalition has made a name for itself with the annual Inclusive Career Fair, it's Summer Sensory Program for children, Neurodiverse Teen and Adult Social Groups, and so much more! We hold an annual Cultivating Inclusion Celebration honoring individuals in our area who go above and beyond to cultivate inclusion for those with autism, neurodiverse functioning, and developmental disabilities; We maintain active community partnerships and fundraisers with the 1st ever, 2024 Car & BMX Show in Lewis County with intention to support our mission, vision, and values!

Vision

The Lewis County Autism Coalition

actively seeks to provide

a welcoming community that

promotes independence and inclusion for neurodivergent people and their loved ones. 

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 OVERVIEW: In 2030, the Lewis County Autism Coalition is  an active and dynamic presence throughout Lewis County and its surrounding areas.
This presences promotes meaningful, inclusive access to resources, self-advocacy and independence for neurodivergent, and developmentally disabled individuals. The Autism Coalition is propelled by neurodivergent people and their allies. The Lewis County Autism Coalition's hub is a safe, welcoming space to access programs  and services. We welcome, support and stand with people with physical, developmental, and intellectual differences, people of color, indigenous and people of all varying communities... 


 

VISION 2030...

VISION 2030

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Your Donation Changes Lives

 Every day, individuals with autism and their families face unique challenges. At Lewis County Autism Coalition, we are dedicated to empowering these voices, fostering inclusion, and advocating for meaningful change,

but we can't do it alone.

Your generous donation can help us provide essential resources, support necessary programs, organize community events, and advocate for positive changes that improve the lives of those with autism and developmental disabilities. 

Together, we can build a more inclusive world where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Join us in our mission. Every contribution, big or small, brings us one step closer to a brighter future for individuals with autism.

Together, we can change lives.

Local, State, & National Resources

Read more to learn about available resources in our community, in our State, and in our Nation. Resource updates are fluid and ongoing. If you have additional resources you would like to share, please do so! Community knowledge and education are key to support!

Project Guardian

Enhancing Safety and Community Connection for Vulnerable Populations. Keeping our community safe starts with understanding. Project Guardian is a free, voluntary, confidential program that bridges the gap between law enforcement and individuals with autism, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and dementia, ensuring safety, compassion, and connection.

School Microgrant Application

Are you a teacher, educator, administrator? Do you wish to empower students with developmental disabilities, yet funding is a challenge? Click here to find out how we can help support you to improve inclusive practices in the classroom!

RESOURCES

RESOURCES

Community Partners & Sponsors

At the Lewis County Autism Coalition, our mission is strengthened by the unwavering support and collaboration of our community partners and sponsors. These dedicated organizations and businesses share our vision of fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Through their generous contributions, we are able to expand our programs, host impactful events, and provide essential resources to those in need. Together, we are building a brighter, more inclusive future. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our partners and sponsors for their continued commitment to making a difference in our community.

To sponsor LCAC in it's dynamic mission and vision,

please click the cute little heart below. 


Reach Out

We are so happy you have decided to reach out to us with your questions, comments, and requests for information. Please allow one to two business day for replies to general inquiries. 

Complete contact form

(or)

Email us at:

info@lcautism.org

Monday - Thursday: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm

1673 S. Market St.

PMB #240

Chehalis, WA 98532

360-515-8963

Annual Events

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Next Event April 2025!

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Next Event May 2025!

Building Community

Our annual events (not all are shown) are are vital opportunities for building community, raising awareness, and promoting inclusion for individuals with autism, developmental disabilities, and their families. Each event is thoughtfully designed to create a welcoming environment where participants can connect, learn, and celebrate the unique strengths of community. From the Southwest Washington Autism Conference, which provides valuable education and resources, to the Inclusive Career Fair, fostering meaningful employment connections, and the family-friendly Teal Pumpkin Celebration, offering sensory-friendly activities, our events play a crucial role in advancing our mission. By bringing together individuals, families, professionals, and community partners, these events help to bridge gaps, support advocacy efforts, and create a stronger, more inclusive community for all.

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2024 was an outstanding success!
2025 info Coming Soon!
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2024 was Fantastic! Watch for 2025 Updates!
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