Easter Seals Disability Services

More than one thousand people join forces
to discuss topics concerning adults with Autism

As part of a National Town Hall Meeting, Easter Seals North Texas joined forces with 15 other cities and more than 1,200 people to address the issues and needs of adults with autism. Participants included caregivers, advocates, elected officials, family members, and adults with autism. Together they discussed and rated topics including housing, employment and community life.

The event was constructed around a central hub in Chicago and broadcast out to the 15 other cities.  Following the Town Hall model developed by AmericaSpeaks, and in partnership with the organization Advancing Futures for Adults with Autism, participants were connected through an online forum, live video feed from Chicago, and electronic voting devices.

Nation wide, participants ranked and noted priorities for adults with autism. These priorities included ensuring adults with autism have the supports they need to develop life skills that would enable them to live independent lives, and ensure ongoing accessibility to employment supports. More than 25 people joined the Town Hall from Easter Seals North Texas in Fort Worth.

To read the full preliminary report from the Town Hall Meeting click here. The report will download in a four page PDF document. A final report with more detailed analysis will be released in early 2010 and presented to Congress upon its announcement.

"It was an honor to participate with 1200 people in 16 cities in the Advancing Futures for Adults with Autism Town Hall," Jennifer Friesen, Vice Presdient of Clinical Services said. "Our goal was to shape a nationwide policy agenda that increases independence, engagement, and quality of life for adults living with autism.  The feedback, due to the forum and nature of the technology was immediate and will help us stay engaged to effect permanent change."