“Our mission is to find a path for our children.” 
In 2000, Pathfinders for Autism was founded by a
group of parents of children with autism to support
and develop lifespan services, raise funds for autism
research, and provide information and resources for
families of children with autism. Pathfinders for
Autism is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.
John (age 16) proudly displays
his Maryland Learner's Permit
Click here to see a copy of our IRS Determination Letter.
Click here to see Program Goals for FY2008.
Click here to see Accomplishments for FY2007.
Click here to see Audited Financial Statements for FY2006 and FY2007.
Our Goals/Priority Issue Areas:
Awareness & Understanding of Autism
Pathfinders for Autism uses a variety of public awareness tools to increase the general public's awareness and understanding of this disorder. Each April (National Autism Awareness Month) and throughout the year, we air television and radio spots to highlight autism and the benefits of early detection and intervention. Pathfinders staff and volunteers distribute information at fairs, festivals and conferences. We also make presentations to organizations and groups.
Early Detection & Effective Interventions
Until recently, autism was usually diagnosed after the child turned 36-months-old. Through the research of Dr. Rebecca Landa and others, we have learned that symptoms associated with autism and communication impairment can be detected in infants as young as six months of age. One of Pathfinders for Autism's first projects was to raise over $150,000 to support critical interim funding for Dr. Landa’s research with siblings of children with autism. Pathfinders is an active partner in the state's pilot program to improve early detection of autism and works with pediatricians across the state to ensure they have the information, tools and resources they need to help parents.
Many pediatricians will tell parents to adopt a "wait and see" attitude if they bring up concerns about their child's development. Parents have been told to wait until the child is three-years-old before a diagnosis can be made. For many children who present early symptoms of autism, this is precious time lost. We support actively seeking interventions for your child.
In November 2007, Pathfinders announced a partnership with the American Academy of Pediatrics-Maryland Chapter to train pediatricians in standardized developmental screening tools and techniques and to provide resources for physicians to share with families affected by autism spectrum disorders.
Provide Information & Resources
In the past, finding services for a family member with autism was a frustrating journey. Pathfinders for Autism is dedicated to making this journey easier and more productive.
Accurate, timely, and accessible information can make a world of difference in the lives of individuals with autism and their families. The Pathfinders for Autism Resource Center offers a caring, knowledgeable staff person to take calls and respond to email inquiries; and an on-line, searchable database with information on services and programs throughout Maryland.
Expand Availability of Lifespan Services
Autism is a life-long disability with a wide range of impact – from the high functioning college graduate to the withdrawn or aggressive child with limited mental capacity. Pathfinders for Autism serves as a catalyst to expand available services and programs that span the breadth of the disability over the lifespan of these children.
Increase the Number of Trained Professionals in the Field
Pathfinders is committed to finding and disseminating "best practices" in training staff and operating programs to serve individuals with autism. In 2007, we launched a partnership with the Maryland State Department of Education's Division of Rehabilitation Services to identify models and training curriculum for agency staff and community service providers. Pathfinders also provides limited funding to sponsor post-doctorate internships in research programs.