Welcome 2017!

On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff, we are wishing every day of the New Year be filled with success, happiness & prosperity for you and your family.

As we look back on 2016, we smile.  Our organization is small but mighty.   We are always amazed by the support of our families, community partners, and volunteers.  Thank you for the important part you played in helping us reach our mission goals throughout 2016.

We are looking forward to celebrating our third anniversary in February for Auto Racers for Kids LEGO Social Club.  The club is designed for grades K - 8 and growing each year.  The monthly family sensory & social opportunities have tripled in size over the last few years.  These opportunities continue to be a wonderful way to help families connect, mentor one another, and build lasting friendships.

In 2016, we introduced the Friends & Pals Teen Club.  The club is continuing to grow and develop.  We are looking toward our teens and their parents for insight on how the club will evolve during 2017.

Our education, service, support, and advocacy are possible because of you!   Our Annual Walk for Autism has increased tremendously over the last several years.  We have also been blessed as the beneficiary of several community fundraising efforts. Our continued growth would not be possible without our community partners, volunteers, and YOU!

All of our education, support, and social activities are driven by the needs of our families.  Let your voice be heard!  We have many service opportunities available, to include volunteering at events or fundraisers, committee service, or board service.  If you would like to get more involved, please call (814) 455-3540 or email: autismsociety@nwpaasa.org.

We are Better Together!   Looking forward to working with all of you throughout the upcoming year.

Tish Bartlett, Executive Director

Snow Tubing...fun for the entire family!

WHEN: Sunday, January 15, 2017

TIME:        5:30 pm to 7:30 pm

Tube 600 feet down 4 exciting chutes. BUT hang on, because it's a 6 story drop. MUST BE 42" TO RIDE. The fire will be roaring and the hot chocolate brewing...make it a family day!

WHERE:  Mount Pleasant of Edinboro - 14510 Mt. Pleasant Road. Cambridge Springs, PA 16403

MEMBERS:  $5.25 per person

NON-MEMBERS:  $12.00 per person tubing

NO charge for those not tubing

Please make reservations by Wednesday, January 11, 2017 at www. nwpa-asa.org/events. or call (814) 455-3540

Sensory Friendly Play Lion King, Jr


The stars shine bright over the Erie Playhouse, one of the oldest and largest community theatres in the nation.  Recognized as one of the 10 best community theatres in national competition, it remains at the forefront of the arts not only in Northwest Pennsylvania, but the entire state.

Sensory-friendly includes light and sounds at a safe and comfortable level for all guests.  A sensory break area will be provided in the lower level.

The African savannah comes to life with Simba and Nala, Pumbaa and Timon, Mufasa and Scar, and more unforgettable characters as they journey from Pride Rock to the jungle and back again in this inspiring, coming-of-age story. This vibrant tale has captivated worldwide audiences. With Sir Elton John’s music, dazzling costumes, and extraordinary talent, this is a show not to be missed.

WHEN:   Saturday, January 21, 2017

TIME:   2:00 PM

WHERE:  Erie Playhouse - 13 West 10th Street Erie PA

Members:  $3.00 per person

Non-Members:  $7.50 per person

Please reserve your tickets by Monday, January 16, 2017 at www.nwpa-asa.org/events

Annual Household Membership

Children are special gifts. Many of us search for that perfect toy car, doll, video game, or gift card to give a child for birthdays and holidays. At the Autism Society Northwestern Pennsylvania, we have a great gift idea for the growing number of families and professionals helping those with Autism…an annual membership. 

This membership includes the sensory and social family outings for free or at reduced cost to many local sites and events in Erie.  We also offer member-only and member appreciation events. 

The cost for the membership is only $25 per household. 

In addition to the events and great support from other families and children, the benefits of community resources are abundant.  

Don't forget the grandparents!  Memberships are a perfect way to include grandparents all year long.

Contact the office at (814) 455-3540 if you would like to gift a membership for a family.

Not a member and would like to join?  click JOIN NOW


Bridge to Success

Gannon University Occupational Therapy students have developed a Job Prep program for individuals ages 15 - 21 on the autism spectrum. If you are interested in participating in the program, please complete the Registration & Release form.  Applications are due by Thursday, January 5, 2017.  Please return the application to the Autism Society NWPA PO Box 3923 Erie PA 16508.

The pilot program will be held on Wednesdays from 6:00pm to 7:15pm at the Gannon University OT Lab, beginning January 25, 2017.

Week 1 - Who Are We Activity
Week 2 - Esteem Building Book
Week 3 - Job Compatibility/Interest Exploration
Week 4 - Appropriate Dressing and Hygiene
Week 5 - Career Shadowing
Week 6 - Continuing Education Options
Week 7 - Post High School Job Opportunities
Week 8 - Resume Building/Volunteering
Week 9 - Interview Questions
Week 10 - Mock Interview & End of Program Celebration

Questions? You may contact the Autism Society NWPA (814) 455-3540 or via email:  autismsociety@nwpaasa.org OR Gannon OT Group representative:  Katie Oknefski via email:  oknefski002@knights.gannon.edu.


Sensory Friendly Mornings


Join the expERIEnce Children's Museum for sensory friendly mornings:

Sundays - 10:00am to 12:00 noon

  • January 29
  • February 26
  • March 26

Sensory Friendly Days are an exclusive event for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and sensory processing differences to have a fun, enjoyable learning experience in a comfortable and accepting environment.  Lights will be turned down, distracting motions and extra sounds will be eliminated.

Sensory Friendly Days at the Children's Museum are sponsored by UPMC Health Plan.  Free admission for 1 child and a caregiver.


If you would like to make a donation to the Autism Society Northwestern Pennsylvania click on the button to donate online or mail a check to Autism Society NWPA P.O. Box 3923, Erie, PA 16508 

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