Autism doesn’t just happen to a child. It happens to the entire family. The mission of the YAI Autism Center is to help people with autism spectrum disorders and their families improve the quality of their lives through excellent evaluations, compassionate services, person-centered programs, empowering advocacy and professional education.

Serving People with Autism for More Than Half a Century

Since 1957, the YAI/National Institute for People with Disabilities Network has had an unwavering commitment to serve people with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) and their families. Over the past half a century, we have continually created innovative programs to help people with ASDs lead the most independent, fulfilling and inclusive lives in their communities. Our comprehensive network of services is unsurpassed in quality or scope and includes early intervention, habilitation, residential, vocational, healthcare, rehabilitation, family support and community services.

Today, the rapid increase in the diagnosis of autism has put a strain on the service system and on the families who are trying to access the support they and their loved ones need. In keeping with our long tradition of innovation, the YAI/NIPD Network is stepping forward to fill the gap for people who need comprehensive services and supports. Our state-of-the-art Autism Center will identify and treat people with ASDs and help families access the information, case management and life planning services they need. In addition, families will have access to all of the quality services available through the 450 programs comprising the YAI/NIPD Network.

The YAI Autism Center will provide:

• A comprehensive, state-of-the-art early detection and treatment center.
• A school modeled after our highly effective New York League for Early Learning preschools.
• Parent support and life planning services.
• A resource library for family members of people with ASDs.
• Informative conferences for families and professionals.
• Affiliation with the Seaver and New York Autism Center of Excellence at Mount Sinai School of Medicine.

These services will change the lives of thousands of individuals with autism—but we can’t do it without your help. Government funds only a portion of the services necessary for the people we serve to reach their potential. Click here to learn how you can help.