Autism Connection of Pennsylvania

Everyone has a reason for finding Autism Connection of PA. For some, autism is part of their own story. For others, it’s part of the story of someone they love.
And for many, it’s simply a belief that everyone deserves understanding, belonging, and support.

What brings you to Autism Connection of PA?
[email protected]

Changes are coming to Medicaid – also known as Medical Assistance in Pennsylvania – starting January 1, 2027!

Check out our new Medicaid changes webpage to stay updated on these changes and learn what you need to do to prepare: dhs.pa.gov/MedicaidChanges

Heat and Interoception in Autism

Did you know? Many autistic people experience differences in interoception (the sense that helps us feel internal body signals like thirst, temperature, or pain).

In hot weather, this can mean not noticing signs of overheating or dehydration until it's too late.

Tip: Set reminders to drink water, take cooling breaks, and check in with your body regularly.

Understanding interoception can help create safer, more supportive environments for autistic people, especially in the heat.

Support Group: Caring for Loved Ones with High Support Needs Challenges and Successes as the Weather Warms
Tuesday, June 9th at 6:30pm on Zoom

From our Support Group Facilitators:
"Seasonal change and the end of the school year affects our kids differently. No school, more downtime, hot weather and family vacations can all present both a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle but also present challenges as summer may come with more downtime and more schedule changes."

Help us to improve healthcare for autistic adults (ages 20-85) with long-term conditions.
💠 Choose Your Format
💠 Schedule a 1:1
💠 Get Paid for Your Time
Interested? Contact Dr. Kiley McLean at [email protected] for more information.
Philadelphia Autism Project Autism Life Course Outcomes Research Social Connections & Treatment Lab - SCTL

“Eight years ago, when I was diagnosed, I had no support. The entire reason I do this is to be the support for people that I didn’t personally have.”

These words from our support group facilitator, Rob, remind us why connection matters.

At Autism Connection of PA, we believe no one should have to navigate an autism diagnosis alone. Whether you're newly diagnosed, a family member, or seeking community, support can make all the difference.

Thank you to everyone who participates, shares, and helps create spaces where people are understood, welcomed, and supported.

Lu, Executive Director of Autism Connection of PA and Johanna Murphy, Inclusion Director of Evolve Coaching are excited to celebrate the completion of four collaborative training workshops with professionals from across the Carnegie Museums and Kamin Science Center

Disability Rights Pennsylvania wants to know what you think! The comment period for our fiscal year 2027 annual program goals and objectives is now open. We use your answers to help us understand the disability community’s needs. Your answers shape our goals and objectives for the next year. We invite you to share the issues that matter most to individuals with disabilities, along with the families and organizations supporting them. You can submit comments until July 17, 2026.

Online Survey:

The goal and objective survey is open until July 17, 2026, which will be the final day to submit public comments. You can complete the survey to provide input by clicking here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DMS9WJN

You can view our current goals and objectives here: https://www.disabilityrightspa.org/what-we-do/priorities/

We thank you for your time, community, partnership, and collaboration. We look forward to hearing from you.

Research Reveals How Autistic Teens’ Brains Respond in Some Social Settings, Helping Them ‘Pass’ as Non-Autistic AJ Drexel Autism Institute

Just because an autistic teen seems to “fit in” doesn’t mean they don’t need support.
Let’s listen, understand, and make space for every way of being.