The Simon Family Endowment has recently been established at UW Tacoma in order to support Adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or developmental disabilities in response to the ever-growing need in the South Puget Sound Region. There are many clinicians in the area who can provide the initial testing and referrals for provider services. Still, there is tremendous need for lifelong care and advocacy after diagnosis into Adulthood. These include education, job placement, living skills, counseling and innovative programming. It is hoped that, through the initial $1 million investment by the Simon Family along with funds raised to enhance the Simon Family Endowment, the requisite programs will be created to fulfill the mission in the South Sound Region as well as produce a working model for other communities.

ENDOWMENT VISION

To foster continuing growth, independence, and lifelong support for Adults in the South Sound Region diagnosed with Autism or Developmental Disabilities.

ENDOWMENT MISSION

To create a community of enhanced programs and services supporting adults diagnosed with Autism or Developmental Disabilities by engaging networks of sustained collaborations and partnerships across the diverse South Sound region.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE PROGRAMS SUPPORTED BY THE ENDOWMENT

MASTER OF SOCIAL WORK PRACTICUM PROGRAM

VISION

To provide the South Sound region with Master of Social Work (MSW) professionals prepared to offer lifelong care and advocacy for adults diagnosed with Autism or Developmental Disabilities.

MISSION

To create a model of course work education and fieldwork practicum for the UW Tacoma Master of Social Work program that focuses specifically on inspiring and preparing MSW students to serve adults diagnosed with Autism or Developmental Disabilities.

INVESTMENT

Simon Family Endowment funds will support fellowships for MSW students who choose to engage in fieldwork serving adults with ASD or developmental disabilities.

 

AUTISM COALITION OF TACOMA

VISION

To build Autism Coalition of Tacoma (ACT) Adult programs by identifying gaps in services and to create opportunities for efficient and effective programmatic partnerships that significantly increase state of the art services and high-quality support for lifelong care of adults with Autism or Developmental Disabilities.

MISSION

Activate a robust, sustainable network of partner agencies who work creatively to collaboratively increase services and improve existing systems of support for adults diagnosed with Autism or Developmental Disabilities.

INVESTMENT

Simon Family Endowment funds will support ACT adult programs directly affecting Adults diagnosed with ASD and ID and will also be engaged to provide scholarship opportunities for diagnosed students seeking higher education at UW Tacoma.