The Special Education Foundation (SEF) joined over 40 organizations at this year’s Community Autism Expo on Saturday, April 5, held at the St. Louis County Library Clark Family Branch. The event, which continues to grow each year, brought together a powerful network of local nonprofits, service providers, and advocates—all committed to supporting individuals with autism and their families.
This year’s Expo was the largest yet, offering a robust lineup of resources, programs, and connections for attendees. SEF was on-site to share information about our wide-ranging initiatives and connect directly with families, educators, and service professionals. A key focus at our table was the Autism Independence Project, a transformative partnership with iSocial, developed by Dr. Janine Stichter and colleagues at the Thompson Center for Autism at the University of Missouri.
The Autism Independence Project aims to enhance the lives of individuals with autism by improving social competence and promoting greater independence. Through remote group therapy and evidence-based interventions, the program empowers participants to build the skills they need for meaningful employment, friendships, and self-sufficiency.
The project is built around remote group sessions facilitated by trained professionals. These sessions are structured, supportive, and interactive—providing participants with the opportunity to practice real-life social skills in a safe and engaging online environment. Participants meet regularly with a consistent group of peers, creating a sense of community while developing important interpersonal strategies.
The curriculum focuses on:
- Understanding social cues and context
- Building relationships and maintaining friendships
- Problem-solving and decision-making
- Managing emotions and self-regulation
- Increasing self-confidence and self-awareness
What sets the Autism Independence Project apart is its accessibility and measurable impact. Because the sessions are virtual, students are paired with like-minded individuals from across the country and it does not interrupt the school day. Progress is tracked over time using research-backed assessment tools, giving families and educators clear insight into each student’s growth.
Throughout the Expo, SEF staff had the opportunity to engage with families eager to learn more about how the Foundation’s support can open doors for students with disabilities. We also connected with other participating organizations, many of which offer complementary services that align with our mission.
We’re incredibly grateful to the Expo organizers for hosting such a valuable community event and for including SEF among the dedicated partners working to create inclusive, supportive pathways for individuals with autism. It was inspiring to be part of a day filled with learning, connection, and shared purpose.
We look forward to participating again next year and continuing to amplify the impact of programs like the Autism Independence Project in our community.
For more information about the Autism Independence Project and eligibility to participate, visit our website.
