Programs/Projects

The Somali Parent Autism Network (SPAN), in partnership with the Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) has been funded by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) to develop an improved service delivery for the Somali immigrant families in Minnesota with children, adolescents, and adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) by connecting them to resources and services. The project activities are focused on three core initiatives: Offering direct culturally competent consultation to Somali families regarding diagnosis, special education, social services; more education for parents and providers on how best to support autistic children from the Somali community by building caregiver capacity for broader inclusion and support; reducing ASD related stigma in the Somali community through public awareness campaign by educating the public about developmental disabilities such as autism.