Annual Appeal 2011-2012

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fundraiser ideas Dear Friend,

It’s been 17 years since a small group of parents and professionals founded AANE. For most of our first ten years, when I said “Aspergers”, I was met with a blank stare. Now, 17 years later, that is rarely the case. Most people have heard the word and many have a general sense of what it means. In most situations, an explanation is no longer needed. With ever increasing numbers of people diagnosed, instead of “what’s that”, I’m likely to hear, “Oh, my cousin has AS” or “That’s what Max on Parenthood has, right?”

Those responses are encouraging. But we still have a long way to go. Even people familiar with media portrayals of Asperger’s may not understand the neurological complexity of AS. Or that people with AS have incredible strengths and talents combined with significant challenges. Or that the challenges changes as individuals grow and move from school to work and independent living.

Promoting understanding is paramount to AANE. Our goal is to ensure that all those touched by AS are accepted and supported. That there is a community for families. That adults have social outlets to combat social isolation. That parents, teachers and professionals understand how best to support someone with AS. That people with AS are respected for who they are and have the educational, social and employment opportunities available to everyone else in our society.

That is AANE’s mission. And passion. Our goals of creating greater understanding and support, however, can be pursued only with your help. Perhaps 17 years down the road, the world will be an even more accommodating and accepting place for those with AS. With your help, we will work to make that happen.

Thank you for supporting AANE.

Sincerely,

Dania Jekel
Executive Director