While an autism diagnosis can be tough for any family, there are many autism support groups and charities in New Jersey that can help you cope with this challenge.
For your convenience we have compiled a list of some of the major autism support groups in NJ.
(You can also download a detailed list of 15 autism support organizations here).
Autism Support Groups in New Jersey
The Arc of New Jersey
The Arc of New Jersey is the largest non profit organization in the state that’s dedicated to helping families with autism navigate the system of care. The website hosts an incredible range of resources across lots of formats, including webinars, Facebook Live events and even podcasts.
For parents or caregivers in need of immediate help navigating the system, just submit a problem intake form to receive direct support from a member of staff. The organization also provides events on a weekly basis, check their events calendar for more information.
Autism New Jersey
Autism New Jersey is a non profit organization committed to helping people with autism, their families and professionals that work with them to have fulfilling lives. They offer a range of services within New Jersey. This includes a free helpline (800.4.AUTISM) and online directory which provides up to date advice on autism treatments and services.
The organization also provides a wealth of online resources for parents and professionals. In addition to this they regularly host a schedule of workshops and webinars throughout the state.
Parents of Autisic Children (POAC)
POAC is a non-profit that aims to make a difference for every child with autism in New Jersey. They run hundreds of events each year for the autism community. These include everything from support and social groups for parents, pool parties for children and dances for teens with ASD. So if you’re looking for social activities for you or your children, this is a great support network in which to be part.
POAC also provides plenty of online resources for parents and professionals. And finally, another great service you’ll find here is NJ Autism Warriors which is an online support group for parents with children with autism.
Autism Family Services of New Jersey
Autism Family Services of New Jersey (AFSNJ), an affiliate of the Family Resource Network, is dedicated to ensuring a better quality of life for individuals with autism and their families. They provide a range of services and assistance programs, including after school clubs, career planning assistance and scholarships.
Once a year the AFSNJ also hosts the Autism Beach Bash. Hosted in Belmar, this is the largest gathering in NJ of people with autism and their families. It includes surfing, arts and crafts, dance and plenty of other interactive activities.
Easterseals New Jersey
Easterseals New Jersey is a non profit with more than 70 years of experience helping people with ASD and other special needs. Their support services are aimed more towards the adult population and are split into three categories: Live, Learn and Work. The Live program provides residential services. The Learn program provides case management and behavior services. While the Work program provides training and supported employment.
Eden Autism
Eden Autism is a New Jersey autism support group non profit. It aims to provide a lifetime of support to people with autism as well as their families, teachers, employers, caregivers and friends. Their services include an infant and toddler program, a private school and adults services. They also host a regular program of events within the New Jersey community.
State of New Jersey Autism Resources
The State of New Jersey provides plenty of resources and support for people with autism and their families. The Department of Human Services provides public funding for services and support that assists New Jersey adults living with autism, while the Department of Education provides these resources for parents and families. You can also download this comprehensive guide to navigating the NJ service systems for individuals with ASD which provides in depth advice to families.
Conclusion
The above organizations are some of the largest autism support groups in NJ. However there are dozens of other groups available such as autism parent support groups in New Jersey.
We hope you found this list useful. Please reach out if there is another group that you think we want to add to this list or if you want to learn more about working with the best ABA therapy provider in NJ.
