Mission
The Virginia Autism Project (VAP) began in 2009 and is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that focuses on educating, advising and collaborating with federal, state and local decision makers and the general public on issues that impact autistic individuals and their communities, while raising autism awareness and action throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Priorities
- Pursue and maintain an insurance mandate to provide coverage for autism diagnosis and therapy for all eligible Virginians.
- Advocate for criminal justice reform to keep autistic Viriginian’s out of the judicial system when they encounter law enforcment.
- Educate legislators about the need for caregivers for supporting autistic individuals living in the community and call for increased rates of wages, benefits and training.
- Urge the Virginia Department Of Education to provide substantive training for all staff, teachers and aides in current autism theory and behavior management to augment inclusion.
- Gain a Statewide commitment to measurably improve early diagnosis and provide early and intensive therapy. State services must be designed and appropriately funded to provide the types and intensity of services that have been shown to maximize long-term outcomes and minimize societal costs.
- Develop Public and private commitment to residential, educational and occupational opportunities that promote independent living and self sufficiency.
Board of Directors
- Ed Nuttall- President
- Lavada Guthrie- Vice President
- Teresa L. Champion- Secretary/Treasurer
- Kate Fletcher