Autism Science Foundation Wins 2020 Top-Rated Award from GreatNonprofits
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ASF earns distinction for eighth consecutive year, which comes as the organization has pivoted to
meet pandemic-related challenges for autism families and researchers
NEW YORK — October 26, 2020 — The Autism Science Foundation (ASF), a not-for-profit organization
dedicated to supporting and funding innovative autism research, today announced it has received Top-Rated Nonprofit status by GreatNonprofits for the eighth consecutive year.
The Top-Rated designation is based on the rating and number of reviews that ASF received from volunteers, donors and aid recipients. It is the only honor for nonprofits determined by those who have direct experience with the charities.
This year’s designation has special meaning for the organization, as ASF adjusted its 2020 priorities to meet the needs of autism researchers and families amid the pandemic. ASF has awarded two rounds of “Pivot Grants” meant to help scientists fund adaptations to their original research plans necessitated by shutdowns of research institutions. ASF also engaged directly with the community in several ways, including compiling COVID-19 resources for families and researchers and organizing webinars to connect families with relevant research projects. Additionally, ASF held its annual Day of Learning virtually for the first time this year, which led to a record number of participants.
“It is always an honor for the Autism Science Foundation to be named a Top-Rated nonprofit by GreatNonprofits, but the designation feels especially meaningful this year,” said Alison Singer, Co Founder and President of ASF. “The pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for thousands of researchers and families in our community who have seen routines upended, therapy disrupted and research stalled. We’ve pivoted our mission to attempt to help them through it and are incredibly proud that our efforts have been recognized in this manner.”
ASF’s distinction from GreatNonprofits also comes as autism rates continue to rise. In March, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that 1 in 54 eight-year-old children have been identified with autism, an increase from the 1 in 59 rate announced two years ago. As autism’s prevalence rises, ASF remains staunchly committed to supporting cutting-edge autism research and supporting the needs of individuals and families affected by autism.
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About the Autism Science Foundation
The Autism Science Foundation (ASF) is a 501(c) (3) public charity. Its mission is to support autism research by providing funding to scientists and organizations conducting autism research. ASF also provides information about autism to the general public and serves to increase awareness of autism spectrum disorders and the needs of individuals and families affected by autism. To learn more about the Autism Science Foundation, or to make a donation, visit www.autismsciencefoundation.org.
Media Contact
Kathy Ehrich Dowd
Forefront Communications for Autism Science Foundation
617-970-5842
kdowd@forefrontcomms.com