ANOTHER VIEW: Autism Support Center to open in Duluth in September

By Laura Vladick

DULUTH, Ga.  |  Spectrum Autism Support Group, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving individuals and families impacted by autism, has achieved a remarkable milestone in its journey. With autism now affecting one in 36 individuals, the organization is planning a Spectrum Autism Support Center in downtown Duluth. This new facility represents a significant step forward in its mission to provide essential support, education, resources, and respite care to a larger number of individuals and families in need.

Vladick

Located at 2997 Main Street in Duluth, the Spectrum Autism Support Center is strategically situated to be accessible to a wide range of families and the central location will enable them to better serve the community and provide a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.

For over 25 years, Spectrum Autism Support Group has been a pillar of support in Gwinnett County, consistently working towards improving the lives of those living with autism. The opening of the Spectrum Autism Support Center marks a pivotal moment for the organization, as it allows them to expand their reach and impact even more lives in the community. Spectrum provides support groups, camps, respite, social skills, family events, and community education and training.  It has started a Saturday Social Club for adults, a drum circle club, and it will start adding more groups, like a Lego Club, and a Robotics Club. 

It has a sensory-friendly playground, coming from contributions by community support.

The Spectrum Autism Support Center is equipped to enhance the organization’s existing programs and introduce new, exciting initiatives. One of the most anticipated additions is the increase in respite opportunities for caregivers. These respite services will offer caregivers a much-needed break while ensuring that their loved ones with autism receive the utmost care and support in a safe environment.

Another distinctive initiative that the Spectrum Autism Support Center will be launching will be a “parents’ night out” event. These events aim to provide parents with a chance to relax and recharge while their children enjoy a safe and supportive environment. Such opportunities can prove to be invaluable for parents, who often face unique challenges in caring for their children with autism.

The expansion of services at the Spectrum Autism Support Center is geared towards addressing the diverse needs of the community. Their goal is to offer tailored support for individuals at every stage of life.

Claire Dees, founder and executive director of the organization, says: “We are so pleased to see our long time dream of opening the Spectrum Autism Support Center become a reality.” 

This new facility represents a commitment to making a difference in the lives of individuals and families impacted by autism. With the increasing prevalence of autism, it is critical that the community expand its efforts and provide necessary resources as all work to better support those with autism so that they might be able to live, work, play, and worship together in the community, regardless of abilities.

The Spectrum Autism Support Group invites the community to join them in celebrating this occasion and to work together to create a more inclusive and understanding society. With the Spectrum Autism Support Center becoming operational in September, it is poised to make a lasting positive impact on the lives of countless individuals and families affected by autism.

For more information about the Spectrum Autism Support Group and the services provided at the Spectrum Autism Support Center, visit atl-spectrum.com or contact 770-239-6630.

Share