Chairman's Message

January 26, 2009

Dear Friends,

There are an estimated 1.7 million people with autism in the United States. The current thinking is that the vast majority will live a normal lifespan. It is this generation living with autism that is the focus of OAR's mission.

As the father of two children with autism, I appreciate the work that is now being undertaken to identify the causes of this complex disorder. This work is vital - its promise very long term. Realistically, it offers little for my son and daughter today or in their lifetime. Applied research--scientific studies that test theories, treatments, and assumptions and offer practical answers to the everyday challenges of living with autism--does.

OAR's leadership team is built around an incredibly dedicated Board of Directors, a Scientific Council uniquely matched to OAR's mission, and a staff that delivers results that belie its size. Together we recognize that individuals with autism, their families, teachers, caregivers, and service providers need better answers to many and varied, pressing questions.

OAR's mission then is "to apply research to the challenges of autism." To me, that implies three fundamental objectives: Raise money. Fund research. Change lives. It's that simple, and the ultimate goal—making a lasting impact on the lives of children and adults with autism—compels us to raise the bar in fundraising and research funding each year.

Through our annual research competition, we fund pilot studies that investigate issues related to diagnosis, early intervention, education, transition to adulthood, housing, employment, and life care. In just seven years, we have committed more than $1.7 million to 91 applied research studies by researchers and graduate students pursuing degrees in field related to autism across the U.S. With the grants we make this year, our total funding will surpass $2 million.

We haven't done this on our own. From our first days, we have made every effort to engage the autism community in what we do, and it has paid dividends. The input we received from parents and professionals immeasurably contributed to the quality and sharpened the practical focus of each of the guidebooks in OAR's Life Journey through Autism series. And, the financial support OAR receives from the community allows OAR to provide its guides and information services at no cost to parents, teachers, and other front-line service providers who serve our children. Thank you.

Thanks too for visiting this site. I hope you find it useful to your specific interests. I invite your comments and suggestions, and thank you again for your interest and support.

Sincerely,

James M. Sack
Chairman