Q: What is autism?
A: Autism is part of a larger group of disorders known as Autism
Spectrum Disorder, or ASD. Autism is a developmental disorder that emerges
in early childhood with signs and symptoms appearing by the age of 18
months. People with ASD often have difficulties with social and communication
skills. ASD affects each individual differently with a range of symptoms
occurring at varying intensities from mild to severe. Within this range
or “spectrum,” one person may have a high level of intelligence
and yet not have the basic social skills required to navigate everyday
life. In contrast, another person may have delayed learning of language
skills and be highly dependent on others.
ASD is comprised of 3 of the 5 diagnostic disorders which make up Pervasive
Developmental Disorder, or PDD. The 3 disorders are Autistic Disorder,
Asperger Syndrome, and PDD Not Otherwise Specified, or PDD NOS. The remaining
2 PDDs are Childhood Disintegrative Disorder and Rett Syndrome and are
not as prevalent as ASD.
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Q: What distinguishes OAR from other autism organizations?
A: OAR shares many of the same goals
as other parent-led, autism organizations. What’s most
distinct about OAR is its singular focus on applied research,
i.e. studies that will help provide tangible and practical
benefits to the autism community and OAR’s emphasis on
providing useful, timely, “family friendly” feedback
through its Autism Information Program. As a young and vibrant
organization, OAR is charting a new course that complements
the ongoing efforts of the other biomedically-focused research
organizations.
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Q: How does OAR raise funds?
A: OAR’s funding comes
from many sources including contributions from the Board of
Directors, donations from other autism groups, corporate sponsorships,
special events such as the RUN FOR AUTISM, Combined Federal
Campaign and private workplace campaigns, grants, and general
donations. In short, the general public supports OAR. For more
information or to make a donation online, jump over to our Support
Us page
or contact OAR’s
staff.
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Q: How do I join OAR?
A: Time and interest are all
it takes. OAR is not a traditional membership organization
and does not collect dues. Members of OAR are those who share
in OAR’s values and
interests. Some use OAR’s information resources in the
various ways they experience autism in their lives and may
never make a donation. Others are people whose time and interests
include their personal talent, professional expertise, and
financial support. All have equal standing within OAR’s
ranks. What brings people to OAR and makes them part of the
organization is their interest in OAR’s mission. OAR
does not want to place obstacles, especially monetary ones,
between its information resources and those who need them most.
Nor does OAR want to invest time and money that could be spent
on research programs in the administrative details of membership.
OAR does rely heavily on grassroots support from friends and volunteers
to fulfill its mission. Rather than assess dues or charge access
fees, OAR asks its “members” to place their value on OAR’s
programs through a once-a-year, voluntary contribution. OAR also
works with volunteers in order to raise awareness and funds through
locally hosted special events. Sign
up here to join our growing list of friends and concerned citizens.
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Q: How does the Grant Program work?
A: OAR announces grant opportunities
through a Request for Proposals (RFP) process based upon research
priorities developed by OAR’s Scientific Council. Depending
on the specific area of interest and research objectives, OAR
will solicit studies through an open competition or through
a directed competition. All current RFPs can be found here.
Sign up to be informed of future grants by clicking
here.
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Q: What is a Pilot Study and why are such studies important?
A: A pilot study is an initial or preliminary
investigation designed to test research hypotheses, gather
data, and validate the scientific approach and methodology
for a particular area of research interest. It is important
as a test bed for ideas and as an evaluation and assessment
measure before investing further in a major study. Especially
for new and up and coming investigators, pilot studies are
vital stepping-stones to more significant grants. OAR’s
intent in encouraging and supporting pilot studies is to stimulate
new studies in applied research, specifically studies that
result in outcomes, findings or knowledge of practical value
to the autism community.
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