Mark Your Calendars!

Pathfinders’ Fashion Show Saturday, October 25, 2008 Geppi’s Entertainment Museum

For more information call 410-769-9500, 866-806-8400 (toll free) or log onto www.pathfindersforautism.org

Since 2000, Pathfinders for Autism is a state-wide, non-profit dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with autism and their families. The organization was founded by several parents of children with autism - including Baltimore Orioles Hall of Fame Outfielder William "B.J." Surhoff and his wife, Polly Winde Surhoff - to support the availability of lifespan services, raise funds for autism research, and provide information and resources for families of children with autism. Since its inception, Pathfinders has accomplished much on behalf of the autism community in Maryland:

*In 2000, in coorperation with the Orioles Wives, Pathfinders held a fundraiser that generated $150,000 to support early detection research conducted by Rebecca Landa of the Kennedy Krieger Institute.

*May 2003, the Pathfinders for Autism Resource Center opened, helping families coping with autism to find information about autism and to locate services in communities throughout Maryland. Timely assistance is efficiently provided through an on-line searchable database as well as knowledgeable, caring staff who can answer questions, point out the options that are available or simply listen.

*In 2005, Pathfinders was instrumental in the introduction and passage of legislation to improve autism screening practices in Maryland. It was first-in-the-nation legislation authorizing a three-year pilot program to train 30 pediatricians in the early detection of autism.

*In January 2007, the Pathfinders Board launched a new strategic initiative to train the staff of agencies providing services to individuals with autism across the lifespan. Pathfinders is currently working with the Maryland State Department of Education's Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) to identify staff training needs and implementation strategies that work within the agency's existing structure. A series of trainings is underway with positive feedback from participants to date.