About

MISSION & VISION

The Autism Society of East Tennessee is a community-based organization that improves the lives of all persons impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorders and envisions a community that supports and shows compassion to those affected by autism by providing accessibility through collaboration, education and support services.

CORE VALUES

Accessibility
Compassion
Collaboration
Education
Social 
Support

MEET THE TEAM

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

STACIE MILLER, President
MELISSA COLE, Secretary
WILL EDWARDS

APRIL McCROSKEY

Dr. ANDREA McCARTER

KEY VOLUNTEERS

LAURA EDINGTON​

PHIL DANGEL

REBECCA DANGEL

TRACY CHAIN

SHARI CATE

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STAFF

KANDIS BURNEY, Executive Director

OPTIONS POLICY

The Autism Society promotes the active and informed involvement of family members and the individual with autism in the planning of individualized, appropriate services and supports. The Board of the Autism Society believes that each person with autism is a unique individual. Each family and individual with autism should have the right to learn about and then select the options they feel are most appropriate for the individual with autism. To the maximum extent possible, we believe that the decisions should be made by the individual with autism in collaboration with family, guardians and caregivers.

Services should enhance and strengthen natural family and community supports for the individual with autism and the family whenever possible. The service option designed for an individual with autism should result in improved quality of life. Abusive treatment of any kind is not an option.

We firmly believe that no single type of program or service will fill the needs of every individual with autism and that each person should have access to support services. Selection of a program, service or method of treatment should be on the basis of a full assessment of each person’s abilities, needs and interests. We believe services should be outcome-based to ensure they meet the individualized needs of a person with autism.

With appropriate education, vocational training and community living options and support systems, individuals with autism can lead dignified, productive lives in their communities and strive to reach their fullest potential.

The Autism Society believes that all individuals with autism have the right to access appropriate services and supports based on their needs and desires.