In 2011, FEAT of Louisville spearheaded the Autism Friendly Community, a group of more than 50 experts in the field who have the same mission, to help those with autism, but desire to see more happen in our community. Together, we are working to ensure that there are no gaps in services, preparing our community for the influx of those with autism who are aging out of the system, and partnering with businesses to bring awareness, acceptance and appreciation to those with To create an inclusive environment for individuals with autism and related neurodiverse conditions, we aim to accommodate their unique needs and sensitivities.

The rate of autism has more than tripled since 2000.  Currently, 1 in 31 children in the United States are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).  There is treatment that can help but there is currently no known cause or cure for this developmental condition.  Nearly half of 25-year-olds with autism have never held a paying job.

The Autism Friendly Business Initiative (AFBI) is a training program designed by Families for Effective Autism Treatment (FEAT) to build a community of local businesses that are dedicated to the inclusion of people with autism spectrum disorder ASD in all aspects of life from awareness, appreciation and acceptance to employment.  ASD can impact the way a person communicates and interacts with others, families impacted by ASD often report feeling alienated or unwelcome in public spaces.

The AFBI will equip your organization – no matter its shape or size – with the tools necessary to better serve the ASD population. It teaches your team techniques to recognize signs of ASD and better communicate with people who exhibit those signs.  When team members understand how to react, families feel accepted. When families find businesses they can depend on, businesses gain customers for life.