Mission
The mission of F.A.C.T. is to improve the quality of life for individuals with autism and their families in the greater Tidewater Virginia area. F.A.C.T. promotes the creation of social, recreational, and vocational programs designed to meet the unique needs of individuals with autism. F.A.C.T supports the integration of these individuals into the community by providing social models, communication augmentation, emotional and behavioral supports.
History
Families of Autistic Children in Tidewater was founded in 1993 by a small group of concerned and dedicated parents of children with autism. They recognized the lack of social and recreational programs specifically for their children. Most children with Autism are educated in segregated classrooms with children with similar disabilities, limiting or prohibiting interaction with non– disabled peers. Outside of school, children with autism are often ostracized due to their unusual or compulsive behaviors. The founders of F.A.C.T. believed that all children need and deserve fun and enriching social experiences in the company of friends. Through grass root fundraising efforts, the group sponsored their first week long summer day camp program in 1999, serving 5 children. The camp included non-disabled peer buddies as an important component of the program. In 2006, the camp served nearly 150 children over a five week period.
Future
F.A.C.T will continue to expand it’s summer camp program in both size and length to meet the rising need of families in the Tidewater area and beyond. We hope to create a “vacation destination” package for families from out of town and out of state, that would allow parents and non-disabled siblings to take advantage of the many activities offered in our resort community while their child with disabilities enjoyed a fun and rewarding summer camp. F.A.C.T is also offering an increasing number of social opportunities for children throughout the year with the creation of “mini” camps and monthly socials. F.A.C.T will ultimately create a not– for– profit business where adults with autism can develop vocational skills and be gainfully employed.
Our Board
President – Sharon Slipow
Vice President – Pat Alspaugh
Treasurer – George Metzger
Secretary – Karen Voogt
Director – Pam Clendenen
Barbara Sessoms
Larry Goldrich
Beth Ciolfi
Cindy Wheeler
Lauren Huesman