AUTISM RESOURCES OF UTAH COUNTY COUNCIL
Autism Resources of Utah County is a council of parents, organizations and agencies collaborating to create integrated systems of support and treatment for individuals with Autism in Utah County.
Autism Resources of Utah County Council was established in 2011 by likeminded folks who were interested in supporting autism in our area in a more substantial way. Initially, the goal was to get more familiar with all the organizations that were currently assisting families living with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), in Utah County, in order to provide a more seamless referral process. Once everyone met, we realized there was more we could do.
Each organization that participates works together to form a collective support network for our friends in the community. We recognize that on our own we can help, but together we do more. We share our synergistic contributions regularly throughout the year.
You may know us by the annual “Uplifting Celebration for Autism”, every April, held at UVU, but sponsored in part by ARUCC. You may also know us by our annual “Autism Friendly Family Carnival”, held every June at the Clear Horizons location of Utah Autism Academy. We also sponsor regular training symposiums and parent dinners. These events are offered as a gift to the community, from our collective sharing of resources.
Autism is optimally supported by a combined effort. We recognize that we can serve best when we work together.
WHAT IS AUTISM?
Autism and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are both general terms for a group of complex disorders of brain development. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by difficulties in social interaction, verbal and nonverbal communication and repetitive behaviors.
WHAT DO I DO IF I SUSPECT MY CHILD MAY HAVE AUTISM?
Don’t wait. Talk to your doctor about getting your child screened for autism. Research has consistently shown that early diagnosis and intervention offer the best chance for improving function and maximizing a child’s progress and outcomes.
Community Autism Awards
HERO FOR AUTISM
AWARD REQUIREMENTS
This award recognizes an outstanding individual or group serving in Utah County that has demonstrated ongoing passion and commitment to helping the Autism community. This individual or group should:
- Have worked in the Autism field for 10 or more years.
- Have made contributions to the Autism community that have had deep impact and made lasting improvements in the quality of life of individuals with Autism and their families.
- Have shown initiative, ingenuity, and insight while meeting the needs of the Autism Community.
MICHAEL SPROUL COMMUNITY
SPIRIT AWARD
This award recognizes a wide range of individuals or groups that are making current contributions to the Autism community in Utah County through their commitment of time, their resources, their passion, and their influence as an advocate. This individual or group should:
- Include educators, individuals with Autism, parents, volunteers, agencies, or other citizens of distinction. (Other categories may also be considered).
- Show innovation and insight in their efforts to meet specific and/or unique needs in the Utah County Autism community.
HEROES FOR AUTISM AWARD RECIPIENTS:
2012- Karen Fairchild, LCSW, Family Support and Treatment Center
2013- Brent and Kathy Wood, Clear Horizons Academy & Hurst-Wood Education Foundation
2014- Catherine Johnson- Wasatch Mental Health
2015- Doug Gale-Scenic View Academy
2016- Toni Harris-Utah Valley University
2017- Frank Garrett- Alpine School District
2018- Michele Thompson- Nebo School District
2019- Terisa Gabrielsen- Brigham Young University
2020-Laurie Bowen- Utah Valley University and Jared Stewart- Scenic View Academy
2022-Janeen McFadden-GIANT Steps
2023-Brylie Mason
2023-Thanksgiving Point
2024-Tricia Nelson
MICHAEL SPROUL COMMUNITY SPIRIT AWARD RECIPIENTS:
2018-Michael Sproul, Vivint Gives Back, The Wunder Family, Kira Hakes
2019-Spectrum Academy Staff, Sarah Heuser, Damian Rodriguez
2020-Orem City Police, Rocky Mountain University Physician's Program, Tyler Evans
2022- Screenplay, Habitat for Humanity
2023- Keith and Melisa Nellesen
2024-Texas Instruments and Utah Metropolitan Ballet