The Connection is You
For far too long, individuals living on the Autism spectrum have been categorized, labeled and placed into diagnostic boxes. But life experiences are far more complex, and the Autism Society of Northwest Ohio embraces the infinite ways in which people live their lives. In service of those unique experiences, the Autism Society of Northwest Ohio has undergone a major rebranding effort in concert with the Autism Society.
We are proud and excited to advance our mission to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. Our vision is to create a world where everyone in the Autism community is connected to the support they need, when they need it. We do this while embodying our values of Dignity, Equity, Inclusion, Diversity, and Integrity.
We envision a world in which individuals living with autism are able to maximize their quality of life, are treated with the highest level of dignity, and live in a society in which their talents and skills are appreciated and valued. The Autism Society of Northwest Ohio aims to foster connections within the Autism community. Connections to resources, information, services, opportunities, and of course, to each other. Our brand reflects the experiences, needs, and diversity of the Autism community, including Autistic individuals, their families, friends, caregivers, and professionals in Autism-related fields. Whether you are a parent looking for a support group, or a self-advocate looking for ways to impact policy in your community, the Autism Society of Northwest Ohio knows that The Connection is You™.
The new brand includes an inclusive color system, “threads” that visually tie in our story of connection with line fluidity that helps create a calm, visual stimulation. In addition, our portrait photography authentically captures people within the Autism community, amplifying true representation in the brand’s visual components. The new logo weaves the colors and threads to create a visual that represents individuality and unique experiences that are simultaneously interconnected and woven into the greater Autism community.
Additionally, we are intentionally capitalizing Autism. We believe the shift to a capital A is a broader representation of a culture, identity and diverse neurotype – as well as the disorder itself. It can improve understanding of the diverse needs and perspectives within the Autism community, leading to increased access, inclusion, and meaningful support for people with Autism and their loved ones in our society. It is time to embrace the future of inclusivity, acceptance and connection for the Autism community. That future is you, because the Connection is You™.
ASNO’s Support in Our Community
ASNO is proud to partner with the Toledo Zoo by providing Zoo Bags for those with sensory needs!
Zoo Bags contain many useful items including headphones, dry erase board with marker, fan, fidget items, and more! Some of the items included in the bags are shown below.
Previous copies of the ASNO Newsletter are available below:
Fall 2020 Newsletter: https://asno.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/ASNO-Fall-2020-Newsletter.pdf
This edition includes:
- Recap of our 2020 Virtual Autism Walk!
- An introduction to Executive Director, Kate Schwartz
- A review of the summer scavenger hunt
- An article on how to help kids sleep