About the Center

The Autism Resource Center was conceived in 1996 by a group of parents to serve primarily as an information and referral service for children and families affected by disorders within the Autism Spectrum; Autism, PDD NOS and Asperger Syndrome. The Center services the eastern portion of DDS Central-West Region. This encompasses North Central, Worcester, and South Valley areas. All totaled there are 65 towns within the Autism Resource Center's service area. However, families who live outside our service area may choose to utilize our Center, The Division of Autism requests that families choose and utilize the Center that best suits their family's needs and not utilize multiple state funded Centers. Please see our Resource Map for all DDS funded Centers.

This program is funded by the Department of Developmental Services ( DDS ) and administered by Horace Mann Educational Associates, Inc. HMEA recognizes that family participation is critical to the success of it’s programs, a Family Advisory Board serves as the voice of families to the Center.

Information and referral, education, family support and networking are vital services the Center provides. The Autism Resource Center is designed to help parents, educators, service providers, and medical professionals provide effectively for those diagnosed within the Autism Spectrum. The Center does not recommend any single program or treatment but instead offers information on a great variety of issues giving parents and professionals what they need to make educated choices.