Autism is a challenge that affects a growing number of young people. Children struggling with the most severe disabilities, including severe autism, can be challenging to care for, requiring assistance that can be hard to find.
ROI and the Western Michigan University Department of Psychology have partnered to create The Great Lakes Center for Autism Treatment and Research. We will be able to offer help to families who need it, while increasing the opportunity to study severe cases of autism and share our knowledge with the medical community.
The Great Lakes Center for Autism Treatment and Research will be a residential facility that will serve up to 12 children at a time, for up to a year's stay. The construction and design of the building will be tailored to serve the needs of these children, with safety and comfort as top priorities.
The program will employ specially trained staff, as well as a Ph.D. psychologist clinical director with recognized expertise in behavioral analysis and autism and related disorders. In addition to providing residential treatment for the children, there will be a focus on working with each family to prepare for the child's return. (Slideshow)
Below are two videos which serve to show the type of behaviors the proposed GLCATR is meant to care for and ultimately decrease in children with these challenges.
WARNING! CONTENT MAY BE INAPPROPRIATE FOR SOME VIEWERS.
(1) FAPE Joshua (2) Dominic's autistic meltdowns
Capital Campaign: