November is Native American Heritage Month, a time dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the rich histories, diverse cultures, and significant contributions of Native peoples. It’s an opportunity to honor the traditions and resilience of Indigenous communities who have shaped our nation's past and continue to influence its future. This month encourages us to learn, reflect, and appreciate the vibrant tapestry of Native American life.
At ABS Kids, we see this as a moment to reaffirm our commitment to inclusion for all communities. We believe that understanding different cultures helps us better serve every child and family. This dedication is particularly important when supporting the autistic community, where unique challenges, especially regarding access to care, often intersect with cultural identity.
Understanding Challenges and Improving Access
Navigating the world with autism can present unique hurdles. These can include sensory sensitivities, communication differences, and social challenges. For families in many communities, including Native American populations, these challenges can be amplified by barriers to accessing high-quality diagnostic and therapeutic services like applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy.
Geographic isolation, a lack of culturally competent providers, and systemic inequities can make it difficult for families to get the support they need. We recognize that an official diagnosis is often the critical first step to accessing life-changing care. Early and intensive intervention is clinically proven to help children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) achieve incredible milestones and reach their full potential.
At ABS Kids, we have made it our vision to improve access to autism diagnosis and care. We are committed to breaking down these barriers by expanding our services into more communities and ensuring our approach is family-centered and respectful of diverse backgrounds. Our goal is to empower every child and family, ensuring they are active participants in creating an individualized therapy plan that feels right for them.
The Impact of the Autistic Community
The autistic community is filled with brilliant minds, creative spirits, and passionate advocates who have made a profound impact on the world. Their unique perspectives have driven innovation and fostered a greater understanding of neurodiversity.
The autistic community is filled with brilliant minds, creative spirits, and passionate advocates who have made a profound impact on the world. Their unique perspectives have driven innovation and fostered a greater understanding of neurodiversity.
Consider individuals like Dr. Temple Grandin, an animal science professor and autism spokesperson whose work has revolutionized the livestock industry. Her ability to think in pictures provided unique insights that led to more humane and efficient systems. Another inspiring figure is Clay Marzo, a professional surfer whose deep connection to the ocean and incredible talent have made him a star in his sport. These individuals show that different ways of thinking and experiencing the world are not just valuable but can be the source of extraordinary achievements.
By celebrating these accomplishments, we highlight the incredible potential within every person on the autism spectrum. We are inspired by these "WOW moments"—the breakthroughs, both big and small, that drive our work every day.
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
To truly serve all families, we must foster a culture that champions diversity from within. At ABS Kids, our Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Committee is at the heart of this commitment.
Our DEIB Mission
Our mission is to be empowered by the breadth of our differences, to create a culture where all people thrive because their diverse stories are heard and celebrated, and to commit to an evolving understanding of diversity as we learn from one another.
Our DEIB Vision
To further the objectives of our Mission, our Vision is:
The committee helps create, review, and recommend initiatives that align with our core values of Passion, Quality, Innovation, Transparency, Integrity, and Accessibility. This work ensures that we are not only acknowledging months of recognition, like Native American Heritage Month, but are actively embedding the principles of equity and inclusion into everything we do. We are committed to not only providing training but also curating an inclusive shopping list, ensuring the children we serve see themselves reflected in the toys and books in our centers.
By celebrating heritage, improving access to care, and fostering a culture of belonging, we can create a world where every child has the opportunity to achieve their goals and live their best life.
About ABS Kids: ABS Kids partners with children and families to deliver high-quality, compassionate applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy at home, in schools, and in our centers. From diagnosis to ongoing treatment, we support children with autism every step of the way. We proudly provide ABA therapy in California, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Utah. Join our team to combine purpose with professional growth.