COD's Autismerica Continues to Impact Lives

GLEN ELLYN, Ill., Sept. 15, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Autismerica, the College of DuPage club that helps students with autism meet in a positive and supportive environment, is thriving more than six years since its inception. The club introduces students, community members and their parents to a wealth of resources on the Glen Ellyn campus and the greater DuPage County area.

Since 2012, club organizers have helped students better educate themselves about College of DuPage and have built a support system for students incorporating guest speakers and social activities.

"This organization is filling a huge void in the community as there's really no other group like this in DuPage County," said COD counselor and Professor Dr. Michael Duggan. "We had about 20 to 25 individuals at our first meeting in 2012 and now we consistently see upwards of 60."

Group meetings are designed to be informative, but also incorporate activities to encourage members to socialize – whether it be bowling, video gaming or an outing to a softball game. Rex Brim attended his first Autismerica meeting three years ago. The 35-year-old Wheaton resident had been taking courses at the College, but had been hesitant to speak with many of his fellow students.

"I talk to more people now," he said. "Group members get together to talk or do cool things. Talking with them helps and I'm more comfortable now on campus."

In addition to outside speakers, Autismerica organizers also incorporate College staff and students. Last academic year, presenters included students from COD's MPTV program who discussed and screened student-produced animation shorts, said Accommodations Specialist Sheryl Ebersold.

"The biggest thing we give students are leadership opportunities they wouldn't otherwise have access to," she said. "We truly want our members to not only feel a part of the organization, but the College community as well." 

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SOURCE College of DuPage