ASCONN depends on the energy and enthusiasm of volunteers throughout the state. Volunteers are needed to help with all kinds of assignments, from the mundane such as stuffing envelopes, to the vital, such as helping to plan and execute our annual conference, the largest autism conference in Connecticut. To volunteer, or to learn more about volunteer opportunities please contact us via email or call 888-453-4975.

Current Volunteer Opportunities:

Regional Coordinators: ASCONN is looking for people who are willing to be “regional coordinators” for their town or region. This person would be available for telephone and e-mail contact from other families in the area or families who are looking to relocate to your region. A willingness to spend some time talking with other families and to adhere to the ASCONN “Open Options” policy, a general familiarity with autism programs and services in your area and a friendly disposition are all that is required. Regional Coordinators may also help start or run support groups, work with ASCONN to bring speakers on topics of interest to their area, raise funds to support ASCONN or start new programs that they feel are needed. The sky’s the limit. ASCONN will be conducting training programs for Regional Coordinators this summer or fall and arrange for networking opportunities so that coordinators can learn about what is happening around the state and get ideas for their regions.

Orientation Programs: ASCONN’s series of “Autism 101” Orientation Programs continues to expand as more communities are looking to learn about autism spectrum disorders. In order to continue to provide these programs, ASCONN is seeking persons interested in being trained as Orientation Program presenters. Qualifications include a general knowledge of autism, a willingness to speak in public, ability to travel within a prescribed area and adherence to the ASCONN “Open Options” policy. Stipends may be available.

Data Base/Information Technology: ASCONN has a number of data base and IT projects that we would like to start over the next few months. These include web-based research as well as data base collection and management. Are you technologically savvy? Can you surf the web? Are you organized? Do you have some time to devote to these projects (mostly at home, but may require some training)? Are you insomniac and up late at night anyway? Drop us an e-mail and let us know your availability.

Is there some programming, service or support that YOU would like to see available in your area? We can help. Give us a call or drop us an e-mail with your idea and together we can make it happen.