This 501(c)3 non-profit was launched in the fall of 2022. It is the brainchild of founder and Executive Director, Dr. Amanda Johns, LCSW. Amanda is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who owns a mental health private practice in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. She saw a need amongst her clients for a support program for teens and young adults diagnosed with Autism. Autism programming is typically marketed to younger children, and often focuses on behavior extinction. Autism support programming can also be incredibly cost prohibitive. Amanda decided to do something to fill the gaps in services and to create an environment where people can be their authentic selves. No masking. No judgment. Amanda took a chance and created the non-profit Autism Unplugged with the hope that others would have the same passion and join her in the mission. In addition to being the founder, Amanda is also Autistic and ADHD.
Our mission is to create an authentic environment where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. We understand the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, power, and intersectionality, and the impact each of these has on individuals, families, and communities. We strive to integrate these principles into our program to offer you supportive relationships with people who understand. Everyone has a right to be authentic to who they are, even in their differences. We believe that Autistic people (including Social Communication Disorder and Alexithymia) don't need someone to try and fix or cure them. You aren't a puzzle piece that needs to find its place. You already belong. You were never missing. You aren't broken.
You are equal.
The goal of Autism Unplugged is to create opportunities for Autistic teens and young adults to build a safe and supportive community. We also work to educate family, friends and the broader community on the importance of viewing Autism through a neuro affirming lens. We recognize that this stage of life can be really difficult for autistic individuals - it can be confusing, isolating and lonely. Our hope is that through this program participants will feel connected, valued, seen and heard. Our purpose is to normalize and affirm Autism and to show participants that the future can be whatever they design for themselves. Nobody should have to go through this life feeling like they don't belong. Come hang out with us!
Everyone in leadership is a volunteer. They are people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, ages, beliefs and lived experiences. The one thing all of our volunteers have in common is a passion for helping others to feel supported, seen and cared for. Everyone in our organization understands what it feels like to be "different." Most of our volunteers have their own neurodivergence and within that their own unique quirkiness. They all want to help autistic teens and young adults to know that they are not alone.
Are you interested in coming to an educational lecture or social event? Maybe you want to play D&D, or talk about anime, share your rock collection, build Legos, join a book club or play video games? Or maybe you want to come hear an expert talk about one of your passions! Follow the link to see our current upcoming events!