“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead If you are reading this website, you are an individual with an autism spectrum disorder or your life has been touched in some way by an individual with an autism spectrum disorder. You may be a parent, teacher, neighbor, legislator, business owner, service provider, funding source, brother or sister. Welcome. If you need information, you are in the right place. You have found COSAC: NJ’s Autism Resource. Do not linger on this welcome page. Move quickly to the portions of the site that can be most helpful for you. “The sheer heterogeneity of this spectrum disorder often makes it difficult to locate solutions from most information sources. I have often heard it said at COSAC, “”When you know one person with autism, you know one person with autism.”” COSAC addresses the diverse needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorders and their families, friends, and communities. The nature and unpredictability of autism spectrum disorders creates for all of us a sense of urgency and unmet needs, and leads us toward various unproven theories of etiology and pseudoscientific treatments. It is vital that you have access to accurate information regarding advocacy and evidenced-based practice, which can then be adapted and made useful for you. COSAC’s Position Statement regarding treatmentrecommendations can be your guide. Most people think of COSAC as a point of access upon diagnosis. Consider this webpage your portal to advocacy and services throughout the lifespan. COSAC can partner with you to smooth transitions and address challenges from preschool to adulthood. ” For more than four decades, COSAC has provided leadership, information and support to the autism community and advocated for services throughout the state. Most recently, COSAC effectively articulated the needs of the autism community to New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine and the state Legislature. Through the authorization of increased funding for autism services, the State House in Trenton and the New Jersey Department of Human Services have sent all NJ citizens an important message: individuals with autism spectrum disorders matter. Our challenge is to proceed effectively and efficiently. We cannot be random in our advocacy and decision-making efforts. Random activity yields random results. Empower yourself, your family, your education programs, your business and your community. Partner with COSAC. Become a member of COSAC today. Respectfully, 
Linda S. Meyer
