Chicagoland Autism Connection (CAC), was the vision of two mothers who grew tired of seeking supports and services outside of their neighborhood. Their vision was to bring resources and supports to the south side of Chicago’s marginalized communities and to unmask the stigma surrounding Autism. The organization began as a grassroots movement with parent volunteers until receiving 501(c)(3) status in 2003.
Mission: The Chicagoland Autism Connection (CAC) is a not-for profit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to increase autism awareness and acceptance and to improve the quality of life for all persons living with autism, other intellectual/developmental disabilities, and their families. Since 1997, CAC has touched hundreds of lives by providing trainings, resources, social/recreational outings, respite care and peer mentoring for families who care for persons living with autism.
Bi- Monthly Family Recreational Outings – CAC host bimonthly family recreational outings to encourage families to explore activities within and outside their community. Some of these outings included trips to: Medieval Times, Brookfield and Lincoln Park Zoo, Shedd Aquarium, pumpkin patches, horse farms, bowling, skating, painting parties and a host of other events.
Other monthly advocacy events and activities include:
• Bi-Monthly Parent Friendly Trainings, networking, and advocacy meetings
• Peer Support – families helping families
• Respite care during monthly meetings
• Self-care/Wellness Activities
• Annual Resource Fair and walk in April during Autism Awareness Month
• Annual fundraiser in November (Dinner Dance/Gala)
• Cultural Awareness: Goodman theatre, Blue Man Group, Museums, Art exhibits and more.
• Water park outing in July
• Family Reunion Cookout/Back to School in September
WE ARE THE PLACE FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY TO FIND YOUR TRIBE!