"Our mission is to provide information, resources and support for families and communities affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders in Northwest Illinois."

About the Northwest Illinois Autism Support Group

Northwest Illinois Autism Support Group was started in 2004. It first began at Saint Mark's Church, but later relocated to the First Assembly Church at the intersection of North Mulford and Spring Creek Roads.  It is currently, meeting monthly at Easter Seals, at 650 North Main Street in Rockford, which is located across the street form the Discovery Center.

The Autism Support Group was the vision of Amy Ekstrom, a mother with a child on the Spectrum. She began the group as a way of seeking support, compiling resources and expanding knowledge and awareness. Her goal was to establish a network of parents, in an effort to aid families of the Spectrum as they dealt with their unique challenges

As the group has grown, so have the goals of the organization. Now that we are sponsored by Easter Seals Chicago Metropolitan Rockford, the NW IL Autism Support Group has expanded their community, and found additional resources. There are beginning talks to arrange a Walk For Autism, a fundraiser to assist the group in bringing greater support to Rockford families on the Spectrum. There are flower sales going on during the holiday season, to raise awareness and raise more funding. Soon the Group will be registering with the state, as an important voice in the Autism Community, so that our concerns will be heard in regard to legislation and funding in Northern Illinois.

Northwest Illinois Autism Support Group is a haven, a support system, a resource, a knowledge base, and a community. We offer an understanding ear, an open heart, and a helping hand. We offer a determined voice, to help fight for funding and services in the Rockford area, and in our schools. We offer a welcoming smile, and we offer hope.

We welcome You.