Celebrating Powerhouse Women salutes and recognizes women who are making an impact, whether it’s in business, philanthropy, public service, or elsewhere.
Claire Dees/Spectrum Autism Support Group
Claire Dees is the Executive Director and co-founder of Spectrum Autism Support Group, a local non-profit organization, providing support, education and resources for individuals and families impacted by autism. Spectrum serves over 2000 individuals with autism each year and their families with support groups, camps, respite, socials skills groups, family event and community education and training. Claire has a BS in Business Administration from Presbyterian College and over 35 years in the field of disabilities, both as a parent and a professional.
Claire serves on the Autism Plan for Georgia Advisory Council, the Center for Leadership in Disability Advisory Council, Board of Visitors of Georgia Gwinnett College, Northside Women’s Leadership Council, is a Gwinnett Chamber Chairman’s Club member, member of the Duluth Business Association and the Peachtree Corners Business Association and president of the Duluth Civitan Club. She was the recipient of the Georgia Achievement in Autism award in 2019. She has been nominated for Chamber Moxie awards the past 2 years in several categories. Claire was previously a lobbyist for disability issues for 4 years in Georgia and continues to advocate as well as educate families on how to speak up for their family members at the state and national level.
Claire is the parent of 3 adult children, one of whom lived with autism until his early demise in 2011. Her passion is helping families live better and more inclusive lives in their communities, regardless of abilities, where all can live, work, play and worship together. Opening the new Spectrum Autism Support Center in 2023 will be one of her greatest accomplishments as Spectrum celebrates it’s 25th anniversary this year.
Celebrating Powerhouse Women is presented by
