Ms. Claire Dees | Spectrum Autism Support
Spectrum Autism Support Group (Spectrum) was established in the fall of 1998 for families, friends and teachers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) within Gwinnett County, Georgia and the surrounding areas. Two moms, Rochelle Geiman (Stone) and Claire Dees founded the group and realized there was a big need for support when over 100 attended the first meeting in October 1998. It was established as a parent run group, whose mission is to provide support, education and resources for individuals and families impacted by autism in our community and beyond.
Spectrum incorporated in 2000 and received non-profit status in 2002. Spectrum maintains a web site with links to the group’s activities and other resources within the metropolitan area. Spectrum’s Facebook page has over 20,000 followers.
Surveys in the first few years of Spectrum’s existence showed families wanted and needed after school programs, summer programs and respite. So, when Spectrum was able to benefit from the Sugarloaf Women’s Club Charity Giving in 2004 the vision of offering camps for children with autism in our community became a reality. Through fundraising, grant writing and donations Spectrum has been able to add more programs and resources for families.
Spectrum continues to be innovative and progressive in seeking opportunities to improve the lives of children/adults with ASD and their families by filling in the gaps that exist in supports and services in our community.
