The Autism Community in Action (TACA)   

The Autism Community in Action (TACA) was founded in 2000 as a support group serving ten Orange County families. After 24 years of service, TACA has transformed into a national organization, providing services across the country. When TACA was established, 1 in 500 children were diagnosed with autism. Today rates of autism diagnoses are at epidemic proportions. It is the fastest growing developmental disability in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) most recent report states that 1 in 39 children has autism. Autism is a devastating neurological disability usually diagnosed in children between 18 months and 3 years of age and can cause severe impairment in language cognition and communication. In addition, children with autism are at a greater risk for co-occurring medical issues including epilepsy, gastrointestinal issues, sleep disturbances, and immune dysfunction. When a child is diagnosed there is no specialty medical provider that establishes a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary treatment plan. Since each instance of autism is unique, families do not know where to begin, what treatments to try, or even how to access them. TACA’s focus is to fill the gap and need, uniquely bringing families together to engage in social-educational activities that positively impact the long-term health, well-being, and quality of life for their children with autism. Through a series of relevant and targeted educational, social, legal, and financial assistance programs, TACA is providing families with guidance, support, referrals, and access to current resources and treatments, enabling families to make informed decisions to better the lives of their children and youth. TACA’s vision is for every individual diagnosed with autism to lead an independent life.