Submitted photo Ava Paris, a Youngstown State University soccer player and student-athlete ambassador for the Rich Center for Autism at YSU, decorates a pumpkin with Rich Center student Emma Paine.

April was Autism Acceptance Month and the conversation continues to evolve — from simply raising awareness to fostering deeper understanding, meaningful inclusion and lasting support for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.

Autism, formally known as Autism Spectrum Disorder, is a lifelong developmental difference that affects how a person communicates, interacts and experiences the world. It is described as a spectrum because it presents differently in every individual. Some individuals require significant daily support, while others live independently, build careers and raise families. For many families, understanding autism is not a single moment, but an ongoing process that evolves over time.

At The Rich Center for Autism at Youngstown State University, that range of experiences is not theoretical — it is lived out every day through classrooms, therapy sessions and ongoing collaboration with families.

Executive Director Michael J. Latessa, along with a team of educators, clinicians and support staff, contributed to this article. Their insights reflect not just professional expertise, but years of working alongside families — learning from them as much as they guide them.

The Center itself exists because of a story this community has never forgotten.

According to cofounder Phyllis Ricchiuti, the Rich Center was established in 1995 by Geri Kosar, Jacqueline Marchionda and Rose Rubino as a living tribute to the victims of the U.S. Air Flight 427 crash. The center honors Anthony Rich, his wife Paula (Rubino) and their unborn child.

In the aftermath of that loss, families made a deliberate choice: to build something that would serve others. Community donations helped create a specialized school for children with autism — one that would provide education, treatment and research opportunities in a region where those services were once difficult to find. Housed at Youngstown State University, the center continues to fill a critical gap for families across the Mahoning Valley.

Today, the center operates as an externally funded program, relying on grants, fundraising and the Ohio Autism Scholarship Program.

“The community has been unbelievably supportive, especially since we don’t charge tuition,” Ricchiuti said. “We are here to stay. We can’t thank the community enough.”

UNDERSTANDING AUTISM

Even as awareness has grown, misunderstanding remains one of the most persistent challenges surrounding autism.

“Autism is a developmental difference that affects how a person communicates, interacts, and processes the world around them,” the Rich Center team explained. “It’s called a spectrum because it looks different for every individual.”

That variability can be difficult to grasp and often leads to assumptions — that autism always looks the same, or that individuals on the spectrum are uninterested in relationships.

“In reality, many individuals do want connection — they may just express it differently,” the team said. “Behaviors are often forms of communication.”

There has been progress. The language around autism has shifted in recent years, moving away from a strictly deficit-based view and toward a broader understanding of neurodiversity — recognizing neurological differences as part of human diversity.

“There’s been a shift from awareness to acceptance,” the team said. “But there is still work to be done.”

EARLY INTERVENTION IS IMPORTANT

While autism is lifelong, early identification can play an important role in development.

“Early diagnosis and intervention are critical,” the team emphasized. “They allow us to build foundational communication, social, and learning skills during key developmental periods.”

Families may notice early signs such as delays in communication, limited eye contact, repetitive behaviors or differences in social interaction. Still, every child develops at their own pace.

“Early evaluation is always a good step if there are concerns,” the team added.

At the Rich Center, support begins with understanding the individual.

“Everything we do is individualized,” the team said. “We use data-driven approaches to tailor instruction, set goals and monitor progress.”

HUB OF RESEARCH, EDUCATION AND SUPPORT

Serving approximately 60 students daily, the Rich Center functions as more than a school.

“Our mission is to improve the educational experiences and outcomes for individuals with autism and their families through teaching, treatment, research, and community engagement,” the team said.

The center operates at the intersection of education, research and professional training. Students receive individualized, evidence-based programming while future educators and clinicians gain hands-on experience.

Over time, the program has grown significantly.

“What started as an early childhood program has expanded into a comprehensive model,” the team said.

Services now include communication development, social-emotional learning, behavioral support, academic instruction, and transition planning focused on life and vocational skills.

“Progress happens best when support systems are aligned,” the team emphasized.

BARRIERS THAT REMAIN

Despite progress, challenges persist — particularly when it comes to access.

“Long waitlists, cost and a shortage of trained professionals can delay critical support,” the team said.

These issues are especially visible in regional communities like the Mahoning Valley and often become more pronounced as individuals transition into adulthood.

Autism is lifelong, though much of the public conversation focuses on children.

For some individuals, diagnosis comes later in life after years of “masking” — adapting behavior to meet social expectations. While masking can help individuals navigate daily life, it often comes at a cost, including burnout, anxiety and a sense of disconnection.

In adulthood, autism may present in ways that are less visible but no less significant. Social communication differences can affect workplace interactions. A need for routine may shape daily life, while sensory sensitivities can influence environments individuals can comfortably navigate.

At the same time, many autistic adults bring strengths such as focus, creativity, honesty and deep knowledge in areas of interest.

A PARENT’S PERSPECTIVE

For families, those broader ideas take shape in everyday life.

Ashley Perry of Canfield is raising two sons on the autism spectrum, including Charlie, 6, a student at the Rich Center. She first noticed differences in his development around age 2, when he began hyperfixating on objects — something later confirmed through evaluation at Akron Children’s Hospital.

Having already navigated a diagnosis with her older son, Max, Perry expected a similar experience. Instead, she found that each child’s path is different.

Charlie’s days are a mix of routine and unpredictability. School provides structure, followed by therapy and activities like gymnastics and rock climbing, where he has shown a natural ability.

“He can scale a wall in a minute that others can’t,” Perry said.

Support systems have been essential. Therapies, community programs and connections through the Autism Society of the Mahoning Valley have helped the family navigate challenges, including safety concerns and access to resources. Still, Perry said there is a gap in understanding in everyday interactions.

“It takes a village,” she said, “but the village doesn’t always know how to help.”

Her advice to other parents reflects both experience and connection.

“Start therapies early, use the resources available, and connect with other families,” she said. “You’re not alone.”

Parenting a neurodivergent child, she added, changes how you see the world.

“You have to take things in stride,” she said. “They feel your energy, even if they don’t understand your words.”

Above all, she credits the Rich Center as a cornerstone of support.

“I don’t know where we would be without them,” she said. “They take the time to understand each child and each family — and that makes all the difference.”