YOUNGSTOWN — The Autism Society of Mahoning Valley received a $25,000 grant from the State Farm Neighborhood Assist program, to help begin a career and life skills program in the Mahoning Valley for adults with autism.

The event was Thursday at the Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities, 791 Woodridge Drive, Austintown.

In just 10 days in August, 163,000 people cast 4.4 million votes in support of their favorite causes. As a result, 40 communities, in 21 states, including the Mahoning Valley, will be getting an assist from State Farm to improve their communities.

The Autism Society of the Mahoning Valley says with the help of this grant, the organization will soon be launching a first of its kind in the three–county region, direct service, adult provider program.

One in 59 children born in the U.S. will be diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. According to the Atlantic.com, “The number of adults with autism diagnoses is soaring, but there aren’t enough programs and services to meet the demand.”

The Autism Society of the Mahoning Valley is already supporting youth through programs such as a summer camp, monthly community outings and parent support groups. “This program would allow us to expand and support individuals into adulthood,” it said.

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