{"id":1038,"date":"2018-11-08T10:58:34","date_gmt":"2018-11-08T16:58:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/last-drum.flywheelsites.com\/?page_id=1038"},"modified":"2025-09-22T18:47:56","modified_gmt":"2025-09-22T23:47:56","slug":"about-us","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/autism.org\/about-us\/","title":{"rendered":"About Us"},"content":{"rendered":"

In his first book,\u00a0Infantile Autism\u00a0<\/a>(1964), ARI\u2019s founder and advocate,\u00a0Dr. Bernard Rimland<\/a>, posited that behaviors observed in autistic children indicate differences in their underlying biology, likely influenced by genetics, environmental factors, and neurology. His publication emphasized multi-discipline investigation, shifting the focus of autism research to the biomedical track.<\/p>\n

For nearly 60 years, ARI\u2019s dedication to transparency, collaboration, independence, and risk-taking has kept us at the forefront of autism research and education. We facilitate cutting-edge biomedical research, disseminate important discoveries to clinicians and families, and bring experts from various fields together to discuss findings and their implications for research and care. With the help of generous donor support, ARI continues to advance autism research and education.<\/strong><\/p>\n

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ARI\u2019s Statement on Emerging Autism Research (9-22-25)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>

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ARI works to support the health and well-being of people affected by autism through innovative, impactful research and free education.<\/p>\n<\/div>

60+<\/div><\/div>

Active years & counting<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>

What We Do<\/h2>\n

Research Grants<\/h3>\n

ARI awards grants to fund innovative research that holds realistic promise in impacting the lives of autistic people. ARI has awarded more than 100 research grants over the past 10 years<\/a>.\u00a0 In 2024, ARI significantly expanded its research funding initiatives. The maximum award per scientific research grant increased to $100,000, empowering more ambitious projects. Overall grant funding grew by nearly 75%, and the number of applications doubled\u2014highlighting a strong surge in innovative proposals and interest from the research community. View ARI-Funded Research Studies from 2024.<\/a><\/p>\n

Educational Resources<\/h3>\n

Our free expert-led webinars<\/a> provide an in-depth look at ongoing research on autism and evidence-based care practices for families and clinicians. Additionally, our Continuing Medical Education series<\/a>, offered in joint providership with the Cleveland Clinic, details important topics in autism like gastrointestinal issues, healthcare access, and medical challenges.<\/p>\n

Scientific Think Tanks<\/h3>\n

Since 1995, ARI has brought together experts at its annual scientific Think Tank meetings<\/a> to address novel questions and discuss issues related to promising interventions. Our work has influenced how researchers approach investigating the various issues including appropriate support and guidance for autistic individuals. In 2025, we hosted our 31st annual Think Tank.<\/p>\n<\/div>

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Our Global Reach<\/p>\n<\/div>

Creating Lasting Impact Worldwide<\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div>
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Our Global Reach<\/p>\n<\/div>

Creating Lasting Impact Worldwide<\/h2><\/div>
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Additional Resources We Provide<\/h2>\n<\/div>