Oregon Commission On Autism Spectrum Disorder (OCASD): Building A More Inclusive Future For All
Autism touches the lives of thousands of individuals and families across Oregon, influencing how they navigate education, healthcare, employment, and community participation. The Oregon Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorder (OCASD) plays a vital role in ensuring that these individuals and their families receive the care, respect, and resources they deserve.
From policy advocacy to community inclusion, OCASD’s mission centers on transforming Oregon into a state that celebrates neurodiversity and supports every individual’s unique potential.
What Is The Oregon Commission On Autism Spectrum Disorder?
Founded in 2009 through a Governor’s Executive Order, the Oregon Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorder (OCASD) serves as a state-appointed body that works to improve systems of care, education, health, and community support for people with autism and their families.
The Commission brings together parents, educators, autistic self-advocates, healthcare professionals, and legislators to collaborate on solutions that are realistic, inclusive, and sustainable.
“To create systems of care, education, health, and community support that are effective, accessible, and respectful of the diverse needs of the autism community.”
OCASD’s Mission And Core Objectives
OCASD uses a MECE (Mutually Exclusive, Collectively Exhaustive) framework to ensure every area of autism support is addressed without overlap. Here’s how they’re creating impact across Oregon:
1. Supporting Autistic Individuals And Families
OCASD’s primary goal is to help autistic individuals and their families live full, self-directed lives. They work to expand access to essential services including education, healthcare, housing, and employment.
2. Influencing Statewide Policy
By collaborating with state agencies and lawmakers, OCASD ensures that autism policies in Oregon reflect current needs and uphold values of equity, accessibility, and inclusion.
3. Promoting Responsible Resource Use
The Commission actively reviews how public resources are spent to make sure funding reaches programs that genuinely improve lives across the autism community.
Who Makes Up OCASD?
The Oregon Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorder is composed of up to 17 appointed members who bring a wealth of lived and professional experience. These members represent a wide spectrum of perspectives, including:
- Parents and caregivers of autistic children
- Autistic self-advocates
- Educators and clinicians
- Service providers and nonprofit leaders
- Legislators and state agency professionals
This diverse representation ensures that OCASD’s recommendations are grounded in real experiences and data-driven decision-making.
Latest Updates From OCASD
📢 Active Survey: Need For Help Navigating Autism Services
OCASD is conducting an open survey to understand challenges faced by autistic adults and families when accessing healthcare, education, and essential services. Your participation helps inform policy and program development statewide.
If you are an autistic adult or a caregiver of someone on the spectrum, you are invited to participate. As a thank you, participants will receive an Amazon gift card.
Click here to take the survey and share your experiences to help shape Oregon’s autism support network.
Upcoming OCASD Meeting
🗓 Next OCASD Commission Meeting
- Date: March 28, 2025
- Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Location: Online via Zoom
Meeting materials, including the agenda and Zoom link, will be posted on OCASD’s Calendar page closer to the date. Guests are encouraged to attend and learn about the Commission’s latest projects and discussions.
For questions, email staff@orcommissionasd.org.
Get Involved With OCASD
OCASD welcomes participation from across Oregon—especially individuals and families who have lived experience with autism or belong to underserved or rural communities. Getting involved is easy and meaningful!
Volunteer With OCASD
Volunteering with the Commission means contributing directly to improving systems of care and support. Volunteers help build stronger communities, better services, and more inclusive programs.
Click here to learn more about volunteering.
OCASD’s Commitment To Diversity And Inclusion
OCASD values and prioritizes the voices of Oregon’s diverse communities. Their mission is rooted in ensuring that autism support reflects the intersectional experiences of every individual. They especially welcome participation from:
- Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC)
- LGBTQIA2S+ community members
- Immigrants and ethnic minority families
- Individuals living in rural and underserved areas
Your story matters. Your voice belongs here.
OCASD’s Major Accomplishments
Since its formation, OCASD has led major advancements in autism support across Oregon, including:
- Developing the ASD Specialization Credential for school-based professionals.
- Supporting the ACCESS Pilot Program with OHSU to improve autism identification.
- Partnering with AASPIRE to create the Healthcare Toolkit for autistic adults.
- Collaborating with the Oregon Department of Education to improve eligibility rules.
- Creating school district tools that strengthen ASD supports and evaluations.
- Providing guidance for ASD evaluations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
These initiatives have enhanced access to quality services and set a model for inclusive policy development across the United States.
Your Story Matters
OCASD believes that meaningful change begins by listening. They actively seek input from autistic adults, caregivers, educators, and healthcare professionals. Sharing your experience helps identify what’s working well, what barriers exist, and where new support is needed.
By contributing your voice, you help shape the next generation of Oregon’s autism programs and policies.
Why Participate In OCASD’s Work?
By joining or supporting OCASD, you can:
- ✅ Improve real services across Oregon
- ✅ Share expertise and learn from others
- ✅ Build leadership skills
- ✅ Connect with a statewide community of advocates
If you’d like to get involved or learn more, email staff@orcommissionasd.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Does OCASD Stand For?
OCASD stands for Oregon Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorder, a state-appointed body dedicated to improving autism-related policies and services across Oregon.
When Was OCASD Established?
OCASD was created in 2009 through a Governor’s Executive Order.
Who Can Participate In OCASD Activities?
Anyone in Oregon—especially those with lived experience with autism—can participate, including families, educators, and professionals.
When Is The Next Meeting?
The next OCASD Commission meeting will be held on March 28, 2025 from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM via Zoom.
How Can I Volunteer?
You can volunteer by completing the Subcommittee or Volunteer Interest Form available on OCASD’s official website or emailing staff@orcommissionasd.org.
Conclusion: A Shared Vision For Oregon’s Autism Community
The Oregon Commission on Autism Spectrum Disorder (OCASD) represents hope, collaboration, and inclusivity. Through continuous advocacy, research, and public engagement, OCASD is shaping a future where autistic individuals can live empowered, self-directed lives.
Whether you’re an educator, caregiver, healthcare worker, or autistic self-advocate, your involvement strengthens the mission. Together, we can create a more compassionate and inclusive Oregon for all.
📩 Contact: staff@orcommissionasd.org
🌐 Website: www.orcommissionasd.org
