Advocacy

Our Mission

To improve the quality of life for each child, teen and adult on the Autism Spectrum — as well as their families — while teaming with caregivers and educators to enhance every individual’s unique needs, skills and goals, providing a better life and brighter future for everyone impacted by Autism.

Our Vision

A better life and brighter future for everyone impacted by Autism, together today and tomorrow.

The Advocacy Committee of Autism United

The Advocacy Committee of Autism United works to amplify the voices of the Autism Community and its families, teachers and caregivers by keeping conversations alive, building awareness, fostering inclusion, and sharing resources, programs, and support.  

Connect with us to keep the conversation going about how we can best advocate to empower and connect our communities.  

www.Autism-United.org  414-988-1260 3720 N. 124th Street Wauwatosa, WI 53222 

Advocacy Committee Members

The Advocacy Committee welcomes our new member, John Meerschaert! Bios coming soon!

Nate Abrahamson

DeAnna Thomas
Program Coordinator & SWAN Facilitator Autism United
Pronouns: She / Her / Hers
Passions: True Crime & Live Comedy

Erin Miller
Advocate Specialist
Pronouns: She / Her / Hers
Passions: Mental health

Amy Gaeth
Executive Assistant to Shawn Oswald, President & GM, WISN 12
Passions: Community Service

Becky Aten
Adult Group Facilitator, Autism United
Pronouns: They / She
Passions: Yoga and neurodiversity

Rebecca Thompson
Senior Director for Advocacy, Wisconsin Early Autism Project/LEARN Behavioral
Pronouns: She / Her / Hers
Passions: travel, live music, puppies

John Sprecher

John Meerschaert

Jacqueline Wheeler

Are you interested in becoming an Advocacy Committee Member?

Are you interested in becoming an Advocacy Committee Member?

We are currently looking for one adult on the spectrum interested in advocacy, and one community partner. A community partner collaborates with Autism United to strengthen programs, resources, and community outreach.

Contact DeAnna Thomas for more information. DeAnna@Autism-United.org

2025 Focus Topics

Autism United’s 2025 Focus Projects highlight the organization’s commitment to addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing the autism community. This year, we are dedicated to advancing Medicaid Advocacy to ensure fair and equitable access to care, developing sustainable Housing for Adults on the Spectrum that fosters independence and community inclusion, and confronting The Caregiver Crisis by supporting families and strengthening the workforce that provides essential care. Together, these initiatives aim to create meaningful, lasting change for individuals with autism and those who support them.

Other Advocacy Agencies in the Community

*The views and opinions expressed by other organizations do not necessarily reflect those of Autism United, but we want you to stay informed.

Wisconsin Autism Providers Association
http://www.wisconsinautismproviders.com/contact.html

The Council of Autism Service Providers
https://www.casproviders.org/advocacy

Autism Speaks
https://www.autismspeaks.org/advocacy

Wisconsin Board of People with Developmental Disabilities
https://wi-bpdd.org/index.php/get-involved/

Independence First
https://www.independencefirst.org/