County Launches Initiative to Foster Autism-Supportive Environments

This Autism Acceptance & Awareness Month, Rockland County Executive Ed Day and Acting Commissioner of Mental Health, Dr. Susan Hoerter are proud to announce the launch of a program to create Autism-supportive environments across Rockland.

In the United States, 1 in 36 children are affected by Autism, yet misconceptions, lack of awareness, and stigma continue to create barriers. In partnership with the Anderson Center for Autism (ACA), the County’s new All-Abilities Training Program will educate the county workforce, along with businesses, first responders, healthcare professionals, and more on how to create supportive environments for people with special needs, particularly those with autism.

“By supporting our county workforce’s understanding of Autism and Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, we are confident that we can continue to increase opportunities for every one of our Rockland County residents,” said County Executive Ed Day.

This new program underscores the County’s commitment to the "Rockland Thinks Differently" initiative, adopted in 2024, which promotes awareness and acceptance of individuals with special needs.

“Building a community of accessibility and opportunity begins with fostering understanding of how to best support individuals with Autism and/or an Intellectual/Developmental Disability (I/DD),” said Acting Commissioner of Mental Health, Dr. Susan Hoerter.

Businesses will also have an opportunity to learn more about the benefits of hiring individuals with Autism as well as how to ensure their setting is accessible to anyone looking to join the workforce. Businesses, healthcare providers, or organizations interested in signing up for training should contact the Rockland County Department of Mental Health at 845-364-2391.