Autism Acceptance Month starts this weekend, and the Autism Society of Southern Arizona is helping adults with autism adjust and socialize at the same time with an adult social club.
TUCSON, Ariz. — Autism Acceptance Month starts this weekend, and one Tucson organization is helping adults with autism adjust and socialize at the same time. The Autism Society of Southern Arizona is working to bridge the gap for people living with autism with programs and initiatives. Board member Eric Stark says the challenges with social interactions in his life started in preschool and he had no idea why.
“For most of my life I was in this deep dark hole of depression,” Stark said."I saw no way out, I felt hopeless and worthless. I couldn’t understand why I was different then the kids around me. I wasn’t diagnosed until I was way into adulthood. Then suddenly it was an ah-ha moment that explained so much.” Stark said.
Not only did Stark become a board member of the non-profit, he also facilitates the adult social club. It's a way to get more people on the spectrum to socialize in a safe space. Around 25 people participate in monthly events both online and in person to connect and talk about life.