Autism Society San Diego

Autism Society San Diego is a local, non-profit organization dedicated to creating connections and empowering people in the autism community with the resources needed to live life to the fullest. Our organization began in 1966 as the first affiliate of the Autism Society of America. Our goal is to expand our capacity and capabilities to give more children the opportunity to attend our camps and programs, which include:

• Camp I CAN
• Surf Camp
• Lights! Camera! Autism!
• Family Camp
• Support Groups
• Monthly Swim  & Dance Parties
• Swim Lesson Scholarships
• Educational Programs and Scholarships
• Access to resources

We are one of the main leaders in San Diego County in teaching autistic children and adults to swim. In 2009-2011, accidental drowning accounted for 91% of U.S. deaths in children with autism ages 14 and younger. It is a priority of the Autism Society San Diego that as many children and adults with autism learn to swim, so we can help our community avoid accidental drownings. 

Feedback from recent participants:

"My seven-year-old daughter has had an amazing experience, learning to swim in the Aqua Pros Pool PALS program. I am so grateful that she had this opportunity through the Autism Society San Diego. It is so needed and valuable." (Pool PALS)

"We are very thankful for being able to do these swim classes. Being a parent with a toddler with autism is challenging, so watching my son swim and have fun brings joy to our family." (Pool PALS)

"My son gains confidence every lesson. He looks so free in the water. What a great life skill. Thank you for the scholarship." (Pool PALS)

"I second all the positive comments here. Like an oasis in what can sometimes feel like a desert when you have an ASD youth. LOVED this camp/opportunity for my son!" (Camp I CAN)

"My son loved Camp I CAN and still talks about how much fun it was - and it wasn't because of where they went or the swimming, but rather the level of complete and total LOVE and ACCEPTANCE he felt from the staff and other participants." (Camp I CAN)

"My son is 17 and has participated in Surf Camp for 3 years. This camp is fantastic and my son absolutely loves it. Being able to surf also lets him feel a little freedom from the frustrations he has from not being able to communicate well. The Autism Society San Diego Surf Camp is the highlight of his year and lets him be a typical kid for a little while." (Surf Camp)

"Surf Camp is my son's one opportunity to be in the ocean; a skilled water coach there will closely watch him and keep him safe. It also gets him out of his usual, rigid routine at home where he gives in to the limits of his disability. We look forward to it every year." (Surf Camp)

"There are not enough words to express how grateful I am for Surf Camp. It is staffed by highly competent staff. These staff are trained in surf instruction and water safety, but more importantly, they are trained in how to communicate, accomodate, and teach individuals with autism. Surf Camp has offered me a wonderful opportunity to see my children enjoying the ocean and all it has to offer while knowing that my children are safe, having fun, and appreciated for the individuals they are." (Surf Camp)

We want to make a positive impact in this county, and with your support and donations, we can continue to make a meaningful difference in people's lives. Thank you!