Autism Support Website Launches Friend Finder Program

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http://www.webwire.com/ViewPressRel.asp?aId=14980 Autism Support Website Launches Friend Finder Program AutismKey.com6/7/2006 3:49:41 PM WebWire Related Industries • Health Care/Hospitals • Lifestyle/Society • Medical/Pharmaceuticals • Publishing/Information Services • Youth/Children June 7, 2006 –- As autism prevalence rates continue to rise nationwide, there has been an ever-growing demand for support at the local level. Parents, family members and caregivers of autistic children are often turning to others in their community for support and friendship. For this reason, Autism Key (www.autismkey.com) has

announced the launch of their Autism Friend Finder program. This unique system will allow visitors to submit basic contact information through a web based portal. The data will then be shared with anyone residing within a 35 mile radius of their postal zip code. The information will allow individuals facing similar challenges to connect with others in their community. “Local support is critical for parents and family members facing these disorders,” said Greaves, webmaster and operator of AutismKey.com. “Some of our best friends are other parents of children with special needs. Lifelong friendships are often formed with others who understand your challenges. With this program, I wanted to create a vehicle where users can connect with people in their own back yard,” he added. The program is free of charge and only requires a first name, valid email address and zip code. Optional

options also allow users to provide more detailed information. Greaves, who is the father of an autistic child, says the idea for the program was hatched from requests he received through his website. “People emailed me wanting to locate others in their area. I thought this would be a great way for parents and family members to get connected if they’re not currently plugged into a local support group or autism chapter.” “Additionally, with the school year coming to an end, many parents are looking for summer programs and activities for their children. Participation in the Autism Friend Finder program can be a valuable resource to learn about different things to do for the summer,” he added. Autism Key is a website that also provides resources, news, message boards and support. More information is available on conditions such as Asperger Syndrome, Fragile X,

Hyperlexia and other Autism Spectrum Disorders. To learn more or to enroll in the Autism Friend Finder program, visit www.autismkey.com __________________________________________________