About Us
The Autism Society of Wisconsin is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization serving all 72 counties in Wisconsin. We are an affiliate of the Autism Society of America.
About Us
For more than 60 years, the Autism Society of Wisconsin has been a trusted source of information, resources, advocacy, and support for Autistic individuals, families, and professionals across the state.
As Wisconsin’s trusted statewide leader in Autism support, we provide information, resources, education, advocacy, and connections that help people navigate every stage of life.
Home Office
Our Home Office is your statewide resource for Autism information, support, and connection. We offer an Autism Hotline, Resource Navigation services, a statewide Resource Directory, education and training, advocacy, and virtual support and social programs. We also provide guidance and support to our local community groups, helping them bring resources and connections to communities across Wisconsin.
ASW Local Community Groups
Our local communities bring Autism support and connection close to home. Through virtual and in-person support groups, social activities, and community events, they create welcoming spaces for individuals and families to connect. Supported by our Home Office, each local community responds to the unique needs of the people it serves while strengthening Autism communities across Wisconsin.
We are dedicated to improving the lives of all who are impacted by Autism by providing information, resources, and support, while raising awareness and acceptance in our community. We do this by increasing public awareness about the day-to-day issues faced by people on the Autism spectrum, advocating for appropriate services for individuals across the lifespan, and providing the latest information regarding treatment, education, research, and advocacy.
Community & Connection
We believe in building strong, supportive communities where everyone feels seen, heard, and included.
Respect & Acceptance
We honor the dignity and individuality of every Autistic person and their family.
Empowerment
We provide tools, resources, and support to help individuals and families navigate life with confidence.
Advocacy
We stand up for equitable access to services, supports, and opportunities across the lifespan.
Education & Awareness
We share accurate, up-to-date information to help the public understand Autism and support Autistic individuals in meaningful ways.
Our Local Communities
Discover ASW local chapters and groups and find support close to home.
Don’t see one near you? Contact us to learn how you can start one in your community. We provide the tools and resources to support new Autism Society groups throughout the state.
Our Team
Kirsten serves as the Executive Director of the Autism Society of Wisconsin and brings more than 30 years of experience working in the disability field. Her work has focused on community building, disability rights, advocacy, Americans with Disabilities Act compliance, Assistive Technology assessments, Nonprofit Management, and empowering people with disabilities and their families to live full and meaningful lives.
As the mom of an adult son with a disability, Kirsten brings both professional insight and lived experience to her leadership. Based in Madison, she is passionate about building connections, strengthening communities, and supporting individuals and families across Wisconsin.
Kelly serves as the Administrative Manager and as a Resource Navigation Specialist at the Autism Society of Wisconsin and brings more than 25 years of experience with the organization as a volunteer, Board Member, and staff member. In her role, she provides office support and Resource Navigation services to help individuals, families, and professionals connect with community-based resources across Wisconsin.
Kelly assists families in finding service providers for evaluations, locating local support groups, and helping educators and others identify helpful tools and resources. As the mom of three sons—two of whom are on the autism spectrum—Kelly brings both lived experience and deep dedication to her work, and is passionate about supporting those who need guidance and connection.
Brittany serves as the Director of Learning and Community Engagement at the Autism Society of Wisconsin and brings more than 10 years of experience supporting Autistic individuals and their families in a variety of roles and settings. Her work focuses on building meaningful community connections and expanding access to learning opportunities that strengthen understanding, advocacy, and inclusion across Wisconsin.
With a background in childcare, education, and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Brittany leads statewide learning and engagement initiatives, including planning the Annual Autism Conference, assisting with the Integral Adult Autism Conference, supporting local chapters and community groups, and developing educational opportunities for Autistic adults, families, educators, and community members. She is committed to using research-informed practices to guide decision-making and drive progress for the future.
Megan serves as the Director of Community Education and Training at the Autism Society of Wisconsin. Megan holds a teaching degree and a Graduate Autism Specialist Certification. She is passionate about helping communities better understand Autism and neurodiversity.
Megan leads community training initiatives for first responders, health care providers, educators, and community organizations and businesses, focusing on Autism-friendly and inclusive practices. She also hosts our monthly New to Autism Q&A hour for parents who have newly diagnosed children. As a single mom to two teenage boys with nonspeaking Autism, she brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her work and is deeply committed to building a kinder, more inclusive world for Autistic individuals and their families.
Catherine serves as the Systems Manager and Resource Navigation Specialist at the Autism Society of Wisconsin. She manages the organization’s technology systems and data, ensuring smooth operations behind the scenes so the team can effectively serve the community.
Catherine also provides Resource Navigation support, helping Autistic individuals and their families connect with the services, supports, and community resources they need. Besides being autistic herself, she brings over 30 years of personal and professional experience in the Autism field, and her deep knowledge and compassionate approach make her a trusted guide for families navigating Autism.
Catherine is passionate about building connections, sharing resources, and empowering families to find the support that works best for them. She believes in meeting each family where they are and helping them move forward with confidence, understanding, and community.
Betty McCluskey
Rick Lewis
Derek Metcalf
Sara Kaiser
Eric Kissinger
Tim Markle
Lauren Usher
Scott Allen
Linnea Bertram
Breya Whitefield
Chelsea Budde
Diane Nackers
Shannon Wadinski
Lauren Bishop
Dan Pell
Tammy Ross
Katlyn Marshall
Brittany Cahill
Sponsors, Donors and Partners
Thank you to the following Corporate Sponsors, Provider Partners and Donors that give so generously so that we can continue supporting individuals affected by Autism in our community!
Equal Opportunity Policy: No otherwise qualified person shall be excluded from participating in, or be denied the benefits of, or otherwise be subject to discrimination in any manner on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, association with a person disability, or age. This policy covers eligibility for and access to service delivery and treatment in all programs and activities.
