Culture of Differences

At APOV we recognize the unique challenges our families and family members face. The trials and the triumphs we experience on a daily basis lay a foundation for an entirely new style of community and culture. It is our goal to celebrate the lifestyle and international community that has developed over the years and through out the world.

Our directives in achieving this goal are as follows:

1) The promotion of public awareness and information regarding Autism Spectrum Disorders
2) The promotion of world community awareness and knowledge of charities, foundations, corporations, groups, and organizations specifically related to Autism Spectrum Disorders.
3) The provision of unbiased news and information regarding Autism Spectrum Disorders and other Pervasive Developmental Disorders.
4) The furthering of cultural development for families and individuals affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders and other Pervasive Developmental Disorders.

Our staff is currently comprised of an all-volunteer team of mothers, fathers, siblings, educators, spouses, and individuals affected by the Autism Spectrum and other disorders and differences. Words simply fail us when it comes to any attempt at describing the dedication that each of these individuals has put forth in order to make this site happen.

Many of our staffers are affected by various disorders and demands that have been placed upon their lives. Some of them are physically disabled, even severely so, and were told they had nothing left to offer society. Some of them are mentally disabled and this is the first chance they've had to prove they have something to offer. And some are simply hard pressed to find enough time to sleep and eat on top of the demands life had already placed on them before they took on their commitments here. Some have worked full time hours here, and a few even quit their jobs so they could dedicate that time to us.

Now, some may think that we should endeavor to hire 'trained professionals', or 'act like professionals'. To those who would think that all we can say is...

We wouldn't trade our staff for all the graduates of Yale and Harvard combined!

We hope to someday be able to pay our full time staffers, but for now all we can offer them is our undying gratitude and admiration.

Candes Meisenheimer - Editor in Chief