Grassroots autism group dissolves after 16 years

Lincoln — The members of the grassroots group Autism Community Services held a farewell party June 7 at Latte Da Coffeehouse to celebrate 16 years of advocacy, training and support. The organization was initially formed by the families of 13 young adults with autism. Over the years, it gained state funding but then lost it during tight economic times and finally decided to call it a day. ACS spearheaded a statewide effort to make “companion homes” available to people with autism. Currently nearly 70 such homes operate across the state. “It is truly incredible what love and desperation and dedication can accomplish,” wrote co-founder Frank Foreman.