Episode 68: Building an Advocacy Organization - A conversation with Dania Jekel, Executive Director of the Asperger/Autism Network (AANE) Artwork

Autism In Real Life

Autism In Real Life, hosted by Ilia Walsh, is dedicated to offering insights into the joys and challenges of living with autism. Are you a parent or educator frustrated with how to best help someone diagnosed on the autism spectrum? Ever wish other people understood what living with autism was like? Want to know what resources and tools exist to better help your child or student? In this podcast, you will hear first-hand from other parents, educators, advocates as well as adults on the spectrum share their experiences and expertise. You will learn strategies for learning, employment, relationships, day-to-day living and more. These personal stories and interviews will inspire as well as empower you to try new tools and be a better advocate so you can see the unique gifts and talents of individuals on the autism spectrum fully recognized. Please join Ilia's email list to get more information on the podcast, receive blog posts and the newsletter. To learn more visit www.autisminreallifethepodcast.com. To support the podcast please consider donating at: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/autismIRLMusic & Editing Copyright 2020 Ryan Walsh. To hear more of Ryan's music, you can check out his SoundCloud @TransparentDark The information, opinions, and recommendations presented on the Autism in Real Life podcast, website, or newsletter are for general information purposes only and are solely those of the individuals involved and may not represent AANE’s positions, strategies or opinions.

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Autism In Real Life

Episode 68: Building an Advocacy Organization - A conversation with Dania Jekel, Executive Director of the Asperger/Autism Network (AANE)

April 27, 2021 • Ilia Walsh, Executive Director of The Spectrum Strategy Group • Season 1 • Episode 68

Dania Jekel, M.S.W. is a founding member and Executive Director, Asperger/Autism Network (AANE). With nearly 40 years working with individuals with disabilities and their families including 10 years of specialization with AS , Ms. Jekel facilitates groups for adults and parents, and has consulted with individuals, families, schools and employers. She has presented at numerous conferences on the subject of Asperger Syndrome and Autism.

The Asperger/Autism Network (AANE) helps people with Asperger's or similar autism spectrum and neurodiverse profiles build meaningful, connected lives. They provide individuals, families, and professionals with information, education, community, support, and advocacy — all in an inclusive atmosphere of validation and respect.

AANE was built in partnership with many people: staff, board and committee members, adults, families, and professionals. The assistance and support from its community has helped AANE grow from a "one-person, part-time, desk and telephone" to the thriving organization it is today.