Goris Autism Center
Description
As stated by the World Health organization, it is estimated that worldwide about 1 in 100 children has autism. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition, which involves challenges with socialization, narrow interests and repetitive behaviour. Autism can usually be diagnosed by the time a child is 2-3 years old, however some forms of autism, such as HFA (high-functioning autism), might not have obvious symptoms, and the diagnosis can be made even in adulthood. Modern science shows, that people with certain genetics, such as Fragile X Syndrome, (an inherited intellectual and developmental disability), and Tuberous Sclerosis (noncancerous growths in the body, which affect behaviour, thinking, learning, etc) are at increased risk for being diagnosed with autism.
Some people strongly believe that autism is a disease. However, a disease typically has a known cause (such as bacteria or viruses), autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder, and is not something that can be cured, rather be managed and supported.
Diagnosing ASD usually involves multiple processes: developmental monitoring, screening, and comprehensive diagnostic evaluations. Instead of self-diagnosing your child or asking for advice from relatives, it is crucial to intervene as early as possible. The sooner the parents find out about the diagnosis, the better the developmental outcome will be. Pediatricians typically assess children’s developmental progress during routine well-child visits at 18 and 24 months, even if no symptoms are evident. These assessments involve observing the child and discussing family history.
One of the most common treatments is behavioural therapy. The goal of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is to comprehend and change behaviors by minimizing those that could hinder social interaction or learning and increasing those that are beneficial. It has been demonstrated that this approach enhances social skills, communication, and adaptive learning.
Additionally, there are some therapeutic interventions, which are also found effective, such as: speech-language therapy (helps individuals with ASD to improve both verbal and non-verbal communication), physical therapy (help with movement and balance, enhancing motor skills and overall physical coordination), and much more.
The municipality of Goris stands ready to assist and partner in this important effort for the children of Goris.Â
Region
City / Village
Start Date
End Date
The Need
In the communities of Goris and surrounding villages, children with autism do not receive any specialized services or therapy because a specialized autism center does not exist. Â Once this center is funded and open, local therapists will receive specialized training to offer a full array of therapy for the more than 200 children with autism in the area.Â
Short Term Impact
In the short term, a facility will be purchased and expanded to serve as the autism center. Â This will create a modest boost in the local economy as all labor and materials will be purchased locally. Â Therapists will also receive specialized training and be prepared to begin working at the center with these children.
Long Term Impact
In the long term, children with autism will receive the needed therapy and support they need to live their lives to the fullest. Â Families will be given the tools they need to facilitate better support for their children.
Sponsors Benefits
All sponsors of this important project will be listed on The Paros Foundation’s website and in all press related to this project. Visits to the center  can be arranged for sponsors visiting Armenia.
