Welcome to DC Autism Parents (DCAP)
We are a non-profit organization with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. Our organization was created by parents of children with autism for parents of children with autism.
We connect families to much-needed resources to support early autism diagnosis and navigation throughout the lifespan. Our organization also connects families to a larger autism community, which provides individualized support, group calls, and workshops.
Our Mission & Story
The Mission of DC Autism Parents is to improve the lives of all affected by autism in the Washington, DC Metropolitan area through advocacy, education, support, services, and research in order to promote community inclusion and awareness.
DC Autism Parents was founded by Yetta Myrick, a mother of a young adult diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder and Intellectual Disability. Determined to find the right information to support her son’s journey through autism, Yetta compiled a series of resources and began creating a community of families to support one another through this process.
Subscribe to our monthly newsletter to stay updated on the latest community inclusion, awareness, and acceptance practices.
DC Autism Resources
Learning that your child has an autism diagnosis is a life-changing event for every parent. You are faced with a multitude of decisions, and there is no one to tell you what the “right” decisions are for your child and your family.
But remember - You are not alone! We understand the choices that families of children diagnosed with autism make everyday. DCAP is dedicated to helping families in the DC Area to support their children through the life span.
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What is Autism?
Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life and is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills.
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Is it Autism?
Learn the early signs of autism. The criteria for diagnosing autism include (1) challenges with social communication and interaction and (2) restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests.
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Act Early DC
If you’re concerned about your child's development, act early. Talk to your child's doctor and ask about developmental screening.
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Parent Resources
Explore our list of resources to help parents and caregivers identify programs and individual services available for their child with autism spectrum disorder.
"Thank you so much for this information. I really appreciate it. Your advocacy is so important and valued by parents like me who are trying to figure out the best way to help their kids. It makes me feel better to know that I have a knowledgeable advocate to reach out to."
— DC Autism Parent