The Autism Collective is working to end the isolation felt by those living with autism by uniting experts and connecting families. We coordinate early identification, diagnosis, therapy, services and support close to home – while collaborating and innovating to improve treatment, communication and quality of life. The Autism Collective is the relentless champion for every person living with autism.

No two organizations are better equipped to lead the effort to end the isolation of autism than founding members Easterseals Central Illinois and OSF Children’s Hospital of Illinois. We bring together more than two centuries of expert, compassionate care for children, people with disabilities, and the underserved. In 2022, the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria joined as a collaborator, bringing their world-class expertise to the team.

New members who share our passion and commitment are welcome to join us. Please contact info@theautismcollective.org for details on how to get involved.

The Autism Collective provides services for anyone with an Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnosis or pending diagnosis and their families. We serve all ages and all areas within the state of Illinois.  This includes pediatric, transitional, and adult care.  We can also assist you following a major life change.  Our Staff can help connect you to the following services:

  • Financial Planning
  • Advocacy
  • Comprehensive care plans
  • Transition to adulthood
  • Support groups
  • Medication
  • Education
  • Mental health
  • Insurance coverage
  • Therapeutic interventions
  • Medical specialists
  • Diagnostics
Dr. Jason Rodeghero

Jason Rodeghero, PhD, MBA
President OSF Home Care & Rehabilitation

Jim Runyon
Retired, Easterseals Central Illinois

Sarah Stewart de Ramirez, MD
OSF Healthcare Medical Director, Population Health Associate Dean, Population Health Equity Innovation Associate Professor, Emergency Medicine University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria

Jeanne Marshall
Executive Vice President of Services & Chief Program Officer,  Easterseals Midwest

Wendy Burdo-Hartman, MD
University of Illinois College of Medicine at Peoria

Services

The Autism Collective provides care coordination and family navigation services to anyone in Illinois of any age, who has or is seeking a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder. We also unite caregivers, educators, medical providers, and advocates to promote autism education, acceptance, and inclusion throughout our communities. We’re here to help you navigate the complex web of care compassionately and efficiently. For more information, email info@theautismcollective.org or call (844) 910-0770.

Anyone may refer for care coordination services. This includes medical professionals, schools, service agencies, individuals, & family members. Depending on the complexity of your needs, we will either connect you to appropriate services and support in your area; or, if your needs are more complex, our care coordination staff will conduct a telephonic or virtual intake assessment to better understand how to best meet your needs.

Based on this assessment, our care coordinators will provide an individualized plan of care to meet your unique needs. There is no charge for this service. To start a referral, call us at (844) 910-0770.

The Autism Collective has partnered with Project ECHO® to launch an ECHO Autism Hub. ECHO Autism utilizes video technology and an expert team to help local health care professionals become more confident in identifying and treating autism symptoms, and in diagnosing and managing a subset of children with autism. ECHO Autism helps families access autism care in the communities where they live. By moving knowledge and not patients, ECHO Autism grows autism expertise throughout Central Illinois.

For questions about education programming or opportunities, please contact info@theuatismcollector.org or call (844) 910-0770.

The Autism Collective is developing an Autism Services Resource Guide to provide one cohesive and customized plan of care through coordinated scheduling of local autism-related services and supports. We cannot do this without your support!

Make a donation today to support this project. 

Get involved

Stay engaged with The Autism Collective and help us in our quest to end the isolation of autism. Sign up to learn about new partners, new services and new research or join our efforts as a volunteer.

Every day, studies regarding diagnosis, treatment, and education reveal new ways to help those living with autism reach their full potential. We believe every family deserves access to these up-to-date, evidence-based approaches. The Autism Collective works closely with our partners — including the University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria — to engage in clinical research and scholarly activities, contribute to the body of knowledge, and ensure innovative treatments and technologies are available close to home.

At The Autism Collective, we aim to ensure no one on the autism journey ever feels alone. To connect with other families and additional support services in your area, contact the Central Illinois Autism Association or Autism McLean. For help navigating the complexities of health insurance, explore these tools and resources and review this summary of the Illinois Insurance Code.