Virginia Tech Mobile Autism Clinic Named Finalist for National Community Engagement Award | Virginia Tech News
Powered by innovative graduate student research, the clinic provided diagnostic evaluations for children suspected of being on the autism spectrum and psychoeducation for caregivers on how best to care for them. The project received initial funding in the form of a personal gift from Virginia Tech alumnus Jerry Hulick ’73 and a grant from the nonprofit Malone Family Foundation.
“The Autism Clinic RV has opened the door to many people who otherwise would not have had the opportunity. said Hulick, who also serves on the General Managers’ Roundtable.
The impact on families is tangible. In an interview with Virginia Tech, Bland County mother Rachel Brice spoke about the impact on her son Cody. “I don’t know what I would do without it,” she said. “Compared to two years ago, he’s a different person. He calls me every day about his behavior. I mean, I’m not kidding. ‘Oh, no, what did he do today? “What?” you would think. And we get the diagnosis, his IEP (Individualized Education Plan) and all his services. And he will receive the Citizenship of the Year award. In other words, just a few hours’ visit made an amazing difference. ”
Susan E. Short, Vice President of Outreach and International Affairs, added: “At Virginia Tech, our commitment to community engagement is central to our motto. Ut Prosim (That I can serve). The Mobile Autism Clinic and the students and faculty who run it are living out that motto, blending science and service in some of the most under-resourced areas of the commonwealth. We are grateful to APLU and proud that the clinic’s efforts have been recognized. ”
