We understand the challenges you face — and we’re here to help you find clarity and take meaningful action.
Our Story
Founded in 2003, Autism Society Orange County (ASOC), formerly known as the Orange County Asperger’s Support Group (OCASG), has been a trusted resource in the community for decades —providing support, connection, and information to autistic individuals and their families. What began as a group focused on adults with Asperger’s has grown alongside the evolving understanding of autism into an organization serving individuals across the full autism spectrum and all age groups.
Today, ASOC continues to offer the programs, support groups, and community connections that members rely on, while expanding its reach to meet the diverse and changing needs of the autism community throughout Orange County.
Autism Society Orange County is proud to be an affiliate of the Autism Society of America, the nation’s leading grassroots autism organization, founded in 1965. The Autism Society’s mission is “to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully.” Through a nationwide network of more than 70 affiliates, the Autism Society advances advocacy, education, and community-based support. This affiliation allows ASOC to connect local individuals and families with broader national resources and initiatives, while remaining deeply rooted in the Orange County community.
In addition to its core programs, ASOC is committed to innovation and community impact. Signature initiatives include Autism in Entertainment, which promotes employment opportunities and inclusion within the entertainment industry, and a Toastmasters Gavel Club that helps individuals build communication and leadership skills. In recognition of its work, ASOC was honored in 2024 with the Disability-Friendly Community Member Award by the Irvine Residents with Disabilities Advisory Board.
Through all of its efforts, Autism Society Orange County is dedicated to creating connection, expanding opportunity, and building a more inclusive community for all.
- Educational meetings and workshops (e.g., with Dr. Alex Gantman)
- Support groups for adults, parents, spouses/partners, etc.
- Social activities, Toastmasters club, coffee shop gatherings, etc.
What Our Members are Saying
Rather than simply solving your challenges for you — we help you find the information, support, and confidence to tackle them on your own — with confidence and clarity.
Our son, Richard, has benefited greatly from his participation in the Gavel Club and his service on the ASOC Board. The Gavel Club has enhanced his public speaking skills, bolstered his confidence in social interactions, and increased his communication skills more generally. These important activities have been so beneficial to our family.
Feeling overwhelmed with ASD diagnosis? I know I sure used to be. My daughter had 13 different diagnoses prior to age 9 when she was finally diagnosed with ASD. By that time, however, I was totally overwhelmed, lost, frustrated, and lonely. Then I found ASOC.
By regularly attending this group I found education to help prioritize my daughter’s deficits and needs I found implementation tools to begin on a forward moving path!
I strongly recommend ASOC to other parents! My child feels very comfortable attending the toastmaster club and receives great advice and encouragement which builds his confidence! The environment is very professional, friendly and encouraging. We attribute these successes to the organizers’ warm hearts and diligent work!
Meet our Team
We’ve brought together a diverse group of caring and involved community leaders.
