National Autism Association's Family First Program Now Providing Free Tools to Help...

National Autism Association's Family First Program Now Providing Free Tools to
Help Combat Autism Divorce Rates

NIXA, Mo., June 16 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The National Autism Association
(NAA) announced today it will provide relationship-coaching tools at no charge
to qualifying couples who have a child with autism.

In response to the rise in divorce within the autism community, the NAA's
Family First Program was developed in 2007 to provide funds to couples in need
of marriage counseling. Now the organization is providing tools to anyone in
need of relationship help. "Couples in need will receive a book and DVD
presentation at no charge," says NAA Executive Director Rita Shreffler. "These
tools are filled with unique marital tips and relatable stories for couples
that have a child with autism."

Both the book, "Married with Special Needs Children" and DVD presentation come
from Dr. Laura Marshak, a leading authority on marital therapy within the
special needs community. "The goal is to provide that little extra help to
couples who feel alone in their unique challenges," says NAA President Wendy
Fournier. "We hope that providing resources and tools for a healthier marriage
will build a firmer foundation for children with autism to progress."

The organization notes that these tools are not intended for everyone.
"Obviously, if you are in an abusive relationship, separation is imperative,"
says Fournier. "But for those seeking a little bit of help, but are hurting
financially, we're happy to offer these tools at no charge."

Couples can receive the two items by mail while supplies last. To qualify,
couples that have a child with autism should write to lori@nationalautism.org
outlining their special circumstance. Qualifying couples will then receive
both the book and DVD in the mail. Lifetime partners that have a child with
autism also qualify.

Counseling funds are also available through Family First. To apply for a $500
grant towards marriage counseling, couples can visit
http://nationalautismassociation.org/familyfirst.php.

NAA's Family First Program relies heavily on donations. To support the
program, please visit www.nationalautism.org.

Contacts:
Wendy Fournier (Portsmouth, RI) 401-835-5828
Lori McIlwain (Cary, NC) 919-741-1646

SOURCE National Autism Association

Wendy Fournier (Portsmouth, RI) +1-401-835-5828, or Lori McIlwain (Cary, NC)
+1-919-741-1646, both of the National Autism Association