About Us

Our Goal

The goal of Autism Lifeline Links is to increase service capacity and eliminate wait times and barriers for individuals on the autism spectrum throughout their life. We are committed to doing this by working collaboratively and transparently to create a comprehensive person-centered system of awareness, early diagnosis, treatment and services to improve the opportunities and outcomes for individuals with autism and their families.

Autism Lifeline Links

Empower people with autism and families who care for them

  • Empower individuals, families, caretakers and the community with the knowledge and tools

Collect comprehensive data to inform community practices

  • Share plans, commit time and maximize resources to prioritize needs
  • Identify gaps in services and barriers to care

Serve the whole community through an enhanced system of care

  • Streamline the process for access to services and care
  • Build capacity to serve people with autism

Build awareness about people living with autism

  • Engage the entire community in participation, celebration and support of life events and milestones
  • Work to impact public policy and advocacy

Who We Are

Autism Lifeline Links is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2016 through an initiative funded by the Kronkosky Charitable Foundation. Autism Lifeline Links provides services in Bexar County and surrounding areas and is comprised of a group of community agencies providing care coordination, diagnostic services, behavioral support and therapy services, education and support groups, financial assistance for medical expenses and basic needs, respite care, registration with long-term support programs, and much more. Autism Lifeline Links is a coalition of agencies and organizations working together to provide quality services, resources and care for individuals, families, caregivers, educators and others in the autism community.

Guided by a steering committee comprised of community leaders, Autism Lifeline Links is committed to cooperation, collaboration and communication to provide individuals living with autism streamlined solutions to address needs and simplify access to services and support from diagnosis throughout life.

Our Story

Autism Lifeline Links’ referral agencies and community partners joined together to identify barriers that individuals, families and caregivers face in accessing resources and adequate care for their loved ones on the autism spectrum. We meet regularly and work in concert to better understand the scope of need and the gaps in service related to autism in Bexar County and surrounding areas, so we can continuously enhance and expand available resources and services. As part of these efforts, the Kronkosky Charitable Foundation commissioned an assessment around the current supply and demand for professional subspecialties serving individuals on the autism spectrum. This study was conducted by Capital Healthcare Planning and is now available as a community resource.You may access the full report here.

Referral Agencies

Autism Lifeline Links is a coalition of agencies and organizations working together to provide quality services, resources and care for individuals, families, caregivers, educators and others in the autism community.

ALL's referral agencies are part of the information sharing and referral platform designed to streamline and simplify connecting individuals and families with agencies and organizations that provide services geared to ASD.

The Alamo Local Authority for Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities in San Antonio, Texas is one of 40 MRA’s located throughout Texas and serves residents of Bexar County. The Alamo Local Authority for Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities (ALA for IDD) provides the following community services and supports for eligible adults and children with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families in Bexar County: Eligibility Determination; Consumer Benefits Screening; Service Coordination; Medicaid Waiver Programs such as Home and Community-Based Services (HCS) or Texas Home Living (TxHmL); General Revenue (GR) funded services; Assisted Residential Living; Present Community Options.

The mission of Any Baby Can is to serve families with children and youth facing serious health or developmental challenges. Any Baby Can services are provided at no cost – regardless of income – to families who have a child/ individual with a chronic illness, disability, developmental delay or health risk. Any Baby Can provides support services to access community resources and access to a crisis fund to pay for tangible items needed for the family or child. A health & wellness program supports families that want to improve their nutrition and increase exercise. Individuals are supported to access community recreational programs through adaptations with an ultimate goal of inclusion. The Autism Services program provides training that focuses on ABA, improving communication & reducing behaviors. Parents also have access to group and/or individual counseling, toilet/hygiene training, Safety Training, Parent Night Out and Parents Empowering Parents support and education group. Individuals and their families can access sibling support, prescription assistance and The Birthday Social Club. The child/ individual must reside in either Bexar, Atascosa, Bandera, Blanco, Caldwell, Comal, Edwards, Frio, Gillespie, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Hays, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, Medina, Real, Uvalde or Wilson County.

The Autism Service Center of San Antonio is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 2008 through an initiative headed by a consortium of healthcare funders concerned about the growing prevalence of autism and the rapid rise in the demand for qualified diagnostic services. The center does business as the Autism Community Network, a name which emphasizes the focus on community collaboration and networking.  The primary goals of the Autism Service Center of San Antonio are to provide interdisciplinary diagnosis and treatment for young children with autism spectrum disorder; education and training for autism service providers and families touched by autism; and comprehensive information and networking for our autism community.

The mission of the Autism Treatment Center is to assist people with autism and related disorders throughout their lives as they learn, play, work and live in the community. ATC is a private, nonprofit, 501(c)(3) corporation providing its services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Services include residential, educational, therapeutic, adult programs and research.

Our mission is to enhance the quality of life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our vision is to provide quality innovative services to help them achieve their maximum potential. The Arc of San Antonio was founded in 1954 by parents who wanted to create a network of support and services for their children with special needs. Throughout our history, The Arc has responded to the changing needs in our community by developing programs and partnerships that address the most critical issues facing people living with disabilities, including the growing population challenged with an autism spectrum disorder. Today, The Arc offers one of the largest continuum of services for children and adults with a broad range of intellectual and developmental disabilities, to include two adult day activity centers, an after-school and summer child care program, and a comprehensive case management staff to assist families throughout the San Antonio area.

Throughout San Antonio and Bexar County, Brighton Center provides developmental and educational services to children with disabilities and/or developmental delays from birth to age 22, along with family and community education. With a holistic, family-centered approach, we offer child enrichment and development through a learning center, home-based therapy services, counseling, case management, family support services and more. We seek to empower every child we serve with the necessary knowledge and skills they need to prepare for a bright future.

The Center for Health Care Services

The Center for Health Care Services (CHCS) improves the lives of people with mental health disorders, substance abuse challenges and developmental disabilities. CHCS is committed to excellence through continuous quality monitoring and improvement in a comprehensive performance measurement program. CHCS operates a wide range of psychosocial and medical programs in Bexar County whose target populations include individuals with behavioral health disorders and intellectual disabilities. CHCS also provides care and respite for the homeless population and those recovering from substance abuse problems. It is a public entity and political subdivision of the State of Texas, deriving its authority from Section 534.001 of the Texas Health and Safety Code, and, more specifically, from its Interlocal Agreement with the Bexar County Commissioners and the Bexar County Hospital District who license and oversee its operations. Originally referred to in its charter as the Bexar County Board of Trustees for Mental Health and Mental Retardation Services, the Center for Health Care Services conducts its nationally recognized programs under the expert guidance of its Board of Trustees and leadership team.

Children’s Association for Maximum Potential (CAMP) has been providing safe and fun-filled recreational experiences for individuals with special needs since 1979. Summer Camp is a series of six-day overnight summer camp sessions for children and adults with special needs who may not be eligible to attend other camps due to the severity of their disability. CAMP offers two sessions for individuals with mild to severe autism at their Camp CAMP location in Center Point, Texas. Campers experience typical summer activities, such as horseback riding, swimming, canoeing, outdoor cooking and arts and crafts. School-year programs consist of 9 monthly weekend camps designed much like the summer camp program, 9 monthly evening events (Parent’s Night Out) that offer fun and safe enrichment activities for children with special needs, and their siblings, and 9 monthly teen and adult outings (Teen and Adult Day Adventure) that offer individuals with special needs the ability to socialize and enjoy age appropriate recreation at sporting events, amusement parks, museums, and festivals.

CHRISTUS Santa Rosa has a long history of caring for the children of San Antonio and South Texas. For more than 50 years, The Children’s Hospital has developed and grown services that meet specific needs in the community – and will continue to do so well into the future. The CAP Clinic at The Children’s Hospital of San Antonio offers evaluation and management services for children with autism. If your child needs a diagnosis of autism or needs a diagnosis verified, our multidisciplinary autism clinic evaluation (for diagnosing autism only) is a six hour, full evaluation every Thursday. This consists of evaluations from Neurodevelopmental Pediatrics, Child Psychology, Speech/Language Pathology, Occupational Therapy, Social Work, and Audiology. If your child has already been diagnosed with autism, we offer outpatient treatment and etiological work-up.

The mission of disABILITYsa is to educate, advance, and engage individuals with disabilities by sharing information, creating opportunities, and strengthening organizations that serve them. disABILITYsa connects people with all types of disabilities and their families to information about local resources, programs and opportunities that promote independence and inclusion where they live, work and play.

The purpose of the Down Syndrome Association of South Texas is to empower and support individuals with Down Syndrome and their families in order to help them find access to resources, be engaged in their community, and progress toward self-actualization. Down Syndrome Association of South Texas is to provide lifelong services and support to children and adults with Down syndrome and their families in South Texas in order to optimize well-being, develop rewarding relationships, and foster inclusion in the community.

Respite Care of San Antonio, Inc. provides direct childcare services to families caring for a child with a developmental disability. Through the provision of safe, nurturing childcare based in routine and predictability ALL children can reach their fullest potential. Parents/Guardians have an opportunity to attend work, school, tend to household and family demands as well as socialize and/or spend time with other family and friends. Respite Care’s full time child development center with RN support, Friday night, Saturday day, holiday and summer care are essential respites and reduces the incidence of child abuse and neglect while strengthening and supporting the family.

Southwind Fields builds a sense of community and provide empowerment for adults with special needs through connection, meaningful experiences, spiritual growth, and fulfilling mission work. finding purpose through meaningful experiences.

The Southwind Fields programs provide adults with learning differences the opportunity to make an impact in their community. Working alongside one another, in "Community Impact Teams", Southwind Day Program as well as the Southwind Fields Tiny House program, locals are offered the opportunity to be contracted Southwind Fields employees, being hired onto Local Work Teams, earning a steady paycheck while being active participants in an employment setting of their choosing within our organization. We are committed to our locals' highest level of independence and authenticity.

Special Reach Inc. was founded out of a desire to enrich the lives of children with special needs in San Antonio. To this end, we provide summer enrichment programs and after school programs where children with special needs can have a fun and safe experience, foster independence by building social skills, improving physical fitness, and developing healthy outlets for stress reduction through structured fun activities. These activities afford parents and caregivers a well-deserved break while the children participate in stimulating and engaging activities. Our ever popular programs include: Party Night – This program is our unique twist on Parents’ Night Out. It is designed for children with special needs (such as autism) and their siblings, and it runs ALL year. Summer Enrichment Program - This program is designed exclusively for children with special needs and runs during the summer months. Our programs are provided by trained and experienced staff who are committed to the total development of each child.

Leadership

Guided by a steering committee comprised of community leaders, ALL is committed to providing individuals living with autism streamlined solutions to address needs and simplify access to services and support from diagnosis throughout life.

Cara Magrane, Executive Director

Cara Magrane, a forward-thinking, team spirited and insightful executive with more than 20 years of hands-on non-profit management experience, joined Autism Lifeline Links in February as its new Executive Director. She has substantive experience developing and successfully implementing strategic plans in operations, program development, administration, staff training and development, asset management, and general business management. Cara's professional skills were honed in a fast paced, high growth, non-profit where her focus spanned grant administration, fundraising, external affairs and special event execution. She has a proven ability to build successful strategic, long-term relationships with key stakeholders and positively influence individuals drawn from diverse backgrounds and with a range of personalities. Cara received her MBA from The University of Texas at San Antonio, Center for Professional Excellence; a BA in Sociology from Manhattanville College, and is a Licensed Child Care Administrator (LCCA) and Licensed Child Placing Agency Administrator (LCPAA).

Board of Directors

Carroll W. Schubert, JD, Professional Contract Services, Inc.

Carroll W. SchubertCarroll W. Schubert, JD serves as President and CEO of Professional Contract Services, Inc. (“PCSI”), a non-profit corporation providing support services to hospitals, military installations, and border security locations throughout the United States. Operating under AbilityOne—a federal initiative for employing people with disabilities—PCSI staffs its award-winning service teams with disabled veterans and other people with disabilities. Mr. Schubert’s distinguished career includes prior service as: San Antonio City Council member (2001-2005); Chief Deputy District Attorney for Bexar County (1983-1986); Director of Government Affairs and Community Relations for Valero Energy Corp (1979-1982); and Executive Assistant to Senator Lloyd Bentsen (1975-1978). Mr. Schubert is a longtime supporter and advocate for organizations serving people with disabilities.

Helene R. Freymann

Helene R. FreymannHelene R. Freymann recently returned to San Antonio from New York with the goal of transitioning her corporate experience to the non-profit world. A senior executive with more than 35 years of experience, she spent the last two decades with prestigious global law firms where she served as Chief Marketing and Business Development Officer, the commercial real estate industry, and also helped to build a successful San Antonio-based start-up company. Helene became involved in Autism Lifeline Links when she was hired as its first Executive Director to complete its build and launch in 2016. She is currently developing the structure, plan, compliant protocols, and documentation for a public/private partnership initiative funded by Kronkosky Charitable Foundation, focused on the issue of child sex trafficking. Helene has significant experience in strategic planning, compliance, budget development and management, business operations, business development, communications and brand awareness, client relationship management, and talent development and oversight. Helene has served on a variety of civic and community boards and committees throughout her career and helped to build and launch a non-profit organization in New York in the aftermath of September 11, 2001.

Steve Enders

Steve Enders Steve Enders served as the CEO of The Arc of San Antonio from 2010-2011. He continues as a board member of The Arc of Texas. Prior to his work with The Arc, he was the Sr. Vice President for Ambulatory Services for the University Health System, San Antonio’s public hospital and clinic system. He worked with the University Health System for 31 years and has a Masters Degree in Health Administration from Texas State University. Steve is a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives.

Leslie Neely, Behavior Analysis Program

Leslie Neely Leslie Neely is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Educational Psychology and Coordinator for the Behavior Analysis Program. Dr. Neely is also a Doctoral-level Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-D). She earned a Master’s degree in Educational Psychology (emphasis in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis) and Ph.D. in Educational Psychology (emphasis in Special Education and Applied Behavior Analysis) from Texas A&M University. Dr. Neely’s research focuses on the application of applied behavior analysis to the treatment of problem behavior for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities. Her research also evaluates ways to improve the acquisition and sustained use of evidence-based practices by parents, teachers, and other interventionists working with individuals with developmental disabilities. Dr. Neely serves as the UTSA Director for the San Antonio Applied Behavior Analysis Project.

Steering Committee

Major General Josue (Joe) Robles, Jr., USA (Ret.) retired from USAA in 2015 after serving seven years as president and chief executive officer. USAA is a FORTUNE 150 financial services company, ranked No. 28 on FORTUNE’s list of the World’s Most Admired Companies. During Robles’s tenure as CEO, USAA grew customers 63 percent, revenue 67 percent, net worth 87 percent, assets owned and managed 70 percent, and more than doubled employee engagement. An advocate for military families, Robles led USAA to national prominence for hiring veterans and military spouses, and his emphasis on innovation resulted in the number of employee-generated patents increasing from five to more than 550.Headquartered in San Antonio, Texas, with offices throughout the United States and Europe, USAA has been serving military families since 1922 and is well known for its exceptional service, offering its more than 11 million members a comprehensive range of insurance, banking, investment products, financial advice and planning, and services designed to help them meet their financial needs. Robles was a USAA board member from 1990 to 1994 while on active duty, and joined USAA in 1994, serving as CFO and controller until he was named president and CEO in 2007. Born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, Robles joined the U.S. Army in 1966. For the next 28 years, he served in a variety of command and staff positions, including active duty posts in Korea, Vietnam, Germany, and Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm in the Middle East. He served as the director of the Army budget and as commanding general of the 1st Infantry Division (the Big Red One). During his military career, Robles was recognized numerous times for service and honor. He received the Distinguished Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Legion of Merit with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, and the Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster. In 2009, The Christian Science Monitor named Robles the “No. 1 Veteran in Business” and American Banker named him “Innovator of the Year.” In 2011, he received the Horatio Alger Award, in 2013 was named the Arizona State University “Executive of the Year,” and in 2014, the Texas Diversity Council honored him with the “CEO Champion of Diversity” award. In 2015, the U.S. Secretary for Veterans Affairs selected Robles to chair the MyVA Advisory Committee. He is also Chairman of P16Plus Council of Greater Bexar County Foundation and serves on the boards of directors of DTE Energy, the CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Health System, the CHRISTUS Santa Rosa Children’s Hospital Foundation, San Antonio’s Early Childhood Education Municipal Development Corporation, and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County. He also is a member of the Oliver Wyman Senior Advisory Board, as well as the Advisory Board of the Kay Bailey Hutchison Center for Latin America Law at the University of Texas. Robles holds a bachelor of business administration degree in accounting from Kent State University and a master's degree in business administration from Indiana State University. His military education included U.S. Army Command and General Staff College, Spanish Army General Staff College, and U.S. Naval War College. He and his wife, Patty, have three children.

Barbara Gentry, Vice Chair

Barbara Gentry recently retired as Senior Vice President, Community Affairs at USAA. She administered USAA's charitable contributions program and oversaw the community educational initiatives and volunteer programs. She also served as President of The USAA Foundation and as President of The USAA Educational Foundation. Barbara serves on the board of directors of the United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, Haven for Hope, the San Antonio Museum of Art, Goodwill Industries of San Antonio and the Fisher House Foundation. She also serves as a member of the Boards of Directors of Respite Care San Antonio, Silver and Black Give Back, the San Antonio Women’s Hall of Fame and on a number of committees and special initiatives with local organizations and as a member of the USAA Golden Eagle Club. Barbara holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology from St. Mary's University in San Antonio. Barbara is married to Michael Gentry, a retired CPA and attorney. As a retiree, Barbara has found new ways to serve our community and have fun traveling with Michael.

Becca Brune, San Antonio Area Foundation

Rebecca "Becca" Brune is the President and COO of the San Antonio Area Foundation. Becca brings more than 20 years of experience to her role, and is focused on developing a stronger legislative advocacy program in addition to managing day-to-day operations. She previously served as Senior Vice President of Strategic Planning & Growth at Methodist Healthcare Ministries where she oversaw the organization's strategic planning process, community investments and public policy initiatives. She is a trained facilitator and mediator who has worked in Bangladesh, India, Costa Rica, Mexico and Nicaragua studying local community and economic development projects, entrepreneurial programs and health service delivery programs. As a Woodrow Wilson Fellow, Becca earned a master's degree from Syracuse University and a master's degree from St. Mary's University.

Janet Enriquez, Education Service Center, Region 20

Janet Enriquez is the Autism Education Specialist for Education Service Center, Region 20. She has a brother on the autism spectrum that has motivated her to continue her active role in the autism community. Janet has been working with students with autism spectrum disorder for the past eleven years in both the elementary and secondary settings. She has also provided in-service training and workshops for the mental health community in South Texas as well as worked with parent support groups in promoting education and awareness of autism spectrum disorder. Janet has her master’s in autism spectrum disorder interventions with an emphasis in applied behavior analysis. Janet is married and enjoys spending time with her husband Carlos, and daughter, Sarabeth.

Elizabeth Lutz, Bexar County Health Collaborative

Elizabeth Lutz is the Executive Director of The Health Collaborative. She has been with the organization since 2007, serving in multiple roles throughout her tenure. She asserts her passion for community health, equality in service, and collaborative vision to construct sustainable and resilient processes that will directly impact the health status of the community. Elizabeth assiduously works in tandem with the Board of Directors and staff to provide the highest standards of collaboration, sharing of resources and best practices to increase the impact of services to the community. Through these strengths, she has been able to leverage resources to extend the mission of The Health Collaborative into a new caliber of service-oriented initiatives that bring together leaders in the field of community health to promote their joint efforts while fostering a shared vision of prosperity for the citizens of Bexar County, and diminishing duplication of services and the need for competition in the area of community health. Elizabeth’s background includes over 12 years of business management, administration, and program management, as well as experience in building community infrastructure and partnerships to develop resources for community health improvement.

Dr. Lee Mason, UTSA TEAM Autism Center

Dr. Lee Mason, UTSA TEAM Autism Center, is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA-D) and an Associate Professor of Special Education at the University of Texas at San Antonio, where he directs the TEAM Center, a verbal behavior laboratory for student and faculty research teams to develop applied interventions to address the language deficits of children with autism. Dr. Mason received his BA in humanities from Trinity University, MEd in special education from Stephen F. Austin State University, and PhD in education from Utah State University. His research activities are grounded in several years of experience teaching special education in public, clinical, and residential settings. Dr. Mason's research focuses on assessing relative rates of verbal operant strength, and investigations of derivational stimulus control over intraverbal responding. He is currently leading a state-wide initiative to train classroom teachers in the principles of applied behavior analysis.

Ingrid Petty, Kronkosky Charitable Foundation

Ingrid Petty is Manager of Initiatives and Partnerships with Kronkosky Charitable Foundation. Ingrid works with community leaders, social assistance and human services officials, non-profit agencies, and funders to determine the greatest needs for which the Foundation can make a profound difference in the region it serves. She actively develops and implements roundtable community discussions to inspire action and to focus collective impact to address these needs. Before joining the philanthropic world, Ingrid spent most of her career in administrative capacities in the legal field, and has served for the last 10 years as Assistant Honorary Consul of Canada in San Antonio. A first-generation American, Ingrid is the daughter of post-WWII Eastern European immigrants. She grew up on San Antonio’s East Side, attended Sam Houston High School, and later served in the 90th Army Reserve Command at Ft. Sam Houston.

Jeffrey Walsh, Esq.

Jeff is a member in the law firm of Barton, East and Caldwell, P.L.L.C. and is Board Certified in Commercial Real Estate Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. With over 17 years of experience, he represents owners, developers, and investors in complex commercial real estate transactions throughout Texas. Prior to joining his current firm, he served with the Office of the Air Force General Counsel in San Antonio. Jeff received his B.A. in cursu honorum from Fordham University, where he was a Distinguished Military Graduate, and his J.D. summa cum laude from St. Mary’s University School of Law where he also served as Editor in Chief of the St. Mary’s Law Journal. His professional and civic affiliations include the Youth Orchestra of San Antonio, where he serves on the Board of Directors and as a member of YOSA’s Governance Committee, the Real Estate Council of San Antonio as a member of the Program Committee, and the San Antonio Bar Association. Jeff is married to Dr. Germaine Paulo Walsh, who is a Professor in the Department of Political Science, Sociology, and Geography at Texas Lutheran University; they have four children: Dominic, Juliana, Maximilian, and Zachary.

J. Tullos Wells, Kronkosky Charitable Foundation

J. Tullos Wells is a long-standing, active member of the South Texas community. He has served as Managing Director of Kronkosky Charitable Foundation, a regional foundation funding 501(c)(3) organizations in Bexar, Comal, Bandera and Kendall Counties, since November of 2014. Tullos’ community involvement includes his service as Past Chairman of the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce, Past Chairman of the Free Trade Alliance, Past Chairman of the World Affairs Council of San Antonio, and Founding Chair and current Vice Chair of the Lone Star Rail District. Tullos’ in-depth knowledge and involvement in the areas of global business, trade and security, sustainability, and other major business areas led to his selection as Honorary Consul in San Antonio, a position to which he was appointed by the Government of Canada in June 23, 2005. He was recently re-appointed for an additional three-year term. Tullos joined Kronkosky Charitable Foundation after a legal career of more than 40 years. As a senior partner with the global law firm of Bracewell & Giuliani, LLP, Tullos headed a comprehensive sports and entertainment practice, and represented a number of privately held midcap and publicly traded companies as outside general counsel. Tullos' representative sports clients include Spurs Sports & Entertainment, San Antonio Sports Foundation, and various broadcasting and entertainment venues. During the years 2003-2012, he earned the distinction as one of the Top 50 Central and West Texas Region Super Lawyers by Texas Super Lawyer. He is also listed among The Best Lawyers in America. Tullos is an adjunct professor at the University of Texas at Austin and at Trinity University in San Antonio, presenting courses in Sports Management and Sports and Entertainment Law.

Melody Woosley, Dept. of Human Services, City of San Antonio

Melody Woosley is the Director of the Department of Human Services, City of San Antonio where she oversees the City’s human services programs. Since joining the City of San Antonio in 1998 as a Management Analyst with the Human Services Department, Melody has supported and led critical City Human Services functions such as Head Start and Early Head Start, Child Care Services, Senior Services, Family Assistance Centers, Café College, Homeless Services, and contractual initiatives. She has oversight of a $121 million budget and a personnel complement of over 350. Prior to her appointment, Melody served as Assistant Director of Human Services. Melody has a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications from Southern Methodist University.

Community Partners

Achievers Center for Education

Achievers Center for Education (ACE), based in San Antonio, Texas, is the only accredited, regional private school recognized by the Texas Education Agency that serves students functioning two or more grade levels below age appropriate. ACE provides a positive, safe learning environment for those students to reach their full potential. We feature a low student-to-teacher ratio and hands-on teaching methods that are producing amazing results. These teaching strategies have proven to be effective for many students with special needs, including autism, ADD/ADHD, dyslexia, significant learning disabilities, cerebral palsy, Tourette syndrome, anxiety and/or depressive disorders, mild to moderate cognitive challenges, and Down syndrome.

Education Service Center, Region 20

The Education Service Center, Region 20 (ESC-20) is one of 20 regional education service agencies within Texas which assist school districts in improving student performance and increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of school operations. We are a non-regulatory agency; our relationship with school districts is collaborative and supportive. ESC-20 positively impacts the learning community through high quality, cost effective products and services. Our vision is to be the definitive choice for leadership, innovation, and the advancement of learning. Quality performance is a commitment to excellence by each employee — achieved through teamwork and a process of continuous improvement. We believe: in service first; our employees drive our success; collaboration maximizes results; in purposeful and effective communication; change is opportunity; in cultivating strengths; and learning is life-long.

Foundation School for Autism

Foundation School for Autism is an open-enrollment charter school, meaning that students without autism may attend, although virtually everything at the school is done with autism in mind. Classrooms have a certified special education teacher, a behavior technician and an assistant. Speech and occupational therapists and a specialist in Applied Behavior Analysis also meet with students throughout the week.

NEED LOGO

Kinetic Kids are children from ALL walks of life who experience the daily struggles of life-long challenges including but not limited to cerebral palsy, spina bifida, down’s syndrome, autism, Asperger’s syndrome, brain tumors, cancers, or other neurological disorders. These children have the desire to perform age-appropriate recreational and sports activities like their typically developing peers. They are children who may use wheelchairs as their primary mobility or they may use a walker or crutches. They may also be independent with mobility but for other reasons, are limited in their participation from recreational activities with their peer group. Our organization was established to provide health, recreational, and educational services to these children and their families. Our mission is to provide unique experiences through physical and creative activities in a supportive environment to children with special needs who may otherwise be excluded.

Mission Road Ministries

Mission Road Ministries is a non-profit organization serving more than 825 children & adults with intellectual & other developmental disabilities each day with residential, day services & vocational programs in San Antonio, Texas helping clients reach independence, productivity & inclusion in the community. Mission Road Ministries' children's programs provide residential care for children ages 3-17 years of age who have moderate, specialized or intensive levels of an intellectual developmental disability. Mission Road serves children from ALL over Texas. Mission Road Developmental Center provides residential care for adults with intellectual and other developmental disabilities through the ICF-MR (Intermediate Care Facility-Mental Retardation) program and the HCS (Home and Community-Based Services) programs. Vocational programs are provided by The Unicorn Centers, Inc., located near the medical center in Northwest San Antonio. Fully governed under the direction of Mission Road Ministries, The Unicorn Centers provides both residents of Mission Road community homes and those living elsewhere, with vocational and social activities appropriate for adults living with intellectual developmental disabilities.

Reaching Maximum Independence (RMI)

Reaching Maximum Independence, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. RMI's mission is to assist children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to reach their individual maximum level of independence. Our group homes, supported apartment programs and foster care services allow individuals with developmental disabilities and their families to choose the residential option that best meets their needs. RMI's Life Enrichment Day Program and Alamo Heights Adventure Club provides opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities to learn, work, volunteer and have fun as an active member of the community. RMI welcomes opportunities to share information or provide expertise on issues that affect people with developmental disabilities. Our professional staff are available for resource fairs and presentations to educators, healthcare professionals, human service providers and families. 

SA Clubhouse

The San Antonio Clubhouse is dedicated to the recovery of men and women with mental illness and developmental disabilities by providing opportunities for our members to live, work, and learn, while contributing their talents through a community of mutual support. The San Antonio Clubhouse is a part of the international Clubhouse movement. We are a professional self-help program, operated by men and women recovering from mental illness, in collaboration with a caring staff. The emphasis at the Clubhouse is on relationships — member to member, and member to staff. Members engage with each other to regain their productivity and self-confidence, resume their lives, and re-enter society. Members also take part in promoting their rights, and in erasing the stigma that often separates them from their neighbors.

UTSA's Teacher Education Autism Model Center

UTSA’s Teacher Education Autism Model (TEAM) Center is a university-based applied behavior analysis (ABA) clinic to serve the needs of children with autism and other intellectual disabilities in South Texas. Students and faculty at the TEAM Center apply the principles of behavior analysis to address the challenges of autism and related disorders through research, teaching, and service.

The Data

What are the numbers?

30K+

people currently living with ASD in the San Antonio CBSA*

$2B

overall economic impact in the San Antonio CBSA

4K+

students receive special education support for autism today

237%

projected annual increase in the number of children needing service

And the numbers keep growing…

* San Antonio Core Based Statistical Area (Bexar, Bandera, Comal, Kendall, Atascosa, Guadalupe, Medina and Wilson Counties)

Caring for ASDs has significant cost throughout a person’s life. In the CBSA, the estimated overall economic impact of dealing with ASDs exceeds $2 billion

Ages 0-17

  • Special education expense is the most significant cost of caring for children with ASDs.
    • For children with intellectual disabilities, this expense is estimated to be over $60,000 per year, over 50% of total costs
    • Decline in Special Ed costs for older children may be a “reality” versus optimal…costs may be significantly higher
Component Cost per Year: SA CBSA (In Millions)
With ID Without ID
Residential Care $10.2 $7.6
Special Education 156.6 117.5
Services – –
  Medical 39.9 29.9
  Nonmedical 32.3 24.2
Productivity loss (parents) 53.1 79.6
Total Costs 292.1 258.9
Pediatric Total 550.9

Ages 18+

  • The yearly costs attributed to ASD do not substantially decrease when a child transitions out of school (Costs are estimated to increase by $2,336 per year for individuals with ID)
  • Productivity loss to the individual with ASD is a significant portion (31.3%) of the overall yearly cost
    • According to Autism Speaks, 16.8% of the population living with disabilities are employed
Component Cost per Year: SA CBSA (In Millions)
With ID Without ID
Accommodations $336.3 $252.2
Employment Support 6.6 4.9
Services – –
  Medical 252.5 189.4
  Nonmedical 105.9 79.4
Productivity loss
  Individual with ASD 83.5 125.3
  Parents 10.6 15.9
Total Costs 795.4 667.1
Adult Total 1,462.5
SA CBSA Total 2,013.4

The Case for Early Intervention

Effective early intervention beginning before age 3 can dramatically increase a child’s success in attending kindergarten with typically developing peers. According to the U.S. Government Accountability Office, this can reduce the cost of education by more than $10,000 per child per year contrasted to those who do not receive early intervention.

As noted by Autism Speaks,

“…toddlers and preschoolers on the autism spectrum who receive intensive behavioral intervention through Applied Behavior Analysis (“ABA”) benefit from significant boosts to their IQ and social-communication skills, and improvement in underlying brain responses to social cues. This type of high-quality early intervention more than pays for itself, leading to long-term cost savings and a reduction in the subsequent need for therapy and educational support services.”

Currently, Medicaid does not pay for ABA therapy in Texas. Autism Lifeline Links supports a legislative agenda advocating for Medicaid coverage of ABA therapy, and to make the case for equitable access to this intensive and effective intervention for families.

Autism Lifeline Links Privacy Statement

Your privacy is important to us. This privacy statement explains the personal data we collect from you and how we use it. We encourage you to read the summary below and to contact Autism Lifeline Links if you'd like more information.

Autism Lifeline Links is a network of clinicians, social services and other entities providing services to individuals with autism. These services are provided, in part, through a web-based HIPAA-secured platform operated by TAVConnect, which meets rigorous standards for data protection. Your personal information is gathered for demographic purposes only and may be shared between one or more of the agencies/entities participating in Autism Lifeline Links for the purpose of providing services or referring you to an ALL referral agency.

To find out more about participation in Autism Lifeline Links, please contact us.