It happened over dinner one night: a group of parents faced with the challenge of raising their children with Autism began discussing care providers. One mother, whose child was having a particularly tough time, had suddenly lost her care provider the day before. Her child was adjusting to a new summer schedule, and had begun displaying some aggressive behaviors. Her friends were worried about her and the child's safety. At a time when she most desperately needed help to care for her child and create a stable environment, she had to train a new caregiver. Even if she could hire a new caregiver, without extensive training they may not have the skills to be successful: some wouldn't even last a week. Exhausted from caring for her child, the obstacle of attaining an employee seemed insurmountable. "Wouldn't it be great," the parents collectively mused, "if there was an organization which provided dependable, skilled care? What if there was one number which we could call and a person would arrive ready to give appropriate, hands-on care when it was needed most? What if there was an organization designed to improve the quality of life for families living with Autism, by supporting them where they need it most, in their own homes? What if this organization could be non-profit, low cost, and dedicated to meeting the needs of families with Autism? Why doesn't an organization like that exist?"

Tired of complaining and struggling, these parents -- together with caring community members, teachers and clinicians -- developed ARRO. At the core of ARRO's vision are the needs of the family. ARRO believes that families of children with Autism need to be active in the care of their child, but also need the break and support that a good in-home staff person can provide. ARRO has designed a program which helps parents help themselves, empowering families to be healthier, happier, and more active in their communities.