Fostering Progress and Hope: TLI Engages with National Leaders at 2024 National TACA Autism Conference

Drawing over 1,100 attendees, this year’s National TACA Autism Conference, October 17-20, 2024, in Costa Mesa, CA  provided the Thought Leadership & Innovation Foundation (TLI) team with extensive opportunities to further our commitment: advancing knowledge and empowering families affected by autism. Throughout the event, we interacted with parents, caregivers, physicians and service providers, exchanging new ideas and gathering perspectives that continue to fuel our spirit of collaboration, community and progress.

TLI’s Impact: Sponsoring Vital Conversations

The conference was a beacon of hope, innovation and shared determination, providing TLI with the privilege of sponsoring two pivotal events: the Physicians’ Think Tank and the Physicians’ Panel Discussion.

These sessions served as a platform for physicians to engage with families, caregivers and fellow experts, answering critical questions and offering insights into managing complex medical conditions associated with autism.

This year, we saw a notable increase in attendance and engagement, with more than twice as many participants in the Physicians' Panel as last year. The candid discussions shed light on specific challenges faced by parents, from addressing medical conditions to improving quality of life for individuals with autism.

Advancing the Autism Knowledge Gateway

We are particularly proud of the progress made on the Autism Knowledge Gateway, which was presented for the first time to a broader audience during the Think Tank session. Attendee response to his dynamic platform was overwhelmingly positive, with enthusiastic receptivity to its design for connecting clinicians, educators and families with a robust repository of peer-reviewed research and resources.

Many attendees have already committed to participating in the Beta launch of the Gateway scheduled for January 2025. There is incredible support for the project which represents a transformative step forward in the TLI mission to equip families with accessible, evidence-based information and foster informed conversations around autism care.

Trending Insights: Biomedical Research and Profound Autism

Several key themes emerged throughout the conference, with one topic generating significant discussion:  the role of microbiomes -- microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi and viruses living in or on the human body -- in individuals with autism. As researchers make strides in understanding the connection between gut health and behavioral conditions, this research is expected to generate significant, follow-on discussion.

Another critical area of focus was the transition from childhood to adulthood, highlighting the need for job training, housing and long-term care solutions for autistic individuals. Of particular importance this year was the growing conversation around defining “profound autism” to ensure that individuals requiring 24/7 care receive the necessary support throughout their lives.

A Community United by Passion and Hope

A conference “stand-out” was the palpable energy and shared mission of all participants. Whether it was physicians discussing innovative treatments, service providers offering support or parents advocating for their children, the passion was undeniable. Together, we are building a better future for individuals with autism, their families and the broader community.

As we look ahead to 2025, TLI remains committed to our partnerships throughout the autism community, including remarkable organizations like TACA that continue to drive innovation, share knowledge and support families navigating the complex journey of autism.

Join Us for An Evening to Advance Autism Care

At TLI, we are dedicated to advancing the care and support of individuals with autism. If you’re passionate about making a difference and want to be part of a groundbreaking movement, we invite you to join us at “An Evening to Advance Autism Care” on Friday, November 8, 2024, at The Tower Club in Vienna, VA. This exclusive event will unveil the Autism Knowledge Gateway, an innovative platform designed to revolutionize autism care by connecting clinicians and families with essential medical research.

The evening will feature inspiring discussions, a plated dinner, and personal stories from those affected by autism, as well as a first look at the AI-powered Gateway. Don’t miss this opportunity to support the future of autism care and be part of a community committed to positive change. Click here to donate or secure your spot at this collaborative event.

About The Autism Community in Action (TACA)

The Autism Community in Action (TACA) is a national nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2000 with the mission to provide education, support and hope to families living with autism.  Headquartered in Irvine, CA with staff and volunteers working across the country, TACA offers free educational meetings, a parent mentorship program, an online Hope and Help support group, an autism workbook, and an annual national autism conference. TACA maintains a robust social media presence on Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube. TACA annually serves more than 89,000 parents and caregivers of individuals affected by autism. For more information visit www.tacanow.org