Susan Crowell
Founder and Executive Director of My Autism Ally
My expertise in mental health and autism comes from a variety of life and professional experiences. As a child of a parent struggling with mental illness I understand the lifelong battle and the interconnected challenges those with autism and a co-occurring mental health diagnosis face daily. Working in the special education system has allowed me to see the challenges our schools face from both the school district and parent point of view. As a disability advocate and a parent of a child on the autism spectrum for over 18 years, I have seen how resources have grown and access changed for families in our community.
When my son was diagnosed in 2003 at two years old, autism resources were scarce in NE Indiana and the internet was dial up! My local support group was the lifeline I needed for information on how to help my son. Through them I connected with local disability providers in my community not only to just help my son, but also to raise autism awareness and create more inclusive opportunities for families in my community.
My hope for this site is that you find the answers you are looking for so you can help yourself, or your loved one affected by autism, reach your/their full potential. Knowing that for each individual on the autism spectrum, that looks different.
Samantha Drudge
Program Coordinator
I am pleased to be a part of My Autism Ally. I come with over 10 years of various disability community knowledge; as a special education law advocate, autism career specialist, wavier service coordinator and office administrator in an ABA center.
I am a parent of 3 grown boys, two with mental health issues and one with Autism Spectrum Disorder. We got our son diagnosed when he was in 3rd grade. He was having difficulty with behaviors and we could not control them anymore. We struggled with finding resources until I joined a local support group for parents with kids with autism. It was then I realized that we weren’t alone. Others were dealing with the same issues we were. It moved me to seek employment in that community.
Please know you’re not alone in your journey. Join us in our adventures in the autism world. Our outreach and events at My Autism Ally will help connect you with supports in your community.
Ashley Morgan
Autism Ally
I feel so honored to be a part of My Autism Ally. I come to My Autism Ally with over 10 years of experience and strong ties to the disability community. I am a Mother of 2 boys and 3 step children. My youngest son was diagnosed with autism at 18 months. My Autism Ally's support groups, trainings and events have helped me and my family more than I can express. I have made so many wonderful connections to parents that are facing some of the same challenges as our family. I have dedicated my life to helping others navigate their Autism journey. I am proud to be an Autism Mom and an Autism Ally.