“I just want to be treated fairly. Isn’t that what everyone wants?”
By Jodi Glass, Director, Executive Director, Autism Society of the Mahoning Valley
Hello friends,
I am honored to introduce myself as the new Executive Director of the Autism Society of the Mahoning Valley. While some of you may already know me through my years on the Board of Directors, this marks a new and exciting chapter, one that feels both deeply personal and full of promise.
I first reached out to the Autism Society back in 2014 as a mom looking for help. Our family had just moved back to the Mahoning Valley from Philadelphia after our child was diagnosed with autism. One of my very first phone calls was to the Autism Society. I’ll never forget it, Aundréa Cika Heschmeyer, who was Executive Director at the time, answered the Information and Referral Line. Hers was the first voice I heard from the organization, and that call changed everything.
From that moment, we were welcomed into a community that embraced our family with open arms. We attended Family Nights at OH WOW!, bowling outings, Moms Night Out events, and family portrait sessions where our child could jump, move, and just be himself!
Over the years, as our son has grown, our needs as a family have changed, but the Autism Society has continued to walk beside us every step of the way. When we needed a therapist, an advocate, or school support, we turned to the Information and Referral Line. That connection, now led by Robin Suzelis, remains a lifeline for so many families in our community.
This organization has given my family so much hope, a sense of belonging, and friendship. That’s why I chose to step into this role. My heart is here, with this mission, and with every family and individual whose story echoes ours.
As we begin this new chapter together, I want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible people who have kept ASMV strong and thriving. Our dedicated Board of Directors and staff have worked tirelessly to sustain our programs and events through times of transition. Because of them, families enjoyed three weeks of Camp FRIEND, our beloved Special Bunny and Special Santa celebrations, Family Portraits, Family Outings, Caregiver Support gatherings, Mahoning Valley Warrior, and countless other opportunities for connection.
We are so fortunate to have a team of true leaders whose commitment ensures that every person with autism and every family can find understanding and support right here in the Mahoning Valley.
When I accepted this position, I asked my son what he hoped I would do for the organization and for him and his autistic friends. He thought for a moment and said, “I’m not sure, Mom. I just want to be treated fairly.”
And isn’t that what everyone wants?
That simple truth will guide me every day as your Executive Director. My goal is to lead with heart, to listen, to connect, and to help create a community where every person is treated with fairness, dignity, and respect.
As we head into the holiday season, there is so much to look forward to. We’re preparing to host our cherished Special Santa celebration once again, a yearly favorite for so many families. I love seeing the joy on everyone’s faces at this event! We’ll also be awarding this year’s Mike Hull Memorial Mini Grants to selected families, a tradition that brings comfort to those who need it most. If you would like to volunteer to help as a way of giving back this holiday season, please sign up! Many hands make light work and we welcome new volunteers!
Our Social Connections program is busy planning events for tweens through 17 and 18 through 35 -year-olds. Upcoming gatherings to celebrate the season are Friendsgiving and the Annual Holiday Party. If you’d like more information, please reach out to Jennifer Groce, our Social Connections Facilitator, we’d love to see you there.
And for those who are newly diagnosed, families facing a new diagnosis, or any autism related needs that arise during different phases of life, please don’t hesitate to contact our Information and Referral Director, Robin Suzelis, for guidance and resources. You are not alone, and we are here to partner with you every step of the way.
It’s going to be an exciting time with many new initiatives on the horizon, and I truly can’t wait to see everyone soon at one of our upcoming events.