Asheville area support for autistic people and their families
Arms Around ASD is a 501(c)3 organization dedicated to supporting the autism community through self-care and development of executive functioning skills to promote the growth of the community as a whole.
What Is Arms Around ASD?
Watch the video to see how our services, volunteers, and community work together to support autistic people and their families in the Asheville area.
Living in a Neurotypical World Isn’t Easy.
For autistic people and their families, every day can feel like a puzzle you weren’t given the instructions for. You’re expected to conform, mask, and meet demands that aren’t built for the way your brain works. Executive functioning struggles add another layer of challenge. And when support systems fall short or feel out of reach, it’s easy to feel isolated.
We see you.
And we’re here to help.
Support That Meets You Where You Are
At Arms Around ASD, we know the autism community is beautifully diverse—and so are the needs within it.
That’s why our services are available to all ages and ability levels, and to everyone who cares for or works with autistic people. Families, caregivers, teachers, nurses, therapists—you belong here too.
We offer low-cost (or no-cost) services that nurture the nervous system and build practical life skills. Every single one of our providers is a volunteer, showing up with heart and care to offer reiki, massage, mindfulness, executive functioning coaching, bodywork, acupuncture, creative outlets, and more. Many services are hands-on. All are welcoming.
And no one is turned away for inability to pay.
Imagine What’s Possible When You Feel Regulated, Not Isolated
When you’re overstimulated or emotionally fried, even brushing your teeth can feel like too much. But when your nervous system is calm, and you’re in a space where you don’t have to mask or explain, everything changes.
We’ve seen it happen—hundreds of times.
Clients who never thought they’d enjoy a group activity discover a love of Zumba or stop-motion animation. Parents who were burning out finally take a breath. Autistic adults who felt invisible find work experience and community in our Big Hug Boutique.
This is about seeing—and being seen.
A Few of the Many Services We Offer
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Executive Function Coaching
Practical support for task management, life skills, and routine building
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Self-Care Therapies
Reiki, massage, dry needling, chiropractic care, acupuncture, foot rubs
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Mindfulness & Support Groups
Social groups, coaching, and safe spaces to connect
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Creative & Employment Opportunities
Sell your art, join stop-motion animation workshops, or work in our boutique
In the words of client Ryan Prager…
“At first, I was a little skeptical because I didn't know what to expect. But once I got to know everyone, I felt I was very welcomed and loved by everybody and AAASD has made a big impact in my life. Just coming inside the door, I can feel the love and I can be myself and feel like I don’t have to put up walls.
This is a very beneficial autistic network of people volunteering their services to the Asheville community, it certainly has made a world of difference in my life.
I participate in many classes and groups and am impressed with the daily programming. All of the staff are wonderful; they are part of my family, that’s how much I love them all. It's amazing how much they love and care for all of the people on the autism spectrum.”
