MCARDD exists as a service provider and referral source for those individuals and families impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and as a clearinghouse for all who work with them. We are located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast in D’Iberville, MS.
MCARDD was opened in February of 2011 by Dr. Alfred E. McNair, Jr..
A single mother came to him and told him about her story of raising her children alone, one of which was impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorder. After listening to her story and seeing her raise her child with autism to successful adulthood, he took on the challenge of becoming a student of autism. He began explaining the need of assistance for the ASD community and taking its fight to the state capitol in Jackson, as a member and officer of the State Board of Health. Then he set out to make a difference in the lives of as many children and families impacted by ASD as possible.
In 2011 Dr. McNair, Jr. opened the Mississippi Centers for Autism & Related Developmental Disabilities. The Center has a staff dedicated to providing the best available treatment and services to anyone impacted by ASD. MCARDD has committed to improving the way children are identified, assessed, and diagnosed and providing advanced tools for treating those with ASD. There is also a passion and drive to increase awareness of ASD to physicians, educators, health care givers, families, and friends.
In this vision for Mississippians impacted by autism, Early Intervention is the key to Mississippi Centers for Autism and Related Developmental Disabilities.