The Lower Delaware Autism Foundation (LDAF) was formed by a group of caring parents of children with autism.  Tied by the common bonds created by struggling with the challenges of autism on a daily basis, this dedicated group of parents decided to help make programs, services, and resources available to children and individuals with autism and their families, caregivers, and educators in Sussex County, Delaware.   

The organization made its debut with a kickoff event in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware on June 13, 2001.  By August of 2001, LDAF was incorporated within the State of Delaware and in the planning process of the first annual Autism Ball fundraiser.  The Ball, held at the Baycenter in Dewey Beach on March 16, 2002, attracted 300 attendees and realized $44,000 in profit. 

 From the success of the first Ball, LDAF has expanded its fundraising to include a Race for Autism, Annual Artisans’ Bank Beach Classic golf tournament and the LDAF Fall Fling Art Show, among many other small events. Proceeds from these events, along with the generous support of local community, allow LDAF to fund a number of quality programs that provide a lifetime of meaningful and enriching opportunities for individuals with autism. 

LDAF hired its first Executive Director in January 2003 and opened the doors of its first office in 2005.  LDAF expanded its operation to include a full-time Office Manager in 2005 and a Program and Event Coordinator in 2006, to support its ever growing programs and services for children and individuals with autism in Sussex County, Delaware.

Each year LDAF holds a Summer Swim Program, Adaptive Bike Camp, Music Program and an Educational Toys for Autism Drive, as well as awarding tens of thousands of dollars to students and professionals in fields associated with autism through a comprehensive Scholarship Program.  Several Family Fun Events are also offered throughout the year to engage our families within the local community.  This past year, LDAF also co-sponsored a Physician’s Awareness Program to encourage the use of early developmental screening tools and held the first Most at the Coast Educational Conference to educate professional in the field.  

           LDAF has a strong presence in our local community and beyond. Each year, we form stronger ties throughout the State and the disability community, working from a position of strength to help our families touched by autism.

          LDAF diligently works toward a bigger and better future filled with hope and opportunity for individuals with autism. We are currently assessing how to assist individuals with autism as they transition from their school systems to life on their own.  We are also working with our local legislators to address a myriad of issues that impact the quality of life of individuals with autism.