The Howard County Autism Society (HCAS) is proud to launch its Vaccine Education Initiative in August 2023 in partnership with the Autism Society of America (ASA), and the Howard County Health Department. The Autism Society believes that improving the vaccination experience is a critical step towards achieving more equitable healthcare for people with Autism and all neurodiverse individuals. The Vaccine Education Initiative (VEI) is a national program of the Autism Society of America that addresses systemic barriers, while promoting vaccine education, confidence, and access.  Funding has been provided through a mission-critical grant from the Aging and Disability Vaccination Collaborative (ADVC). Seventeen affiliates, including the Howard County Autism Society, were selected to participate as sub-grantees, bringing the program directly to local and state communities.

Leading this effort on behalf of HCAS is Nicole LeBlanc, an Autistic self-advocate who has a keen ability and interest in public policy and the needs of people with developmental disabilities. She will be providing outreach and trainings and supporting vaccine clinics in partnership with the Howard County Health Department.  Contact Nicole at Nicole.LeBlanc@howard-autism.org or 410-290-3466.