Lao Autism Association

Who we are

Lao Autism Asociation is a self help group initiated by parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in Lao PDR. The so far informal group exists since 2003. It aims at raising awareness about ASD in Laos and create opportunities for education of children with ASD. Currently parents and relatives of 25 children with autism aged between 2 and 13 years belong to the group. Since 2007 the group tries to get formally registered with the Lao authorities.

The total number of children with ASD in Vientiane, the less than one-million-people capital of Lao PDR, is estimated at about 50-60. Only few of them can afford the current fee of about 270 USD for the full time education at VAC. Any support is highly welcome.

The Lao Autism Association is member of the ASEAN Autism Network (AAN). LAA in close contact with autism related organisations in neighboring Thailand and is getting involved with international networks of autism related organisations all over the world.

Therapists

Teacher Eh, teacher Mone and teacher Pay from Thailand, expers in special education, teachers Keo, La, Vone and Vanh teachers in general education, as well as physiotherapist Pem take care of currently sixteen autistc kids at VAC.

Owner and activists

San, the mother of Marcel, and Viengsam, mother of Ton, are behind most of LAA's activities. San is also owner of the Vientiane Autism Center and dedicates most of her time to VAC. The other activists at th emobilization committee are the father of Fitso and the mother of Alex.