After serving two years as a constituency board member, David Ruttenberg was recently and unanimously elected as Chairman of the Board for Florida Atlantic University’s Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (FAU CARD). CARD is the largest, state-based community-based program providing assistance and supports to more than 5,000 individuals and their families with autism spectrum disorder and related disabilities. Additionally, CARD serves supporting professionals, employers and the community through a Florida Legislature grant made possible through the Florida Department of Education. CARD provides free services and supports to eligible constituents throughout a massive five-county service area including Indian River, Martin, Okeechobee, Palm Beach and St. Lucie.

CARD serves individuals of any age, diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders (Levels 1-3), Autistic Disorder, Asperger Syndrome, Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), Rett Syndrome, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder (CDD), Dual Sensory Impairment or Deaf-Blind, and Sensory Impairment with another disabling condition.

CARD’s work centers on building the capacity of families, schools, businesses and other community agencies to better prepare and support people with autism and related disabilities. We address issues impacting people across their entire lifespan thru services including direct patient assistance, consultation and education within schools, agencies and communities, family training, professional development, and supporting businesses working with autistic individuals. You can learn more about CARD by clicking here .