The Community Alternatives for People with Autism, or CAPA, and Keystone Employment Services work to build tolerance and understanding of autistic and other challenged individuals.

"We are one agency working to improve the lives of those we serve," emphasized Deborah Vaughan, Keystone's program director.

"Absolutely," added Johanna Reed-Werner, CAPA's executive director. "Our motto is: ‘We never lose sight of the person.'"

Founded in 1989, CAPA began when parents with autistic children came together to create a safe living environment for their loved ones.

"It was hard at first," continued Reed-Werner.  "But we did it, and we continue to advocate for our participants."

A nonprofit organization, CAPA is dedicated to the development of appropriate residential and vocational services for adults with autism.

There are currently 13 participants in CAPA's residential program.

The cause of Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ASD, is unknown and the cure unknown; the cure remains undiscovered.

ASD is a complex neurological disorder that interferes with the normal development of reasoning, social interaction and communication skills.

Cases of ASD vary widely in severity.  The scope of the symptoms of language and communication difficulties can change over time.

The most difficult of challenges for people with autism is their inability to recognize and respond to the behavior and communication of those around them.

In 1997, Keystone Employment Services was developed as a separate program from CAPA to provide employment and community access to a number of CAPA participants.

"We are one agency," reiterated Vaughn.  "We are changing and enhancing lives."

She pointed out that Keystone helps with finding employment, providing community access and building skills.

This commitment of time and energy requires sustained monetary commitment, and for the second time, Vaughn and Reed-Werner are appealing to the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) for support.

Last year, CAPA received only $20 in CFC donations.

"One hundred percent of every dollar we receive goes back into our mission," said Reed-Werner.

CAPA's CFC donation number is 84857.

"This campaign is a huge thing for us," continued Reed-Werner.

The Community Alternatives for People with Autism and Keystone Employment Services are located at 12001 Pacific Ave. S., Suite 201 in Tacoma.

For more information on CAPA, email info@capakey.org; for more information about Keystone, visit www.keystoneemployment.net; or call 253.536.2339.