About Us
About Us
Our Mission
Autism Directory Service’s mission is to support the autism community throughout the Hudson Valley by providing grants to individuals living with Autism Spectrum Disorders, their families, and organizations that support them.
Our History
Autism Directory Service was founded in 1991 by three visionary women who were the first in their community to bring Autism Awareness to the forefront. At a time when resources were scarce and understanding of Autism was limited, these women saw how parents struggled to find even the simplest help for their children. Determined to fill this gap, they created a platform to help families connect with essential information and services. Initially focused solely on resource provision, the organization has since grown into a fundraising grant giving organization, providing financial assistance to families so they can access various programs, services or even items they may need to help improve quality of life.
Meet Our Team
Allison Fedigan
Allison Fedigan joined the board of Autism Directory Service in 2017. Her son has given her 28 years of experience with Autism. She has served as a parent rep in Special Education meetings in hopes of helping other parents through the sometimes difficult special education system. Allison is chairperson of the annual Hudson Valley Walk for Autism sponsored by ADS.
Lisa Slagle
Lisa Slagle has been on the board of Autism Directory Service since 2010. She is a recent retiree with 38 years of experience in Special Education, most of that time spent with individuals on the Autism Spectrum. She is also the administrator of the Moving Fitness Program sponsored by ADS.
Sharna Grayson-Archibald
Sharna Grayson-Archibald is the proud parent of two wonderful children, one of whom is on the Autism Spectrum. She has been part of the ADS board for over 10 years and during that time has been our treasurer.
Sue Carr
Sue Carr has been on the board of Autism Directory Service since 2012. She has a daughter with Autism and owns a consulting business that assists families through Medicaid in acquiring services and support for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities.
Krystine Nardozzi
Krystine Nardozzi has served on the board of the Autism Directory Service since 2023. She is a Special Education teacher at Dutchess BOCES and is currently pursuing her degree in Administration at Molloy University. In her classroom, Krystine works closely with individuals on the Autism Spectrum, helping them prepare for life after high school. She is passionate about witnessing her students gain independence both inside and outside the classroom.
Katie Dunstan
Katie Dunstan joined the board of Autism Directory Service in 2022. She received her bachelor’s degree in finance from SUNY New Paltz and works full time for a local civil engineering firm. A resident of Dutchess County her whole life, Katie currently resides in the Town of LaGrange with her husband and two sons. Her oldest son, now 13, was diagnosed with autism shortly before his third birthday. Since then, Katie has been his biggest advocate in finding the most appropriate school programs, therapies and extra-curricular activities to help him live life to his fullest potential.
"If you're having fun, that's when the best memories are built."
- Simone Biles
Donate Today
Support families and individuals on their journey with autism by donating to the Autism Directory Service. Your contribution helps provide essential resources, guidance, and support to those who need it most. Make a difference today!
