We would like to whole-heartedly thank the Huntsville Hospital Community Health Initiative for recognizing this opportunity to make a difference in the lives of families dealing with autism and pervasive development delays. With their support, The Autism Resource and Knowledge Center can now become a regional center where parents can go to get information on treatment, join a family support group, and receive a mentor who has experienced similar challenges. An internet-based knowledge repository can now be built for the north Alabama and southern Tennessee Valley region, which will provide educational rsources, including web-based training and information on diagnosis, treatment and support; a social networking capability for families; and a business enterprise capability to mobilize local, State and Federal resources to meet our regional needs.