AKRON, Ohio – The Tom and Jill Zidian Family Autism Center at Akron Children’s opened Tuesday, offering comprehensive, coordinated, family-centered services for children, teens and young adults with autism spectrum disorder.
The center was made possible through a $2 million gift from Tom and Jill Zidian of Youngstown in hopes of improving access to care and helping families navigate services after a child’s diagnosis.
“I want our donation to help families get the support they need, especially when their children are newly diagnosed with ASD,” Jill Zidian said.
The 11,020-square-foot center is located at 130 W. Exchange St., on Akron Children’s main campus.
“We are very excited to be opening a visible center for autism here on the Akron campus that can serve as a hub to help autistic patients and families along their journeys,” said Dr. Jessica Foster, a developmental behavioral pediatrician and medical director of the center. “In addition to the excellent care already available through Akron Children’s programs and offices located in communities across northeast Ohio, the Tom and Jill Zidian Family Autism Center will provide access to specialized services. Our goal is family-centered, coordinated and inclusive care for our patients and families with autism and related developmental disabilities throughout Akron Children’s, and this new center is another step toward achieving that.”
Located on the first floor of the Rebecca D. Considine Research Institute, the center offers families close parking and easy building access to reduce stress for patients and families.
“We’ve created a soothing environment with designated quiet spaces, soft lighting and subtle colors,” said Dr. Allison Burke, a pediatric psychologist and director of the autism diagnostic clinic.
The main waiting space has multiple sensory spaces to help keep patients engaged, with two bubble feature walls and multiple touch surfaces. Dedicated motor and early start developmental spaces include sensory swings and equipment. Corridors have built-in cubbies/reading nooks if patients need to relax and decompress. The center will include six exam rooms for primary care and medical practice and 14 rooms for autism assessments and developmental and behavioral therapies and interventions.
“It’s tough when you don’t know which way to turn,” Tom Zidian said. “We hope the new center will allow kids to get the care they need sooner. Part of the gift is also funding an autism navigator position in Boardman. The navigator will support families and connect them to the resources they need.”