Autism Action Partnership welcomes St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church as a COMPASS Partner

OMAHA, NE – Autism Action Partnership is proud to acknowledge St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church as a COMPASS Partner for their parish-wide commitment to inclusion and efforts to welcome individuals and families affected by autism.

“Autism Action Partnership is thrilled to welcome St. Andrew’s Church as our newest COMPASS Partner and the first faith-based organization to join the program,” said Kelly

Nielsen, the Education & Outreach Manager at AAP. “They are leading the way in showing how communities of faith can actively foster belonging and support for autistic individuals and their families. We’re proud to partner with them in this important work.”

What is a COMPASS Partner?

It is the mission of Autism Action Partnership to improve the quality of life of people on the Autism Spectrum and their families. To achieve our mission, we rely on partners who embrace the idea of inclusion so that individuals with autism and their families feel a sense of belonging and can thrive in all the places they live, work, learn, and play. COMPASS Partners like Tiny Trims collaborate with AAP to transform community spaces into welcoming environments that individuals with all abilities can enjoy.

What is involved in Becoming a COMPASS Partner:

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church has pledged parish-wide commitment to their inclusion journey, continually seeking to learn from those they serve, and to collaborate with Autism Action Partnership on achieving their goals. Autism Action Partnership offers ongoing training, technical assistance, and consultation to COMPASS Partners to support the attainment of self-identified inclusion goals.

“St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Omaha is excited to become a COMPASS Partner with Autism Action Partnership as we work to launch a monthly sensory-friendly worship service. Too many individuals and families who live with sensory sensitivities have been unintentionally left out on the margins of community life, including worship communities. Guided by our tradition of common prayer and a deep commitment to the dignity of every person, a team of 20 parishioners is leading the effort to use Autism Action Partnership’s COMPASS training and consultation to thoughtfully reduce barriers and create a calmer, more flexible worship environment where people can participate in ways that fit their needs. Our hope is simple: to build a gathering where neighbors who may have felt ‘church isn’t for us’ can find fellowship, encouragement, and real community—to bring people together not just for a service, but for ongoing support and belonging,” said Fr. Keith Winton.

About Autism

Currently, 1 in 31 children are being diagnosed with autism, which translates to over 2% of the population (CDC, 2025). Additionally, the CDC estimated that more than 1 in 45 adults in the U.S. are living with autism.

Autism Spectrum Disorder is characterized by social and communication impairments and by restrictive and repetitive behavior. The characteristics of autism present as both challenges and strengths, and no one person experiences autism in the same way or to the same degree. Individuals and families living with autism often have trouble finding community settings that are welcoming and accepting of their differences.

To learn more about becoming a COMPASS Partner, visit www.AutismAction.org.

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About Autism Action Partnership

Autism Action Partnership serves the Nebraska autism community by providing support to families, advancing inclusion throughout our community, and creating pathways to prosperity. www.AutismAction.org

About St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church is a welcoming Christian community in Omaha, Nebraska, rooted in prayer, worship, and service. We strive to follow Jesus by forming disciples, caring for one another, and serving our neighbors through ministries that build compassion, connection, and hope. Wherever you are on your faith journey, you are invited to join us for worship, community, and opportunities to grow and serve.

Visit their website to learn more about St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church.