Cathy E. Dionne

Cathy is a parent of a 27-year-old son, Ben, with autism, and a 28 year old daughter, Ashley.  She lives in Greene, Maine with her husband of 33 years, Rick. Ben was diagnosed with autism at the age of 18 months, and her family’s journey began at that time.  Right away she began educating herself about the world of autism, all of its therapies, appointments, and family adjustments.

She became involved with the Autism Society of Maine (ASM) in 1996 first as a member of the Board of Directors, and then became Vice President.  Eventually she found herself wanting to do more for Maine families.  She wanted to make a difference and become a staff member of the Autism Society of Maine, so she could have direct contact with families, every day.  She has been with ASM for 24 years and is currently the Executive Director.  Over the past 24 years she has been instrumental in expanding the resources and programs which ASM provides for both children and adults with autism and has been responsible for developing ASM’s fundraising efforts such as the Ride for Autism and the Walk for Autism.  Her other accomplishments include initiating the summer camp program based in Farmington at the University of Farmington, Finding the Pieces Summer Camp based in Biddeford and organizing the Annual Autism Family Retreat Weekend held in Standish.  She serves on several committees with the Department of Health and Human Services and collaborates with many other agencies.