AN IDEA...AND THE DESIRE FOR ACCURACY, OPPORTUNITY, & ADVOCACY FOR AUTISM

In the summer of 2013, Pittsburgh Adult Autism Waiver Director, Brian Kluchurosky, and a small group of adults on the autism spectrum met in a tiny room to talk about progressive ways to advocate for autism. The idea was to create a way for individual skills and talents to be recognized over the stigma of autism that often generalizes those with the disability. The result was to create a magazine designed from cover to cover with the creative spirit of adults on the autism spectrum.  The magazine was titled "Pittverse Magazine," and a humble 12 page newsletter became... Issue #1.

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Over 6 years later, and with the help of Edith L. Trees Charitable Trust, this little newsletter has morphed into a 70+ page, beautifully produced quarterly magazine with over 40+ adult contributors spanning 4 states.  The magazine also serves as a work readiness opportunity, as adults gain experience in meeting deadlines, receiving critical feedback, and engaging socially with one another.  Each quarter a new issue is released and distributed to thousands of people in the Pittsburgh area and beyond.  Pittverse Magazine is proud to provide a platform for all who read the publication to discover an accurate understanding of autism as a spectrum of individuality that champions the mantra: "we are all more alike than we are different."

Evolution of the Magazine

Over the past several years, a tiny newsletter became a full-fledged magazine. With the increase in participants came other changes than just a higher page count. Pittverse Magazine has evolved from issue to issue, on the inside and out. We have welcomed new staff, said goodbye to writers and staff as they depart for other opportunities, and have grown as a group of people on a mission to produce one of the best magazines around. At each stage, the writing staff have made important decisions, including revamping the magazine cover, connecting with others during meetings and social events, and had a say in nearly every aspect of the magazine.

Why we do what we do!

This magazine has given many individuals the opportunity to learn employment skills, connect and socialize with others, and evolve as an individual. There are many stories to be told, ranging from interviews with members of the community, opinion pieces on all subjects, life stories, original artwork and photography, one-of-a-kind fictional stories crafted by our talented writers, and so much more. We do what we do to make sure that these adults on the autism spectrum are heard and that they have an opportunity to grow, just like any other person should have.