The Edith L. Trees Charitable Trust

& Youth Advocate Programs, Inc.

Pittverse Magazine, originally a 12-page newsletter, began as an idea from Pittsburgh's YAP director, Brian Kluchurosky, and a small group of writers in 2013. The idea was to create a way for adults on the autism spectrum to learn job skills and gain valuable work experience that were often not afforded to them. With the help of Youth Advocate Programs, Inc. and Edith L. Trees Charitable Trust, this little newsletter has morphed into a 70+ page quarterly magazine that offers paid and volunteer employment opportunities to over 25 contributors. Support from YAP and a grant through the Edith L. Trees Charitable Trust made it possible to, not only pay many of our writers for their work, but also to distribute the magazine in physical and electronic forms to thousands of people in the Pittsburgh area and beyond. Pittverse Magazine continues to expand out of the city borders, even out of the state of Pennsylvania, and is a thriving organization providing support and opportunities to many writers on the autism spectrum, as well as information and enjoyment for those who read the publication.

Evolution of the Magazine

Over the past several years, Pittverse Newsletter became Pittverse 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.