Autism Support Network and Hagar International announced a partnership to help elevate awareness and provide services to children with autism in Cambodia. As part of this effort, Autism Support Network will promote Hagar's educational programs to its global members and other emerging markets (see also Pediatrics).

Typically, children with disabilities are one of the most at-risk groups in Cambodia. They are also one of the most marginalized. In many cases, children with disabilities are hidden away in their homes, without education, therapy, or friends. Hagar began serving this population in 2000, in "House of Smiles" facilities. Along with educational support, physical and occupational therapies, cooperative programs also provide for mainstreaming opportunities of these children.

"Hagar's efforts to help children with special needs such as autism in Cambodia - and their programs across the world helping those disenfranchised and 'at risk' in developing nations - are a remarkable tribute to the power of humanitarianism," said Brian Field, co-founder of Autism Support Network. "Their devotion in helping identify, support and work to mainstream children in these communities, aspiring to have them become self-sufficient and realizing their full potential, is not only laudable, but demonstrates how positive change can be brought to any community - large or small, rich or poor."

"We are grateful to the Autism Support Network for their enthusiastic help in raising the profile of Hagar's efforts in Cambodia and abroad," stated Jane Tafel, Executive Director, Hagar USA. "We constantly seek organizations and individuals who recognize the need to support children with special needs across the world. Autism Support Network's global reach will help direct those seeking help to us locally, and also foster awareness that programs such as ours can take root, grow and flourish."