Anecdotal evidence is not enough

Only clinical research can truly reveal how new technologies can help those with ASD. Right now, there is a flood of new mobile apps and games aimed at helping autistic people, but virtually none of them are backed by hard science. Without relevant scientific evidence, we just don’t know whether a given technology is appropriate or efficacious for autistic patients.

Collaborative research is crucial

Tools that really work will require collaborative research that brings together technology companies, clinicians, and scientists trained in autism research, as well as patients and their families. GoFAR sits at the intersection of all these stakeholders, providing funding to research that understands the magnitude of the challenge and aims to provide tangible help to autistic individuals and their families. We identify the top researchers working on the problem of autism and technology, and we help fund their work. It’s a straightforward, bold approach to a complex problem.

Improving quality of life here and now

GoFAR chooses our research partners based on a rigorous and comprehensive search process. We partner with researchers who are pursuing neither a cure nor a cause for autism, but rather seeking to improve quality of life for autistic patients across their lifespans using assistive and/or instructional technologies. Only researchers who demonstrate a commitment to improving the lives of all those affected by ASD earn support from GoFAR. We invest in tomorrow’s transformative autism technology, based on research benefits delivered today.

To date, we have committed to supporting two research projects: Dr. Kristin Birtwell’s work at the Massachusetts General Hospital, and Dr. Susan Faja’s work at the Boston Children’s Hospital. As we raise more funds we will be able to support more and larger clinical trials in the future. Please support us in this mission! With your help, GoFAR and our research partners can build a future in which everyone affected by ASD can benefit from truly transformative technologies.