ASPEN is a national volunteer nonprofit organization with headquarters in NJ. Established in 1997 to address the increasing need for information, support and advocacy for individuals and families whose lives are affected by the higher end of Autism Spectrum Disorder (formerly known as Asperger Syndrome, PDD-NOS and HFA) and Nonverbal Learning Disabilities. Chapters hold support meetings and speaker presentations. Social activities groups provide tweens, teens and adults the opportunity to get together and have fun. ASPEN publishes an online e-newsletter and resource directory, maintains a comprehensive website, holds workshops and sponsors semi-annual national conferences featuring the most prominent names in the autism field.