The Summit Center

Mission: Guided by evidence-based practice, we maximize life success for people facing developmental, social and behavioral challenges.

Vision: Lives made better!

The Summit Center is a 501(c)3 organization, located in Getzville, New York, that serves children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities. Originally known as the Language Development Program, it was established in 1973 by Nancy Harris, mother and teacher, who wanted to expand the speech and language skills of her son. In 2015, the agency changed to The Summit Center, Inc. to reflect the wide range of programs and services offered. Today we have more than 450 employees who support 1,350 individuals each year.

Nearly 350 children and young adults attend our school, Summit Academy. Many of these students have significant intellectual disabilities and 60% are functionally nonverbal. Around 50% come from underprivileged families. A significant percentage demonstrate self-injurious behaviors or aggression directed at others. Except for Summit, very few agencies in Western New York have the expertise to effectively support individuals who exhibit these challenging behaviors.

Summit's steadfast commitment to excellence is built on a foundation of evidence-based practice which causes us to continually review and measure results - not only for our consumers but for our entire organization. Methodology throughout our programs is based upon the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis, which has been identified by hundreds of scientific studies as the most effective method to teach individuals with autism and other special needs. We are dedicated to helping every individual we serve achieve the highest level of personal independence possible.

Early Intervention & Education Division:

• The Early Autism Program (EAP) helps children under the age of five develop social, communication, and academic skills.
• Summit Academy, our special education school, serves students whose needs cannot be met by their local school district.
• The Center for Autism Assessment and Treatment treats adolescents who engage in harmful behaviors.

Adult Division:

• S.T.E.P.S. (Success Through Engagement and Positive Supports) is a community-based day program for adults with developmental disabilities. It provides abundant volunteer and recreational opportunities.
• Vocational & Employment Services are available for adults with developmental disabilities to find and maintain gainful employment.

Community Division:

• In-home and on-site respite programs are available to give families a break from caring for a child with special needs.
• S.T.A.R. (Support, Training, and Respite) is a free program where parents gain valuable information and share ideas and common concerns.

Behavioral Health Division:

• The Pediatric Feeding Clinic, supported by The Children's Guild Foundation, is an outpatient therapy program to treat feeding problems.
• The Behavioral Pediatrics Clinic is comprised of licensed psychologists with specialized training in the treatment of childhood problems such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD.