The Mid-America Association for
Autistic Training and Research
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide care and services for the needs of autistic children and adults. To make their lives better through programs that focus on the challenges that those with autism face daily, with an emphasis on education and vocational training. To conduct and sponsor research to advance the understanding of autism.
About MAATR
MAATR is a non-profit 501(c)(3), founded over 20 years ago, dedicated to providing care and services for the needs of children and adults with Autism, as well as supporting other Autism foundations across the nation. The inspiration for the foundation came from Matthew (who is now in his mid 40's), the son of Director Harry McLear. Since Matt came into the world at a time when awareness of and treatment for Autism was non-existent, his family who cared for him had only their own alternative therapies to count on. They successfully taught Matt about interaction with others, basic life skills and even how to drive a car - a major accomplishment for someone suffering from this debilitating disorder. With the success of the "non-traditional" approach, the desire to share their knowledge and experiences with other families sparked the dream to build The Maatrhorn Ranch...A place which will provide hands-on activities, vocational training and teaching to help develop the talents and abilities the Autistic possess, which seem to be locked in their minds, but have difficulty articulating. Their faces reflect the all-to-common, vacant stare or expression that has a sense of asking for help. Access to the right care and teaching will make a difference.
Thanks to the many heart-felt donations over the last several years, with over $ 1.5 million already raised, that dream is becoming a reality. MAATR owns a large tract of land in the Santa Rita Mountain Range, just south of Tucson, Arizona. The property is surrounded by the Coronado National Forest. We selected the Santa Rita Mountains for its majestic beauty and aura of tranquility. Our site plan has been approved by Pima County and we expect to break ground this summer to start phase I construction. Continual funding is needed to complete the build- out and to make this "Community of Hope" a reality. The ranch will be a place where visitors can improve their lives through music, instruction, physical therapy, caring for small animals, horseback riding, art, horticulture, star gazing and much more. A place to relax and perhaps find those small openings in life that make a difference. Though MAATR's Corporate Headquarters is in Kansas and the ranch is in Arizona, the facility will be open to families from anywhere in the United States.
To learn more about the ranch details, click here