Author: Andy Kachor
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National FASD Impact Week Brings Community Together to Show that FASD is an “AND Conversation”
The FASD community from all across the country came together for National FASD Impact Week in Washington, DC, proudly hosted by FASD United. Over the course of four full days last week (September 27-30), advocates, families, partners, and professionals closed out FASD Awareness Month with a symposium, an advocacy-filled “Hill Day,” a gala celebration, and…
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In Memory of Dr. Yolanda Ross, Longtime FASD Advocate
Written by Kathy Mitchell. Kathy had served for 24 years as the Vice President and Spokesperson for FASD United. Dr. Yolanda Ross was a longtime FASD advocate who was passionate about helping women lead healthy, successful, productive, and self-fulfilling lives—lives grounded in hope, dignity, and the possibility of long-term recovery. Yolanda first contacted me nearly…
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The Impact of Paternal Alcohol Exposure: Considering the Father’s Role in the FASD Conversation
The impact of alcohol use by biological fathers prior to pregnancy on the health of their offspring is a rapidly growing field of medical research and the subject of active discussion within the FASD field and the FASD community. The latest research, from scientists at Texas A&M University, indicates that paternal preconception alcohol exposure (PPAE)…
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First FASD Awareness Month Since Federal Law’s Passage Spotlights Condition More Common Than Autism
This September marks the first FASD Awareness Month since the FASD Respect Act became Federal law, drawing renewed attention to the 1 in 20 Americans with FASD. WASHINGTON, DC, UNITED STATES, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE This September marks the first FASD Awareness Month since the U.S. Congress passed the FASD Respect Act, landmark legislation directing a…
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FASD United Welcomes FASD Maine to the Affiliate Network
We are excited to welcome FASD Maine as the newest member of the FASD United Affiliate Network, a coalition of organizations united to further FASD awareness, provide support, and improve the quality of life for those affected by prenatal alcohol exposure. Serving individuals and families throughout the State, FASD Maine is a non-profit organization that…
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FASD United Welcomes National Association for Children of Addiction (NACoA) to the Affiliate Network
We are excited to welcome National Association for Children of Addiction (NACoA) as the newest member of the FASD United Affiliate Network, a coalition of organizations united to further FASD awareness, provide support, and improve the quality of life for those affected by prenatal alcohol exposure. Based in Maryland, NACoA is a non-profit organization with a mission “to eradicate the impact of…
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A Look at CIFASD Researcher Dr. Amanda Mahnke
Dr. Amanda Mahnke is a researcher and key member of the Collaborative Initiative on FASD (CIFASD). Much of Dr. Mahnke’s research involves the impacts of prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) on the aging process and healthy aging. Please watch the short video below, in which Dr. Mahnke summarizes her research in plain language. FASD United recently had the opportunity to interview…
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In Memoriam: Mary J. O’Connor, PhD
Message from Drs. Helena Hansen, Suma Jacob, Joseph O’Neill, Benjamin Schneider, and Tara Peris In Memoriam: Mary J. O’Connor, PhD, ABPP It is with great sadness that the Child and Adolescent Division and Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences announce the death of Mary J. O’Connor, Professor Emerita of Psychiatry, on Sunday, July 5, after a…
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FASD United Welcomes HALO Project International Foundation to the Affiliate Network
We are excited to welcome HALO Project International Foundation as the newest member of the FASD United Affiliate Network, a coalition of organizations united to further FASD awareness, provide support, and improve the quality of life for those affected by prenatal alcohol exposure. Based in Oklahoma, HALO Project is a non-profit organization offering highly impactful mental health programs for kids and families affected by foster care, adoption, intimate partner…
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10 Ways YOU Can Make an Impact at FASD Impact Week
National FASD Impact Week is coming up this September 27-30, 2026 in Washington, DC. Join advocates, clinicians, researchers, and professionals from around the country for four days of connection and learning at this free gathering. Here are 10 ways that YOU can make an impact: 1. SPEAK UP – Raise your voice and be heard by our Nation’s leaders Join…