The Greater Houston Chapter-Autism Society of America was founded on October 14, 1967, with President Eric Plesner, Vice President Robert Bierscheid, Secretary-Treasurer Lila Bierscheid,. At that time, 10 members were required to start a chapter. 

In 1967, the members were:

Eric and Joy Plesner
Robert & Lila Bierscheid
Robert & Louise Rainoshek
Mr. & Mrs. David Strict
Mrs. Doris Vinegrey
Mary Haselbarth
Dr. Irving Kraft

The purposes of the Autism Society of America-Greater Houston Chapter are:

(a) To promote and advocate for the general welfare at persons with autism and other forms of pervasive developmental disorders (PDD):

(b) to further the advancement of all ameliorative and preventive study, research, therapy, care and cure of persons with autism and other forms of PDD:

(c) to develop a better understanding and awareness of autism and other forms of PDD by the public throughout the Greater Houston Area:

(d) to promote the education and training of persons with autism and other forms of PDD and to foster the development of integrated care on their behalf:

(e) to promote the establishment of adequate diagnostic. therapeutic. educational and recreational facilities for persons with autism and other forms of PDD:

(f) to further the education and training of parents and professional personnel for training, educating, and caring for persons with autism and other forms of PDD:

(g) to provide a support network in order to advise and aid parents in the solution of their problems with family members with autism and other forms of PDD:

(h) to serve as a clearing house for gathering and disseminating information regarding persons with autism and other forms of PDD: and

(i) to solicit and receive funds for the accomplishment of the above purposes.