Adam Harris Stepping Down From His Autism Charity

Adam Harris 10MAR17

n a surprise move, Adam Harris has announced that he’s stepping down as CEO of AsIAm, the autism charity he founded in 2014.

Beginning as an online platform in his bedroom, AsIAm has become a major advocate across the country for those on the autism spectrum.

In a statement, Harris said, “Since I left school, AsIAm has been my entire adult life and as you can imagine this has not been a decision which I have taken lightly.

“Leading our charity has been the greatest of honours and as it begins its next chapter, it does so with a board that is well-prepared to manage this transition.”

Having served as an Executive Council Member for Autism Europe, since 2010, Harris is also an non-executive Commissioner of the Irish Human Rights And Equality Commission.

Diagnosed with Aspergers Syndrome at the age of five, Harris began working as an advocate in his teens, aided and abetted by big brother, Simon. Forming AsIAm was a natural next step.

“Over more than a decade, we have achieved so much together,” says Adam. “It is at times difficult for me to believe that what began as a simple blog and website, operated from my bedroom, aiming for the autistic voice to be heard and understood, is today a major movement for change in Irish life.

“The board will shortly commence a process to recruit a new CEO and the organisation’s vision, strategy, programmes and commitments remain unchanged.

“When the time comes to pass the baton to my successor – they will be extremely lucky to have the opportunity to serve this amazing community.”

Harris will take up the role of CEO at Social Entrepreneurs Ireland at the end of the year.

You can find out more about AsIAm here, Social Entrepreneurs Ireland here, and jump back through Adam’s sterling work here, here, here agus here.