The Summit Center

The Summit Center is a not-for-profit human service organization based in Amherst, New York, specializing in evidence-based programs and ABA services for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and developmental disabilities. Originally founded in 1973 as the Language Development Program by Nancy Harris to support her son with severe hearing loss, the organization expanded its mission and rebranded as The Summit Center in 2015 to reflect its comprehensive scope of programs.

The organization operates multiple service modalities including Summit Academy, a year-round school program for children and young adults ages 3-21; Intensive ABA Services delivered in home and community settings; Family Support Services including respite care and parent training; Adult Services including day habilitation, vocational programs, and job coaching; Clinical Services such as developmental evaluations and behavioral health counseling; and specialized programs including a Pediatric Feeding Clinic and five-week summer programs for individuals with ADHD and high-functioning autism.

With a staff of 650+ employees and an annual budget of approximately $26 million, The Summit Center is recognized as one of the largest human service organizations in Western New York. The organization's programs are grounded in applied behavior analysis, an evidence-based therapeutic approach that incorporates the science of learning and behavior to support skill development and address behavioral challenges across the lifespan.