"Pala" is Finnish for "piece" and is used in the Finnish word for puzzle, "puu-pala-pelli," (poo-oo-palla-pelly) which, translated, means "wood-piece-work."

In our striving for uniqueness in the world of autism awareness, we chose the Finnish word to designate our smaller groups. Together, the Palas form the larger puzzle, the symbol of autism.

The purpose of the Pala is basically support on a smaller basis than usual group meetings. Neighbors helping neighbors. Ideally, Palas would be designated by their geographical areas. We prefer that membership in the Palas be limited to five families who are neighbors, if possible. Should families from other areas not have a Pala for their area, they can associate with established Palas.