Tom’s Drawing Board, a downtown Rhinelander art studio, has been recognized as the first Autism Friendly Communities Partner in the central Wisconsin area. The Autism Society of Central Wisconsin and Tom’s Drawing Board began their partnership by hosting a sensory-friendly Santa event last December. Barnett has also received training from the Autism Society about the basics of autism and how he can modify his programs to make them more accessible to people with autism and other disabilities.

“It’s important to me that everyone in the community has access to our programs and services,” said Thomas Barnett, owner of Tom’s Drawing Board. “I am honored that Tom’s Drawing Board is recognized as the first Autism Friendly partner in this part of the state and would love to talk with anyone else interested in becoming Autism friendly.”

The Autism Society is holding an open house at Tom’s Drawing Board, 52 N. Brown Street at 6 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 26, in recognition of the partnership. The community is invited.