Mary Limbacher, executive director of the Parents In Toto Autism Resource Center, sits next to the water bubbler inside the center's sensory room.

ZELIENOPLE — Mary Limbacher knows firsthand how scary an autism spectrum diagnosis can be.

Her son, Andy, was diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome in the fifth grade, leaving Limbacher with endless questions. More than the fear, anxiety and anger, the diagnosis led to an even greater feeling of loneliness — a feeling that nobody else in the world could relate to the devastating discovery.

“I didn't know any families who were going through this, and I felt incredibly alone,” she said.

Limbacher set out to show those facing a diagnosis that they aren't alone and to find comfort for herself. She started a support group at her home in Cranberry Township, eventually leading meetings in other locations.

As more people joined, she founded the nonprofit Parents in Toto Autism Resource Center in 2008.

“We had so many families who came to a meeting on a Friday morning once a month, I felt we could reach more families and children and young adults,” she said.

In the decade since, she has helped hundreds of families and individuals find peace and hope following a diagnosis.

The organization will celebrate a decade of service Saturday with “Toto on Display,” an art show, cocktail reception and art auction at the Zelienople location. It's also a chance for Limbacher and her staff to show what happens inside the otherwise nondescript building.

The “Toto on Display” event is scheduled from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday at the Parents in Toto Autism Resource Center, 143 S. Main St., Zelienople. For more information, contact 724-473-0990 or info@parentsintoto.org.