# 'Agricultural specialisterne': rural employment revolution for those with Autism **URL:** \ **Category:** Lounge\ **Created:** [June 5, 2011, 5:40am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615 "2011-06-05T05:40:07Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 20\ **Page:** 24
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 10, 2015, 4:20am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/461 "2015-12-10T04:20:02Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Wyoming. To the south, _Spectra Autism Center_ is a nonprofit based in Westminster, Colorado. The organisation’s mission is to bring unity to Autism Spectrum Disorder treatment through (1) integrating disciplines, (2) connecting professionals, and (3) building comprehensive programs for its clients and families… > [@](#): > > A safety event geared towards children with special needs debuted over the weekend in Westminster. The event was sponsored by the Westminster Fire Department and the Spectra Autism Center and focused on teaching children and their family members about the fire safety and gave youngsters an opportunity to experience what the job of a firefighter is like. > > “The safety event was open to any child, but we really wanted to put a focus on children with special needs and allow them to see what real firefighter does while teaching them some safety,” said Westminster firefighter and event organizer Luke Gearhard. > > The Sunday July 14 event at the Westminster training tower, featured firefighter demonstrations including rappelling off the side of the training tower and two vehicle extractions. Children enjoyed free rides in vintage fire truck while trying on real firefighter gear and testing their skills in the firefighter combat challenge obstacle course. > > Angela Trout brought her two children to the event, one who has autism. She said it’s nice to have an event geared towards kids with special needs, but one that is also welcome to her other child. > > “This is a lot of fun,” she said. “I like being able to bring both my kids, but also go somewhere that is focused on children with special needs.” > > Amy Gearhard, CEO of Spectra and Luke’s wife, said she’s never seen an event like this one in Colorado and she hopes it continues to grow in the future. Working with individuals with special needs on a daily basis, Amy understands how an individual with special needs may react differently in an emergency situation. She said the event was also an opportunity for firefighters to learn more about children with special needs and how to handle certain situations. > > “It’s important for firefighters and police officers to understand the difference in dealing with a child with special needs,” she said… > > Both Luke and Amy agree a great way for families to communicate information to police and fire is by signing up for Smart911, a free, nationwide private service that allows people to create safety profiles online. The participants can enter vital information about themselves and their family members to be used during an emergency situation. > > …“We hope people utilize the Smart911 service because it could really make a difference during an emergency,” Luke said. Here is a link to photos from the latest fire safety event sponsored by the _Westminster Fire Department_ and the _Spectra Autism Center_ from about four months ago:[https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1050013645018144.1073741837.120276334658551&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.1050013645018144.1073741837.120276334658551&type=3) (source: [News | Parker Colorado | Parkerchronicle.net](http://parkerchronicle.net/stories/Event-focused-on-children-with-special-needs,51644)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 11, 2015, 1:26am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/462 "2015-12-11T01:26:33Z")
The subject of the last few posts has been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Wyoming. To the south, _Special Kids Special Families_ (_SKSF_) is a Colorado Springs, Colorado-based non-profit whose mission is to provide respite and care for children and adults with disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorders. _SKSF_ offers Children and Family Programs such as ‘Zach’s Place at The Laurie Hillyard Family Center’, which provides 24/7 respite and childcare for children with disabilities… > [@](#): > > …[Zach’s Place is] dedicated to helping kids with special needs learn and grow in a safe, accepting environment. > Zach’s Place has been serving kids and families with special needs in our community for 16 years. > It’s a certain type of care that’s hard to come by. > “[Parents are] surprised somebody exists like us that does what we do for their kids,” Program Director Renae Isakson said. “A lot of the time, they’ve gotten rejected in the past, maybe from a daycare center, maybe from another respite care provider because their child seemed too hard to handle.” > Just this year, Zach’s Place has served 75 families, and they’re adding more every week. > But many of the kids have bounced between caretakers, like Braxton Byers, who has severe autism. > “We moved here because my son was not doing well where we were,” his mom, Shayla, said… > > And they did find something better, in the staff at Zach’s Place. > “The things [the other caretakers] were sending him home for are not stuff that people who are trained to deal with children with autism would even blink at,” Shayla said. “…There are a lot of sensory things that go along with autism, and I don’t have to explain that to the people here.” > But finding care like this can be expensive, especially for families struggling to keep a job. > “For us it’s a matter of survival,” Shayla said. “I’m a single mom and you can have the most understanding employer in the world and still they will get tired of you calling in constantly or having to leave.” > That’s why Zach’s Place set up sliding scale fees, and they rely on donations and grants to continue the care. > “It’s helping the families, but helping the children grow in their abilities and giving the family a chance to breathe and seeing their child for the potential they can have,” Isakson said. > “Zach’s Place does such a great service for people in my position and my son’s position, other families like us, and allows us to have these breaks. Or in my case allow me to go to school and get a better job so I can support my son,” Shayla said. “And they do it entirely by donations and grants so it’s really, really important to this place, to all of us who need it.”… Here is a link to a video on _Special Kids Special Families_: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3pBgftD4rM](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3pBgftD4rM) (source: [Give!: Zach’s Place | FOX21News.com](http://fox21news.com/2015/11/23/give-zachs-place/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 12, 2015, 12:34am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/463 "2015-12-12T00:34:57Z")
The subject of yesterday’s post was _Special Kids Special Families_ (_SKSF_), a Colorado Springs, Colorado-based non-profit whose mission is to provide respite and care for children and adults with disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorders. _SKSF_ offers Children and Family Programs such as ‘Zach’s Place at The Laurie Hillyard Family Center’, which provides 24/7 respite and childcare for children with disabilities. The _Haven Behavioral Family Support Center of Colorado Springs_ offers a comprehensive and integrative clinic providing full assessment, diagnostics and treatment of Autism. The Colorado Springs, Colorado-based _Haven Behavioral Family Support Center_ includes the _Colorado Autism Center_… > [@](#): > > It is 4:30 a.m. Melinda Waller is awakened by her 4-year-old son wanting to watch videos on the computer. > > “Momma, dragon turtle, dragon turtle,” he said as he tries to shake her awake. He grabs her hand and pulls. “Come on, dragon turtle.” > > She slowly opens her eyes – for what seems like the millionth time in the last few years – and pulls him close and mumbles. “I sure do love you, son.” > > Waller said she and her husband always feared something was different about their son. He had trouble speaking, and he acted out when he couldn’t communicate what he needed from his parents. > > It wasn’t until last July when Waller took Tristram to the doctor that they finally had an answer: autism. > > “I don’t exactly know when the tears started to fall,” Waller said. "The tears were just falling — like someone had turned on a faucet and was just letting it run. > > “The only thing I totally remember feeling is the need to have my husband by my side, to catch me when I broke.” > > Melinda Waller’s husband …Billy Waller… said that before Tristram was diagnosed, he was worried, because Tristram had little to no way to communicate and would have meltdowns around large groups of people. > > He said that it all changed when they finally got Tristram’s diagnosis. > > “I felt relief; there was something to finally explain exactly what was going on with my son,” Billy Waller said. “Once we found out he was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, we had a course of action we could take to help him function more effectively in society.” > > …Melinda Waller tried to explain away the signs of autism before Tristram was diagnosed. > > “The biggest struggle was not being able to communicate with him; he could not talk,” she said. “I did not know when he wanted or needed something. We taught him to take our hand and walk us over to what he wanted.” > > “We noticed he was ‘funny’ in social situations; he wasn’t interacting with other children in a ‘normal’ way; his reaction to different situations was different than ‘normal,’” she said. > > The Wallers’ concern grew when Tristram was about 18 months old and he started to lose all of the words he had already learned; they were tired of getting roundabout diagnoses for their son and it was time to seek out the root of Tristram’s issue. > > …Melinda Waller said that early diagnosis is the key to start working with a child to achieve their fullest potential. > > “Tristram is a lot better behaved,” she said, crediting his therapists. > > “When he first started with us, he had very little language. He could not tell us when he wanted something,” said Pete Libby, lead behavioral clinician, Colorado Autism Center in Colorado Springs. “Through language, his inappropriate behavior was reduced and his (ability to sit and focus on tasks) has gotten 1,000-percent better. He is the poster boy for the applied behavioral analysis that we use to help our kids progress.” > > Libby said that behavior analysis focuses on the principles that explain how learning takes place. By applying those techniques and principles, it brings a positive change in behavior by rewarding them for a desired outcome. > > Billy Waller said he is amazed with how far Tristram has progressed in such a short time. > > “His interactions with people have changed. Before, he wouldn’t do well with large groups, and now he seems to do well with groups and social interaction, without stressing out or having a meltdown,” he said. “Of course, he will get to the point when he is tired and will be ready to ‘go home now.’” > > He added the treatment Tristram has received has improved their life as a family, and that he is extremely proud of his son. > > “As a family, we are doing great,” he said. “My son’s workweek is generally harder than mine. He is involved in three different programs that occupy his whole day, and he does a great job of dealing with it.” > > Billy Waller said that he credits his wife with their son’s success as well. > > “My wife manages the household and takes Tristram to all of his different appointments throughout the week,” he said… > > Tristram’s typical weekly schedule includes three, four-hour appointments of applied behavioral analysis; two, one-hour sessions of speech and occupational therapy; and four days of afternoon preschool. > > Melinda Waller suggests parents dealing with similar ordeals should take their concerns to their doctor. She added that Tristram is no different from any other child. > > “He just thinks differently. Don’t lower your expectations just because of a diagnosis,” she said… Here is a link to photos of individuals from the _Colorado Autism Center_ at the 2012 ‘Colorado Springs Autism Speaks Walk’ fundraiser at the _Grace Center For Athletics And Community Service_: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.365816266835631.85519.149212761829317&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.365816266835631.85519.149212761829317&type=3) (source: [Living with autism: the early years | Article | The United States Army](http://www.army.mil/article/124744/Living_with_autism__the_early_years/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 13, 2015, 12:26am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/464 "2015-12-13T00:26:39Z")
The subject of the last couple of posts has been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Colorado. _Ascendigo_, formerly known as _Extreme Sports Camp_, is a Carbondale, Colorado-based non-profit that runs summer & winter camp for all ability levels, anywhere on the Autism Spectrum. Staff is trained on autism-friendly approaches that utilize the principles of the Early Start Denver Model, combining elements of ABA with relationship-based interactions, positive supports, leveraging of autism-specific learning styles, and respect for developmentally-appropriate activities… > [@](#): > > An Aspen nonprofit organization that prides itself on getting children and young adults with autism into the outdoors is hosting its signature fundraising event at the Hotel Jerome on Sunday so it can keep doing what it does best. > Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo will host the fourth annual Light It Up Blue Aspen, which features a reception-style event with curated food and drink stations, music, dancing and a silent auction. The event starts at 6:30 p.m. > “We hope to raise between $400,000 and $500,000, so it’s a big deal,” said Ron Rash, a longtime Aspen outdoor-adventure guide who is the interim executive director of the Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo. > Blue, the color representing autism, will douse the Hotel Jerome in light for the event. > Ticket are $250. Proceeds benefit Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo and Autism Speaks, a research and advocacy organization. > While Rash is involved in the administration of the nonprofit, it was working with people with autism that first got him interested in the cause. > “You can see the joy it brings to people that have never skied before or never climbed,” he said. > He has witnessed how the outdoor activities open an avenue of reaching children and young adults with autism. > “The physical activity releases the stress and anxiety,” he said. > > …“Instead of a building with four walls, they’re outside, which is fantastic,” Rash said. > Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo enrolled 155 people in its camps last summer. It offers four core activities over eight weeks: rock climbing, river activities such as rafting, paddle boarding and running water in duckies, horseback riding, and boating activities such as wakeboarding and waterskiing. Separate activities ranging from cycling to gardening are offered during afternoons at the camp. > The camp takes people from 7 to 27 years old. This will be its 11th year. > “Some campers have been with us all 11 years,” Rash said. > Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo also offers activities year-round, such as skiing in winters. > > …The program isn’t cheap to operate, so Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo needs to hit a home run each year with Light It Up Blue. The event’s timing was switched to mid-February two years ago to take advantage of a busy time of year. This year, the event is crammed with activities and celebrity appearances Saturday and Sunday to create a “weekend of autism awareness,” Rash said. > The highlights include: > • Vertical Blue: Autism Awareness Day at Aspen Highlands on Saturday afternoon. Olympic gold-medal skier Johnny Moseley and Dr. Jennifer Berman, of the CBS television show “The Doctors,” will ski with participants with autism and trainers from Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo. There will be a scavenger hunt on the mountain. A booth at the base will provide clues starting at 8 a.m. An apres-ski celebration will be held at 3 p.m. at Highlands Ale House. > • Berman will speak at Light It Up Blue Aspen and have a production team covering the event for a feature story about autism on “The Doctors.” Berman is a renowned women’s-health specialist, author and recurring host of the television show. She has a longstanding interest in autism. > • Sentient Jet, the presenting sponsor of the event, is offering a day of skiing with Moseley. Two sessions were sold in advance of the event and raised $10,000 for the cause. Sentient Jet also will donate $2,000 to the host charities for every event attendee who purchases a 25-hour jet card during the evening. It also contributed a $10,000 flight card for the auction… Here is a link to a video on _Ascendigo_: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5A0K8TY6aBM](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5A0K8TY6aBM) (source: [Light It Up Blue Aspen fundraiser aids unique outdoor program for people with autism | AspenTimes.com](http://www.aspentimes.com/news/15022399-113/light-it-up-blue-aspen-fundraiser-aids-unique-outdoor-program)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 14, 2015, 3:24am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/465 "2015-12-14T03:24:47Z")
The subject of the last couple of posts has been on Autism-related organisations and events in the Colorado Springs region of the state of Colorado. The _Colorado Springs Therapeutic Riding Center_ is a non-profit that was established over seven years ago at the Mark Reyner Stables in Palmer Park, Colorado Springs. The Colorado Springs, Colorado-based non-profit offers an enjoyable and professional therapeutic riding and hippotherapy programs for children and adults with various challenges, including Autism Spectrum Disorders… > [@](#): > > Its more than just a horse ride for the community at the Colorado Springs Therapeutic Riding Center. The therapeutic riding center is about fostering relationships, boosting confidence, and creating life-long friendships for patients and their horses. > > For one Colorado Springs family, the center has truly impacted and touched their lives. Their son, Michael, was diagnosed with autism at an early age.'… > > …his mom, Karen Fetters, discovered the Colorado Springs Therapeutic Riding Center and what it offers to its patients. Michael began riding horses and working with therapists at the center to help him develop his cognitive and social skills. Everyday Michael was improving. He began to socialize with those around him, and through his friendship with his favorite horse, Michael changed for the better. > > Deanna Shrewsbury, an equine assistance psychotherapist, pointed out the powerful human and horse interaction. > > “When you’re in a relationship with a very large animal, it forces you to learn the importance of trust and how to problem solve verbally and creatively,” Shrewsbury said. “Horses are sensitive, majestic creatures, and seem to truly understand what the person truly needs. They just want you to enjoy the moment with them.” > > Michael’s family said horse therapy has helped them cope through difficult times in their lives… > > Ultimately, through the support system offered from the horses and equine staff at the Colorado Springs Therapeutic Riding Center, Michael has learned coping mechanisms, developed healthy relationships, and benefited from this life-changing experience. Below is a link to some photos of a fundraising event at the _Colorado Springs Therapeutic Riding Center_ from over five years ago; ‘The Horse Boy’, a documentary feature film that follows the quest of a father and his wife to find healing for their Autistic son, was shown: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.479308225474.394342.478225335474&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.479308225474.394342.478225335474&type=3) (source: [The power of horse and human interaction | FOX21News.com](http://fox21news.com/2013/01/14/the-power-of-horse-and-human-interaction/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 15, 2015, 7:33am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/466 "2015-12-15T07:33:12Z")
The subject of the last few posts has been on Autism-related organisations and events in the Colorado Springs region of the state of Colorado. _The Resource Exchange_ (_TRE_) is a Colorado Springs, Colorado-based nonprofit that believes in the power of community. It is able to provide quality programs and supports to its clients and families, including those affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders, because of the open hearts and arms of its dedicated providers and partners… > [@](#): > > Dear Friend, > > …Timothy Keesecker… is coming home …[He] is anticipating his homecoming with excitement, and some hesitancy… > You see, each time he comes home, he must be gradually reintroduced to the lives of his children. Five-year-old Ian has [Autism] and three-year-old Carter has a developmental delay. …he has used a webcam to help his sons get to know him, but their delays do not always allow them to have a typical father-son relationship. Routine creates a foundation for their days, and with their father away so long on duty, his return can be difficult emotionally, for all of them. > Caring for a loved one with a developmental disability is tiring. But caring for two family members with developmental barriers is often overwhelming. Disabilities such as [Autism Spectrum Disorders] affect an individual’s capacity for independent living. …Keesecker’s wife, Kelly, must be responsible for even the smallest activities that most children begin learning early on, such as communicating and taking direction. > My name is David Ervin, Executive Director of The Resource Exchange (TRE). Because people like you care that families like the Keesecker’s are faced with such big challenges, we are able to provide critical services that allow Kelly to concentrate on taking care of her children. > Easing the pressure on struggling families and
caretakers is what TRE does best. This includes
 coordinating doctor appointments, therapy sessions,
 play-groups and providers, as well as managing the paperwork and payments for Medicaid. > > …A private, non-profit agency established in 1964, TRE is an integral but quiet resource in El Paso, Park and Teller counties. We act as Service Coordinators, or Case Managers, using our expertise to match the needs with the appropriate providers. We also coordinate respite services, along with special training and technology services that make caring for a loved one a little easier. > Recent changes, however, have introduced new guidelines that hinder our ability to continue providing much-needed services. The changes have made a significant dent in services like Family Support, vitally important assistance families like the Keeseckers depend on. Addressing developmental disabilities early on can result in greater independence and much more normal lives for some children. > Because TRE was able to provide intervention services for the Keeseckers, Ian’s behavior has significantly improved. In the past, it was difficult to for him to attach to others and to make eye contact. His lack of communication skills led to bouts of intense frustration until Kelly could figure out what he wanted. Today, though he still needs speech, occupational and behavioral therapy, he is reading and doing well in mainstream kindergarten. > Early intervention also helped Carter receive the services needed for his developmental delays. He is no longer in TRE’s early intervention program and the school district has qualified him for pre-school. Without these early interventions and service coordination, Ian and Carter may have missed out on getting the services they desperately needed. Please, will you help us with a gift today …to ensure other families in need won’t be left to cope alone. > > …Without your help now, it will be impossible to keep up with demand and nearly 1,500 individuals with developmental disabilities will be forced to wait years to receive services. And then, it may simply be too late. > > …Please use the enclosed envelope to give hope to children like Ian and Carter…and their parents, who are heroes in their own right. Every day. > Sincerely, > > David Ervin Executive Director > > P.S. …Thank you for your generosity Here is a link to some photos of _The Resource Exchange_’s program, ‘Break Time’, that gives parents a well-deserved rest and kids a great time!: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.618405504863753.1073741836.187271274643847&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.618405504863753.1073741836.187271274643847&type=3) (sources: [http://michellezavala.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/PDF-Appeal-Letter-\_10\_.pdf](http://michellezavala.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/PDF-Appeal-Letter-_10_.pdf); [Autism group helps local families cope](http://gazette.com/autism-group-helps-local-families-cope/article/35242)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 16, 2015, 4:31am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/467 "2015-12-16T04:31:36Z")
The subject of the last few posts has been on Autism-related organisations and events in the Colorado Springs region of the state of Colorado. The _Soaring Eagles Center for Autism_ (_SECA_) is a Pueblo West, Colorado-based non-profit dedicated to helping children, families and communities overcome the limitations of Autism. Earlier this year, _SECA_ organised a fundraiser with another non-profit located south of Colorado Springs — _Trinidad Autism Awareness_ based in Trinidad, Colorado… > [@](#): > > The Trinidad Autism Awareness organization has scheduled a fundraiser luncheon and seminar Friday for the new program that was created a little more than a year ago. > > The event is scheduled to be held at the Mt. Carmel Health, Wellness and Community Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday. > > The event will feature Karen Colvin from Soaring Eagles Center for Autism in Pueblo West. > > Mitch Hipshman, a 12-year-old kid with autism from Walsenburg, will sing at the event. > > A live auction and a silent auction also have been scheduled as part of the event. > > …Linda Thompson, who organized the event and created the organization, said the group is encouraging citizens to ‘Light it up Blue.’ > > “We are asking people to change out their light bulbs to blue and decorate their businesses, their homes, …, [their] classrooms in order to show support for autism awareness,” Thompson said. > > Blue is the color for autism and a puzzle piece is the logo. > > “We just want the community to show the support. We have entered a national competition with the Autism Speaks Organization for the Light it up Blue program. We will be taking pictures and posting them.” > > Thompson said the top three businesses and homes will get certificates presented at the fundraiser event. > > “We encourage people to keep up the blue lights and decorations throughout the month of April since that is Autism Awareness Month,” Thompson said. > > The organization has several events scheduled throughout the month… Here is a link to a video of Mitch Hipshman singing at the ‘Autism Awareness Light It Up Blue Seminar’ in Trinidad, Colorado: [1.2K views · 30 reactions | Soaring Eagles Dr. Karen Colvin and Mona Medina spoke at the Trinidad Autism Awareness Light It Up Blue Seminar. One of the features was Mitch, a singer with autism. Beautiful! | Soaring Eagles Center for Autism](https://www.facebook.com/SoaringEaglesCenterforAutism/videos/vb.1423324124556337/1646344865587594/?type=3&theater) (source: [Event aimed at boosting autism support, awareness | The Pueblo Chieftain](http://www.chieftain.com/life/health/3477412-120/autism-event-awareness-blue)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 17, 2015, 3:32am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/468 "2015-12-17T03:32:06Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the Colorado Springs region of the state of Colorado. _Play­Date Behav­ioral Inter­ven­tions_ is a Colorado Springs, Colorado-based non­profit whose mission is to provide high-quality intervention to children with Autism and other disabilities while educating the community, regardless of the family’s ability to pay for services. The nonprofit participates in many community activities and sponsors an annual bicycle ride in June which acts as a fundraiser as well as helping to increase awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorders… > [@](#): > > A nondescript building off Academy is home to a non-profit organization that is a life saver for parents of autistic children. PlayDate is a safe place for their kids and a haven of hope for their parents. > > Randi is a …mom with an autistic three year old named Shannon. She tells me that PlayDate is too important for her and her little girl, “They know what her issues are and more importantly they know how to communicate better with her and help her to be more successful.” PlayDate is not only for Shannon’s growth but also Randi’s, “Sometimes as a Mom of a special needs child we get so wrapped up in things that need to be done that that it’s easy to forget the things that a Mom needs to do. It’s nice to get my hair cut or just quietly read a book or get a cup of coffee and not have to worry about Shannon and her care.”… > > Christina Nulk founded PlayDate in 2007. It started with four children and has now grown to more than 70 special needs kids. …“We are able to look at the skills they need and teach them how to interact with their environment, to be able to help them communicate and help them succeed in their activities of daily living.” > > Rachel is another mom who believes in PlayDate for her six year old son Isiah, “For them to be in a place that they are safe and well taken care of and getting developmental coaching is a huge relief. We have been very happy here.”… Here is a link to a video on _Play­Date Behav­ioral Inter­ven­tions_: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssIV46RwvHw](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ssIV46RwvHw) (source: [Wear Red Friday Hero: PlayDate | News - Home](http://www.krdo.com/news/wear-red-friday-hero-playdate/23215462)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 18, 2015, 4:03am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/469 "2015-12-18T04:03:54Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the Colorado Springs region of the state of Colorado. _Pikes Peak Therapeutic Riding Center_ (_PPTRC_) is a nonprofit based at the Latigo Trails Heritage Center in Elbert, Colorado. _PPTRC_ provides therapeutic horseback riding for people with disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorders, to encourage independence and improve their quality of life… > [@](#): > > …First of all, I want to tell you how thankful we are that Emily was given such a wonderful opportunity! Emily is absolutely loving the experience. During Emily’s sessions, she has demonstrated increased ability to plan fine motor movements. She was giving commands in sign as well as producing the beginning and ending sounds of words like walk, and combining two words together when making a verbal attempt such as “walk on.” This is really awesome because Emily is completely non verbal. It’s not that she won’t talk, her apraxia causes a disconnect from her brain to her fine muscles. She really wants to talk and often tries so hard to make it come out of her mouth. So the speech production that she was able to accomplish was amazing and I know she felt a great sense of pride and confidence that she was able to communicate like this. Emily’s autism also creates a social and emotional barrier between her and other people. Being on a horse and learning how to work with the horse helps the child form a bond with the animal and can be a gateway then, to be able to then expand that experience to the people that helped them with the horse and then other people in different settings as well such as teachers, or family members. During Emily’s most recent visit, as her trainer walked up to greet her, Emily made deliberate eye contact with her and reached up and grabbed her trainer’s hand! That was so exciting! Thanks again for helping to make this possible for Emily!.. > > …I am so grateful that we have this opportunity for Logan. He loves all kinds of animals and enjoys riding and interacting with the horses so much. Many thanks to Century Link & PATH, and to Playdate for getting us connected!.. > > - from the parents of Emily and Logan, two PPTRC riders who were awarded full tuition for their 8-week autumn session.] > > …My son has been diagnosed with sensory integration disorder. He is also severely speech and language delayed, and has a possible auditory processing disorder. In addition he has several characteristics of autism, though he has not been formally diagnosed with autism. > > When he was two and three years old, everyone told me “all kids develop at different rates, he will be fine” …Well, when he turned four years old and still only knew a few words and only very simple sentences… I decided enough was enough — I was going to take him in to get evaluated. > > They found out that as a four year old, he was at a two year old level of speech development. He started speech therapy once a week. While he showed some gains, he was often distractible, had a hard time focusing, and was often out of it by the end of the session. > > His therapist recommended that he try hippotherapy (therapy on horseback) as a supplement to his weekly speech therapy sessions. He started with Angela. I was immediately amazed at how much more focused and attentive he was on the horse. His progress with speech increased dramatically. He quickly learned ‘on’, ‘under’, ‘behind’, ‘in front’. > > One day Angela told me my son was doing so well, she was going to move on to function of objects. If you asked my son “what do you do with a fork” he would just repeat “fork”. He did not make the proper associations. My immediate thought was “oh boy — this should be a challenge for her.” > > Well I was in complete shock when she returned to the side of the area and told me “he got them all right”. I honestly thought I misheard her. It was a huge breakthrough for him. On the way home I asked my son about function and he was able to demonstrate that he retained what he had learned on horseback. > > I was truly amazed. I credit Pikes Peak Therapeutic Riding Center and their Hippotherapy program for such a large part of the progress my son has made over this past year. I am not 100% sure why the therapy works, but I do know it works. Thank You PPTRC for offering such a terrific program. > > - from Katherine Gray, mother of Thomas, a PPTRC Rider] Here is a link to photos of the _Pikes Peak Therapeutic Riding Center_ 2013 5K Walk Trot Canter/ Special Rodeo: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.509972029073939.1073741830.317980794939731&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.509972029073939.1073741830.317980794939731&type=3) (source: [Pikes Peak Therapeutic Riding Center Success Stories | Elbert, Colorado | Nationally Recognized Premier Riding and Training Center](http://www.pptrc.org/successstories.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 19, 2015, 2:52am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/470 "2015-12-19T02:52:38Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Colorado. The _Denver Outlaws_ are a _Major League Lacrosse_ professional men’s field lacrosse team based in Denver, Colorado. In the last five years the team has combined with _Lacrosse for Autism_, a Smithtown, New York-based non-profit whose mission to increase Autism awareness through Lacrosse events, clinics, and the Lacrosse Buddies program… > [@](#): > > A member of the Denver Outlaws Lacrosse Team wants Sunday’s game to be extra special for families who come out. > > The last home game of the season is already designated “Fan Appreciation Day.” > > Outlaws player Zack Greer is taking it up a notch by inviting families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder to the game. > > Greer’s nephew was diagnosed with autism as a toddler. > > Ever since, he has worked to raise awareness to the disorder… > > Before the Sunday 1 p.m. game, there will be an exclusive meet and greet time for the families associated with the Autism Society of Colorado. > > Greer and other Outlaws players will be there for photographs and autograph-signing. > > Since it is also Fan Appreciation Day, there will be team posters for the first 2,000 fans through the gate at Invesco Field at Mile High. > > The Denver Outlaws (7-3) are a huge draw each summer, especially with the popularity of youth lacrosse in Colorado. > > Ticket prices are family-friendly… Here is a link to photos of individuals from the _Autism Society of Colorado_ at a _Denver Outlaws_ lacrosse game last year at _Mile High Stadium_: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152368664154232.1073741829.28331634231&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152368664154232.1073741829.28331634231&type=3) (sources: [Lacrosse Playground — Lacrosse for Autism](http://www.lacrosseplayground.com/lacrosse-for-autism/); [Raising awareness for autism during a lacrosse game](http://www.9news.com/story/sports/2014/07/17/denver-outlaws-autism-awareness/12799597/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 20, 2015, 12:55am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/471 "2015-12-20T00:55:36Z")
The subject of the last post was _Pikes Peak Therapeutic Riding Center_ (_PPTRC_), a nonprofit based at the Latigo Trails Heritage Center in Elbert, Colorado. _PPTRC_ provides therapeutic horseback riding for people with disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorders, to encourage independence and improve their quality of life. Another organisation based in the Denver metropolitan area is _Firefly Autism_. _Firefly Autism_ is a Denver, Colorado-based nonprofit that focuses on working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders to transform their lives through thoughtful, innovative, empirical learning treatment programs… > [@](#): > > Mireya was a typical baby. Then, at age 2, it was like “the light turned off,” her grandmother describes. When Mireya came to Firefly Autism, she struggled with verbal and social skills. In Firefly’s early childhood program, Mireya learned to sign and speak with an iPad. Today, she has extensive communication skills using sign language. At age 4, she graduated from the program and enrolled in a Montessori school, in which she is thriving. > > Firefly Autism in Denver is an educational center and clinic known for serving and treating individuals with autism, who have significant challenging behaviors and learning difficulties. Jesse Ogas, vice president of social responsibility and development at Firefly Autism, says it’s a common misconception that children with autism can’t learn and aren’t aware of their environment. “On the contrary, they can learn, there is hope and they are well aware of surroundings,” Ogas says. “It’s a matter of learning how to communicate with them and teaching them to communicate with us.” > > Teachers use Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), which is currently the only method approved by the Surgeon General for treatment of autism. One key component to success is their 1:1 teacher-student ratio. “In a typical classroom, it may look like they are playing games, but they are learning tools with specific measurable goals — whether it’s learning how to talk or how to interact in a social setting,” Ogas says. > > The methodology of ABA is important because autism can affect children very differently. “When you’ve met one child with autism, you’ve met one child with autism. What works for one might not work for another,” Ogas says. Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual, so they can be successful at home, work and in the community. > > In addition to their early childhood and school age programs, Firefly Autism offers a social skills group, which draws children enrolled in traditional school. There is also a home-based group that includes parent training. > > …Most parents pay for the school through insurance, waivers or a combination of methods. > > “Treating autism is not cheap, but if you don’t treat it, these children will end up homeless, incarcerated or wards of the state. It’s not a pretty picture without that support,” Ogas says. “Our role and responsibility is to communicate that it is not a disease. It is just a different way of being.”… Here is a link to a video on _Firefly Autism_: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYxcqzVkhXs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYxcqzVkhXs) (source: [Helping Kids With Autism Succeed | Colorado Parent](http://coloradoparent.com/article/helping-kids-with-autism-succeed.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 21, 2015, 3:58am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/472 "2015-12-21T03:58:01Z")
The subject of the last couple of posts has been on Autism-related organisations and events in the Denver metropolitan area. The _Rocky Mountain Autism Center_ (_RMAC_), based in Lone Tree, Colorado, is a private practice dedicated to working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and similar disabilities… > [@](#): > > When Teddy Scena was 9 months old, his mother knew something was wrong. Teddy wasn’t developing at the same rate as his older brothers. He was too content, she thought, his gaze not meeting hers with what seemed like normal frequency. > Maggie and Chris Scena, Teddy’s parents, tried behavioral, occupational and speech therapies, but their baby made slow progress. When Teddy was 3, doctors bundled his developmental delays into a one-word diagnosis: Autism. > “It was almost a relief to have a diagnosis, to know there were things I could do for him,” Maggie Scena said. “But it was a catch-22 because at the same time, I knew what we were facing. And that was hard.” > After researching treatment facilities, the Littleton family found the Rocky Mountain Autism Center, then in Lakewood. The center moved to Lone Tree last month. > In the three years since the Scenas met center director Dr. Pat Rydell, Teddy has made dramatic progress. > “Before, I had always thought in the back of my head he would live with us his whole life,” Maggie said. “Now, I think he’ll hopefully go to college, be independent, have a job of his own. If he continues to progress at the same rate, I expect him to do whatever his brothers can do.” > Autism is characterized by diminished social and communication skills, repetitive behaviors and limited interests. > > …Caught early, therapy can detour children from becoming hard-wired in these behaviors. > “Many kids with autism are very social but don’t know how to be social,” he said. “They may say, ‘Play with me, but according to my rules.’ That reciprocal back-and-forth is not well developed.” > Rocky Mountain Autism Center therapists focus on increasing cognitive flexibility, encouraging children to not only interact successfully with others but to engage with the world around them. > > …The increase in autism cases is among the reasons the Rocky Mountain Autism Center moved to Lone Tree. Its larger space on Park Meadows Drive opens the door for additional staff. > “We built this new facility so we can help more people,” Rydell said. “This is our mission.” > It also puts the center close to the growing south suburban medical community, including a large pool of pediatricians. > Unlike the Lakewood site, the Lone Tree space was unfinished, allowing Rydell to design a center that aligns with his treatment model. > Rydell believes in family-based treatment, which calls for large spaces to accommodate families and groups, in addition to small one-on-one treatment rooms. With family involvement, therapy doesn’t stop at a medical office but continues into the child’s daily life, he said. > Maggie Scena believes that approach was the key for Teddy. > “If I just dropped him off for therapy, I’m sure he would make improvements for the hour he was there,” she said. “But with the whole family involved, he makes so much more improvement because we carry it home and work on the same things with him. I know what to do the rest of the time. His brothers know how to communicate and interact with him.” > Seeing children like Teddy evolve drives Rydell not just to continue his three decades of work, but to expand his reach to as many people as possible. He encourages his staff members to eventually open their own practices. > “The need is so tremendous,” he said. > Nevertheless, Rydell said the size of his practice will be deliberately capped. The logistics of a large center would undermine the family friendly model that is key to the Rocky Mountain Autism Center’s success. > “We form relationships with families. It’s like these kids are our own,” he said. “We have no intention of being the biggest, but we do have the intention of providing the best care.”… Here is a link to a set of slides from a presentation by Pat Rydell entitled ‘Core Challenges and Learning Styles of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: Practical Intervention Strategies’: [https://www.z2systems.com/neon/resource/msha/files/Rydell\_-\_Core\_Challenges.pdf](https://www.z2systems.com/neon/resource/msha/files/Rydell_-_Core_Challenges.pdf) (source: [News | Lone Tree Colorado | Lonetreevoice.net](http://lonetreevoice.net/stories/Autism-center-opens-in-Lone-Tree,69041)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 22, 2015, 3:14am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/473 "2015-12-22T03:14:46Z")
The subject of the last couple of posts has been on Autism-related organisations and events in the Denver metropolitan area. The _Autism Society of Colorado_ (_ASC_) is a Denver, Colorado-based nonprofit whose mission is to improve the lives of all affected by Autism. The ‘3rd Annual Walk with Autism’ was held just over six months ago at Sloan’s Lake park, as a fundraiser for the non-profit… > [@](#): > > MGA Denver was present on Sunday, June 14th, as a Sponsor and participant in the 2015 Walk With Autism. Throughout the day our team members were immersed with individuals, families and those in the surrounding Colorado communities who share in a personal connection to Autism. With over 1,200 attendees, great weather, a kid’s zone, food & refreshment tents, crafts and more, the event proved to be a success with smiles everywhere. > > …Along with support of the ASC, this year our team donned their Making Connections t-shirts in honor of a special family dedicated to helping others through community resources – Team Kara’s Voice. Kara, a beloved MGA patient, has been diagnosed with severe autism, epilepsy and developmental delays. In response to her mother Julie’s recognition of a growing need for effective communication platforms between school and home, Kara’s Voice Communication Workbooks were born. These workbooks – modeled as “a child’s daily traveling companion” – serve a general population of families with special needs children by helping to garner important information from their child’s school day so as to make the transition into post-school hours and activities more fluid… > > Do you know someone affected by autism? It’s not too late to share in the journey! You can help improve the lives of those like Kara by advocating for better education and research and/or by making a charitable contribution today courtesy of the Colorado Childcare Contribution Credit. Here is a link to photos of this year’s Autism Walk at Sloan’s Lake park, on the western edge of Denver’s city limits: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153131937849232.1073741832.28331634231&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153131937849232.1073741832.28331634231&type=3) (source: [MGA Home Healthcare MGA Denver: Proud Sponsors of the 2015 Walk With Autism - MGA Home Healthcare](http://mgahomecare.com/blog/mga-denver-2015-walk-with-autism/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 23, 2015, 3:36am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/474 "2015-12-23T03:36:56Z")
The subject of the last few posts has been on Autism-related organisations and events in the Denver metropolitan area. _Touching Stories_ is a Denver, Colorado-based nonprofit that brings storytelling to life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorders, by integrating a variety of multisensory stimuli into each story kit. The nonprofit’s ‘StoryCrafters’ program is designed for primary-grade school children… > [@](#): > > Imagine your favorite story coming to life so you can see, smell, and touch what is going on. > > … [Gwen] Bonilla founded a nonprofit story telling group called Touching Stories. > > “This is a technique that we call multisensory story telling. The simple way to describe what we do is we bring stories to life to all five senses for special-needs audiences,” said Bonilla. > > That means as Bonilla tells a story she uses things that can demonstrate what is going on. It may be a pine tree branch, a feather, a piece of hose, anything that better helps lure her listeners into the story. > > “I get this amazing energy that is in that room when I am telling the stories,” said Bonilla. > > Bonilla has been performing Touching Stories for six years. She came up with the idea to hold the attention of kids in her son’s elementary school class. Then she branched out to assist developmentally disabled kids and adults at various agencies, like at Denver’s Laradon day program. > > “You saw today that everybody, regardless of their abilities, could participate in the stories she tells,” said Annie Green, deputy director of Laradon. > > The idea is to not only provide enjoyment, and increase concentration, but offer some assistance in modulating responses to new things. > > Bonilla loves telling stories, and she is eager to share her gift. “Gwen has also done a great thing for us in that she has trained our staff in her absence,” said Green… Here is a link to a short video on _Touching Stories_: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ao8qDjD7dFo](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ao8qDjD7dFo) (source: [Volunteer Finds New Ways To Tell Stories - 7NEWS Denver TheDenverChannel.com](http://www.thedenverchannel.com/news/volunteer-finds-new-ways-to-tell-stories-2)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 24, 2015, 1:45am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/475 "2015-12-24T01:45:52Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the Denver metropolitan area. _The Joshua School_ (_TJS_) is a Englewood, Colorado-based non-profit for individuals and families challenged and enriched by Autism Spectrum Disorders and other developmental disabilities. _TJS_ is an Applied Behaviour Analysis-based school with campuses in Englewood and Boulder, Colorado… > [@](#): > > Castle Pines Village residents Matt and Kari Ansay have an amazing home full of love, laughter, hope, and gratitude. The two met in the late 80s at the University of Denver, and in the years since, got married and had five beautiful children. > > Two of the Ansay’s children have Fragile X Syndrome (FXS), the most common known genetic cause of autism disorders. FXS can cause intellectual disabilities, attention deficit, and anxiety among other symptoms. Their youngest child, Jessica, who turns seven in July, struggled so much through her early years and into kindergarten that Kari and Matt wondered if they would ever even hear her sweet voice form words or if she would ever understand what they were saying to her. > > “After years of early intervention and a year at our home elementary school for kindergarten, we realized she needed a much more intensive program than what a public school could offer. So, we began our search for a private school to meet her needs. Little did we know, our journey would lead us to one of the most specialized, unique, caring, and dedicated special needs programs in the country,” said Kari. > > So last year, with a referral from the Douglas County School District, Jessica moved to The Joshua School (TJS) in Denver – a school dedicated to children with significant autism disorders and developmental disabilities. “We are overjoyed by all that she has mastered in her short time at TJS. To hear Jessica say, ‘I love you mommy’ is priceless,” said Kari. > > Twelve years ago, six special educators created The Joshua School… They each cashed in their savings, left the public system and ventured into new territory to create a place dedicated to children who need so much more. It is now the first referral for educational services for Children’s Hospital Colorado, Autism Society of Colorado, and more than 18 school districts around the state, including Douglas County. > > The Ansay family is so grateful for all TJS has done for Jessica that they want to make sure another child has the opportunity to attend the school as well. “They are miracle workers, angels on this earth,” shared Kari. According to the Ansays, if children are not placed by a school district it can be a financial strain on families – depleting their savings, retirement and more. > > To be able to share the gift of TJS with another child, the Ansay family, along with some very close friends, has created a golf tournament benefiting the school. The XDrive Classic is planned for Monday, August 4, at The Club at Pradera… > > All players and sponsors are welcome! The cost to play is $275 per individual and $1,000 per foursome and dinner tickets are $75 each. Individual and business sponsorships are encouraged and range from $500 (hole sponsor) to $5,000 (title sponsor). > > The tournament will be a fun day but more importantly, it will help provide a precious gift to another child like Jessica. “The Joshua School sets such a high standard in the world of special education. They believe in the abilities of these children and in their futures – giving them the opportunity to be the best they can be. That belief restores hope for us as a family and gives us the support which we so desperately need,” said Kari… Here is a link to photos of children from _TJS_: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.247996538741304.1073741828.247228512151440&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.247996538741304.1073741828.247228512151440&type=3) (source: [XDrive Classic Golf Tournament - Inspiring hope for children with disabilities](http://archive.castlepinesconnection.com/pages/news/2014/qtr3/cpc/xDriveClassic.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 25, 2015, 3:55am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/476 "2015-12-25T03:55:41Z")
The subject of the last post was _The Joshua School_ (_TJS_), an Englewood, Colorado-based non-profit for individuals and families challenged and enriched by Autism Spectrum Disorders and other developmental disabilities. _TJS_ is an Applied Behaviour Analysis-based school with campuses in Englewood and Boulder, Colorado. Almost four years ago, _TJS_ partnered with _Autism Awareness Care and Training_ (_AACT_) in Accra, Ghana. _TJS_ staff provided training (assessment and curriculum), materials, and support, and in a matter of two weeks, were able to raise the West African nonprofit’s level of knowledge and application of Applied Behaviour Analysis and effectiveness for children and families… > [@](#): > > …We woke up early and packed our bags. We were already feeling sad that this was our last day. > …we headed for the center. Coincidentally, today was World Autism Awareness Day. AACT created a banner and we joined the entire school in marching around the neighborhood: drumming, singing, and passing out flyers about autism. All in all, we passed out a couple hundred flyers to the curious community. > > Colleen and Jesse continued assessing students, providing training to staff and community members, and worked with staff individually to address challenging behaviors of specific students. Jason and Aunty Serwah summarized their week together and created a plan for follow-up. We spent the afternoon organizing the donations and materials by classroom and topic to make teaching more efficient. At the end of the day, we all gathered to acknowledge the amazing work that had transpired over the week. AACT gave [TJS] a beautiful, home-made plaque while we presented the center with Autism Awareness bracelets. > > Serwah invited us to her home for cool drinks and dinner and we further reflected on our new partnership… > Serwah’s cousin, Joe, gave us a ride to the airport and we said our final good-byes to Ghana. We were filled with mixed emotions – excited to get home and to see our friends and family, and wishing we could stay to do more – more training, more connecting, more understanding, and more learning. > > Like everything at [TJS], this was a collaboration. Thanks, again, to all who donated materials and resources to AACT… > We have definitely gotten what we came for – a place to begin our online training programs – but we are only at the beginning of what is possible. We are excited for the future and the impact [TJS] can make for the world. Here is a link to photos of ‘ThisAbility’, a summer program for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders held at _AACT_ in Ghana a couple of years ago: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.540707462660603.1073741830.527363323995017&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.540707462660603.1073741830.527363323995017&type=3) (source: [Our Last Day in Ghana… – tjsinghana](https://tjsinghana.wordpress.com/2012/04/04/our-last-day-in-ghana/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 25, 2015, 11:33pm UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/477 "2015-12-25T23:33:56Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the Denver metropolitan area. _Spectra Autism Center_ is a nonprofit based in Westminster, Colorado. The organisation’s mission is to bring unity to Autism Spectrum Disorder treatment through (1) integrating disciplines, (2) connecting professionals, and (3) building comprehensive programs for its clients and families… > [@](#): > > A safety event geared towards children with special needs debuted over the weekend in Westminster. The event was sponsored by the Westminster Fire Department and the Spectra Autism Center and focused on teaching children and their family members about the fire safety and gave youngsters an opportunity to experience what the job of a firefighter is like. > > “The safety event was open to any child, but we really wanted to put a focus on children with special needs and allow them to see what real firefighter does while teaching them some safety,” said Westminster firefighter and event organizer Luke Gearhard. > > The Sunday July 14 event at the Westminster training tower, featured firefighter demonstrations including rappelling off the side of the training tower and two vehicle extractions. Children enjoyed free rides in vintage fire truck while trying on real firefighter gear and testing their skills in the firefighter combat challenge obstacle course. > > Angela Trout brought her two children to the event, one who has autism. She said it’s nice to have an event geared towards kids with special needs, but one that is also welcome to her other child. > “This is a lot of fun,” she said. “I like being able to bring both my kids, but also go somewhere that is focused on children with special needs.” > > Amy Gearhard, CEO of Spectra and Luke’s wife, said she’s never seen an event like this one in Colorado and she hopes it continues to grow in the future. Working with individuals with special needs on a daily basis, Amy understands how an individual with special needs may react differently in an emergency situation. She said the event was also an opportunity for firefighters to learn more about children with special needs and how to handle certain situations. > > “It’s important for firefighters and police officers to understand the difference in dealing with a child with special needs,” she said. > > …Both Luke and Amy agree a great way for families to communicate information to police and fire is by signing up for Smart911, a free, nationwide private service that allows people to create safety profiles online. The participants can enter vital information about themselves and their family members to be used during an emergency situation. > > …“We hope people utilize the Smart911 service because it could really make a difference during an emergency,” Luke said. Here is a link to photos of a visit by Luke Gearhard to _Spectra Autism Center_ from a couple of years ago: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.579809912038522.1073741825.120276334658551&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.579809912038522.1073741825.120276334658551&type=3) (source: [News | Parker Colorado | Parkerchronicle.net](http://parkerchronicle.net/stories/Event-focused-on-children-with-special-needs,51644)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 26, 2015, 2:39am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/478 "2015-12-26T02:39:33Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the Denver metropolitan area. To the northwest, _Ascendigo_, formerly known as _Extreme Sports Camp_, is a Carbondale, Colorado-based non-profit that runs summer & winter camp for all ability levels, anywhere on the Autism Spectrum. Staff are trained on Autism-friendly approaches that utilize the principles of the Early Start Denver Model, combining elements of ABA with relationship-based interactions, positive supports, leveraging of Autism-specific learning styles, and respect for developmentally-appropriate activities… > [@](#): > > An Aspen nonprofit organization that prides itself on getting children and young adults with autism into the outdoors is hosting its signature fundraising event at the Hotel Jerome on Sunday so it can keep doing what it does best. > Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo will host the fourth annual Light It Up Blue Aspen, which features a reception-style event with curated food and drink stations, music, dancing and a silent auction. The event starts at 6:30 p.m. > “We hope to raise between $400,000 and $500,000, so it’s a big deal,” said Ron Rash, a longtime Aspen outdoor-adventure guide who is the interim executive director of the Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo. > Blue, the color representing autism, will douse the Hotel Jerome in light for the event. > Ticket are $250. Proceeds benefit Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo and Autism Speaks, a research and advocacy organization. > While Rash is involved in the administration of the nonprofit, it was working with people with autism that first got him interested in the cause. > “You can see the joy it brings to people that have never skied before or never climbed,” he said. > He has witnessed how the outdoor activities open an avenue of reaching children and young adults with autism. > “The physical activity releases the stress and anxiety,” he said. > > …“Instead of a building with four walls, they’re outside, which is fantastic,” Rash said. > Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo enrolled 155 people in its camps last summer. It offers four core activities over eight weeks: rock climbing, river activities such as rafting, paddle boarding and running water in duckies, horseback riding, and boating activities such as wakeboarding and waterskiing. Separate activities ranging from cycling to gardening are offered during afternoons at the camp. > The camp takes people from 7 to 27 years old. This will be its 11th year. > “Some campers have been with us all 11 years,” Rash said. > Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo also offers activities year-round, such as skiing in winters. > > …The program isn’t cheap to operate, so Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo needs to hit a home run each year with Light It Up Blue. The event’s timing was switched to mid-February two years ago to take advantage of a busy time of year. This year, the event is crammed with activities and celebrity appearances Saturday and Sunday to create a “weekend of autism awareness,” Rash said. > The highlights include: > • Vertical Blue: Autism Awareness Day at Aspen Highlands on Saturday afternoon. Olympic gold-medal skier Johnny Moseley and Dr. Jennifer Berman, of the CBS television show “The Doctors,” will ski with participants with autism and trainers from Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo. There will be a scavenger hunt on the mountain. A booth at the base will provide clues starting at 8 a.m. An apres-ski celebration will be held at 3 p.m. at Highlands Ale House. > • Berman will speak at Light It Up Blue Aspen and have a production team covering the event for a feature story about autism on “The Doctors.” Berman is a renowned women’s-health specialist, author and recurring host of the television show. She has a longstanding interest in autism. > • Sentient Jet, the presenting sponsor of the event, is offering a day of skiing with Moseley. Two sessions were sold in advance of the event and raised $10,000 for the cause. Sentient Jet also will donate $2,000 to the host charities for every event attendee who purchases a 25-hour jet card during the evening. It also contributed a $10,000 flight card for the auction… Here is a link to photos of an _Ascendigo_ summer day’s activities with children on the Autism Spectrum from a few years ago: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150950029992308.413557.127533422307&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150950029992308.413557.127533422307&type=3) (source: [Light It Up Blue Aspen fundraiser aids unique outdoor program for people with autism | AspenTimes.com](http://www.aspentimes.com/news/15022399-113/light-it-up-blue-aspen-fundraiser-aids-unique-outdoor-program)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 27, 2015, 2:13am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/479 "2015-12-27T02:13:57Z")
The subject of yesterday’s post was _Ascendigo_, a Carbondale, Colorado-based non-profit that runs summer and winter camp for all ability levels, anywhere on the Autism Spectrum. Staff are trained on Autism-friendly approaches that utilize the principles of the Early Start Denver Model, combining elements of ABA with relationship-based interactions, positive supports, leveraging of Autism-specific learning styles, and respect for developmentally-appropriate activities. _Challenge Aspen_ is a Snowmass Village, Colorado-based non-profit that offers a complete adaptive ski program and provides summer, as well as, winter activities. Challenge Autism, a division of _Challenge Aspen_ launched just over a year ago, through its partnership with _Aspen Skiing Company_ and local outfitters, has access to four skiing/boarding areas within the Roaring Fork Valley. Deb Gravelle, formerly of _Ascendigo_, now works for _Challenge Aspen_ and as a Ski Instructor for the _Aspen Skiing Company_… > [@](#): > > Eight year old Gary is going to camp. > > He helps his parents pack his clothes, toys, and gear for his trip to the Roaring Fork Valley. > > But this isn’t just any camp. It’s [Ascendigo], and Gary is autistic. > > “You see how magical it is to see these guys out there doing amazing things, parents are always like, ‘I never thought my kid could do that,’” said [Ascendigo] Director Deb Sullivan Gravelle. > > …“He has no interest in his peers. Once in a while, we’ll get lucky and he’ll attach to a kid,” said Erika Norman-Gravseth, Gary’s mom. > > She was amazed by Gary’s breakthroughs making friends at camp. > > Each camper has a dedicated counsellor… > > “We need to make people more aware of autism, because it’s not something to be afraid of,” said Gravelle. Here is a link to a video on _Ascendigo_’s Autism Skis program from a couple of years ago: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlpOKYdHgOs](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlpOKYdHgOs) (sources: [https://challengeaspen.org/challenge-autism/](https://challengeaspen.org/challenge-autism/); [http://kdvr.com/2013/08/28/colorado-mountain-camp-helping-children-with-autism/](http://kdvr.com/2013/08/28/colorado-mountain-camp-helping-children-with-autism/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 28, 2015, 1:47am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/480 "2015-12-28T01:47:47Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Colorado. The _Autism Society of Boulder County_ (_ASBC_) is a Louisville, Colorado-based non-profit whose mission is to help individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families by developing a strong and united community. It seeks to do this by creating opportunities for people to connect, share experiences and build new relationships… > [@](#): > > Do you have someone in your life with a child who has autism in need of temporary relief during the summer? In an effort to respond to an overwhelming number of requests from families who need financial assistance during the summer, the Send a Kid to Camp grant was formed in 2011 by the Autism Society of Boulder County (ASBC) and widely supported by the Big Red F Restaurant Group and Chef Brett Smith. > > Founded in 2001, the Autism Society of Boulder County is a volunteer-backed affiliate of the national Autism Society; it is a non-profit that supports individuals with autism through community donations, activities and programs, and offers free services to approximately 2,000 family members and service providers in the local community. Last year their Send a Kid to Camp program awarded 50 families $500 grants each toward various therapeutic summer camps. The program has impacted the quality of life for many families because it allows the children to create new friendships, learn independence, gain self-confidence, and experience outdoor activities while attending these camps. > > …Michelle Dyson, an ASBC volunteer, says Brett [Smith] and the Zolo Restaurant staff were excited to support a local charity that would benefit families in a one-on-one sort of way. “The ASBC stepped up and said, yes we can do this!” she said. Thanks to the Jack’s Backyard Bash fundraiser last year, 50 families received $500 grants. In addition, enough money remained to fund two skateboarding clinics over the year which attracted kids from throughout the Denver Metro area. The A.Skate skateboarding clinics teach individuals of all ages with autism how to skateboard. The ASBC was the lead sponsor of these two skateboarding events that served more than 80 individuals… Here is a link to photos of _ASBC_’s ‘Family Camping and Rafting Trip’ from about six months ago: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153057557103269.1073741831.298850363268&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153057557103269.1073741831.298850363268&type=3) (source: [Changing Lives, Boulder Style Autism Society of Boulder County](http://www.8days.com/blog/changing-lives-autism-society-boulder/)) [Previous page](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615.md?page=23) [Next page](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615.md?page=25)