# '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:** 25
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 29, 2015, 1:40am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/481 "2015-12-29T01:40:24Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Colorado. The _Autism Society of Larimer County_ (_ASLC_) is a Fort Collins, Colorado-based non-profit whose mission is to serve as a resource for individuals and families affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder by providing information, advocacy, public awareness activities and promoting the development of services and resources. It is the voice of the Autism community in Larimer County… > [@](#): > > This year’s Autism Awareness Month was a huge success. The Autism Society of Larimer County, along with the wonderful help of the community, was able to bring much needed awareness while raising generous funding for the implementation of the Exceptional Sitter program for Larimer County. > > …An enormous “Thank You” is in order to all the generous donors of the over 100 silent auction items. There were a large variety of wonderful items… > > The ASLC and the evening participants were also privileged to have the donated talents of Sakkits “Hot Shot” Catering and Sunset Event Catering. The Hilton Garden Inn did a terrific job to help make the evening a success. > > On Wednesday April 22, families and friends packed into the Island Grill to enjoy the hard driving rhythms of the Fort Collins Drum and Dance Group. This awareness event titled “Help Beat Autism” was geared to promote awareness and provide hands on entertainment for kids. After a great performance, the children were treated with hands on rhythmic play provided by music therapist Megan Stiefken and Foundation Music. This was an entertaining night filled with food, fun and friends. > > The week winded down on Thursday evening with a movie night at the Lyric Cinema Cafe… > > Again, the ASLC would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Larimer County community and donors for making the event week a huge success. We could never have raised the level of awareness and funds needed without your help. > > Thank you and see you next year! Here is a link to photos of children from the _Autism Society of Larimer County_ at an event at a local aquatic centre from six years ago: [https://www.facebook.com/aslc.larimer/media\_set?set=a.1203781695085.2031605.1244892250&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/aslc.larimer/media_set?set=a.1203781695085.2031605.1244892250&type=3) (source: [http://www.autismlarimer.org/newsletters/aslc\_nl\_may-jun\_2009.pdf](http://www.autismlarimer.org/newsletters/aslc_nl_may-jun_2009.pdf)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 30, 2015, 2:16am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/482 "2015-12-30T02:16:39Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Colorado. To the east, _Paws 4 Autism_ is a nonprofit located in the Kansas City metropolitan area whose mission is to bring Autism service Dogs and related services, including community outreach and education, service dog awareness, informational training and social skills classes, to children who demonstrate autism spectrum behaviours. Based in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, _Paws 4 Autism_’s Canine Assisted Social Skills In Education (CASSIE) Program helps children with Autism learn and improve their social and communication skills by using ABA techniques in conjunction with an Autism service dog… > [@](#): > > Students in the Lee’s Summit R-7 Extended School Year Program at Sunset Valley recently had the opportunity to assist with training service dogs. > > Terri Wible started the nonprofit and 100-percent volunteer organization, [paws4autism.com](http://paws4autism.com), in an effort to help match service dogs with children and for use in her community outreach program, [CASSIE], after seeing the benefits a service dog made in her own daughter’s life. > > Service dogs for children with autism act as constant companions to children with autism to help them improve social interactions and relationships, expand verbal and nonverbal communication, teach life skills, increase interest in activities and decrease stress within the family. > > A Paws dog doesn’t pass judgment, but breaks into the world of autism and becomes a crucial part of the family’s life. > > …there are far more families wanting autism service dogs than there are available dogs. > > Thanks to Wible’s unending dedication an increasing number of children in the Kansas City metro area are getting their own autism service dog, added Kay Rader, Lee’s Summit R-7 teacher. However, she cannot do it alone. > > Paws 4 Autism not only needs our community’s financial support but also that of families willing to foster pups in their home and provide plenty of love and basic training. The only cost is your time, she added. Here is a link to a video on _Paws 4 Autism_: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qoWXGd5wj0Q](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qoWXGd5wj0Q) (source: [http://www.lsjournal.com/2015/07/27/131120/extended-school-year-program-students.html](http://www.lsjournal.com/2015/07/27/131120/extended-school-year-program-students.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [December 31, 2015, 2:19am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/483 "2015-12-31T02:19:14Z")
The subject of yesterday’s post was _Paws 4 Autism_, a nonprofit located in the Kansas City metropolitan area whose mission is to bring Autism service Dogs and related services, including community outreach and education, service dog awareness, informational training and social skills classes, to children who demonstrate autism spectrum behaviours. Based in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, _Paws 4 Autism_’s Canine Assisted Social Skills In Education (CASSIE) Program helps children with Autism learn and improve their social and communication skills by using ABA techniques in conjunction with an Autism service dog. _Kansas City Autism Training Center_ (_KcATC_) is a Prairie Village, Kansas-based non-profit specialising in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Its mission is to provide professional, research-based intervention, training and education for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders… > [@](#): > > …Under the new definition of autism, Asperger syndrome, which generally describes a higher functioning individual, would be eliminated, as would PDD-NOS, a sort of catch-all category. > > The change could leave some students who are considered higher functioning autistics without services at all. > > “Autism is diagnosed by an observation of behavioral characteristics, and right now you have to have six of the 12,” said Tanya Baynham, the program director for the Kansas City Autism Training Center. > > Some of the characteristics that are observed during a diagnosis are a person’s concentration, social skills and their ability to adapt with routine. Those are just a few of the areas teachers at the autism training center work daily with Eli Carter on. > > At age 4, Carter is considered higher functioning on the autism spectrum, and how his learning may be affected by proposed changes to the disorder’s diagnosis isn’t yet known. > > “If all of the changes were in effect now, today, they would absolutely (negatively affect things). Eli would be in danger of losing services,” said Baynham. > > Experts say autism is like putting together a big puzzle, and so is figuring out how to come up with the money for treatment. > > To study in the Kansas City Autism Training Center, a well regarded autism program located in Prairie Village, the out-of-pocket expense for a family can reach $30,000 per year and an insurance company can pay twice that amount. > > Teachers at the center said student Kelsyn Rooks has made great strides. His parents fear that valuable funding and education could go away if a new diagnosis leaves him out. > > “Our goal is that he’s learning in the same way as his typical peers those academic subjects and not using aggression and disruptive behaviors to communicate,” said Baynham. > > The proposed changes aren’t lost on the children. > > “Changing everything the opposite way is making so I won’t be at KATC (Kansas City Autism Training Center),” said Rooks. > > How soon services and funding could change is anyone’s guess, but one thing’s certain - the children at the center show improvement almost daily, and parents worry that progression will slow if their children are financially forced out of the specialized classrooms… Here is a link to a video on the _Kansas City Autism Training Center_: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pf9IMNCcdSM](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pf9IMNCcdSM) (source: [Potential new autism definition could change who is diagnosed - KCTV5](http://www.kctv5.com/story/16567895/potential-new-autism-definition-could-change-who-is-diagnosed)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [January 1, 2016, 4:51am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/484 "2016-01-01T04:51:38Z")
The subject of the last post was _Paws 4 Autism_, a nonprofit located in the Kansas City metropolitan area whose mission is to bring Autism service Dogs and related services, including community outreach and education, service dog awareness, informational training and social skills classes, to children who demonstrate autism spectrum behaviours. Based in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, _Paws 4 Autism_’s Canine Assisted Social Skills In Education (CASSIE) Program helps children with Autism learn and improve their social and communication skills by using ABA techniques in conjunction with an Autism service dog. Less than three months ago, the Kansas City ‘Walk Now for Autism Speaks’ was held at Swope Park in Kansas City, Missouri. The annual fundraiser for _Autism Speaks_, North America’s leading Autism science and advocacy organisation, is a fun-filled, family friendly event and is the Autism community’s greatest force to fund vital research that will lead it to the answers is needs… > [@](#): > > More than 2,000 of attendees participated in Kansas City Walk Now for Autism Speaks on October 10th, 2015 at Swope Park in Kansas City, MO. > > The remarkable day that started off with 25 Sponsors and Resource Fair vendors for parents and loved ones, while children and adults with autism enjoyed inflatables, KC Knockerball, a miniature train, tours of the KC Fire Department truck and much more! Opening ceremonies featured Troop 11 Boy Scouts Special Needs team from Leawood, KS and Ethan Bush (a college freshman from Chanute, KS) who sang the National Anthem. > > …Kansas City Walk Now for Autism Speaks 2015 was a fun day for all! > > Approximately 2,000 were in attendance, with Avery Nissen, a young man with autism, helping to pump up the crowd and cut the ribbon for the walk! Many adults and children enjoyed our activities and after the Walk came back to enjoy the Resource Fair and live entertainment by Casi Joy… > > To date, the event raised more than $100,000 in support of Autism Speaks’ mission to fund research, increase awareness and family services and advocate for individuals with autism and their families… Here is a link to a public service announcement on last year’s Kansas City ‘Walk Now for Autism Speaks’: [16 reactions | Check out our amazing PSA by Time Warner Cable below and share. We would love to see YOU at the WALK! Register here: WalkNowForAutismSpeaks.Org/KansasCity #WalkNowKC | Autism Speaks Kansas City](https://www.facebook.com/AutismSpeaks.KC/videos/vb.74001886036/10153712483051037/?type=3&theater) (source: [2015 Walk Now for Autism Speaks - Kansas City - Home](http://www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=1136719)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [January 2, 2016, 2:18am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/485 "2016-01-02T02:18:17Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Colorado. To the east, _Rainbows United_ is a Wichita, Kansas-based nonprofit dedicated to helping children with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorders, and their families by bringing together community resources and providing customised services. _Rainbows_ tries to see each child as a masterpiece — a unique treasure — and through its targeted case management service, its case managers act as curators, specialists trained to identify and reveal the beauty within each child… > [@](#): > > Ten year old Dayton receives Targeted Case Management (TCM) and attends Camp Woodchuck and latchkey at Kids’ Cove. Dayton, his mother Kristina and her boyfriend Matt have been a members of the Rainbows’ family for four years, but recently began working with Lia Hampel as their [case manager]. > > “Matt and Kristina love Dayton,” Lia said. “And I love working with the whole family.” > > “Our relationship with Lia is new but she proves herself every time we deal with her,” Kristina said. “We have really enjoyed our meetings. We have faith that we will be taken care of while we are a part of the Rainbows’ family.” > > Since Dayton was diagnosed with Autism, Rainbows has been able to help the family find funding for respite care and Camp Woodchuck summer camp. Dayton has improved his communication through use of an iPad. Rainbows also secured funding for the family to receive a swing set… Swinging calms Dayton and gives the family an activity they can all enjoy. > > “He loves to swing!” Lia said. > > “He is a kid who loves to be sung and talked to,” Kristina said. “He has bad days, just like the rest of us. His good days consist of lots of giggles and smiles.” > > Dayton loves to play in water. …someday Kristina hopes he will communicate with more than gestures. > > Kristina is confident in her son’s future with Rainbows. “This is a group that cares,” Kristina said. “Lia listens to my concerns and will do what she can to address them. If I have a need for my child she will find answers.” Below is a link to a video promoting last year’s ‘Blarney Breakfast’, an annual fundraiser on St. Patrick’s Day for _Rainbows United_’s Targeted Case Management Program: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-khxGh9Q04](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-khxGh9Q04) (source: [Rainbows United, Inc. :: Wichita KS :: Dayton](http://www.rainbowsunited.org/services/targeted-case-management/family_stories/64;)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [January 3, 2016, 8:12am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/486 "2016-01-03T08:12:29Z")
The subject of the last post was _Rainbows United_, a Wichita, Kansas-based nonprofit dedicated to helping children with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorders, and their families by bringing together community resources and providing customised services. _Rainbows_ tries to see each child as a masterpiece — a unique treasure — and through its targeted case management service, its case managers act as curators, specialists trained to identify and reveal the beauty within each child. _Heartspring_ is another Wichita, Kansas-based nonprofit that provides services for children with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorders. _Heartspring_’s Camp SSTAR (Social Skills Technology Arts and Recreation) is a summer day camp for children held through the organisation’s CARE (Community of Autism Resources and Education) Program, whose Director is Nicole McLain… > [@](#): > > CARE Clubs are in full swing and the children are thriving. The kids have gained valuable skills over the past 10 weeks including greeting others, forming friendships and understanding how friendships work, emotional reciprocity, flexibility, sportsmanship and so much more! One of my favorite skills the club members gain is the expanded interest in hobbies and leisure activities. I recently received an email from a father who explained how impactful this club has been for his son and expressed sincere gratitude for the leader of the group’s persistence and dedication to his son’s growth. I want to take this opportunity to highlight this person for her unmatched dedication to improving all of the children’s lives she works with. > > [Montana Severe] is our CARE Club Leader. She works hard to make sure each of our children has his or her individual needs met and provides heartfelt dedication to each of them. > > …Montana recently brought in her guitar to provide sensory stimulation and variation in her instructional format and the children loved every minute of it. Those who have trouble with expressive language are singing and verbalizing in ways caregivers have not seen before. Children are smiling and eager to come to group because of her patience, love and care for them as individuals. Montana joined the CARE team after volunteering for eight weeks of Camp SSTAR, finding her passion in working with children who learn differently. She is currently pursuing her degree in the education field and looks forward to making a difference in the lives of children in the years to come. We are so proud of this woman and the difference she is making in the lives of the children who come through our doors at Heartspring. The changes happening with our CARE friends are music to our ears. Here is a link to photos of Week One at Camp SSTAR (Social Skills Technology Arts and Recreation) from a few years ago: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.423025461083395.123345.422984154420859&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.423025461083395.123345.422984154420859&type=3) (source: [https://www.heartspring.org/autism-outreach/blog/music-to-our-ears](https://www.heartspring.org/autism-outreach/blog/music-to-our-ears)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [January 4, 2016, 6:34am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/487 "2016-01-04T06:34:32Z")
The subject of the last couple of posts has been on Autism-related organisations and events in the Wichita, Kansas metropolitan area. The _Autism Society of the Heartland_ is a Lenexa, Kansas-based nonprofit whose mission is to improve the lives of all affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders. The organisation, which includes a Wichita-area Autism support group, recently partnered with a Mission Hills, Kansas-based nonprofit to produce an Autism awareness film… > [@](#): > > In her former life as a Jackson County prosecuting attorney, Jen Greenstreet’s favorite part of the job was what she calls “storytelling with a purpose.” By asking just the right questions to witnesses, she was able to weave a story for the jury that helped her stand up for victims of crime. “There was something empowering and thrilling about helping these people who needed help,” she says. > > But after eight years of grueling cases, the job took a psychological toll on Greenstreet. She stopped practicing law in 2003 to embark on a path of change, but was unsure about her next career move. “Oprah Winfrey says a prayer every night,” notes Greenstreet, 42, during an interview in the living room of the Mission Hills home she shares with her husband and three children. “She says, ‘Use me.’ I started saying that prayer every night. I kept my antenna up and my antenna was, ‘Say yes.’” > > She said yes to, of all things, pajama bottoms. It all began when her daughter’s friend severely burned her leg and was admitted to Children’s Mercy Hospital. The friend enjoyed getting soft pajama bottoms that didn’t irritate her burned skin as gifts during her hospital stay, so the girls thought it would be great to make pajama bottoms for other burn patients there. > > Greenstreet offered to help raise funds and asked her friend and photographer, Isaac Alongi, to take photos for flyers. But when a hospital staff member said there was also a real need to send a video to schools that explained how burn patients wanted to be treated by their classmates, Greenstreet’s antenna was raised. She again turned to Alongi and thus, Just Like You Films was born. > > …“We put the kids in front of a camera and questioned them,” Greenstreet says. “It felt very similar to a trial to me because I went in with the idea of what I wanted, just as I would prepare for a trial. That’s what you do in trials—you tell a story through the witnesses for a jury. You know what the picture looks like and your want the jury to understand. And that’s what filmmaking is. You tell a story to an audience through your actors.” > > She has also produced films on [developmental disabilities including] autism. The films explain the various injuries or ailments, treatments and diagnoses, as well as the children’s common hopes, likes and fears through the children’s own words and those of their friends. Ultimately the films reveal how much more alike than different these children are to their peers. The films foster the idea that with knowledge comes understanding and with understanding comes sensitivity, compassion, acceptance and friendship. > > The films are available through [justlikeyoufilms.org](http://justlikeyoufilms.org) and every penny raised goes toward their financing. Greenstreet, who writes and directs the films, works for free. Financial contributions to make the films, which typically cost about $30,000, are always needed. Partnering organizations include the Autism Society of the Heartland… > > In her world, Greenstreet would like kids to feel that it was “cool to care.” She’d love the films to be shown at the start of each school year throughout the globe. …“I would like to make a film for every unique circumstance,” she says… > > To those who have worked with her on the films, Greenstreet is a spirited go-getter dedicated to helping special children… > > …Stacey Archer, who is an inclusive education coordinator …said the autism film was shown to 61 fourth graders, who stood at the end and gave a standing ovation to one of their peers who has Asperger’s syndrome, a form of autism. He stood and gave a bow and talked to the kids in a question-and-answer session about Asperger’s. “They all did a great job in asking very appropriate questions, some very heartfelt questions,” Archer says. “The film was perfect for that group of kids. I just feel they’re old enough and really got the film. > > “Jen uses real people, not actors, and it just makes it that much more real and personal. Being a special educator for 17-plus years, I’ve seen various films on autism and this was by far the best.…I’m very excited to see what else she has in store.” > > …[Greenstreet says:] “I said from the beginning that I want to help people, that I want to leave the world a better place. I think the foundation of everything is empathy and understanding. If you understand someone, then you’re more likely to want to help them. You need to feel connected before the motivation to help.” Here is a link to the official trailer of the ‘Just Like You - Autism’ film: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBQB-VdaUpI](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBQB-VdaUpI) (source: [Moving Pictures - 435 Magazine - February 2015](http://www.435mag.com/February-2015/Moving-Pictures/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [January 5, 2016, 1:44am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/488 "2016-01-05T01:44:40Z")
The subject of the last post was the partnership between the _Autism Society of the Heartland_, a Lenexa, Kansas-based nonprofit whose mission is to improve the lives of all affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders, and the Mission Hills, Kansas-based _Just Like You Films_. The two nonprofits worked together to produce an Autism awareness film, ‘Just Like You - Autism’. _AMC Theatres_, a Leawood, Kansas-based movie theatre chain, honoured _Just Like You Films_ with its 2015 AMC Cares grant. And, with those funds _Just Like You Films_ produced an MidAmerica Emmy award winning commercial, ‘You’re Invited’, that was viewed thousands of time on cable channels across the midwest sending the message that we are all invited when it comes to understanding and accepting each other… > [@](#): > > AMC Theatres is proud to announce the launch the AMC Summer Nights program, which will offer some of the past year’s biggest movies …with a portion of the proceeds to benefit …the Autism Society of America and Autism Speaks. > Starting June 24 and throughout this eight week program, AMC guests can see …blockbusters …on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday nights at 10 p.m., at more than 200 AMC locations nationwide… > > “AMC Summer Nights combines three things movie-goers love … big movies on the big screen, community support, and exceptional value, “said Elizabeth Frank, executive vice president and chief content and programming officer, AMC. “We have eight weeks of blockbusters lined up for our guests, so they can afford and enjoy extra movie-going with their friends. Together, we anticipate raising significant funds for …our autism organization partners.” > > …AMC Summer Nights will …fund medical research through Autism Speaks and improve access to services and support through the Autism Society, expanding the company’s commitment to helping people living with autism. AMC operates a monthly film series, AMC Sensory Friendly Films, in partnership with the Autism Society, and also administers AMC FOCUS [Furthering Opportunities, Cultivating Untapped Strengths], a program which provides individuals affected by disabilities with access to opportunities for competitive employment. > > “The Autism Society is proud to continue our work with AMC Theaters on both Sensory Friendly Films and their FOCUS program,” said Scott Badesch, president and CEO of the Autism Society. “We are grateful for their work on key issues, particularly meaningful employment for those affected by a disability. AMC’s leadership and generosity should serve as an example to the business community. The Autism Society’s participation in the AMC Summer Nights program will help us continue the important work of supporting families and individuals affected by autism; we are grateful for AMC’s continued support.” > > “AMC Summer Nights is a wonderful opportunity to see great movies while helping to raise funds and awareness of autism,” said Alec Elbert, Chief Strategy and Development Officer at Autism Speaks. “We are grateful to AMC Theatres for its commitment to supporting the autism community through this innovative program.”… Here is a link to a video of the commercial, ‘You’re Invited’: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LEiCMFTnJOk](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LEiCMFTnJOk) (sources: [Just Like You Films News Archives - Just Like You Films](http://justlikeyoufilms.org/category/announcements/); [https://www.autismspeaks.org/about-us/press-releases/amc-theatres%C2%AE-summer-nights-program-benefit-autism-organizations](https://www.autismspeaks.org/about-us/press-releases/amc-theatres%C2%AE-summer-nights-program-benefit-autism-organizations)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [January 6, 2016, 5:11am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/489 "2016-01-06T05:11:31Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Kansas. For many years, the _University of Kansas_ has been collaborating with the Lima, Peru-based non-profit, _Centro de Anne Sullivan del Peru_ (_CASP_). At first, the _University of Kansas_ offered scientific expertise to _CASP_. This collaboration was so successful that _CASP_ has grown to become an international model center of inclusion, education, training and research … > [@](#): > > …Some charitable efforts are planned on a grand scale. Others just happen, one person at a time. Such is the case with Dr. [Liliana] Mayo’s program, the Centro de Anne Sullivan del Peru. > Autism derails the development of skills during early childhood, including those on which language and social interaction are built. Compared with hunger, H.I.V. or malaria, the disorder does not loom large among the burdens facing the world’s poor children. But for the families of children with the disorder, it is not a small matter. > Treatments exist for autism, but the cost of the intense, specialized teaching that is involved can make it difficult for even parents in the United States to obtain, let alone in a third-world country. > All indications are that the autism caseload is soaring in poor and rich countries alike, said Robert L. Beck, the executive director of the Autism Society of America. > Mr. Beck said he was not aware of any organized efforts to provide support for autism services overseas. ‘‘All of the autism organizations here are really scrambling because they’re caught up in this explosion,’’ he said. > Dr. Mayo’s work began when, during her internship as a psychology student, she was transferred from a hospital to a special education school – ‘‘as a punishment for asking too many questions,’’ she said. There she met Patty, an autistic girl. ‘‘When I tried to teach her I realized that she learned fast,’’ Dr. Mayo said. A priest then took her to see other autistic children, and what she still remembers as ‘‘just horrible things – kids in cages, kids tied to chairs.’’ > Two years later, in 1979, she opened the school, named after Helen Keller’s teacher, in her parents’ home. In 1984, with about 50 children enrolled, Dr. Mayo’s parents sold a house they owned ‘‘so I could go the United States and see if we were doing a good job or not,’’ she recalled. Dr. Mayo applied to the University of Kansas in Lawrence because she had been impressed with the writings of a psychologist there, Dr. Judith LeBlanc. > Once in the United States, Dr. Mayo said, she asked every autism specialist she met to visit her school and help train her staff. ‘‘The only teacher who accepted the challenge was Dr. LeBlanc,’’ she said. > Dr. LeBlanc describes her first visit to the center as a bit of a lark. ‘‘I agreed because I was footloose and fancy free,’’ she remembered. She was also in the area, Venezuela, and Dr. Mayo persuaded an airline to give her a free ticket. > Her reaction, Dr. LeBlanc said, is one she hears echoed from professors who come to help, ‘‘You people are doing what we talk about in the books, but don’t always do.’’ > That was when a path began to be worn between Lima and Lawrence. Every spring semester, Dr. Mayo headed north to chip away at a master’s degree and then a doctorate in psychology, and every summer Dr. LeBlanc went south with a steadily increasing cadre of students and professors in tow. Dr. Mayo estimates that more than 300 people from the university have made the trip, often using tickets provided by American Airlines. > Dr. Mayo spent her time in Lawrence doing more than reading books. ‘‘I tried not only to study but to look for funding,’’ she said. ‘‘Always I find people who would give you a little money, but also try to find you other connections.’’ > Through Dr. LeBlanc, Dr. Mayo met a couple, Drs. Stephen and Carolyn Schroeder, who had created a nonprofit group called Annie Sullivan Enterprises to help students with disabilities who could not afford proper treatment. The Schroeders arranged for their group to accept donations to give to Dr. Mayo’s center… > > …All told, Dr. Mayo said, assistance from overseas makes up about 80 percent of the center’s budget. It doesn’t all come from the American Midwest – the Dutch Postal Lottery, for instance, provided $800,000 for the building and a painter from the Netherlands, Joop van der Wal, spent last week installing the 40 paintings he had created in 12 hours to raise money for the center. > The center now serves 350 students, ranging in age from early childhood to early adulthood, with autism or other developmental disabilities. It emphasizes parent training, and its services include behavioral teaching, vocational instruction and job placement, Dr. Mayo said. The goal is to prepare students to live independently; in fact, she said, several graduates are their family’s sole support. > The center also serves as a model for eight similar programs around Latin America and provides information through its Spanish-language Web site… > > ‘‘They know that the dollars they give us we stretch a lot,’’ Dr. Mayo said of her donors. ‘‘We’re very proud that we do first-class programs with fourth-class salaries.’’ > Mr. Flynn, who has heard and made plenty of appeals himself, cited several factors that have made Dr. Mayo successful in finding support. ‘‘She has high expectations for those kids and great love for what she does,’’ he said. ‘‘After being around for 20- plus years, she’s a proven commodity.’’… Here is a link to some photos of a visit from last year of some of Dr. Mayo’s _University of Kansas_ colleagues who have volunteered as consultants, trainers, administrators and fund raisers at _CASP_: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152745121026371.1073741861.148326706370&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152745121026371.1073741861.148326706370&type=3) (source: [OVERSEAS - Her Long-Distance Connections Came Through - NYTimes.com](http://www.nytimes.com/2002/11/18/giving/overseas-her-long-distance-connections-came-through.html?pagewanted=all)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [January 7, 2016, 12:42am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/490 "2016-01-07T00:42:15Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Kansas. The _Kansas City Autism Training Center_ (_KcATC_) is a Prairie Village, Kansas-based non-profit specialising in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Its mission is to provide professional, research-based intervention, training and education for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders… > [@](#): > > …Our doors are open year-round, providing 1:1 Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) that are customized for each child. KcATC also offers children on the autism spectrum opportunities for inclusion in our 2 preschool classrooms for typically developing children. > In addition to providing center-based intervention, KcATC offers in-home therapy and support in community programs… > > …Brian was four years old when he was enrolled in KcATC. He had fewer than 25 words in his vocabulary and was unable to express his wants and needs… Brian… only enjoyed playing with toys related to the Disney movie _Cars_. > After receiving about 1 year of part-time intervention at KcATC, Brian was …able to participate in our preschool classroom without support. He could communicate his wants and needs using multiple word sentences and could build friendships with peers in his class. > After two and a half years of intensive services at KcATC, Brian graduated from the program in September of 2012. He is now enrolled in a private school where he attends kindergarten in a regular classroom with 16 other students. He is learning in this environment without the support of a paraprofessional and without an IEP. > > …The 2013 Arsalon Golf Classic to benefit the [KcATC] will be held at the Blue Hills Country Club on Monday, May 20th… > …(KcATC) would like to thank Gary Hall and Bryan Porter with Arsalon Technologies. > …[the] support we receive through fundraising and increased awareness from Arsalon is critical to achieving our mission and goal. Arsalon is the primary sponsor for three of our main fundraisers to support scholarships and the expansion of services: The Arsalon Golf Classic, Taste Foundation Gala, and the Friends and Family events. We are proud to be associated with Arsalon and look forward to working with them in the future to continue to increase awareness and support for the Autism community. Here is a link to some photos from ‘Circus Day’ from almost two years ago at the day school program of _KcATC_, _Astra Day School_: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.524118344363904.1073741833.296609443781463&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.524118344363904.1073741833.296609443781463&type=3) (source: [KC Metro Cares April 2013 by CARES Magazine](http://issuu.com/417cares/docs/kcmapril13/11)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [January 7, 2016, 6:22am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/491 "2016-01-07T06:22:01Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Kansas. In the state of Kansas, the Technical Assistance Network (TASN) – Autism & Tertiary Behavior Supports, works to raise awareness and provide support every day to local communities through our efforts supported by both the Kansas State Department of Education and the Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund… > [@](#): > > In Kansas, a new system is changing the way the state supports special education students and teachers. Student outcomes and district needs take center stage. > > The new approach puts the schools? convenience above the service providers?, said Kevin Davis, a project coordinator with the CPD’s Center for Technical Assistance for Excellence in Special Education. This collaborative program with Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kansas focuses on meeting educational goals through collecting and analyzing data. Then it provides professional development at the district, school and classroom levels. > > It used to be up to the school districts to find their own specialists if they needed help. Now it’s up to Kansas’s Technical Assistance System Network, or TASN, to link school districts to the support they need. This allows the districts to draw from a larger pool of expertise. > > While it sounds simple, it has revolutionary undertones. ?We presented this idea at a national conference and people didn’t think we were serious,? said Marty Blair, associate director of TAESE. > > A recent survey found that over the past six months, 96 percent of respondents under the new system said they’d received assistance ?in a timely manner? and 90 percent rated the response as ?helpful? or ?very helpful.? > > School districts request for assistance through the TASN website, where school district staff click ?the big blue button.? TASN staff responds to the requests within five business days. > > ?We?re encouraged by the results,? Davis said. ?We are seeing more requests and involvement with the school districts." > > ?School districts get assistance quickly,? Dr. Blair added. ?Some is one-time, but more often the help involves intensive training over time, with multiple experts combining their efforts to meet complex needs.? > > Case study: behavior supports > > Here’s one example of the new system: A week-long summer institute on behavior. It included a chance for teachers to apply what they learned onsite, with real students. > > "So many times with training… we don’t get student impact data,? said Lee Stickle, a TASN provider of Autism and Tertiary Behavior Supports. “That to me is a critical difference between a ?sit and get? and actually working on skills.” > > The training brings in professionals from different fields. “Being involved in interdisciplinary conversations and teams, every one of us brings a distinct perspective to what we’re doing,? Stickle said. ?We get a much more comprehensive view.” > > “We have fewer kids that are exhibiting dangerous or self-injurious behaviors,” Stickle said. “We saw a reduction of those aberrant behaviors of about 23 percent. When those behaviors are not present, learning can take place.” > > Two-way communication > > The TASN experiment began three years ago, after administrators in Kansas took a hard look at their special education services. > > ?The previous model was disability-specific,? said Colleen Riley, the Director of Special Education Services in Kansas. Some providers overlapped services, other areas had gaps, and ?silos? had developed where professionals did not coordinate much with others. > > ?We weren’t improving our state data as far as the achievement of our students in reading and math, or in compliance in secondary transition,? Riley said. > > So the department’s administrators set some goals. They had already established a relationship with TAESE through work with the Mountain Plains Regional Resource Center. When Kansas Special Education Services decided to make some big changes to the way special educators were supported, they asked TAESE to help. > > Now, as year three begins, Riley said projects are working together and collecting data on professional development. > > The result is much more integrated. ?If districts want help they can ask for it and if districts need it, we can provide it. It’s not top down and it’s not bottom up. We can be both.? Here is a link to photos from last year’s summer institute: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.925362827527032.1073741826.132090590187597&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.925362827527032.1073741826.132090590187597&type=3) (source: [A new approach in Kansas puts first things first in special education](http://www.cpdusu.org/featuredstories/TASN/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [January 7, 2016, 8:12am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/492 "2016-01-07T08:12:33Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Kansas. _Community Living Opportunities_ (_CLO_) is an Overland Park, Kansas-based nonprofit whose mission is to make a meaningful difference in the lives of adults and children with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorders. Although there are numerous uses for _Midnight Farm_, a working farm run by _CLO_, the therapeutic horse riding program for children and adults with special needs is the most visible, operating out of a stable and arena that is attached to the main facility… > [@](#): > > Diana Burns straps on her helmet. > Volunteers help [her] onto her horse’s saddle and almost immediately a smile takes over her face. > “There’s something about that connection,” said Yolanda Hargett, a senior administrator with Community Living Opportunities, which provides services for adults and kids with developmental disabilities. “They seem to just really light up when they’re interacting with the animals.” > Now CLO’s nearly 400 clients have a place to do just that. > The 40-acre Midnight Farm in southeastern Douglas County …provides programs and opportunities for adults and children with special needs. There are even two houses on the property, where clients with disabilities live alongside a host family, experiencing the farm life. Plans call for two more houses to be built on the property in the future. > “It really is magical to be here,” said Diane Bannerman Juracek, head of children’s services, which this summer put on the farm’s first camp for children with autism and their parents. > “The kids were smiling for the entire week,” CEO Mike Strouse said. “It was amazing to see how incredibly happy the kids were.” > It’s a sight seen over and over again as both kids and adults with developmental disabilities flock to the farm to take part in the day program, which includes arts and crafts… > > The farm also has a petting zoo, with ponies, alpacas and even a fainting goat, as well as a therapeutic horseback riding program. > …All of the horses involved in the therapeutic riding program were donated to the organization, including two former world champions and a horse from the four-time National Championship University of Georgia equestrian team. > The farm is developing a horticulture program, in which clients will be able to help pick strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and other produce, then package the items and sell them at local farmer’s markets. > “We abandoned the notion of shelter-type arrangements for people with disabilities, in favor of strong community inclusion and enriching opportunities for them,” Strouse said. “For people with very significant developmental disabilities it can be challenging to find activities that are really enriching for them. That’s what this is all about.” > About 50 volunteers are working at the farm. Hargett would like to double or even triple that number as more programs get started. > “I’ve received e-mails from volunteers saying how much it has touched their hearts and made life so meaningful for them by helping,” she said. > Midnight Farm is celebrating its opening with an event called Bubbles and Barbeque on Saturday. About 700 people have been invited to the farm for the fundraiser. Here is a link to some photos of a ‘Spring Showcase’ taken a couple of years ago at _CLO_’s _Midnight Farm_ in Baldwin City, Kansas: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152175739101051.1073741840.156822046050&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10152175739101051.1073741840.156822046050&type=3) (source: [Midnight Farm](http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2009/sep/07/midnight-farms-magical-effect-problems-disappear-s/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [January 8, 2016, 3:53am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/493 "2016-01-08T03:53:24Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Kansas. The _Easter Seals Capper Foundation_ is a Topeka, Kansas-based nonprofit whose mission to enhance the independence of people with disabilities, primarily children and their families. The organisation’s ‘Autism Spectrum Resource Center’ provides support and training for parents and services for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders… > [@](#): > > …Because autism affects each individual differently and at varying degrees, the Capper Foundation has worked to develop autism resources across disciplines. > > For example, autism specialist Linda Burgen and occupational therapist Wilma Ferkol draw on different educational programs to develop therapy methods. > > “I tend to look at behaviors, and she looks at sensory issues,” Burgen says. “We’re both seeing the same things happen, but we bring different components as to how we might work to change behaviors to help the child adjust. It could be anything from addressing difficulties with eating to responding to people who approach them.” > > But Capper Foundation staff members also stress that early diagnosis and treatment—which Burgen says ideally would include identifying [Autism Spectrum Disorders] by 3 years of age—can be crucial in any case of autism. > > The early identification, Burgen explains, allows parents and staff to help the child develop communication skills and the ability to interact with people. > > “If they don’t have these good communication skills by age 3, then more than likely they will develop communication problems by age 5. If we are proactive, then we can avoid these frustrations.” > > “It’s critical—crucial—to have early diagnosis before age 2 if possible,” says Topeka parent Melinda Bingham. > > Her 5-year-old son, Micah, was diagnosed with autism and has been working with Capper’s staff since he was 27 months old. > > Bingham credits Micah’s occupational therapy and speech therapy with Capper staff as being essential to his development. > > Bingham, a social worker who has three children in addition to Micah, says the Capper’s staff members have been “supporting, encouraging, loving and caring every step of the way,” and they, in turn, praise the role of dedicated parents like her. > > “Every little bit helps,” says Burgen. “Any time a parent can assist and implement techniques we teach, and any time other adults or organizations that they are involved with …can assist, than this can be a huge benefit not only to the children, but to the people in the community.” > > Burgen adds that it’s crucial for parents to build a community of support for themselves—friends, social groups and community organizations that they may tap—as they work to nurture their autistic child and their own legacy of care. > > “There are others out there who understand the joys and hardships that come with a special-needs kiddo,” says Bingham. “It’s helpful to have a network of people to call and celebrate with or cry to—that helps a lot.” Here is a link to a video on the _Easter Seals Capper Foundation_: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLhKbeDaojA](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLhKbeDaojA) (source: [Topeka Magazine Winter 2010 by Sunflower Publishing at The World Company](http://issuu.com/sunflower_publishing/docs/tm10w/60)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [January 9, 2016, 2:05am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/494 "2016-01-09T02:05:53Z")
The subject of yesterday’s post was the _Easter Seals Capper Foundation_, a Topeka, Kansas-based nonprofit whose mission to enhance the independence of people with disabilities, primarily children and their families. The organisation’s ‘Autism Spectrum Resource Center’ provides support and training for parents and services for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The ‘Topeka Autism Support Group’ is a service supported by the _Easter Seals Capper Foundation_. The Group meets at 5:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month at the _Topeka Shawnee County Public Library_ and provides opportunities for parent-to-parent sharing of resources and for community professionals to provide training, education and support for parents of children and adults on the Autism Spectrum… > [@](#): > > Berryton resident Gerald Mowery says nearly every day he meets teachers and other people who know little about autism. That alone tells him more must be done to promote awareness of the disorder. > > Mowery, whose 8-year-old daughter Elizabeth has autism, and other representatives of the Topeka Parents Autism Support Group at Easter Seals Capper Foundation are coordinating an Autism Awareness Carnival to increase knowledge of autism and raise money for programs that support children and families living with the disorder. > > The free carnival will be from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 17 at Tecumseh Park, S.E. 2nd Street and Tecumseh Road, in Tecumseh. > > “Raising people’s awareness of autism, that’s our goal,” he said. > > Informational booths will be set up throughout the park, and individuals who can answer questions about autism will be available. > > Activities for children include Lil Pumper, an inflatable slide that resembles a smiling fire engine, a crawl-through sea monster and a clown making balloon sculptures. Playground equipment also is available at the park. > > Hot dogs, hamburgers, corn dogs, potato chips, potato and macaroni salads, beverages, cotton candy and popcorn will be available free of charge. > > “We have enough to serve 500 to 600 people,” Mowery said. > > Tickets will be sold for baskets containing a variety of items, including gluten-free products, tickets to a Topeka Civic Theatre musical and the Discovery Center, admission to the North Shawnee Family Aquatic Center and gift cards. A vendor will be selling T-shirts with the autism awareness logo, which features a jigsaw puzzle piece. > > Mowery said proceeds from the basket auction and 15 percent of T-shirt sales will go to the parents’ support group. The money will be used to help establish an autism resource center/library and other needs. > > About 50 volunteers will be donating their time at the carnival, he said… Below is a link to photos from the ‘Kansas Law Enforcement - Run to Remember’ from a couple of years ago; proceeds from the event benefited both the _Fraternal Order of Police Auxiliary, Topeka #3_ and the _Easter Seals Capper Foundation_: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.632852810116101.1073741829.204103852991001&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.632852810116101.1073741829.204103852991001&type=3) (source: [ERROR: The requested URL could not be retrieved](http://cjonline.com/news/2011-04-09/parents-hope-carnival-will-increase-awareness-autism)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [January 10, 2016, 2:45am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/495 "2016-01-10T02:45:54Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Kansas. _KidsTLC_ is an Olathe, Kansas-based non-profit program for children that has a broad mission, including helping children and their families cope with Autism and wellness issues. _KidsTLC_’s Autism Program offers an evidence-based, multi-disciplinary model for children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder, Social Communication Disorder, or relative developmental disabilities… > [@](#): > > When Matthew was almost 2 years old, his mother began noticing that he had a speech delay. > At 2 [and a half] years old, his problems interacting with others became more apparent. > Then he was diagnosed with pervasive development disorder, which is on the autism spectrum. > Just six months after Matthew was diagnosed, his mother sought out the help of KidsTLC, an Olathe-based nonprofit pediatric mental health center that has been expanding with a flourish in the past three years, including opening an autism center in 2013. > Before Matthew began working with KidsTLC, he had a hard time articulating what he was feeling. After almost two years of early-intervention treatment, he has learned how to express himself, said Kim, who asked that her last name not be used to protect the family’s privacy. > “Before, there was lots of screaming and kicking and temper tantrums because he wasn’t able to express his emotions,” Kim said. “Now he’s using his words and he can talk about it.” > Working with the therapists at KidsTLC also helped Matthew develop his social skills. > “When he was in daycare, he was the kiddo in the corner playing by himself,” Kim said. “Now he’s in the middle of it all and asking kids and adults to play with him.” > On Jan. 9, almost two years after Matthew began treatment at KidsTLC, he graduated from the program. > “I feel like I owe them the world,” Kim said. “It’s just been life-changing for us. You always hear the importance of early intervention, and we’ve lived that. It’s the best gift.” > > Just off Interstate 35 and South Rogers Road in Olathe sits a campus of buildings off a long feeder road. > The buildings, arranged in a U-formation, are nondescript on the outside. > One houses a gymnasium, another conference rooms and offices. A separate structure offers residential space and therapy rooms. > But the buildings aren’t what bring thousands of families to the campus every year. > It’s the help and healing that takes place inside. > It’s the relief that Kim felt after her young son received treatment for autism. > > …Part of KidsTLC’s growth is due in part to the vision of former CEO Bob Drummond, who retired last August after 13 years with the organization. > Through fundraising, donations and grants, Drummond helped increase KidsTLC’s revenue from $1.6 million in 2002 to an astounding $12.6 million in 2012. Drummond also spearheaded the construction of the Kelly Family Foundation Behavioral Health, Autism and Wellness Center, a space equipped with therapy and examination rooms, a gymnasium and offices that opened its doors in 2013. > …KidsTLC had treated clients with the autism spectrum diagnosis in their residential program before, but did not offer specialized treatment. > …“We really needed something in the Olathe area,” said Laci Maltbie, autism program director for KidsTLC. “The community really needed an autism program that offered a broad range of services.” > As KidsTLC continues to see more patients, its services and presence in the community continue to grow. > Just two years after the wellness center opened, treatment is in even more high demand. Over the winter holidays, the residential center was almost at capacity with 60 children. > Both KidsTLC’s autism and outpatient behavioral health programs have waiting lists for patients seeking services, with more referrals from clinicians and insurance providers in the area. > > …Although most of the patients who receive services from KidsTLC are located in Johnson County, the treatment center also serves kids and families from the metro area as well as out of state. > “In a number of different ways, KidsTLC tries to help kids and families who really need help,” said Gordon Docking, the president and chief executive officer of KidsTLC. “There’s a reason why we don’t just serve kids from Johnson County. We receive kids from all over the state of Kansas. It’s because of the unique programs and the unique therapy models we offer that have demonstrated good outcomes that people are seeking us out from all over the state.” > > …The words ‘hope,’ ‘love out loud’ and ‘opportunity’ greet each patient who walks into the wellness center at KidsTLC, which houses the program’s autism services. > Located to the side of the waiting room is a family resource center, where parents can check out reading material or use computers to learn more about their child’s diagnosis. > New since 2013, KidsTLC’s autism unit provides social, speech, language and occupational therapy services for patients on a broad spectrum and in a wide age range. > Children ages 18 months to 14 years old can be treated at the Olathe campus, from those who are nonverbal to others who are high functioning but need help with social skills. > No matter what age or place on the autism spectrum, the key component of treatment is that the kids receive early intervention. > “When families originally get their autism diagnosis, it’s of course very, very overwhelming, and then getting in and trying to learn about how to navigate the system is that much more overwhelming,” said Maltbie, the autism program director for KidsTLC. “To give them a place to go to where they can get all their answers was much needed.” > …“When you get this diagnosis, it’s so overwhelming and you don’t know which direction to go,” said Kim. “It’s a complete blessing they opened six months after getting his diagnosis.”… > > …George Thompson, the chief medical officer of KidsTLC, was having a casual conversation with a 10-year-old patient, who was admitted to the residential program. “What do you want to be when you grow up?” Thompson asked the boy. > The boy didn’t want to be a teacher, a firefighter, a police officer or a doctor. He wanted to work for KidsTLC. > “When I grow up I want to work here, because I want to help kids the way I’m being helped right now,” the boy told Thompson. > “I can’t think of a better way to explain what we do than that,” Docking said. “Here’s a kid who came here for a very specific reason, and he wants to pay it forward.” Here is a link to a video on _KidsTLC_: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ooRKjXvd50M](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ooRKjXvd50M) (source: [Olathe](http://www.kansascity.com/news/local/community/joco-913/article9704231.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [January 11, 2016, 3:15am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/496 "2016-01-11T03:15:45Z")
The subject of a recent post was the long-term collaboration between the _University of Kansas_ and a Lima, Peru-based non-profit, _Centro de Anne Sullivan del Peru_. The _Kansas Center for Autism Research and Training_ (_K-CART_) is an Overland Park, Kansas-based nonprofit based on the _University of Kansas’_ _Edwards campus that_ was established eight years ago with private and public funds to promote research and training on the causes, nature and management of Autism Spectrum Disorders. _K-CART_ provides clinical services through its alliance with the _Center for Child Health and Development_ (_CCHD_) at the _University of Kansas Medical Center_… > [@](#): > > It’s a difficult first step, the first in what may indeed become a 1,000- mile journey. For parents, the idea of speaking to a healthcare provider about a child’s atypical development is wrought with fear but the sooner that conversation can take place, the better. > > The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control recommend that babies be screened during well-child doctor visits for autism at 18 and 24 months or whenever there is concern. But the average age of an autism diagnosis is much older — age 4 nationally, age 3.5 in Kansas. > > That’s why K-CART’s clinical partner, the Center for Child Health and Development (CCHD) at the KU Medical Center, plays a vital role in statewide efforts to lower the average age of diagnosis and begin intervention services. > > Under the direction of Kathryn Ellerbeck, a developmental-behavioral pediatrician and K-CART co-director, the CCHD provides evaluations, diagnostics and specialty clinics. More than half of the children seen in CCHD’s weekly clinics are ultimately diagnosed with autism. > > The CCHD also screens patients via telemedicine and by outreach to smaller communities. Teams of CCHD physicians, nurses, psychologists, occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists trained in developmental > disabilities travel to rural communities… > > Each team can screen and diagnose as many as 10 children in a single community during an outreach visit for a range of developmental delays including autism. > > …One of CCHD’s most important community partners is the Kansas Technical Assistance System Network (TASN), funded by the Kansas State Department of Education, which provides assessment services for Kansas school districts. > > If a school is having difficulty responding to the behavior of a child and especially when a disability is suspected, a TASN consultant will conduct on-site assessments and recommend interventions to the school team. > > Kansas now has a large network of school autism diagnostic teams trained by the CCHD and TASN — a total of 46 teams serving 95 out of 105 counties. > > After the school teams assesses the child, TASN then refers the child to CCHD where faculty conduct a follow-up diagnostic interview to confirm the diagnosis at an abbreviated face-to-face clinic visit or via telemedicine. > > …When a child is diagnosed with autism, one of the most common questions posed by anxious parents is, “What can we do next?” Unfortunately, it can take months to line up what should come next: long-term intervention providers. > > To bridge the period from diagnosis to intervention, the CCHD Bridge Clinic provides temporary services. The Bridge Clinic provides skills assessment, individualized programming, treatment of problem behaviors and treatment plans for daily living activities, such as dressing, …language development and social skills. Typically the Bridge Clinic serves children for a period of two to six months before they transition to their own provider. > > CHDC also offers a long-distance intervention and training program, the Online and Applied System for Intervention Skills (OASIS), that helps parents and other caregivers increase their children’s independent skills and > reduce problem behaviors. > > …The CCHD also has stepped to the forefront of creating bioinformatics on autism, including a database on all children who receive intake services at CCHD. CCHD now has a database of approximately 6,000 patients, including more than 250 data items on medical and diagnostic history. > > …“There is tremendous potential for vigorous research, for sharing the CCHD’s clinical research database and for much more collaborative work in general,” Ellerbeck said. “We plan to integrate our efforts in exciting new ways to make a difference for children with [Autism Spectrum Disorders].” Here is a link to photos from last year’s _TASN_ Summer Institute: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.925362827527032.1073741826.132090590187597&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.925362827527032.1073741826.132090590187597&type=3) (source: [Home | Kansas Center For Autism Research and Training](http://kcart.ku.edu/files/Lifespan-KCART-AnnualReport.pdf)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [January 12, 2016, 1:11am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/497 "2016-01-12T01:11:26Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Kansas. _Autism Meet Optimism_ is a Manhattan, Kansas-based non-profit that was started not only to be able to contribute to the Autism community financially but to provide education to the general public regarding people with Autism Spectrum Disorders. It was founded by Brandy Porter, who with her husband, William Porter, acted in honor of their eight-year-old son Will, who is autistic, and Jill Tinkel, a teacher who has worked with Will for the past four years… > [@](#): > > Tomorrow, Friday, November 12th, O’Malley’s Alley, in the heart of Aggieville, will be hosting $1 Shot Night to help raise money for the foundation, Autism Meets Optimism. > > We know that everybody’s favorite thing to do in Aggieville is…Drink, (especially at O’Malley’s – mmmmm Belfasts!) but the people at Wildcat 91.9 and Aggieville Entertainment think it is time to put that money spent on drinking towards a good cause! > > That is why they have teamed up for this event. > > …The Wildcat 91.9 and Aggieville Entertainment are putting on the first $1 Shot Night at O’Malley’s tomorrow night starting at 9:30pm. > > With just $1, Aggieville patrons can head to O’Malley’s and order “The Antidote” Shot. And yes, they get to keep the special 91.9 Shot glass for their generous donation. > > Each and every single dollar spent on “The Antidote” goes to support the Autism Meets Optimism foundation, a group aimed at making it easier for families who are affected by autism to get the medical treatment they need. > > “O’Malley’s is more than just beer and Belfasts. We are excited that we get to be a part of raising money for this great cause” says Jessica Heinen, Assistant Manager of O’Malley’s Alley. > > …they started this foundation to help families that could not otherwise afford to receive additional therapies for their child with autism. > > All of the donations go to other agencies that work with individuals with autism, all staying in Kansas and primarily in the Manhattan area. > > …So to those of you reading this blog, if you live in the Manhattan area, we ask that you stop by O’Malley’s to get your drink on with “The Antidote” Shot. > > Not only will you have a blast, but you will be helping out a great cause that can have a positive effect on so many Manhattan families. > > While you are there, enjoy cheap Miller High-Life’s, have a Belfast, and hang with your friends! > > See everyone there! Here is a link to photos of _Autism Meet Optimism_’s ‘1st Annual Walk for Recovery’ held four years ago at _City Park_ in Manhattan, Kansas: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.192922000767804.48578.188874884505849&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.192922000767804.48578.188874884505849&type=3) (sources: [http://webmedia.newseum.org/newseum-multimedia/tfp\_archive/2012-04-15/pdf/KS\_MM.pdf](http://webmedia.newseum.org/newseum-multimedia/tfp_archive/2012-04-15/pdf/KS_MM.pdf); [Take A Shot…It’s For The Kids | Aggieville Entertainment's Blog](https://aggievilleentertainment.wordpress.com/2010/11/11/take-a-shot-its-for-the-kids/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [January 13, 2016, 2:30am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/498 "2016-01-13T02:30:40Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Kansas. _Autism Meets Optimism_ is a Manhattan, Kansas-based non-profit that was started not only to be able to contribute to the Autism community financially but to provide education to the general public regarding people with Autism Spectrum Disorders. It was founded by Brandy Porter, who with her husband, William Porter, acted in honor of their eight-year-old son Will, who is autistic, and Jill Tinkel, a teacher who has worked with Will for the past four years… > [@](#): > > Tomorrow, Friday, November 12th, O’Malley’s Alley, in the heart of Aggieville, will be hosting $1 Shot Night to help raise money for the foundation, Autism Meets Optimism. > > We know that everybody’s favorite thing to do in Aggieville is…Drink, (especially at O’Malley’s – mmmmm Belfasts!) but the people at Wildcat 91.9 and Aggieville Entertainment think it is time to put that money > spent on drinking towards a good cause! > > That is why they have teamed up for this event. > > …The Wildcat 91.9 and Aggieville Entertainment are putting on the first $1 Shot Night at O’Malley’s tomorrow night starting at 9:30pm. > > With just $1, Aggieville patrons can head to O’Malley’s and order ‘The Antidote’ Shot. And yes, they get to keep the special 91.9 Shot glass for their generous donation. > > Each and every single dollar spent on ‘The Antidote’ goes to support the Autism Meets Optimism foundation, a group aimed at making it easier for families who are affected by autism to get the medical treatment they need. > > “O’Malley’s is more than just beer and Belfasts. We are excited that we get to be a part of raising money for this great cause” says Jessica Heinen, Assistant Manager of O’Malley’s Alley. > > …they started this foundation to help families that could not otherwise afford to receive additional therapies for their child with autism. > > All of the donations go to other agencies that work with individuals with autism, all staying in Kansas and primarily in the Manhattan area. > > …So to those of you reading this blog, if you live in the Manhattan area, we ask that you stop by O’Malley’s to get your drink on with ‘The Antidote’ Shot. > > Not only will you have a blast, but you will be helping out a great cause that can have a positive effect on so many Manhattan families. > > While you are there, enjoy cheap Miller High-Life’s, have a Belfast, and hang with your friends! Here is a link to a video on the _No Stone Unturned Therapeutic Learning Center_, a local facility that _Autism Meets Optimism_ helped to create: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GnCKuB9yAik](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GnCKuB9yAik) (sources: [http://webmedia.newseum.org/newseum-multimedia/tfp\_archive/2012-04-15/pdf/KS\_MM.pdf](http://webmedia.newseum.org/newseum-multimedia/tfp_archive/2012-04-15/pdf/KS_MM.pdf); [Take A Shot…It’s For The Kids | Aggieville Entertainment's Blog](https://aggievilleentertainment.wordpress.com/2010/11/11/take-a-shot-its-for-the-kids/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [January 14, 2016, 12:33am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/499 "2016-01-14T00:33:37Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Kansas. To the east, _Autism Outreach Fellowship_ is a Lee’s Summit, Missouri-based nonprofit that sponsors events for all families with Special Needs children, including Autism Spectrum Disorders… > [@](#): > > Throughout her life, Lee’s Summit resident Betty Sharp has done many notable things. She has been a wife for 58 years to her husband Ben and the mother of Jim and Mike, two men she describes as ‘wonderful sons,’ and a grandmother to Jackie, Danielle, and Dalton. > > Betty has worked with Ben in various business ventures, owned a small flower shop. She helped with the creation of an alumni association in her hometown of Lapanto, Arkansas, and still actively works to bring tourism to the small town. Perhaps her most impactful role came when her family faced one of its greatest challenges. > > That challenge began years ago while her son Jim and his family lived in California. On a visit to see her young grandchildren, Betty recalled noticing something with two-year-old Dalton. > > “When he was a little boy, we noticed some things were not right,” Betty recalled. A visit to the doctor confirmed the family’s fears: Dalton was autistic. That discovery began a journey for Betty, who witnessed her son his wife, Chelo, struggle to find resources for their family. > > “They have dealt with it together from the beginning,” Betty said of Jim and Chelo. “They have both been excellent.” > > Together with Jim, Betty founded Autism Outreach Fellowship, a local organization that plans four events per year for families with autistic or special needs children. > > Betty’s vision has been to provide information and support families affected by autism. She has worked tirelessly to offer hope and joy through fun events, where families with children on the autism spectrum and children with special needs could come and enjoy some time together with as little stress on the families as possible. “We have tried to make it as easy as possible,” she explained. > > For example, families are not required to reserve a spot for events, because things can change on a dime. > > There is never a cost to the families for the events, including for other family members. “You can’t rush an autistic child. They have to do it on their own time,” Betty explained. “It’s a different world until you live in it.” > > What these families need the most from others, Betty explained, is compassion, understanding, and patience. > > When others notice a child in the store breaking down in a fit, it is never clear what is wrong, she said. Parents of children on the autism spectrum struggle with the daily unpredictability of the disorder and how it will affect the rest of the family. > > Hundreds of families have been served by the organization. Four main annual events include a Swim Party, Special Needs Campout, Pumpkin Party, and Christmas Party. > > Betty continually seeks more opportunities to partner with or assist other organizations in their endeavors to bring awareness and activities to the families with special needs members. > > The support the organization has received from area businesses and volunteers has been wonderful, and Betty is never afraid to ask for help for the families she serves. > > “I’ll ask anyone,” she said. “All they can say is ‘no,’ but they might say yes.” > > From the beginning, the mission to help local families has been blessed with the dedication and assistance from others… > > Betty credits her son with continuing to find resources and education for families facing the challenges of autism… > > Betty’s service extends to EITAS, or the Developmental Disability Services of Jackson County, where she has served as a board member for the past several years. Her commitment to the board is an extension of the service she gives to disabled persons, though the board serves adults. > > Reflecting on her service, Betty shrugs off the idea of obtaining some measure of success with her efforts; for her, there is still much to be done. “I don’t think about success,” she said. “I just do what needs to be done.” Here is a link to photos of an _Autism Outreach Fellowship_ ‘Pumpkin Party’ from a couple of years ago: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.606920889346989.1073741826.353987131307034&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.606920889346989.1073741826.353987131307034&type=3) (source: [Betty Sharp of Autism Outreach Fellowship - Lee’s Summit Tribune - Lee’s Summit News](http://lstribune.net/lees-summit-news/women-in-business/betty-sharp-of-autism-outreach-fellowship.htm)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [January 14, 2016, 3:42am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/500 "2016-01-14T03:42:34Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Kansas. To the east, _Access Arts_ is a Columbia, Missouri-based nonprofit whose mission is to provide creative learning experiences for everyone, including individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders. _Access Arts_ hosts various workshops throughout the year and offers weekly classes for all ages and abilities… > [@](#): > > For children with autism, mastering the art of communication is a work in progress, but the Thompson Center’s Art for Autism program provides another outlet of self-expression over the program’s three-week sessions each fall and spring. > > Last week, a new group of children completed several art projects, and formed friendships, with the help of Access Arts instructors and volunteers from the Thompson Center. > > “I’ve really enjoyed seeing the transformation from when the kids first met, to where they are now,” said Caroline… one of the instructors. “They really went from doing their own thing to having in-depth conversations, mostly about Minecraft, and they bonded over a mutual love of art and video games.” > > Instructors guided the children through projects such as turkey masks with watercolor leaves for the younger group… > > Joey Ryder, 7, who had never taken an art class before, has always been very creative and had a passion for art, said his mother, Dawn Ryder. > > “It’s given Joey a great outlet, and it’s been very therapeutic for him to unleash his creative energy into art,” Ryder said. “He’s always displayed creativity and since art is something he really loves, he’s looking forward to the next session in the spring.” > > Art for Autism also offers a preview of classes available at Access Arts… > > At the conclusion of each session, participants typically donate one piece of art that will be sold or auctioned at events and traveling exhibits throughout the year to support the program. > > “Art for Autism is an opportunity to give kids with autism a fun, inclusive experience in a creative exercise,” said Thompson Center Development Coordinator Miriam Cullimore, who organizes the event. “We make it happen each semester with the generosity of our partner Access Arts and community supporters.” Here is a link to photos, from a few years ago, of art day at the _Thompson Center for Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disorders_ in Columbia, Missouri: [https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150932629611205.408277.135554956204&type=3](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150932629611205.408277.135554956204&type=3) (source: [https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/resources/news/children-with-autism-make-art-friends/](https://thompsoncenter.missouri.edu/resources/news/children-with-autism-make-art-friends/)) [Previous page](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615.md?page=24) [Next page](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615.md?page=26)