# '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:** 52
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 21, 2017, 6:36am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1021 "2017-05-21T06:36:50Z")
The subject of the last couple of posts has been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Virginia. _SwimRVA_ is a Richmond, Virginia-based nonprofit whose mission is to elevate swimming in the Richmond region making water safety and aquatic fitness more accessible to all; its vision is to change lives through aquatics, including for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders… > [@](#): > > A new SwimRVA program may provide some peace of mind to parents of children with autism. > > …SwimRVA, the nonprofit which runs the Collegiate School Aquatics Center in Chesterfield, is offering a program that provides one-on-one swimming lessons for autistic children. > > It was a natural extension of one of the nonprofit’s missions, to drown-proof metro area residents, according to Deb Kelo, director of programs for SwimRVA. > > “We realized we had to do something,” she said. > > The program began April 5 and took about a year to develop, according to Kelo. There are about 13 children participating, with lessons given at the aquatics center. SwimRVA worked with the Autism Society of Central Virginia and Virginia Commonwealth University’s Autism Center for Excellence to develop the autism program. > > “Many individuals with autism love and are drawn to water; therefore, water safety and swimming instruction are extremely important for those with autism,” said Becky Boswell, executive director for Autism Society Central Virginia. > > Lessons are offered Tuesdays and Thursdays, with seven instructors available to provide a half hour of individualized training. The cost is $92 a month for one weekly lesson, or $168 for two weekly sessions. Some help may be available in paying for the lessons through the ASCV Social & Recreational Scholarship Program. Membership is monthly. > > …Currently, the youngest swimmer is 3 and a half, [Kelo] said. One goal is to work with the children so they can participate in regular programs such as group lessons or swim teams. > > The program has additional benefits, even for children who already know how to swim. > > For 13-year-old Kyle Aldridge, the classes offers a chance to work on improving his technique and to get a bit of exercise, according to his mother, Holly. > > Parents are encouraged to stay and watch, and the Carytown resident has been impressed with the staff’s effectiveness in working with the children. > > “They did their homework and I’m really impressed with that,” she says. > > Kyle has been at the pool twice a week since the program began, and enjoys it. He wants to participate in a swim competition, and will stay active in the program “for as long as we can,” says his mom. It’s something to work towards, so we are." > > Ashland resident Jennifer Mistall-Kashinejad says her son, 11-year-old Aden, is a strong swimmer, but like Kyle, needs instruction in improving his swim strokes. > > “He loves the water, so anything to do with swimming or access to that is a bonus for him,” she said. > > Enhancing his technique and stroke would help him get to safety in case of a mishap. She also hopes that Aden may eventually be able to be part of their neighbourhood’s summer swim team. > > "He’s a good swimmer, but I wanted him to learn stronger skills, " she said. > > Mistall-Kashinejad said she’s been impressed with how the instructional staff has adapted on the job. She said they had a good clinical understanding of autism going into the program, and are “doing a good job of adapting to real-life autism.”… Here is a link to a video from _SwimRVA_ from last year: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JajbaEdxyj4](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JajbaEdxyj4) (source: [Autism Swims - richmondmagazine.com](http://richmondmagazine.com/life-style/health/autism-swims/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 22, 2017, 9:11am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1022 "2017-05-22T09:11:37Z")
The subject of the last few posts has been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Virginia. The _Faison School for Autism_ is a Richmond, Virginia-based nonprofit that offers a comprehensive curriculum for school-age children and their families. It bases its services on the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis and components of the Comprehensive Application of Behavior Analysis to Schooling (CABAS?) philosophy… > [@](#): > > Plans are underway for the 15th annual Art for Autism Gala! This year’s event will be held on Friday, April 15, 2016 at Dover Hall Estate. Surrounded by English Tudor elegance and pastoral views, this special evening will feature a seated dinner catered by the award-winning chefs of Mosaic, a cocktail hour and silent auction, and our signature live auction featuring the work of exceptional locally and nationally recognized artists. All only 10 minutes west of Short Pump Town Center! > > The Art for Autism Gala is an annual benefit to support and bring awareness to The Faison Center. Last April’s Gala raised over $500,000 which directly supports the programs at The Faison Center. The centerpiece of the gala is a live auction, which features coveted works of art and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. The world-class artwork is procured and curated by Reynolds Gallery is donated by artists who generously support Faison. Donor artists over the years have included Wolf Kahn, Isca Greenfield-Sanders, Gerald Donato, Ron Johnson, Heide Trepanier and Sally Mann to name a few. > > The Faison Center is a one-of-a-kind learning center where state-of-the-art autism therapies are implemented and advanced for individuals as young as 16 months… Through our three-pronged approach of evidence-based treatment, research and community education, Faison has established itself as a national model and continues to expand and grow with new initiatives designed to span the life cycle of children and families living with autism. Always responsive to the latest research and needs of the Autism Spectrum Disorder population, Faison continues to develop new programs with an eye toward replication across the country… Here is a link to a video from the _Faison School for Autism_: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OxDBpfy7JtQ](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OxDBpfy7JtQ) (source: [400 Bad Request](http://artguidemag.com/artforautism/2016/4/8/art-for-autism-a-richmond-art-event-is-auctioning-art-for-the-faison-center)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 23, 2017, 9:31am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1023 "2017-05-23T09:31:55Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Virginia. The _Blue Ridge Autism and Achievement Center_ (_BRAAC_), a program of _SVH Services_, is Southwest Virginia-based nonprofit center that provides education and services for individuals affected by various challenges. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders… > [@](#): > > Smith wants the best education for her seven-year-old son, Liam. > > “This is a child who stands at the front door, waiting and asking for the bus,” Smith said. “He loves school so much.” > > …“People don’t understand that these children have value,” Smith said. “They basically think that they’re not going to amount to anything. It makes it hard for them to want to spend money on them.” > > Liam attends the Blue Ridge Autism and Achievement Center (BRAAC)… BRAAC is a nonprofit private education system licensed by the Virginia Department of Education that offers a highly structured program for students with learning disabilities and autism. Private schools for children with special needs, such as BRAAC, have received state funding under the Children’s Services Act (CSA) since 1993. > > BRAAC serves 100 students [from the age of 2]… > > The CSA does not define a specific spending limit for the amount of money the state should use toward funding private special education. If a student is placed in a private special-education school, the state and local governments are responsible for the student’s tuition if the parents cannot afford to pay on their own. > > …Tuition at BRAAC can cost $3,500 to $62,000 a year. Giuliano said the cost depends on the level of expertise and staff support each student requires – from the preschool program to specialized, one-on-one instruction. > > An individual work station used by students at BRAAC Lexington. > “We work with some amazing school systems,” Giuliano said. “However, there is a certain point where we’re able to offer an individualized education that can rarely be done in a public school setting – simply due to staffing.” > > BRAAC Lexington currently serves 10 students from Buena Vista, Rockbridge County and Augusta County. The center has four classrooms, where two to three students are placed at individual work stations for one-on-one instruction with a behavior technician. Each student follows an individualized plan – whether life skills, such as eating and brushing teeth, or communication skills. > > Giuliano said BRAAC does its best to cover costs on its own – with fundraising events and grant writing – but is still reliant on CSA-mandated funding. > > …Andrea Smith, however, is still fearful of possible state budget cuts. She knows firsthand what can happen if a child with autism does not receive the proper education and care that private schools such as BRAAC offer. > > In 2014, Smith and her family briefly moved to Howard County, Maryland. > > …Two years later, Smith moved her family back to Lynchburg just so Liam could return to BRAAC. > > “We’re so happy to be back,” she said. “He can function. He can be a person. BRAAC has been life-changing.” > > The General Assembly’s work group is to submit a report to the chairmen of the House Appropriations and Senate Finance committees by Nov. 1, in advance of the next regular General Assembly session. Meanwhile, educators and parents alike are contacting state representatives and sharing their stories. > > “I am grateful that [the amendments] did not pass, but our work is not done,” Smith said. “These kids’ lives are very much on the line.” Here is a link to a short video from the _BRAAC_ preschool from last year: [https://www.facebook.com/braacva/videos/10154612189284381/](https://www.facebook.com/braacva/videos/10154612189284381/) (source: [Virginia rethinks funding for private special education - Rockbridge Report](http://rockbridgereport.academic.wlu.edu/2017/03/09/virginia-rethinks-funding-private-special-education/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 24, 2017, 10:11am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1024 "2017-05-24T10:11:53Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Virginia. _STEPS_ is a National Institute of Health-funded research study based in Blacksburg, Virginia. Utilising a participatory process approach to program development, STEPS seeks to meet the self-identified needs of all central stakeholders including the student with Autism Spectrum Disorders facing transition, the student’s parents or guardians, and the student’s secondary and post-secondary school… > [@](#): > > With a growing number of people being diagnosed with Autism, the Virginia Tech Center for Autism Research, affiliated with the College of Science, is breaking new ground in helping those who have the condition succeed in what is for anyone, a new, challenging, and often difficult environment – college. > > With a $666,000 grant from the National Institutes of Mental Health, a division of the National Institutes of Health, Susan White, associate professor of psychology and co-director of the Virginia Tech Autism Clinic, has been working many years to make Virginia Tech the most Autism friendly campus in America. > > “Members of the Department of Psychology and the staff of the Services for Students with Disabilities office have been working for about six years now providing free support groups for students, staff and faculty,” she said. “We’re getting closer and it needs to include more than just the students with …(Autism Spectrum Disorder), it needs to include everyone and permeate the institutional climate to go beyond tolerance and toward embracing differences and building strengths so all students can meet their potential.” > > White says the neurodiversity initiative won’t be easy as it will require working with families, providers, and students to tap into the capacity of Virginia Tech to attract highly talented students. > > “Autism isn’t like other disabilities in that there isn’t an easily identifiable instrument, such as a wheelchair ramp, that triggers people to think about access for those with disabilities,” White said. “Autistic people are often thought of as just shy, or introverted, so it’s easy to overlook there are real challenges.” > > Emotional regulation and poor time management skills are just two of the issues White helps [Autism Spectrum Disorder] students work with, but in some ways it’s not the most limiting. > > “Many [Autism Spectrum Disorder] patients have not developed the self-advocacy skills necessary for voicing their needs and standing up for accommodations to help them succeed,” she said. “We’re helping provide that voice.” > > To give volume to that voice, White’s research is creating a formalized, repeatable transition program for students coming from secondary school to the university level. > > “There are a handful of programs to bring [Autism Spectrum Disorder] students into the college life,” White says, “but there is limited or no empirical basis for what really works to help these students. We’re hoping to not only develop a good program, but also determine what really works in this regard.” > > White and her team are looking at a three year project with phase one, which began this month, involving data collection, focus groups and an advisory panel to inform critical elements of the program. > > The second phase, which will take up the majority of the time will involve implementation with participants receiving help as offered currently, or the Stepped Transition in Education Program for Students with [Autism Spectrum Disorder], or STEPS, which was piloted in 2013. A paper on the outcome is currently in review. > > Enrollment will start in March 2015 and White hopes to eventually have 60 students in the program. > > “This is a three-pronged program where we’re supporting the students, their parents, and educators at the secondary and post-secondary levels with on-site training, web-based training, and on campus immersion experiences for students and parents,” White said. Here is a link to a video: [400 Bad Request](http://www.stepsasd.org/steps/#about) (source: [Researcher seeks to improve college experience for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder | Virginia Tech News | Virginia Tech](https://www.vtnews.vt.edu/articles/2014/10/100214-science-asdsteps.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 25, 2017, 8:44am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1025 "2017-05-25T08:44:09Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Virginia. The _Radford University Autism Center_ is a Radford, Virginia-based nonprofit that offers assessment and intervention for individuals with autism spectrum disorders in the New River Valley, Virginia, region. The _Center_ is the only regional university autism clinic that provides speech-language services for individuals with autism and the center is designed to serve low-income children… > [@](#): > > Ten-year old Zach Crosier is a charter student of Radford University’s Summer Language Clinic. At last summer’s annual Scottish Rite Luncheon, his mother, Mary …told the crowd the clinic continues to have a major impact on her son’s life. > > Zach is one success story and there are countless more who need to be served. There is a waiting list of 20 children who want to attend the Summer Language Clinic, and Diane Millar, director of the RU Autism Center, says more are expected. > > The intensive summer clinical program–a partnership among the Communication Sciences and Disorders (COSD) Department, psychology, and music therapy faculty and students–is founded upon family-centered intervention. For the past two summers, the clinical program has focused on helping children with autism spectrum disorders. Parents attend workshops and learn to participate in therapy sessions with their children so they can facilitate their language development long after camp ends. > > “We want to explore what we can do to expand the services available to children with autism spectrum. Ideally, we’d have a full-time family-centered setting with intensive therapy provided by multiple disciplines. The clinic will be developed in phases but we want the end product to be about the wellness of the child,” says Millar. > > “At Radford University, we have been fortunate to have access to exceptional faculty with incredible dedication to children with autism and related disabilities. As we have developed clinical programs to help improve the lives of these children and their families, we have also been studying the efficacy of the intervention approaches to attempt to contribute to the research in autism,” Millar said. > > …President Kyle says that gifts such as these make tremendous strides in meeting the needs of the children and their families. Zach’s mother echoed that sentiment at last year’s luncheon. “Without this program, our children’s future would really suffer. Thank you for what you’ve done.”… Here is a link to photos: [https://m.facebook.com/pg/RUCOSD/photos/](https://m.facebook.com/pg/RUCOSD/photos/)? (source: [Scottish Rite Foundation & Radford University: Partnering to Help Children | Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, S.J., U.S.A.](https://scottishrite.org/about/media-publications/journal/article/scottish-rite-foundation-radford-university-partnering-to-help-children/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 26, 2017, 9:48am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1026 "2017-05-26T09:48:18Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Virginia. _Highlands Community Services_ is an Abingdon, Virginia-based nonprofit multi-faceted, community focused agency providing Mental Health, Substance Use, and Intellectual Disability services to the residents of Bristol and Washington County, Virginia. _HCS_ offers an array of services for those on the autism spectrum including diagnostic and treatment options… > [@](#): > > …Highlands Community Services announces its 2nd Annual World of Autism Conference scheduled for April 26, 2012. Registration is currently open at [www.hcsevents.com](http://www.hcsevents.com). Specific topics for educators, clinicians, and families are the foundation of the conference. The full lifespan is addressed with breakout sessions applicable to four separate age ranges. The conference also includes keynote speaker David Hamrick who has been featured on Good Morning America and in Glamour magazine. Mr. Hamrick has high-functioning autism, is a meteorologist, and frequently speaks around the country on issues regarding autism and adult relationships. > > Highlands Community Services has worked to set the standard for the development of services specific to those on the autism spectrum. Sensory issues, communication deficits, language acquisition, social development, and parent education are all elements of services that are available at HCS. > > Through play therapy and play therapy group services, children who are diagnosed on the autism spectrum, are provided an opportunity to interact and ‘play’ (the ‘work’ of children) with peers in an environment where they learn to set and respect personal boundaries, engage in play with others, and manage their own emotional, social, physical, and sensory needs. These cutting-edge services are not duplicated anywhere else in our region and have proven to make a significant impact in the lives of the recipients and families. Parent education and support services are also provided for those dealing with new diagnoses, as well as through collaboration with the Southwest Virginia Autism Action Group, a partnership service with Commonwealth Autism Association… Here is a link to photos of the Abingdon, Virginia Autism awareness Walk: [https://m.facebook.com/pg/AbingdonAutismAwareness5K/photos/?mt\_nav=1](https://m.facebook.com/pg/AbingdonAutismAwareness5K/photos/?mt_nav=1) (source: [Highlands Community Services (HCS) - Mental Health, Substance Abuse, and Intellectual Disability Services for Southwest Virginia | Highlands Community Services Announces 2nd Annual World of Autism Conference and Raises Awareness of the Prevalence of A](http://highlandscsb.org/highlands-community-services-announces-2nd-annual-world-of-autism-conference-and-raises-awareness-of-the-prevalence-of-autism-spectrum-disorders/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 27, 2017, 9:11am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1027 "2017-05-27T09:11:01Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Virginia. > [@](#): > > Students and staff at Ridgeview Middle School will hold an Autism/Disability Awareness day on Thursday, April 27. > > April is National Autism Awareness Month, however, other disabilities will be included during the April 27 awareness day. > > Lilly Thacker is the nurse at Ridgeview Middle and says the school wants to host awareness days that are personal to students > > “Some students’ disabilities are physical and more visible and other students may have a disability that is not as noticeable or nationally recognized. Our goal is to promote awareness for all of our students and we want all to feel included,” Thacker said. > > …“These awareness days are very important to educate students and staff of others’ uniqueness and they help prevent misunderstanding,” Thacker said. > > To promote the upcoming awareness day, Mrs. Davis’s art class created autism awareness posters that line the hallways and Mrs. Millette Hall shared an autism educational video with teachers and students. > > In the week leading up to April 27, teachers will receive a daily email to share with their classes that includes educational information about autism and other disabilities such as spina bifida, cerebral palsy and down syndrome. > > Lisa Mullins, an aide at Ridgeview Middle School, works with students who have a disability. Prior to working at Ridgeview Middle, Mullins worked at Longs Fork Middle School and Sandlick Elementary. Mullins hopes that the awareness day will help the public understand how to approach and support students with disabilities. > > “The general public may see a student with a disability but not understand or don’t know how to approach the student. We hope the awareness day will educate others on how to be supportive,” Mullins said. > > One initiative that will be highly promoted during the awareness day is known as ‘the six Bs.’ The ‘six Bs’ is a guide on how to be a supportive friend to children with disabilities – Be smart, Be patient, Be inclusive, Be sensitive, Be brave and Be Yourself. All children have encountered or will encounter a classmate who has a disability. The guide encourages children to learn about and be a friend to children who have disabilities. > > Students, staff, and the community are encouraged to wear blue on April 27 to raise awareness and show your support for students with autism and other disabilities. (source: [Special day focuses on autism, awareness | Dickenson Star | thecoalfieldprogress.com](http://www.thecoalfieldprogress.com/dickenson_star/special-day-focuses-on-autism-awareness/article_31ad1488-2a80-11e7-bb1a-c71cb6f5307b.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 28, 2017, 4:49am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1028 "2017-05-28T04:49:18Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Virginia. The _Sarah Dooley Center for Autism_ is a Richmond, Virginia based nonprofit school dedicated to serving children from the age of 5 with Autism and other related developmental disabilities. The nonprofit uses evidence-based teaching strategies to deliver highly individualised education and behavioural programming for every one of our students… > [@](#): > > April is National Autism Awareness Month, and as the director of the Sarah Dooley Autism Center …this is a particularly important time for us. It’s a time to reflect on how far we’ve come and how far we have to go. > > I’ll never forget the first child with autism I was able to ‘reach’ as an educator. The boy had a fascination with Thomas the Tank Engine. I learned that he only spoke phrases from the show, so I spent months working to build a connection around this character. One day, my student had a stomach ache, and I pulled a metaphor from the show and said, “Oh, your boiler is full.” > > Our eyes locked, and for the first time I understood I’d connected with him on his terms. From there, I started referring to him as ‘Thomas,’ and he called me ‘Edward’ after the show’s second in command, and that eventually transitioned into me calling him by his real name and him calling me Adam. Today he can carry on a full conversation and is academically on grade level in public school. > > Building that connection was an amazing experience, but it was a long journey for me as an educator. > > …Twenty-five years ago, at the start of my career and before I went through clinical training to learn how to treat autism, I worked with challenging students – [for example] kids who struggled following directions… > > I thought I was good at what I did. I felt confident in my abilities to deal with anything thrown at me, but then I met my first students with autism, and none of my teaching skills seemed to work. > > I cared about these kids, but caring wasn’t enough. I went home every day feeling like a failure because I couldn’t find a way to reach them. > > Although we know more about autism today than we did then, teachers and parents nonetheless still feel this same kind of frustration. You love the child, but you can’t get through to them. > > It’s painful, and tiresome, and drains your emotional energy because even something as simple as a trip to the movies or a meal in a restaurant can be exhausting, if not impossible. > > …Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disorder that hinders a child’s ability to communicate and interact. The diagnosis includes the presence of repetitive behaviors that can further isolate the child. Children with autism may get upset at people’s attempts to socialize with them, which can be devastating to parents and loved ones. > > …for parents, siblings and other loved ones, a child with autism is a life-changing experience. The good news is that there is hope for treatment. > > …While there is no ‘cure’ for autism, research-based early education strategies derived from Applied Behavioral Analysis …can help. > > We live in a messy, chaotic, unpredictable world, and the goal of [Applied Behavioral Analysis] is to help children develop communication and social interaction skills to help them operate in society. The underlying philosophy is that every child has a way to communicate, and as educators we can equip them with the skills to lead fuller and more independent lives. > > As a once-frustrated educator, I understand the sense of helplessness parents and teachers feel, and as the director of a program offering [Applied Behavioral Analysis] treatment, I see the positive impact we can have on families. Every day at the Sarah Dooley Center for Autism we are seeing children speak their first words, make their first friends and learn behaviors that help them prepare for life beyond school. > > On ‘Thomas and Friends,’ every engine just wants to be useful. Our community’s autism treatment centers provide a critical lifeline for families throughout central Virginia, making connections with kids and helping them find their place in our world. Here is a link to photos of the recently-held ‘Autism Awareness Month’ from the _Sarah Dooley Center for Autism_: [Autism Awareness Month | Sarah Dooley Center for Autism](http://www.sarahdooleycenter.org/2017/04/sdca-throws-autism-awareness-month-celebration-for-students-and-families/) (source: [Dreyfus: The mystery of autism: the challenge of treatment and education | THEIR OPINION | richmond.com](http://www.richmond.com/opinion/their-opinion/guest-columnists/dreyfus-the-mystery-of-autism-the-challenge-of-treatment-and/article_7bfeaa89-2ed0-5125-b96f-4198baeb4167.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 29, 2017, 9:36am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1029 "2017-05-29T09:36:52Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Virginia. The _Virginia Institute of Autism_ (_VIA_) is a Charlotteville, Virginia-based nonprofit providing a day-school and other resources for families, educators and health professionals seeking services, training or information about autism and evidence based interventions. In addition to a year-round school for children ages two to twenty-one, _VIA_’s services include customised training and consulting for schools and home-based programs for young children… > [@](#): > > When Patricia Taylor’s 2-year-old son Charlie started losing his language skills, developing a shorter attention span and making odd movements with his hands and body, she typed some of the behaviors into Google. > > The search results were clear: he had autism. > > The doctors confirmed the online diagnosis a few months later, but by that time Taylor already knew what Charlie had and what it would mean for their family. > > “I had been through the feeling of devastation and crying,” said Taylor. “You are kind of thrown into the fire right away–You have to kind of figure things out as you go along.” > > Autism is a brain disorder that can vary in degree and result in difficulties with social interaction and verbal and non-verbal communications. > > …According to Albemarle schools spokesman Phil Giaramita, the County has added special education classrooms, recently hired two extra behavior specialists and sent some of their 125 special education teachers to an autism-training program in North Carolina. Charlottesville also sends teachers to the program. > > “We have become more specialized in how we train and have our teachers deal with our kids,” Giaramita said. “We have increased our resources for staff to be able to manage these cases and work with these cases and work with these kids so they recognize their full academic potential.” > > …Charlottesville has an evaluation process that identifies any disabilities among referred students. Early detection has been helpful in identifying what resources autistic students will need. > > One of the approaches that both school systems have strived for is the inclusion of autistic students with students in general education classes. Stephanie Morris’s autistic child, Jacob, is in a program at Cale Elementary School that often uses inclusion. > > “He has done beautifully,” Morris said. “We couldn’t be more happy that Jake has had the opportunity to be able to model himself after typically developing children. He has established lovely little friendships with kids in the regular ed program.” > > Giaramita said the majority of Albemarle’s autistic students are in full inclusion classrooms. > > However, there is another group of students that both divisions have sent to an out-of-district school that has also experienced substantial growth. > > …The Individuals with Disability Education Act assures that each child with a disability is given an Individual Education Program by the school system. > > IEP’s are written statements that present the student’s level of academic achievement and functional performance, give measurable annual goals and present any necessary accommodations needed to measure their success. > > “Some schools when they address individual needs discover they need to have very specific educational programming,” said John Lloyd, the coordinator for the program in special education at UVa’s Curry School of Education. “There has really been one basic approach that has garnered regular support in the research on educational programs for children with autism and it’s a challenging effort to implement and it is sometimes known as–Applied Behavior Analysis training.” > > One organization that has used this approach is the Virginia Institute of Autism. Founded in 1996, the private, nonprofit school serves autistic students with a variety of disabilities from school districts that can’t provide the services necessary for them to succeed. > > According to Lloyd, Applied Behavior Analysis is often practiced with positive reinforcement. > > When a child displays good behavior or does something that they may have been working on, like starting to talk or sitting up straight, the child will be rewarded with positive reinforcement from the teacher. This could include praise, laughter, food or a hug. The reinforcement is supposed to encourage the child to replicate the good behavior and hopefully learn the skill. > > The school educates students [from the age of 2] who have diagnoses including [Autism Spectrum Disorders.] > > “We have definitely seen an increase in referrals from school districts,” said Rorie Hutter, the director of education at VIA. “A few years back we were serving typically 3-4 schools districts. Right now we have students from 13 different localities.” > > …VIA is different from Charlottesville-Albemarle’s programs because it offers one-to-one services, has staff trained specifically for educating autistic students and it operates year-round in order to have continuity and avoid regression among students. > > According to Taylor, who moved to the area so Charlie could go to VIA, the school encourages parents to come into school and see how the staff is helping their children. > > “Its very daunting for parents to figure out what to do for their child,” said Taylor. “[Charlie] needs one-to-one instruction [and] well trained staff that know what they’re doing, that know how to work with kids on the far end of the spectrum–We are just so blessed to have him in a place like VIA.” > > But the cost for a student to go to VIA can have a major impact on a school system’s finances. The cost to attend VIA is $80,000 per year and currently all of the students are paid for by their home school district. > > The Comprehensive Services Act (CSA) for Students with Disabilities requires states to provide a certain amount of the funding depending on the jurisdiction, but localities must still pay the remaining tuition and the full transportation costs for the students. This can be expensive because students come from as far away as Fauquier and Rappahannock counties to go to VIA. > > According to Giaramita, Albemarle currently spends $750,000 a year from local funding sources for 26 students at VIA. Charlottesville sends seven students to VIA for a total cost of approximately $560,000, which includes state funding support. The city also spends $200,000 on its two autism classrooms. > > …parent Stephanie Morris said increased funding for early detection will be critical, and that greater education of the services available to families will be important. > > “I know a lot of families that don’t want their children to be labeled,” said Morris. “I kind of take the opposite approach, because if you want to label my child that’s fine, because it affords them all sorts of doors and windows to be open in terms of services that the County then can provide.” > > Charlottesville parent Jessica Primm, whose child is in general education classes in high school and has been assigned a teaching aide, said the school system could help parents prepare for the challenges that come with putting an autistic student through school. > > “It would be really good if they kind of gave you a roadmap of how the system works and kind of a list of names and contacts within your school that you should know,” Primm said. > > Morris said if students can be given the services they are needed they can excel. > > “Nine times out of 10 these children are brilliant,” said Morris. “It’s just a matter of unlocking that.” > > “The earlier age we can do that and understand that yes they need additional support, and yes they are on the spectrum–the better chance of them being able to contribute to our community and our society versus them not,” said Morris. Here is a link to a video from the _Virginia Institute of Autism_ from last year: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JOWtOZ1HpKE&t=3s](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JOWtOZ1HpKE&t=3s) (source: [Autism spike leads to school changes ⋅ Charlottesville Tomorrow](http://www.cvilletomorrow.org/news/article/18517-autism-spike-leads-to-school-changes/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 30, 2017, 10:46am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1030 "2017-05-30T10:46:43Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the state of Virginia. The _Inter-Professional Autism Clinic_ (_IPAC_) is a Harrisonburg, Virginia-based nonprofit that is part of the _James Madison University_ Institute for Innovation in Health and Human Services. _IPAC_ offers autism services to the community and at the same time provides an experiential learning environment for students who will eventually work with children with Autism including occupational therapists, speech and language pathologists, and psychologists… > [@](#): > > When Laurie …and Robert Weese retired …they expected to move. But having two sons diagnosed with autism made them consider their options carefully. > > Passing through the Shenandoah Valley one day, the family stopped at Rockingham County Public Schools’ central office. They met Scott Hand …director of pupil personnel services, who introduced them to the area and took them to visit two county schools. What the Weeses found was a community supportive of individuals with autism and a university replete with services and opportunities to help their sons. > > …While the …causes [of Autism] remain elusive, parents like the Weeses seek help. > > Garrett Weese, who is profoundly impacted by autism, makes weekly visits to JMU’s Inter-Professional Autism Clinic. Progress is measured slowly but steadily. Six years ago, Garrett arrived as a non-verbal 7-year-old. Today, he makes solid eye contact, Laurie says, and has an increasing vocabulary. He also dresses himself and does family chores. > > “It bothers me when people kind of pity me: ‘Oh, I’m so sorry you have an autistic son,’” Laurie says. “But I say, ‘he’s great. He’s just different.’” > > …IPAC offers a hands-on, real-world experience for students, says Trevor Stokes, professor of graduate psychology and a licensed applied behavioral analyst who works with the clinic. “IPAC is very innovative because we’ve brought together people from different disciplines – to merge our different treatments so we can deliver one treatment which incorporates the three disciplines – which is not a traditional approach, but this is the creative part of what we do.” > > While the benefits to children are indisputable, parents benefit as well. “When they [parents] come in for an appointment, they don’t just drop the child off,” Stokes says. “There’s an expectation they’ll be involved in some way. As a result, parents learn strategies and therapies to help their children that might otherwise take years of trial and error.” > > In addition to IPAC, the university has an Applied Behavioral Analysis Clinic and a Speech-Language-Hearing Laboratory, all part of JMU’s Alvin V. Baird Attention and Learning Disabilities Center. > > The clinics are part of a large network of services available to the autism community. One of those services is a summer camp for children ages 3 to 7 with autism. Run by JMU occupational therapist Liz Richardson and Marsha Longerbeam, a speech and language pathologist, the camp mirrors the collaborative practice of IPAC by bringing together occupational therapy, speech and language pathology, and applied behavioral analysis. > > A year ago, the College of Education began offering a one-year course sequence leading to a certificate in Autism Spectrum Studies – in essence, an extension of the university’s traditionally strong program in exceptional education. Right now there’s a waiting list to enroll. > > “No child with autism is like another child with autism,” says Keri Bethune, coordinator of the certificate program. “It is very much a disability where educational plans, behavior plans, and strategies all have to be individualised.” > > Scott Hand represents the hundreds of educational professionals coming out of JMU who are making an impact in public schools. Robert Weese is especially appreciative of this impact. Before coming to the valley, he says, he would drop by Garrett’s school and find his son isolated in a classroom by himself. “Educationally, he was being left behind because the teachers were not required to learn.” Now, he is in a school environment that meets his needs. > > …Often overlooked by the media is that children with autism grow up to become adults with autism – a fact of which parents and families are unflinchingly aware. > > “The supports for adults look very different than the supports for children,” Bethune says. "We still have to have transition services to figure out what’s going to be next for that student. “There’s no mandate for us to continue.” > > At JMU, students with autism receive support from people like Brett Tjaden, professor of computer science. Each year, he advises a dozen or so students on the spectrum who are directed his way by the Office of Disability Services. “Often we tend to focus on the weakness that come with a particular disability and not enough on the strengths,” Tjaden says. “There are some obstacles that come with [autism] that are not ideal, but there are also some amazing blessings that come with it as well.”… Here is a link to a video from _James Madison University_: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1wsZnOAEFc](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z1wsZnOAEFc) (source: [James Madison University - Hope for Autism](http://www.jmu.edu/give/autism.shtml)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [May 31, 2017, 9:32am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1031 "2017-05-31T09:32:02Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in Connecticut. _Team Jake & Co._ is a group of relatives and friends who organise fundraisers, based in Canton, Connecticut… > [@](#): > > …Karen’s 14-year-old son, Jake, has autism and she consistently downplays her years of volunteer service. She says she’s simply ‘doing her part,’ but others see it differently, saying Karen is a dedicated, passionate and creative person when it comes to supporting children and adults with Autistic Spectrum Disorders and their families. > > “She’s just an outstanding person, parent and leader,” said Shannon Knall, a mother of a 10-year-old boy with autism, who has worked on several fundraisers with Cook. “She does it all and does it really, really, well.” > > For the past decade, Karen has spent a good portion of her life juggling work, volunteering and looking after Jake. She has served on boards, participated in walk-a-thons, organized fundraisers, given seminars, and lobbied legislators for better medical insurance coverage. > > “It’s kind of a cliche, but I’m trying to make the world a better place,” she said. > > About six years ago, the Cooks started Team Jake & Co., a group of relatives and friends who organize fundraisers; including participating in an annual walk-a-thon that raises money for the national organization Autism Speaks. A recent beer-tasting event at the Hooker Brewery in Bloomfield, Conn., raised $5,000 for the group. > > “She’s great,” said Lauren Joyce, executive director of the Connecticut chapter of Autism Speaks. “Anytime I need something, she’s there.” > > Working with Karen is like working with a staff member, Joyce said, adding she is capable of any assignment. For the annual walk-a-thon, Cook is instrumental in planning the pre-party festivities, helping to organize activities at the event and overseeing the awards dinner. > > As an eighth-grader, Jake takes special education classes in the LINKS program at Northwestern Regional Middle School, Winsted, Conn. He loves art, math and music, but struggles with communicating and social skills, Karen said. He interacts with other students in the special education class and in the general student population, but is not expected to live independently when he becomes an adult and can’t be left alone at home. > > At times she is saddened at knowing Jake can’t and probably never will understand the things that make other kids happy. “Even though he can do math, he can’t tell us when he’s not feeling well, what’s bothering him. You just have to move forward. It’s not like you have a choice.” > > At home, Jake has no problems understanding certain things or handling his assigned chores. “He’s the dishwasher-emptier,” Karen said. “He knows where all the dishes go.” > > She said Jake is creative, active and has a great sense of humor. “How many parents have a 14-year-old willing to hug them, to hold them or give them a kiss on the cheek? He does everything with us. How many kids do things with their parents?” > > Adele Banas, who was Jake’s speech therapist in elementary school, serves as Team Jake & Co.'s co-captain with Cook’s sister, Kathy Kahoun, who also works at the Canton family flooring business. While Banas said she mainly works the phone to arrange for auction items and donations, it is Cook who has all the ideas, whether it be hosting a wine tasting, beer tasting or silent auction and raffle events, ?She’s the dynamo.? > > As for Jake, Banas called him ?the coolest little guy,? who has got great potential. ?It?s up to us to bring it out.? She recalled 4-year-old Jake’s first words in preschool. His request, ?I want ice-cream,? sent teachers scampering to a local store. They returned with a half-gallon of vanilla ice cream. ?He really chowed down,? Banas said. > > Karen expressed concern that while autism cases have risen over the past decade, there are too few programs available, especially for adults over 21. Money spent on the diagnosis and treatment of autism is a fraction of the dollars spent on other diseases, she said. > > “There’s no end for autism. It’s forever,” Cook said. “My hope is to get people to understand that something’s going wrong with our kids and we need to find out what it is.” > > While both husband and wife share in the responsibility of caring for Jake, it’s Karen who has done the ‘lion’s share’ of volunteering, said Mark. The couple also has a 16-year-old, Drew, who is high-functioning with autism. > > “I try to support her in any way I can. I stay home with the kids a lot,” said Mark, a past president of the Connecticut Floor Covering Association. > > In addition to Banas, teacher Kathy Schwarz worked to get Jake the best of school programs, Mark said. It was Schwarz who helped them understand how to stand up for themselves when it came to getting the best for Jake. “I don’t know what we would’ve done without Kathy. She was there in the beginning, when we needed her most.” > > For now, Karen said she plans to continue her volunteer efforts and to make sure autism receives more attention. She’s also grateful for the relationship she has with Jake. “My hope is someday he’ll be able to communicate,” she concluded. “I know he’ll never be able to live on his own, but I want to be able to leave the house for a couple hours and know he’ll be alright.” (source: [What matters most: Connecticut flooring family helps fight against autism | FloorCoveringNews](http://www.fcnews.net/2011/08/what-matters-most-connecticut-flooring-family-helps-fight-against-autism/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 1, 2017, 9:56am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1032 "2017-06-01T09:56:29Z")
The subject of the recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in Connecticut. The _Southern Connecticut State University_ Center of Excellence on Autism Spectrum Disorders is a New Haven, Connecticut-based nonprofit. Its mission is to serve as a resource and collaborative partner by developing, validating, and delivering effective, innovative training, services, and technical assistance to teachers, other school-based personnel, families, and community service providers in the use of evidence-based practices for individuals from the age of 3 with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the state of Connecticut… > [@](#): > > When children with high-functioning autism interact with the world, the struggles they experience with perceiving social cues can lead to social isolation. > > After speaking with several mothers of autistic children for a study, an assistant professor at Southern Connecticut State University said this experience can also often extend to the parents. > > Julie Piepenbring, an assistant professor of social work and the executive vice president of Adelbrook Behavioral and Developmental Services, said a qualitative study of nine mothers of children with high-functioning autism revealed two consistent themes: grief and resiliency. > > “Seeing their children struggle to integrate socially, they felt isolated as well,” Piepenbring said. “Their friends and family are giving advice, and they felt judged for their parenting styles.” > > The advice, Piepenbring said, ranged from unsolicited suggestions of different parenting methods to outright denials of autism or an insistence that the autism was a series of behavioral issues inherited from one of the parents’ families. > > The mothers were interviewed by Piepenbring in two sessions and expressed consistently that they felt others viewed them as bad parents because their children exhibited behavioral issues. On the contrary, Piepenbring said, the mothers became relentless advocates for their children. > > “They educate themselves and form support groups,” Piepenbring said. > > Many she interviewed had testified about the needs of an autistic child before the state legislature or had started sibling support groups. > > One of the challenges these mothers faced, Piepenbring said, was that their children ‘can look very similar to neurotypical children,’ with many going years without receiving a diagnosis and missing out on fundamental wraparound services and supports in their development and education. The children who were diagnosed earliest, she said, were often ones exhibiting developmental delays, such as in their speech. All of the children, she said, can be misunderstood. > > “…things like their aloofness was sometimes mistaken as being a rude, defiant child,” Piepenbring said. > > In a school setting, these perceptions can exacerbate the challenges felt by autistic children if teachers identify them for discipline. > > “Schools are an amazing source of support, because they provide structure and routine,” Piepenbring said, provided autistic children have been diagnosed and have an individualized education plan tailored to their needs. > > The mothers Piepenbring spoke to, she said, expressed that each new stage of their child’s life – such as prom – brings them both pride and anxiety. > > One mother, Piepenbring said, expressed to her that having an autistic child was a challenge she didn’t expect, but she never knew how strong she was until it happened. > > Leaders in New Haven Public Schools have recently extolled the virtues of social-emotional learning. Mayor Toni Harp, who until recently was president of the Board of Education, has said she wants city schools that educate all aspects of a child. Here is a link to a set of slides developed by _SCSU_ Center of Excellence on Autism Spectrum Disorders Director, Ruth Eren: [Sit for Autism Developed by The Center of Excellence on Autism Spectrum Disorders Southern Connecticut State University Ruth Eren, Ed.D. Director. - ppt download](http://slideplayer.com/slide/4745571/) (source: [SCSU professor: Moms of autistic children may feel social isolation](http://www.nhregister.com/general-news/20170205/scsu-professor-moms-of-autistic-children-may-feel-social-isolation)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 2, 2017, 9:25am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1033 "2017-06-02T09:25:27Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in Connecticut. The _EASTCONN Autism Program_ (_EAP_), is a Columbia, Connecticut-based nonprofit that provides a regionally based, comprehensive, integrated service program for students with autism and other low-incidence disabilities from kindergarten. The program is characterized by a structured, intensive, individualized approach to instruction based on the principles of applied behavioural analysis… > [@](#): > > …EASTCONN’s Autism Program provides its students with a wealth of expertise and care, while its small, deeply personalized and supportive learning environment is aimed at enabling some students to return to their hometown classrooms. > > “The EASTCONN Autism Program is committed to both the provision of excellent outplacement services to the students who need them, and building internal capacity within each school district when we transition students back to their home school,” said Heather Cymbala, EASTCONN’s Director of Special Services. Cymbala oversees the Columbia-based Autism Program. …designed on a smaller scale for students in grades K-8, the Autism Program uses an Applied Behavior Analysis …approach and teaches students in a 1-to-1 configuration, with team support from special education teachers, BCBAs, psychologists, related services providers and assistive technology specialists. “We provide a supportive learning environment that is data-based, intervention-rich, nurturing and education-driven,” said Jessica Miglio, the Autism Program’s lead teacher. “Our program is a place both for kids whose learning and/or developmental needs are long-term, as well as for kids who will be able to transition back to their hometown schools.” > > “Our daughter started attending the EASTCONN Autism Program several years ago … and we have seen steady, increasingly positive changes in her communication skills,” said Carrie and Stephen Gallant, of Pomfret. “We have happily seen our daughter grow and become much more involved with our family since she started the program. [EASTCONN Autism staff] have been excellent to work with and truly care about the development of the students … they have a solid plan to bring out the best in each individual student.” > > …Andover Elementary School Assistant Principal and Special Education Director Dawn Davis recently spoke about the successful transition of one of her students out of the EASTCONN Autism Program and back into a regular Andover classroom. “The transition to bring this youngster back to our school was phenomenal,” said Davis. “EASTCONN staff came to our school to help us transition this child back. Initially, there was an ‘I teach, you watch’ situation, which over time became ‘Now you teach and I watch,’ which is exactly what we were aiming for,” she said. “My staff has really grown during this process. We’ve improved our collaboration skills, no question.” Davis continued, “When our student had to be outplaced, it had to be done. But to have him be in his home school and to be as successful as he is, it’s just so important – I know that the mother of this child is ecstatic. She beams when she talks about his movement toward independence and that he’s happy. That’s the big thing. It’s been a really good experience all around.” The student’s Andover team continues to be supported through consultation with an EASTCONN BCBA. “By using the model-lead-test framework for gradual fading of supports for this student, we ensured Andover’s fluency and consistency in the implementation of evidence-based practices,” said Stein. “Andover went above and beyond to provide an inclusionary program for their student with special needs,” said Stein. “They really serve as a model for supporting students with a variety of strengths and challenges within the public school setting.”… Here is a link to photos of _EASTCONN_ staff joining the _Autism Speaks_ initiative, ‘Light it Up Blue’: [https://www.facebook.com/wherelearningcomestolife/posts/10153196233904491](https://www.facebook.com/wherelearningcomestolife/posts/10153196233904491) (source: [https://issuu.com/eastconn/docs/eastconnconnectionsspring2015](https://issuu.com/eastconn/docs/eastconnconnectionsspring2015)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 3, 2017, 9:56am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1034 "2017-06-03T09:56:49Z")
The subject of recent posts has been on Autism-related events and organisations in Connecticut. _Easter Seals Capital Region & Eastern Connecticut_ is an affiliate of Easter Seals, Inc., the leading nonprofit provider of services for individuals with physical and mental disabilities. With accreditation from CARF, the recognized accrediting body for rehabilitation providers and certification as one of only two comprehensive outpatient rehabilitation facilities in Connecticut, the organization provides services, including to children with Autism Spectrum Disorders… > [@](#): > > Over 350 guests attended the Easter Seals Capital Region & Eastern Connecticut’s 28th Annual Crystal Ball and helped raise a record $730,000 for the organization dedicated to providing exceptional services, education, outreach and advocacy so that people living with autism and other disabilities can live, learn, work and play in our community. > > Funds will directly benefit Easter Seals unique life changing services, most notably its comprehensive autism initiative, which is a program designed to carefully assess, diagnose, and treat children and adults who show symptoms of autistic disorder, Asperger’s syndrome or pervasive developmental disorders. The Crystal Ball was held at the Marriott Hartford Downtown. > > The evening program, hosted by NBC Connecticut’s Brad Drazen featured a live and silent auction boasting packages to Martha’s Vineyard, the 2016 Masters Tournament, tickets to NBC’s The Voice, designer wine baskets and more. Funds raised through these efforts enable Easter Seals to offer services to individuals who, because of financial or insurance constraints, are unable to receive treatment. Funds also support Easter Seals’ vocational facility in East Hartford that has dedicated trained professionals who provide valuable skills - education and job training - to students and participants with autism and other developmental disabilities. > > Donald Allan, Jr, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Stanley Black & Decker, received the Circle of Hope Award for his contributions to Easter Seals as Honorary Corporate Chair of the Crystal Ball. Sue and Howard Carver served as Honorary Committee Co-Chairs. > > Len and Robin Oremland were the special guest speakers for the event. Janice England-Cirikovic, Suzi Kessler Paperny, Elise Rosenstock and Laura Yandow were the 28th Annual Crystal Ball Committee Co-Chairs. > > Stanley Black & Decker and NBC Connecticut and Comcast served as presenting sponsors for the 28th Annual Crystal Ball… Here is a link to a video: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0to4rpV6jl0](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0to4rpV6jl0) (source: [Hartford Courant](http://touch.courant.com/#section/-1/article/p2p-83401472/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 4, 2017, 10:06am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1035 "2017-06-04T10:06:06Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in Connecticut. _Innovative Autism Services_, based in Plainville, Connecticut, provides services and unique programs for people with Autism including early childhood interventions. _Innovative Autism Services_ delivers individualised interventions and programming focused on specific needs… > [@](#): > > Many Connecticut communities have a profound lack of social, pre-vocational and living skills programming for individuals in the autism spectrum ages 13-17. This undeserved population and their families are often left with programs that are created mainly for typical peers. These programs are usually not adequate or specific to their child’s needs. These offerings do not always provide meaningful programming that can either assist these individuals with maintaining or gaining new skills or helping prepare them for a transition to a vocational/day program, college or community integration. IAN Connections Teen Enrichment Program will help to bridge this gap in services for these individuals. > “Connections is something that was born out of a need in our communities. Over the years many families have reached out to us about the lack of appropriate programs and activities for their teens. Since we already provide a continuum of service for children [from the age of two], Connections is the perfect compliment.” said Marcela Nunez Owner and Director of Service. > IAN Connections’ goal is to provide a year-round program for these individuals that will speak directly to the current lack of programming and opportunities. Individuals will be able to participate in a number of activities and groups that are not only age appropriate but will also help them learn new skills while maintaining and generalizing the ones they currently possess. Programming will include: center and community based social skills groups, typical peer mentoring, academic tutoring, pre-vocational skills, life skills training and community based recreation opportunities. Participants will also have exposure to career paths by involving local businesses and business professional for hands on experiences. Connections is located in a suite fully equipped with recreational equipment, common area, computer/multimedia lab, adaptable activity rooms and a life skills area. > “We are very excited at the opportunities that Connection will offer to these teens. It will help prepare the participants for the next stage of their lives by providing the skills, experiences and supports that they will need to succeed. They will have first hand experiences and programming that will be tailored to their individual needs. It also offers our existing families a next tier of service for their children when they get older.” said Mrs. Nunez. Connections Teen Enrichment Program is scheduled to start in May with both center and community based recreational and social skills programs. > Founded by both an autism behavior analyst (BCBA) and a mother of a child with autism, Innovative Autism Network offers a unique perspective to craft an innovative approach to autism and special needs treatments. IAN provides comprehensive ABA, speech and occupational therapies in one location along with year-round social skills groups, classes and community recreation opportunities. At IAN it is a family team oriented approach across all autism and special needs services that is the key to success. This approach gives families the much needed tools to help in their children’s success. IAN offers individualized programs while fostering an inclusive setting to help clients achieve the most success with as little support as possible. IAN offers services in their Plainville facility as well as home and school based programs throughout Connecticut… Here is a link to a video from _Innovative Autism Services_ from a few years ago: [https://www.facebook.com/iasautism/videos/10152273301407053/](https://www.facebook.com/iasautism/videos/10152273301407053/) (source: [Helping Autistic Teens Reach Their Potential | Newswire](https://www.newswire.com/helping-autistic-teens-reach-their/219616)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 5, 2017, 9:25am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1036 "2017-06-05T09:25:03Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in Connecticut. > [@](#): > > A boy with autism received a birthday celebration to remember. > Grandy Miller of Skeegan, Michigan, is seven years old and has autism. He loves fire alarms. He has even memorized the many makes and models of them. > When Grandy started making the sound of a fire alarm to feel save, a stranger left a negative note for his mother, Brittany Miller, at their local grocery story in August 2016. > “Buy that kid a muzzle!”, the note reads. > The note went viral after Brittany posted it on Facebook, and it has prompted people and companies to be kind. > Honeywell, which makes fire alarms, joined in on the acts of kindness. The Northford-based company flew Grandy and his mother to Connecticut to give him a 7th birthday celebration he would never forget. > “Connected with the mom and from there our distributor from Michigan helped facilitate to bring them here for his birthday to make it extra special,” said …the vice president of sales for Honeywell. > The birthday celebration began with a tour of Honeywell. Grandy checked out the dozens of fire alarm models and tested them out. > North Branford firefighters also visited him so that he could see their firetrucks. > Lastly, Granby was greeted with an old fashioned birthday party: a room filled with balloons, wrapped up toys and a cake in the shape of his favorite type of fire alarm. > “I mean that note was so I guess it was such a shock and it was hurtful at first when I got it but now 8 months later it has been the best blessing in disguise that I could have ever imagine,” the boy’s mom said. > Miller and his mom said thank you to all of those who made his birthday a reality – including the person who wrote the note. (source: [Honeywell Flies Boy With Autism to Connecticut for Birthday | NBC Connecticut](http://www.nbcconnecticut.com/news/local/Honeywell-Flies-Boy-With-Autism-to-Connecticut-for-Birthday-415630653.html)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 6, 2017, 9:40am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1037 "2017-06-06T09:40:40Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in Connecticut. The _Connecticut Children’s Medical Center_ is a Hartford, Connecticut-based nonprofit comprehensive paediatric hospital. Its Autism Spectrum Assessment Program (ASAP) is designed to provide timely and comprehensive medical and diagnostic evaluation of children under the age of five with a suspected Autism Spectrum Disorder… > [@](#): > > If you have ever wondered what happens to all of the generous donations made to your local children’s hospital, this is a great example. > > My daughter is 10 years old, born with …autism. > > We spend a lot of time getting care from over 20 different medical specialists at Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. > > She usually gets to pick out a sticker (sometimes two if she worked hard) after all appointments at the hospital. > > Some days the promise of a sticker is the only way she can hold her stuff together. > > On days like today, when an early morning, 20-minute routine hearing test turned into an additional 40 minutes, to include injecting molding putty into her ears after being told she now needed hearing aids – well, let me tell you just how much it means to a mom with a limited budget when the staff says, “You need to pick out a TOY for working so hard today!” > > It is an incredible gift… It gives my daughter the opportunity to not focus on the many challenges she faces. She looked forward to putting this together all day. > > So thanks to all those who think of our …kiddos when giving. We really, truly love you. Here is a link to a short video from _Connecticut Children’s Medical Center_: [12 reactions | Who's ready for Connecticut Children's Spirit Night at Dave & Buster's TOMORROW!? Kate and Lilly are super excited and we are too! Join us from 5-8pm in support of our incredible patients and families. | Connecticut Children's](https://www.facebook.com/ConnecticutChildrens/videos/1167911066574264/) (source: [https://www.connecticutchildrens.org/blog/so-much-more-than-a-toy/](https://www.connecticutchildrens.org/blog/so-much-more-than-a-toy/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 7, 2017, 9:39am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1038 "2017-06-07T09:39:41Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in Connecticut. _Wheeler Clinic_ is a Plainville, Connecticut-based nonprofit that provides comprehensive solutions that address various challenges, including Autism Spectrum Disorders. _Wheeler_ provides autism spectrum services as part of its Child and Adolescent Center of Excellence… > [@](#): > > Wheeler has begun providing autism spectrum evaluation services for youth ages 3 and up for families enrolled in Medicaid. > > “We know that families with Medicaid often have difficulty accessing evaluation services,” Susan Walkama, president and CEO of Wheeler, said in a news release. “They may not know where to turn. Our services provide an accessible and effective option.” > > Autism evaluations are offered at Wheeler’s location at 91 Northwest Drive in Plainville, and involve a multidisciplinary team approach that assesses the child’s behavior. The team includes psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, speech and occupational therapists, medical professionals and others based on the particular family’s needs. > Parents typically must have an autism-specific evaluation conducted and a confirmed diagnosis of autism before they can begin treatment services paid for by Medicaid, the release said. > > Wheeler has served children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders for decades and the new evaluation service builds on expertise and experience developed through Wheeler’s Diagnostic Assessment and Referral Team …Birth to Three, education services and other Wheeler programs. Here is a link to a short video from _Wheeler Clinic_ from earlier this year: [4.4K views · 45 reactions | Health care for the whole you, so you can grow, change and live a healthier, productive life. Wheeler. Innovative Care. Positive Change. | Wheeler Health](https://www.facebook.com/wheelerclinic/videos/10154364736892951/) (source: [Wheeler adds autism spectrum evaluation services | HartfordBusiness.com](http://www.hartfordbusiness.com/article/20160302/NEWS/160309967/wheeler-adds-autism-spectrum-evaluation-services)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 9, 2017, 8:51am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1039 "2017-06-09T08:51:07Z")
The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in Connecticut. In neighbouring Rhode Island, _The Autism Project_ is a Providence County, Rhode Island-based nonprofit that provides quality support, training, and programming – accessible to all, including for children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. _The Autism Project_’s vision is a world where individuals with an Autism Spectrum Disorder are valued, actively participating members of their communities… > [@](#): > > This year’s Imagine Walk took place [in Kent County, Rhode Island] with proceeds benefiting the Autism Project of Rhode Island. > > The walk got underway at 10 a.m. at Goddard Memorial State Park and is emceed by WPRI’s Danielle North. > > Almost 8,000 people turned out for this year’s event… > > The Autism Project is almost a year into a million-dollar grant-funded program taking its valuable resources out of its headquarters, out into communities and to groups that need them most – helping to recognize early signs of autism. > > Brenda Cote walked with her son Connor, who was diagnosed last year. > > “It’s challenging,” she said. > > “But with the support that Connor’s been receiving through school and other facilities, especially the Autism Project, I also took a class there so I’m learning a lot, we’re getting through it and we just take it day by day.”… Here is a link to a video from this year’s _Autism Project of Rhode Island_ Imagine Walk: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJ7Jl\_WY5ZU](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJ7Jl_WY5ZU) (source: [15th Annual Imagine Walk for autism held in Warwick | WPRI 12 Eyewitness News](http://wpri.com/2017/04/30/15th-annual-imagine-walk-for-autism-underway-in-warwick/)) ---
**Author:** ![Visionary7903](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/v/45deac/32.png) [@Visionary7903](https://pheromonetalk.com/u/Visionary7903)\ **Post date:** [June 10, 2017, 10:09am UTC](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615/1040 "2017-06-10T10:09:50Z")
The subject of of the last post was _The Autism Project_ is a Providence County, Rhode Island-based nonprofit that provides quality support, training, and programming – accessible to all, including for children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. _The Autism Project_’s vision is a world where individuals with an Autism Spectrum Disorder are valued, actively participating members of their communities. > [@](#): > > As she searched through a wooden desk looking for pictures of her two children, Associate Professor Celest Martin remembered the day her son was diagnosed with autism 26 years ago at the age of 2. > > “I cried, but being an academic, the next day I went to the library and got all the books I could on autism,” Martin said. “The irony of me, who is such a word person, having a child who was going to have a communication disorder boggled my mind. I was scared.” > > Martin has taught at the University of Rhode Island for 37 years and has continued expanding on her passion for rhetoric, composition and disability studies. Originally hired into URI’s English Department, she joined the Journalism faculty in 2009, and has taught students the art of creative nonfiction and memoir writing over the years. > > This May will mark the beginning of her retirement where she hopes to continue her involvement with the disability community of Rhode Island. > > Nearly 15 years ago, she co-founded the South Kingstown Farm School, which is now the Independent Transition Academy located in Independence Square on the URI Campus. Martin realized her son …would be most successful in a hands-on environment and says this project was one she was most proud of. > > “I figured the only way for him to get what he needed was [for me] to be on everything I could be on and have a voice in things,” Martin said. > > She remains involved in Rhode Island’s disability community by serving as Vice Chair of the Rhode Island Developmental Disability Council (RIDDC). She is part of their Policy and Advocacy Council, which monitors state and federal legislation aiming to educate and inform policymakers. Martin also contributes to a community blog, promoting educational materials and resources for families regarding disabilities on their website. > > As a professor, Martin said a lot more has be done to improve the way students with disabilities function and learn in a college-level setting. She considers certain accommodations like giving extra time on tests, assignments and portfolios to be a good start. > > …Having a child with Autism has allowed Martin to become more familiar with disabilities, and she said there’s nothing wrong with giving students extra time. Martin said by doing so, professors are leveling the playing field so that it’s fair to everyone. > > “I think most professors, unless they have a family member with a disability or have had some real experience with it in their lives, it’s unfamiliar to them,” Martin said, “so it’s scary because we’re always afraid of the unknown.” > > With years of experience and knowledge in writing and disability studies, Martin said she’s realized people living with disabilities are just hardwired differently. She wants the community to understand that almost everyone has something they wish they could be better at and the disability community isn’t any less intelligent. > > “It’s just another way to be human,” Martin said. (source: [Professor works toward equality for students with disabilities in and out of the classroom | The Good 5 Cent Cigar](http://rhodycigar.com/2016/03/03/teaching-what-matters/)) [Previous page](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615.md?page=51) [Next page](https://pheromonetalk.com/t/agricultural-specialisterne-rural-employment-revolution-for-those-with-autism/50615.md?page=53)