'Agricultural specialisterne': rural employment revolution for those with Autism

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The subject of the last post was the ‘Elevate Awareness: Longboarding for Autism’ trip in the United States. The trip, which occurred again the following year, raised money for an Autism-related organisation in the United States.

In the United Kingdom, 48-year-old Chris Ward embarked on a similar long distance skate journey, ‘THE LONG PUSH 2012–Longboarding for Autism Awareness’…

…Chris explained why:

"My girlfriend’s son was diagnosed as having an autism spectrum disorder …last year, when he was aged 10. The diagnosis has had a huge impact on us and the way we live on a daily basis. It opened my eyes to what other families in similar situations must go through. We looked for support in understanding the lifelong condition of autism and that was when we found Families Connected. Founder and head of the charity Carol McKiernon has been hugely supportive of us, so I wanted to do something to help her charity grow. I’ve been skateboarding since around 1976, and had longboards the last few years, but only really fooled around cruising around the seafront area here in Southport. Last summer I found myself sat on the sea wall one Saturday afternoon, looking across towards Blackpool Tower and wondered if I could skate there one day. It was a germ of an idea at the time, but then towards the end of last year I decided to match it up with the charity idea and that’s how THE LONG PUSH 2012–longboarding for Autism Awareness was born…

Chris has created a calendar with some images of his journey:

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(sources: Long Push 2012 | SkateFurther)

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The last post mentioned Families Connected by Autism and its founder and chairperson, Carol McKiernan. Families Connected by Autism is a Manchester area, United Kingdom-based charity whose mission is to support the families of children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders by giving them a voice and a forum for support…

…Families Connected is the brainchild of Carol Mckiernan, who has an eleven-year-old autistic son, Francis.

Carol explained why she had set up Families Connected: "There are many charities dealing with the needs of the autistic children themselves which do a wonderful job.

"However to understand the emotional and practical needs of these parents and families you really have to have had the experience first hand.

"I want to be able to bring together the families so as to provide a forum for the many needs of these families…

Below are some pictures from the Families Connected Quiz Night held in November 2011; hundreds of pounds were raised for a great cause: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.290362101012149.61896.190465257668501&type=1

(source: Sale welcomes new charity to help children with autism (From Messenger Newspapers))

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Posts in the past week have mainly focused on the topic of Skateboarding and Autism.

Almost six years ago, a 53-day, 2,000-mile in-line skating journey was undertaken to to help raise awareness and funds for Autism education. The journey began in Amelia Island, Florida and ended in Kittery, Maine…

…"We’re still tallying the final contributions, but expect to top $120,000,” said Dan Tatar ’07, who created the Rolling for Autism campaign. “The support has been amazing. Dozens of Union College alumni came out to the events in New York City and Boston, and 15 or so skated nearly 100 miles with us.”

…the 23-year-old psychology major began pursuing the idea of a summer roller blade trip aimed at raising money and awareness for autism. Tatar’s older brother, Ben, is on the high-functioning end of the autism spectrum… The idea for a roller blade trek gathered momentum as Union classmates joined the effort and donations began pouring in. That is also when the real work of trip planning began, according to Tatar.

…“We were fortunate to have such an amazing network of support,” Tatar explained.

…Ben Tatar, 25, joined his brother and the roller blading crew for a week near the end of the trip. Ben, a graduate Adirondack Community College, is in many ways a success story and beacon of hope for parents with children with autism spectrum disorders.
“It was great to have Ben along to lighten the humor,” Tatar said. “Especially when he took a spill into a bush in Hartford, bringing Sean along with him. It was even better to have Ben at the events so that parents of young kids, who may be uncertain about autism or their children’s futures, could see someone who is impacted by the autism spectrum achieve success.”

…“We’re planning to retain half the money raised within the organization to fund education and awareness programs,” Tatar explained. “We’ve targeted the other half to provide grants for children with autism to give kids life opportunities they wouldn’t normally be able to afford.”…

Here is a link to a video on the fundraising trip: Rolling for Autism - YouTube

(source: http://www.union.edu/N/DS/edition_display.php?e=1456&s=7499)

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The subject of yesterday’s post was a rollerblading trip which raised awareness and funds for Autism education.

The Imagine Autism Foundation is a Woodbridge, Ontario, Canada-based non-profit working towards raising money for families affected by Autism and allowing families to use funds to reduce therapy costs. It was created by Autism Therapy & Training Inc.–a centre that is specialised in training new therapists and teaching children diagnosed with Autism. The Imagine Autism Foundation’s first fundraising event raised over $4600 as 147 people came out to ‘Skate 4 Autism’…

Our Skate 4 Autism Fundraiser was a great success. Families and friends came together to support a great cause and to make a difference. The goal of the event was to raise money for the families of Autism Therapy & Training, so tuition fees can be reduce for families. Since many families are paying out of pocket and government wait lists are too long, we want to help families.

We also wanted to raise autism awareness and spread the message about early diagnosis and intervention.

Thank you to all our sponsors for making it possible. Your contributions are greatly appreciated…

Here is a link to a video advertising the ‘Skate 4 Autism’ event, held in April 2012: Imagine Autism Foundation 2012.m4v - YouTube

(sources: Profile / X; Skate 4 Autism Fundraiser | Imagine Autism Foundation)

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The subject of a post from a few days ago was a 53-day, 2,000-mile in-line skating journey that was undertaken in 2007 to to help raise awareness and funds for Autism education.

Brian Patrick, father to a child on the Autism Spectrum, has himself recently undertaken a rollerblading (in-line skating) journey to raise awareness and funds for Autism Speaks, the world’s largest Autism advocacy organisation…

…How did I know I was on the Autistic Spectrum? It was because of an incredible young man named Riley. Riley, like me, has Asperger’s. Having said that, like father like son.

…Over the past six months I thought about my experiences with Autism and and realized there is a potential that I can help others that are part of the world of Autism. The thing is what can one man do? What can I do to make a difference? So we came up with this crazy idea of me putting wheels on my feet and skating across the country raising Autism Awareness. Richard Pipp, my friend and Project Manager for what became entitled The Journey made one point that became a hard truth: No one would care what I was doing or why I was doing it until I went a thousand miles. Know what? He was right. By the time I got into TN, people were emailing us. People were stopping me on the side of the road to talk to me. I was then talking to teachers, administrators and mostly parents. A family from Missouri contacted me and brought me to their local High School to speak of my experiences. This wonderful family and I will probably remain life long friends. In a sense, it became clear that it was no longer about skating; it was about how can I help a community that I have been a part of my whole life. I realized I can make a difference. I realized my experiences good, bad and indifferent can impact a families life. I realized it isn’t always about talking; it is about listening. It is listening to these families that are part of the Autistic Community and how it has changed their lives and the dynamics that come with it…

Some photos from Brian’s terrific journey can be viewed here: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151293519032558.500391.7993947557&type=3

(source: http://www.rollerblade.com/usa/news/fitness/skater-crosses-country-for-autism)

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The last few posts have focused on rollerblading (in-line skating) / roller skating and the Autism Spectrum.

Stephanie Patterson, a certified professional figure skating coach and doctoral student focusing on intervention practices for children with Autism, has developed and delivered a modified learn to ice skate program for youth on the Autism Spectrum…

…Patterson established a “learn to skate” program in her native Calgary to get children and teens with autism out onto the ice along with family members, creating quality family time.

…Patterson, who has several years of experience as an in-home aide and interventionist, said that she noticed during her work in these arenas that many families of children with autism did not have positive experiences in trying to place their children in community recreational or sports programs.

“Several families just stopped trying because they had so many negative experiences coming into brand-new settings with new people,” she said. “It can be tough for kids with autism to adjust and adapt to having all those different aspects of the environment thrown at them, in addition to the demands of having to learn a new physical skill and participate in a group.”

The program in Calgary, which took place in a local community skating club, succeeded because it provided “the kinds of things you would see in specialized educational programs, but now in a sports setting,” Patterson said. These included “lots of visual supports, great adult volunteers, the use of token economies [and] the educational supports that you would see in a classroom.”

She added that the children’s academic and social skills were enhanced in the nurturing, inclusive environment.

“It is important to find community programs where kids with autism still have access to their community peers, but also have appropriate learning supports to learn and pick up skills within that setting,” Patterson said.

The social benefits of the Calgary program extended well beyond the children, she added.

“It became a family affair,” Patterson said. “Having everybody together [to] take part in something in the community was a really big deal for a lot of the families, who reported [previously] feeling kind of isolated, going from intervention to intervention and not being able to do something that’s just a regular community leisure activity.”

Here is a link to a video featuring the ‘Wish Upon a Star’ Autism awareness ice skating event at the Compton Family Ice Arena in Notre Dame, Indiana; the event featured Krista Kellner, a renowned skater who is on the Autism Spectrum (Krista’s coach, Elizabeth O’Donnell, is the one with the darker hair): WISH UPON A STAR: Performance With KRISTA KELLNER & ELIZABETH O’DONNELL - YouTube

(source: Helping autistic kids skate to health, happiness / UCLA Today)

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The video in the last post featured Krista Kellner, a renowned skater who on the Autism Spectrum as well as her coach. Krista’s Coach is Elizabeth O’Donnell, founder and president of Gliding Stars. Gliding Stars is a nonprofit organisation providing adaptive ice skating programs and related products nationwide for people with challenges…

…Over the years, O’Donnell has successfully mounted themed ice programs that encourage developmentally delayed children to perform in ways they could not have imagined. Many of her students reside in group homes. Some are living with cerebral palsy, autism or fetal alcohol syndrome.

…When O’Donnell started, she said the concept was new in the area.

“There wasn’t anything when I started sports for disabilities,” said O’Donnell. “When I was 6, my best friend’s little brother was disabled, and he was at home. That’s when I realized I liked making disabled people feel included.”

…Gliding Stars is a national organization with chapters in Rochester; Saratoga Springs; Erie, Pa.; Toledo, Ohio; Findlay, Ohio; and Central Florida. There is also an affiliate in Marquette, Mich. At the end of each season, each chapter mounts a publicly attended ice show to showcase the accomplishments of the participants and volunteers, and to provide the incentive of performing in public, a goal that inspires participants during the season. Some skaters have been skating with O’Donnell for decades. O’Donnell, who is 59, admitted she has learned from them all.

“It taught me that everybody is different and that is good,” O’Donnell said. “You never know how far you can go so keep your expectations high. Courage is not the anticipation of fear. Courage is doing it anyway. Do it afraid. Just do it.”…

Below is a link to video of another wonderful skating performance by the Autistic Krista Kellner and her coach; this was as part of the ‘Gliding Stars of Western New York Chapter’: Gliding Stars of WNY 3-24-2012 - YouTube

(source: Gliding Stars gives people with challenges a place to shine - City & Region - The Buffalo News)

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The subject of the last post was Gliding Stars, a nonprofit providing adaptive ice skating programs and related products nationwide for people with challenges. A couple of years back, Elizabeth O’Donnell (founder and president of Gliding Stars) helped an Autistic boy practice for a performance. Lucas Guzzino, 8, would perform with his father, David, for the ‘Polar Express’ sequence of Movies and Musicals on Ice in the ‘Northtown Center at Amherst’ in Buffalo, New York…

Gliding Stars founder Elizabeth M. O’Donnell has been working to help children with special needs through ice skating for over thirty years. The number of children with autism served by her program has increased greatly:

“I would have one or two kids with autism out of 300 skaters,” O’Donnell said. “Now I have 15 to 20.”

One of those students is Lucas Guzzino, whose mother Pam encourages others to give skating a try:

“I think every kid with autism should get on the ice and skate,” Pam Guzzino said. "It gives them focus.

“Lucas has a sense of pride, a sense of ownership, on the ice,” she added. “He also has a sense of perseverance, to know what it means to practice and get better at something. He’s also learned to be part of a team, part of a group.”

Here is a link to a video of the performance: Gliding Stars (WNY) 2011 show - YouTube

(sources: Picture Page: March 25, 2011 - Photo Gallery - The Buffalo News; http://thautcast.com/drupal5/category/tags/elizabeth-m-o?donnell)

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The subject of a number of recent posts, for example this one, was the Autism Skateboarding Foundation, or A.Skate. A.Skate (which stands for ‘Autism: Skating with Kids through Acceptance Therapy and Education’) is an Alabama-based nonprofit whose goal is to teach kids on the Autism Spectrum to skateboard and teach awareness to a demographic that might not otherwise know about Autism.

In April 2011, A.Skate teamed up with Autism Speaks as well as etnies for a skate clinic in Lake Forest, California. etnies is a footwear brand based in Lake Forest, California, United States–the company sponsors professional skateboarders and releases signature shoe models…

…“By providing a day of skate clinics, kids on the autism spectrum will be given the opportunity to learn how to skateboard, an activity that requires no team or competitive coaching,” said Don Brown, senior vice president of marketing for etnies. “Skateboarding is an individual activity and ideal for kids on the spectrum because they often struggle with social interaction. As a brand started and still run by a world-championship skateboarder Pierre-Andr? Senizergues, etnies is so happy to be teaching what we know to kids that deserve a window into the world of skateboarding where we are all the same, whether you are on the spectrum or not.”

etnies, together with Autism Speaks, North America’s largest autism science and advocacy organization, and the A.skate Foundation, an organization that allows children with autism to be a part of our social world through skateboarding, aim to provide children on the spectrum with a new outlet to express themselves while also raising awareness about this very important disorder affecting one in 110 children…

Here is a link to a video on the ‘Etnies, A.Skate, & Autism Speaks’ Skate Clinic at Etnies Skatepark: Etnies, A.Skate, & Autism Speaks - Skate Clinic at Etnies Skatepark April 2, 2011 - YouTube

(source: http://etnies.com/blog/2011/3/28/shine-a-light-on-autism-this-weekend/)

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The subject of the post from yesterday was a skate clinic held a couple of years back at ‘etnies Skatepark of Lake Forest’. This public skatepark, located in the Greater Los Angeles Area, is the largest free skatepark in California, with an area of over 40,000 square feet.

At the same venue, the Sheckler Foundation via its annual ‘Skate for a Cause’ event, has held fundraising days to benefit A.skate (the Autism Skateboarding Foundation). Thus allowing fellow skateboarders, sponsors and the community to have fun while giving back by helping kids on the Autism Spectrum…

…Founded in 2008, The Sheckler Foundation was created as an avenue for Ryan Sheckler [a professional skateboarder and entrepreneur], his family, friends and business associates to give back to the community and industry that they are so grateful for. Fueled by the desire to contribute to the many causes that directly benefit and enrich the lives of children and injured action sports athletes, The Sheckler Foundation produces fundraising events, passion projects and web-based initiatives to raise capital and awareness. The foundation’s ultimate goal is to empower our community to ‘Be the Change’!..

Here is a link to a video of the Sheckler Foundation’s ‘Skate for a Cause 2012’; held in May of that year, the Sheckler Foundation reached its goal of raising $57,000 for the A.Skate Foundation to help fund a 10 city tour to hold A.Skate clinics for Autistic children around the country: CCS TV: Sheckler Foundation - Skate for A-Cause - YouTube

And some photos of the great day can be viewed through the following link: http://www.skateboardermag.com/features/sheckler-foundations-skate-for-a-cause-photo-recap/

(source: Sheckler Foundation’s Skate for a Cause Confirms List of Skaters)

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The subject of yesterday’s post was the Sheckler Foundation’s annual ‘Skate for a Cause’ event.

Professional skateboarder Ryan Sheckler, the young man behind the San Clemente, California-based nonprofit, has also been involved in the annual ‘Ante Up For Autism’ fundraiser benefiting Talk About Curing Autism (TACA)…

More than 40 Oakley volunteers showed up in force to assist at the 6th Annual Ante Up for Autism Gala benefiting Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) at the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel in Dana Point, Calif.

“I look forward to volunteering at TACA events, especially this one,” said Oakley Claims Clerk, Becca Brummett. “It’s inspiring to see people come together to support a cause that affects so many children.”

This year’s event, hosted by actor, writer and producer Johnathon Schaech and Oakley musician, Kate Voegele was filled with unique silent and live auction items including a Rory McIlroy autographed Oakley golf polo and Ryan Sheckler autographed skateboard decks and a variety of sports memorabilia.

As the sun set over the Pacific Ocean and the Ante Up poker tournament ensued, more than 300 guests mingled, tried their hand at casino-style gaming and took advantage of the outrageous costumes in the photo booth.

The sold-out event raised more than $260,000 which will help TACA support approximately 31,000 families across the United States affected by autism…

In 2010, Oakley launched its partnership with TACA, a non-profit organization dedicated to educating, empowering and supporting families living with autism. With each purchase of TACA special edition Oakley eyewear, Oakley provides $20 to TACA in support of its mission. To date, Oakley had donated more than $300,000.

Here is a link to a video of the 6th annual ‘Ante Up For Autism’ fundraiser held late last year: Ante Up For Autism 2012 - YouTube

(source: 6th Annual Ante Up for Autism Fundraising Gala | Australia)

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The subject of the last post was the annual ‘Ante Up For Autism’ fundraiser benefiting Talk About Curing Autism (TACA). TACA is a nonprofit founded in 2000 and based in Irvine, California by Lisa Ackerman when her son was diagnosed and the doctor gave her no hope…

…We started TACA based on the need of families looking for help. Both my husband and I wanted the company of other families going through the same struggles, for social gatherings, and to share information especially research and treatments options as they became available. TACA began with a small handful of families in our living room in 2000. Our family and early TACA members found the resources to meet the needs of many families. Today, TACA serves families across the country, and it all started in an Orange County living room. Today we are leading the way in providing Real Help Now to families living with autism…

Here is a link to a video highlighting four TACA families living with Autism and finding answers and hope for their children to help them be the best they can be: Talk About Curing Autism - A Voice For Families - YouTube

(source: A Conversation with Lisa Ackerman, Founder of Talk About Curing Autism (TACA) | OC Social Scene)

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The subject of the last post was Talk About Curing Autism (TACA), a nonprofit based in Irvine, California. In January of this year, a group of runners started from Turner Field in Downtown Atlanta on a 126.2 mile, two-day journey to raise Autism awareness and funds for TACA…

…So as you are eating breakfast, lunch or even dinner on Friday think about this group of runners spending their day running 126.2 miles to make a difference for TACA families. One of their steps in this 126.2 mile journey will be for my child and one will be for each of yours.

I consider anyone willing to run 126.2 miles to bring awareness and money to a cause pretty amazing (especially if the cause is autism and the organization is TACA.) What makes this story even more inspiring is that none of these runners have a personal connection to autism. They do not have a child with autism or even a brother or sister with autism. They are a group of runners that saw TACA doing good things in their community so they decided to use something they love (running!) to make a difference in the lives of others. They brainstormed an idea, mapped out a course, and set up a fundraising page. Quickly, ‘126.2 Miles for Autism’ was in full swing and their work to make a difference for families living with autism had started one step at a time.

I found this quote from Lisa Ackerman [founder of the organisation] on the TACA Website and it is clearly appropriate for this story. “The autism journey is not an easy one. It’s a marathon, not a sprint; so take each minute, hour, or day, one at a time. It will be difficult, but it will also be incredibly rewarding, because it will change your life, your family’s life, and most importantly, the lives of your children with autism to all enjoy a brighter future.”…

Here is a link to a video on the ‘126.2 Miles for TACA’ fundraiser: 126 Miles for TACA - YouTube

(source: Talk About Aching Calves for Talk About Curing Autism - Talk About Curing Autism (TACA))

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The subject of recent posts in the other thread has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Nebraska.

To the west, Wyoming has hosted the ‘Steps for Autism’ fun run/walk to raise awareness about Autism for the last couple of years. The event is organised by Autism Rocks!, a Greybull, Wyoming-based support group for anyone touched by Autism Spectrum Disorders…

With just a little over two weeks to go, organizer Kellie Harrington said “the community is really starting to come together”…

Registration starts at 8 a.m., with the walk/bike/run to follow starting at 9 a.m. A lunch will follow, provided by JEM Works Enterprises. A small cost will be charged to benefit the cause of autism awareness, which is being promoted throughout the month of April.

Harrington said Autism Awareness Month is “a celebration of those on the spectrum … and what they’ve accomplished. Sometimes, I don’t think people realize just how common it is.”

Pledge sheets for those wishing to run, walk or bike are available at Ron’s, the Greybull Recreation District office, Greybull Building Center, CC’s, The Shack, and the Greybull Area Chamber of Commerce.

Harrington said she will be selling her Autism Rocks Wyoming T-shirts during the registration.

“I am really thankful for all the support I have received while organizing this event,” she said.

Several musical acts plan to participate in the fundraiser, including Jalan Crossland, Jared Rogerson and Melanie Devaney, all of whom have performed in the past at musical festivals around the area.

Here is a link to photos from last year’s ‘Steps for Autism’ fundraiser: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.824053510981536.1073741833.405875162799375&type=3

(source: Greybull Standard - April 10, 2014 - Page 3)

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The subject of the last post was the ‘Steps for Autism’ fun run/walk to raise awareness about Autism for the last couple of years. The event is organised by Autism Rocks!, a Greybull, Wyoming-based support group for anyone touched by Autism Spectrum Disorders.

The ‘Beat of a Different Drum Retreat for Families of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders’ is an annual event that has been coordinated by the Northern Wyoming branch of the *Scottish Rite Clinic for Childhood Language Disorders. The Center *is a Cheyenne, Wyoming-based nonprofit that helps students with various challenges including Autism Spectrum Disorders…

When the Yagers arrived at this years Autism Spectrum Disorder Family Retreat, 7-year-old Kaleb had never brushed his own teeth
“Kaleb is what they call high-functioning” said Sheridan mother Angel Yager of her young autistic son “Well mid- to high-functioning” she added “depending on the day”.
The Scottish Rite Foundation of Wyoming invited the Yagers and 21 other families to the third annual [retreat.] The weekend camp for families with children with autism spectrum disorder was held at HF Bar Ranch outside Buffalo for the third year in a row.
Special guests Dr Katherine Calouri and her husband Eric Hamblin made sure to see each family for an individual one-hour session. It was during one such session that the Yagers say a miracle happened.
“Well during the hour with Kathy Calouri she played a game with Kaleb” explained Angel Yager “He had this juice box and Kathy would take a toothbrush and touch his juice box with it then shed touch him with the toothbrush then they swapped the toothbrush for the juice box and eventually well Kalebs been brushing his own teeth for the past couple days” said Yager.
“The long term strategy here is baby-steps” explained Yager “With these children any change is difficult.”

…[A] benefit of the camp atmosphere is that the whole family experiences it together
“Typically in a therapy setting” said Calouri “only one parent can attend Something will inevitably be lost when that parent translates the session with their spouse and other children but here we see both parents and all the siblings together.”
In addition to time spent in therapy and socializing with other families there were numerous activities families enjoyed over the weekend including trail rides, fishing, hiking, crafts, swimming, hay rides, and a rodeo, in which children got to show off their extensive skills in competitions like carrying and egg with a spoon and riding a horse without spilling water from a full cup.
Musician Judy Fjell also visits to entertain the children with musical activities and concerts.
“This is my third year coming to the [camp]” said Fjell “And I feel as if I’ve really hit my stride. The key is to be very flexible and let the kids drop in and out and not to push structure on them.”
Coordinator Beverly Kenik sees in the camp a great opportunity to bring families together.
“You know we had a family scheduled to come last year who didnt and I found out later it was because they didnt have the gas money” said Kenik “I didnt know about it then if I had we would have found a way to get them here.”
She added “They’re here this year.”
Families from as far as Star Valley have traveled to this retreat. And other than the cost of travel the camp is completely free for them.
Kenik who also runs the Northern Wyoming branch of the Scottish Rite Clinic for Childhood Language Disorders sees the camp as a great philanthropic opportunity for the Scottish Rite…
“The Scottish Rite branch of the Masons is deeply committed to helping children” she said “They are the largest contributor to the camp. But lots of others help too. Just to name a few the Ray and Kay Littler Trust, Tom and Marta Stroock, and of course the HF Bar Ranch.”
Kenik added “The event could not be held without the generous support of the HF Bar Ranch which provides the facility at a reduced rate prepares all of the meals and facilitates the horseback riding experience for families, not to mention the staff who remain undaunted and gracious for three and a half days.”
Ideally the Scottish Rite would like to secure permanent sponsorship for the annual camp.
“We are pursuing permanent sponsorship for this event through one or multiple sponsors to ensure the continuation of this project” explained Kenik. “The Governors Planning Council on Developmental Disabilities is intended to be seed money for community projects as they procure permanent funding. This project is unique to the state of Wyoming as no family pays for the opportunity to attend and all family members and caregivers are encouraged to attend learn laugh and relax in a fully inclusive environment.”

Below is a link to a video of the 2009 edition of the ‘Beat of a Different Drum Retreat for Families of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders’; the song playing for just under the first five minutes of the video is ‘We’re All Welcome on This Earth’ by Judy Fjell: 2009 Autism Retreat

(sources: Scottish Rite hosts retreat at HF BarBy Shari Otteman - Buffalo Bulletin: Local News; http://www.judyfjell.com/backoffice/dbops/news/list.htm?qs=cat%3Dsongs%26ax%3DY&rec=222&keys=&mo=&ax=Y&sid=news_section#in_news_section_1)

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The subject of the last couple of posts has been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Wyoming.

The Casper Autism Society, a non-profit based in Casper, Wyoming, is committed to giving support, sharing resources, educating, advocating, and raising awareness for those effected by, or interested in Autism Spectrum Disorders…

Touchdowns, rushing yards and catches weren’t the only stats that came out of Saturday’s …indoor football game.

…the Casper Autism Society sought to raise awareness about the disorder.
The [Wyoming Indoor Football] team invited families with children with autism to arrive at the game early, around 5:30 p.m. and about two hours before kickoff, before the crowds showed up and their noise followed at the Casper Events Center.
Children with autism generally have trouble handling crowds, loud noises and fast movements, and if they can come to the game early and get situated before the crowd, it helps them acclimate better, said Argeri Layton, director of business operations for the [Wyoming Indoor Football team].

Before Saturday, 5-year-old Josie Garner would wear headphones while watching the [game] to drown out the noise.
“Then, she stands out and isn’t comfortable,” said her mother, Christy Garner. “Today she is OK.”
Garner, president of the Casper Autism Society, said it’s helpful for Josie to come early and have the noise grow around her. She said the [Wyoming Indoor Football team] offered her family and other families like hers “a great opportunity” Saturday.

…Jenny Elmore said her 8-year-old son, Vincent VanVugt, just wants to be with his friends.
Vincent was helping a buddy sell 50-50 raffle tickets before the game to benefit the Casper Autism Society.
A lot of parents struggle with how to deal with their child with autism, Elmore said. It helps if the community has a better understanding of their behaviors.
“People just think they are naughty,” Elmore said. “They’re not.”

Christy Garner said an event like this one helps raise awareness of autism within the community. She said many people think autism is far removed from Casper and Wyoming.
“We’re in a very unaware population,” Garner said. “This puts a face to autism.”

Here is a link to photos of the Casper Autism Society’s ‘Summer Picnic’ from a number of years back: Casper Autism Society: CAS Summer Picnic 2008

(source: Helping hands: Cavalry raise autism awareness | Local News | trib.com)

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The subject of the last few posts has been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Wyoming.

In support of Autism Awareness, Exclusive Genetics (EG), a world leader in the bucking bull industry has been partnering with two nonprofits — the National Autism Association and the Parent Information Center of Wyoming. The three entities joined together to help raise awareness, as well as funds for programs and services that help children and adults with Autism via the ordering of ‘Buck Autism’ awareness bracelets and shirts…

Exclusive Genetics completed a very successful week while in Las Vegas, Nevada for its fourth consecutive year featuring its Bucking Bull Games.

Held parallel to the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo, Bucking Bull Games also featured a special event - Buck Autism Weekend…

Buck Autism, founded by Billy Jaynes, CEO of Exclusive Genetics Bucking Bull Games …was inspired by Jayci Mead …a young woman who has autism and since her involved in bull ownership, she has been able to communicate and express herself in ways that she was unable to do so prior to her connection to bull ownership. Motivated by Jayci’s improvements and response to this unlikely creature, Jaynes’ set out to bring attention to this disorder through the Buck Autism campaign.

Teaming up with the National Autism Association, Jaynes said, “In addition to raising a significant amount of money for NAA through our Buck Autism campaign it was equally important to get the message out about people with autism. I was pleased that I was able to speak to thousands of rodeo fans prior to each of our performances about the need for public awareness.” He added, "We were also very grateful to our corporate sponsors, Branded Cities Network and Harmon Corner, who not only created a very impactful Buck Autism Public Service Announcement, but also ran the PSA continuously throughout the duration of Bucking Bull Games for millions of visitors and residents to see.”

Wendy Fournier of the National Autism Association… was beyond enthusiastic when it was announced that the final number raised was $16,000 for the not-for-profit organization, “We are gratified at the generosity of bucking bull and rodeo fans towards supporting people with autism. The funds we raise and awareness we generate continues to grow every time we hold a Buck Autism event. The positive relationship between bucking bulls and Jayci Mead that has made a significant change in her interaction with others has been witnessed by so many who have decided to donate in return.”

…One of Exclusive Genetics bull owners, Jayci Mead a 21-year-old woman, has autism. Jayci’s interest in bucking bulls has helped her communicate and express herself in ways that she was unable to do so prior to her connection to bull ownership. Her story was published in the Las Vegas Review-Journal.

…It is well known that animal related therapy has been shown to assist people with a wide variety of disabilities. Interaction with dogs and horses has provided individuals with the opportunity to relate to these animals who serve a conduit to help with self-esteem and social interaction. For Jayci Mead of Thermopolis, Wyoming, bucking bulls have created a life-changing experience. Jayci, who has autism, which makes it difficult for her to express herself in a meaningful way, has found these large animals have assisted her in reaching out to the world around her.

Jayci, who is now 21, opened up about her interest in bucking bulls when her class in high school had a career day. When she was asked what career path she would like to take, Jayci said she wanted to be a bucking bull stock contractor. She had watched professional bull riding on television and felt a special bond with these animal athletes.

Jayci’s parents, Valerie and Luke Mead, embraced this desire and helped her achieve her dream by researching the industry. The Mead’s contacted Exclusive Genetics one of the largest bucking bull training and breeding organizations in the world. They run the Million Dollar Bucking Bull Championship, the highest payout bucking bull event in the sport. After talking to CEO Billy Jaynes, the Mead’s let him know that Jayci’s favorite bull rider is PBR superstar L.J. Jenkins. He is not only a bull rider but also an accomplished bull trainer and it just so happens that Jenkins trains some EG bred bulls on his ranch in Oklahoma. Jaynes introduced the Meads to Jenkins who was in the position to offer a partnership in a bull that he was training.

Now as a bull owner, Valerie sees tremendous growth in Jayci. She talks about how she is amazed she is watching Jayci as a bucking bull owner and how it has changed her life, "While before being involved with bulls, Jayci was not shy, but she had difficulty expressing herself. Living in a small town in Wyoming, it is a struggle in having her communicate. Now as a bull owner she travels and she now recognizes the people she has interacted with much more easily.” She added, "When Jayci can express herself that excites us, it really gets us choked up. It is so amazing, we celebrate the little things that for her are tremendous accomplishments.”

Here is a link to a video on this inspiring story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=peummSnZYPA&feature=youtu.be

(sources: Autism Awareness - Parent Information Center; BUCK AUTISM MISSION: Jayci’s Story)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Wyoming.

Fort Collins, Colorado is the first city on Interstate 25 south after the Wyoming border. Fort Collins is home to Colorado State University where Temple Grandin currently is a professor of animal sciences.

The Autism Society of Larimer County is a Fort Collins, Colorado-based non-profit that 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.

On Tuesday April 21st, the [ASLC] hosted a presentation by Dr. Temple Grandin in conjunction with a silent auction at the Hilton Garden Inn. Dr. Grandin shared from her new book, ‘The Way I See It’ to a full house of enthusiastic attendees. 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 ranging from elegant overnight stay at the Stanley to marshmallow shooters. 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 Autism Society of Larimer County children at an aquatic centre event from a number of years ago: 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)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Wyoming.

To the south, eight months ago, 40 West Arts District in Lakewood, Colorado displayed ‘Youth Artists on the Spectrum: A Celebration of Neurodiversity’. The project was initiated by a local school student on the Autism Spectrum. Max Boyer put out the call for artists, and any child — 18 and younger — to submit up to three pieces of art in any medium for entry…

…Blue was the favorite color at Eagleview Elementary School on April 2nd. In celebration of World Autism Awareness Day, Eagleview Elementary held it’s inaugural Autism Awareness Day. The event included the school-wide participation of wearing blue and collecting donations for a food drive; an essay writing contest, a Pledge of Compassion Wall and an art show, highlighting the work of 5th grade student, Max Boyer, who is on the autism spectrum.
The celebration was special to the Eagleview community for two reasons: One is that Eagleview was the first school in Adams 12 to offer services to children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and that two of their ASD students, planned the event while riding home together on the bus. The event not only raised awareness about autism for the students but celebrated the success of SLS/ASD program at Eagleview.
Max Boyer,a 5th grade student, is one of the program’s success stories. He entered the program unable to be in a regular classroom and could not read or write at age 8. By age 10, he was reading. Now, at 12, he is reading at the 5th grade level and in the classroom full-time with the exception of tutoring. He created the art show to educate others about the challenges of being on the spectrum.
“The art show is to help generate compassion for kids like me.” Max said. “Here at Eagleview, I was accepted for having autism. It’s just part of who I am!”
Lea Mitchell, Principal, agreed with Max. “It is about inclusion. Regardless of ability, all the children are celebrated for what they can do and encouraged to aim high with their goals.”
The Compassion Wall and art show will remain on display during the month of April…

Here is a link to photos of Max’s Continuation/Graduation from Eagleview Elementary from last year: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.702711706442193.1073741829.675849395795091&type=3

(source: https://www.facebook.com/Insight-Into-The-Autistic-Mind-Compassion-Awareness-Understanding-675849395795091/?fref=nf)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related organisations and events in the state of Wyoming.

To the south, Ascendigo is a Carbondale, Colorado based nonprofit. The organisation takes full advantage of the Roaring Fork Valley’s unmatched natural facilities and its charitable community and organisations to offer physical, experiential, and collaborative activities to persons on the Autism Spectrum…

An Aspen nonprofit organization that prides itself on getting children and young adults with autism into the outdoors is hosting its signature fundraising event at the Hotel Jerome on Sunday so it can keep doing what it does best.

Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo will host the fourth annual Light It Up Blue Aspen, which features a reception-style event with curated food and drink stations, music, dancing and a silent auction. The event starts at 6:30 p.m.

“We hope to raise between $400,000 and $500,000, so it’s a big deal,” said Ron Rash, a longtime Aspen outdoor-adventure guide who is the interim executive director of the Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo.

Blue, the color representing autism, will douse the Hotel Jerome in light for the event.

Ticket are $250. Proceeds benefit Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo and Autism Speaks, a research and advocacy organization.

While Rash is involved in the administration of the nonprofit, it was working with people with autism that first got him interested in the cause.

“You can see the joy it brings to people that have never skied before or never climbed,” he said.

He has witnessed how the outdoor activities open an avenue of reaching children and young adults with autism.

“The physical activity releases the stress and anxiety,” he said.

The Aspen program is unique in the United States because it takes people anywhere on the autistic spectrum and gets them outdoors. Many times, organizations that work with people with autism won’t take those with behavioral issues, so they have little opportunity and face institutionalizing.

“Instead of a building with four walls, they’re outside, which is fantastic,” Rash said.

Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo enrolled 155 people in its camps last summer. It offers four core activities over eight weeks: rock climbing, river activities such as rafting, paddle boarding and running water in duckies, horseback riding, and boating activities such as wakeboarding and waterskiing. Separate activities ranging from cycling to gardening are offered during afternoons at the camp.

The camp takes people from 7 to 27 years old. This will be its 11th year.

“Some campers have been with us all 11 years,” Rash said.

Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo also offers activities year-round, such as skiing in winters.

Extending its invitation to people with autism who have behavioral issues requires additional counselors, Rash said. The program isn’t cheap to operate, so Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo needs to hit a home run each year with Light It Up Blue. The event’s timing was switched to mid-February two years ago to take advantage of a busy time of year. This year, the event is crammed with activities and celebrity appearances Saturday and Sunday to create a “weekend of autism awareness,” Rash said.

The highlights include:

• Vertical Blue: Autism Awareness Day at Aspen Highlands on Saturday afternoon. Olympic gold-medal skier Johnny Moseley and Dr. Jennifer Berman, of the CBS television show “The Doctors,” will ski with participants with autism and trainers from Extreme Sports Camp/Ascendigo. There will be a scavenger hunt on the mountain. A booth at the base will provide clues starting at 8 a.m. An apres-ski celebration will be held at 3 p.m. at Highlands Ale House.

• Berman will speak at Light It Up Blue Aspen and have a production team covering the event for a feature story about autism on “The Doctors.” Berman is a renowned women’s-health specialist, author and recurring host of the television show. She has a longstanding interest in autism.

• Sentient Jet, the presenting sponsor of the event, is offering a day of skiing with Moseley. Two sessions were sold in advance of the event and raised $10,000 for the cause. Sentient Jet also will donate $2,000 to the host charities for every event attendee who purchases a 25-hour jet card during the evening. It also contributed a $10,000 flight card for the auction.

Here is a link to photos: https://www.facebook.com/ascendigo/photos_stream?tab=photos_albums

(source: Light It Up Blue Aspen fundraiser aids unique outdoor program for people with autism | AspenTimes.com)