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

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The subject of the few posts has been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Columbus metropolitan area of Ohio.

Embracing Autism, based in Columbus, Ohio, was founded five years ago to help families in Central Ohio support children and adults with autism. Embracing Autism believes that training specific to autism is essential in creating a solid and long-lasting foundation for individuals with this developmental disability…

Embracing Autism teams up with CVS to provide valuable Work Experience Training in Central, Ohio.

CVS was founded in 1963 and has more than 7,600 stores nationwide.

The company …is the second largest pharmacy-based store in the US.

“We are so happy to have this opportunity for the people that we serve and to work with such a great company”, stated Dave Rastoka, President and Founder of Embracing Autism.

Embracing Autism was founded in 2011 and provides residential and vocational services to anyone with a disability, but specializes in serving individuals with autism.

The main focus of the Work Experience Training is to expose individuals to a variety of vocational based skills, using a mock CVS store at Embracing Autism’s Employment and Development Institute located at
2491 W. Dublin-Granville Rd in Columbus, OH.

…The main objective is to get individuals employed.

Hopefully, that will be with CVS but individuals can use their newly acquired vocational skills anywhere. Embracing Autism is now accepting potential candidates for this training which will begin in June 2014…

Here is a link to photos of ‘Team Embracing Autism’ at the nonprofit Autism Speaks’ Walk fundraiser from nearly four years ago: https://www.facebook.com/415325821859958/photos/?tab=album&album_id=425729434152930

(source: Ohio Provider Resources Association)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the last few posts has been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Columbus metropolitan area of Ohio.

Bridgeway Academy, formerly known as Helping Hands Center for Special Needs, is a Columbus, Ohio-based non-profit whose mission is to meet the educational and therapeutic needs of children with Autism and other developmental disabilities. The school currently serves children from pre-kindergarten and provides schooling, therapy and other services…

The New Albany Women’s Network raised $19,700 through its March 1 fundraiser, An Evening in New Albany, for the Helping Hands Center for Special Needs of Columbus.

“We’re so grateful to the New Albany Women’s Network,” said Carol Argiro, the center’s director of development.

“They are such a thoughtful group…”

The Helping Hands Center for Special Needs at 2500 Medary Ave. has 97 students enrolled, 87 with diagnoses and 10 without disabilities.

It offers early-intervention programs and schooling …It also offers therapy for children schooled elsewhere.

…Network president Jennifer Glover said the fundraiser has grown from a party in a neighborhood cul-de-sac, to a party under a tent, to an evening dinner and auction and finally a more formal event.

“We are exploring what’s next for this beloved NAWN event,” Glover said.

…The New Albany Women’s Network was founded in 1989 as a nonprofit organization “to enrich and foster a united community through various social, educational, outreach and charitable programs.”

Here is a link to a video from Bridgeway Academy from about a year ago: 19 reactions | Yesterday, Jazz Bear visited Helping Hands Center for Special Needs. Special thanks to Jazz Arts Group, Rebecca Ogden, Aaron Scott, Derek DiCenzo and Dave Dewitt! | Bridgeway - Academy & Therapy Center

(source: ‘Evening’ raised almost $20,000 for Helping Hands charity | ThisWeek Community News (http://www.thisweeknews.com/content/stories/newalbany/news/2014/06/02/new-albany-womens-network-evening-raised-almost-20000-for-helping-hands-charity.html))

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Columbus metropolitan area of Ohio.

Food for Good Thought, based in Columbus, Ohio, helps people with autism explore careers and get placed in jobs, whether in its gluten-free bakery or in one of a number of excellent Columbus-based businesses. Indeed, six years ago, a nonprofit arm, Food for Good Thought Vocational Support (FFGTVS), was developed to provide creative job support for individuals with Autism when conventional funding sources were unavailable…

It’s been four years since Liam Bogner was diagnosed with profound autism. …Liam is now 6 and his mother measures his progress using the gluten-free blueberry muffins they make together.

“You plan ahead, framing what is going to be the child’s role and what is going to be the parent’s role,” Todd explained as she lined up a series of small cups into which the ingredients for the muffins had already been placed.

“We use regular, home-based chores, breaking them down into steps and gradually add the more messy components,” Todd said before bringing Liam into the kitchen. “A lot of people with autism have problems with rigidity, and cooking is a great tool for teaching them dynamic, real-world intelligence.”

It’s no surprise to find out that Todd is a psychologist who specializes in Relationship Development Intervention, a form of autism therapy. And earlier this year she and her husband Scott Bogner opened Food for Good Thought, a Clintonville bakery, which produces the gluten-free and casein-free foods favored by many people with autism.

Both gluten and casein are types of proteins, found most often in wheat and cow’s milk respectively, and they can exacerbate the gastro-intestinal problems that many people with autism have.

The blueberry muffin recipe is one Todd has been making with Liam for a few years now. She modified it from the “Gluten-Free Baking Classes” cookbook… and the mother-and-son process is fascinating to watch.

Todd would start a movement as simple as turning a page in the recipe book which has each step of the recipe broken into a single sentence with a picture. She’ll turn the page halfway, then wait for Liam to take over the movement and finish turning the page.

“I use a lot of my own actions to give him the cue to perform his role,” Todd explained. Before adding each ingredient, she asked Liam if they had picked up the correct ingredient or would hold up small bowl filled with their rice-blend version of flour or xanthan gum (used as a binder in the recipe) and then wait for Liam to take and pour it into the mixing bowl.

“Do you think you should stir or should I?” Todd asked Liam at one point. Liam firmly set his right hand on her left shoulder, looked at his mother and nodded at her to stir. It was a significant bit of communication that, four years ago, wouldn’t have been possible for the little boy.

“We say that we unveil our own thought processes to help teach them to think,” Todd said of their slow and careful approach to cooking together. “This is just like real deliberate parenting.”

Here is a link to a video on Food for Good Thought: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1WZN2adVYuk

(source: Food for Good Thought)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Columbus metropolitan area of Ohio.

Columbus, Ohio-based The Learning Spectrum has a mission to serve, with excellence, special children with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorders, in their natural environment. TLS’ mission is also to educate the whole child through a multi-disciplinary approach that meets each child’s individual needs and facilitates the highest level of success…

Here is a link to a video on The Learning Spectrum: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PI2M1w9qlw

(source: Food for Good Thought)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the last few posts has been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Columbus metropolitan area of Ohio.

Recreation Unlimited is a Delaware County, Ohio-based non-profit, that serves individuals with various challenges including Autism-specific residential and day camps for children. The mission of Recreation Unlimited is to provide year-round programs in sports, recreation and education for individuals with various challenges, while building self-confidence, self-esteem and promoting positive human relations, attitudes, and behaviours…

Many individuals with Autism …have not experienced the opportunity to be away from home and enjoy a structured outdoor recreation program designed specifically for their individual needs that will improve their health and quality of life.

…a two-phase camp program was funded.

As the first phase of this program, an Autism Weekend Camp for 30 total campers has been created in keeping with the individualized needs of an individual with [Autism Spectrum Disorders], including program activities, counselor and nursing support, dietary needs, social interaction, and multi-sensory behavior management.

The Autism Weekend Camp has been scheduled for the weekend of May 10-12, 2013.

The second phase of this program is an Autism Family Day Camp scheduled for Sunday, August 18, 2013.

The Autism Family Day Camp has been created…

This camp will allow families to participate in program activities together in a structured, fun environment and have the opportunity to network with other families.

In addition, we will open our campus [for] information gathering.

…In addition, a third program designed specifically for individuals with Autism …is a Farm Day Camp scheduled for the week of August 5-9, 2013.

Activities will include a combination of typical camp programming and programs that will center on skill development such as gardening, farming and food preparation…

Here is a link to a video on Recreation Unlimited: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2h0yPtLh7HY

(source: http://www.recreationunlimited.org/documents/2013%20Spring%20Newsletter.pdf)

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The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Columbus metropolitan area of Ohio.

The Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI) is a Columbus, Ohio-based nonprofit that serves families, educators and professionals working with infants, preschool and school-age children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders and low-incidence disabilities. The Center offers training, technical assistance, and consultation to build professional and program capacity to foster individual learning and growth…

A new, online video-training program aims to help families, agency workers, in-home aides — anyone who interacts with a person who has autism — gain the skills they need to support kids and [others] on the spectrum.

The state-funded project, launched today, is the first of its kind in the nation, said Shawn Henry, executive director of OCALI, the Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence.

“I think that’s what parents are dying for — to have their children understood,” Henry said.

OCALI developed the $1.2 million [Autism Spectrum Disorders] Strategies in Action …to provide a broad range of information. It also offers a certification process for those who help people with autism.

Users can click on everything from a 90-minute overview to 15 hours of detailed coursework, with certification available for each section completed. It’s free to Ohioans; out-of-state users pay for a subscription.

John Martin, director of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities, said the training is not mandatory for disability-services providers. But he expects that agencies serving people with autism will want employees to gain certification, as will many families who hire therapists and caregivers.

“We think there will be lots of interest on its own,” Martin said. “Without the use of requirements, we think we’ll see lots of use.”

At the same time, the program has “real utility in terms of the general public,” Martin said. Its basic components could help grandparents, law-enforcement officers, librarians and others who might want more knowledge about the increasingly common condition, he said.

…The origins of the autism-training project were contained in the last biennial budget, which sought to define and tighten credentials for people practicing as behavior analysts.

“The psychology board wanted to make sure that the folks who are writing the plans for people with autism had adequate training and credentials,” Martin said. “There just wasn’t clarity in statute about the formal development of treatment plans, who was qualified to do that and who isn’t .”

The legislation spelled out the requirements for someone to be a certified Ohio behavior analyst and also directed state agencies to work with OCALI to create a certification program for others who work with people with autism.

Henry said supporters hope the online training also can help curb some of the employee turnover within agencies that serve children and young adults with autism.

…OCALI unveiled the online program at its annual conference, today through Friday at the Greater Columbus Convention Center. Participants could stop by a display exhibit and see how it works. The program includes real-people videos, interviews, expert commentary, strategies for communication and behavioral-intervention practices.

Henry said the idea is “to engage users from the moment they log in.”

Bacon said she hopes the program can lift some of the mystery of autism-spectrum disorder.

“A child with autism does not look any different from any other child,” she said. “So there’s a lack of understanding about why a child is behaving the way that they are.”…

Here is a link to a video from OCALI: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WJ1HN_ELrkg

(source: Ohio autism group launches new online video-training program | The Columbus Dispatch)

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The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Columbus metropolitan area of Ohio.

The Xenia, Ohio-based Greene County Board of Developmental Disabilities (GCBDD) is a county agency committed to serving individuals with developmental disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorders, in Greene County, Ohio. One of the agencies through which major services of GCBDD are accomplished is the The Four Oaks Early Intervention Program, which provides intervention services to infants and toddlers (birth through age 3) with special needs due to diagnosed medical or genetic conditions and/or developmental delays. The program is family centered, including early intervention specialists, speech therapists, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. Families receive early intervention services in sites throughout the community and other natural environments…

The P.L.A.Y. Project would like to mention a very special person who has been instrumental in advocating for and bringing P.L.A.Y. to Ohio, where we have trained over 100 Home Consultants to date and plan to train more this year.
Margaret Conrad, who retired from her position as Director of Four Oaks Early Childhood Programs in Greene County, Ohio in December 2012, was one of the original supporters of The P.L.A.Y. Project. Margaret’s belief in and passion for P.L.A.Y. inspired her to advocate to the County Board and to ultimately send 5 Early Intervention professionals to one of the very first P.L.A.Y. Project Trainings in 2005. Margaret continued to advocate for her staff to be trained in The P.L.A.Y. Project, and as a result of her support and persistence, Greene County has sent 13 people through the 4-Day Agency Training.
According to P.L.A.Y. Professional Diana Holderman, Margaret “has been an awesome advocate and support to us all as we went through our certification. Her leadership and perseverance has absolutely been a key part of the service development in our area. Margaret planted many seeds and they are still growing in Greene! She has touched the lives of MANY, and for that we want to thank her and let her know how much she is truly appreciated!”
Thank you for your support through the years, Margaret – we greatly appreciate your efforts in Early Intervention and wish you all the best in your retirement!

Here is a link to photos of GCBDD activities at the Atrium from five years ago: https://www.facebook.com/165820240129614/photos/?tab=album&album_id=176873679024270

(source: Honoring Margaret Conrad: Trailblazer for P.L.A.Y. - The PLAY Project)

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The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Columbus metropolitan area of Ohio.

To the west, the Preble County Board Of Developmental Disabilities (PCBDD) is an Eaton, Ohio-based nonprofit whose mission is to support individuals with developmental disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorders, to live, learn, work and socialise as they choose. The PCBDD began using the PLAY (Play and Language for Autistic Youngsters) Project for children age 3 and younger six years ago — a program that was developed by Dr. Richard Solomon, an Ann Arbor, Michigan-based developmental and behavioural pediatrician…

Ethan Schulte was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder when he was 2 years old.
Within a week, Ethan and his family were enrolled in the PLAY Project, an early intervention program offered through the Preble County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

…“It was an area of need for us,” said Diane Knupp, superintendent of the county board of DD.
Mercer County, Ohio, was showing wonderful results from the program. Preble County was able to share staff with Mercer, since it did not have enough kids to warrant a full time PLAY Project consultant.
“It was amazing, the growth in the kids,” Knupp said.
Ethan’s mother, Courtney Schulte, saw that growth for herself. “It brings you a lot closer (to your child),” she said.
The basic technique of the PLAY Project is to meet autistic children on their own ground.
Kids with [Autism Spectrum Disorders] tend to fixate on an object, Knupp said. Instead of taking the object away, the parent (or other adult) focuses on it with the child as a way to establish contact. As the two play with and talk about the object together, a relationship is established that helps the child learn to interact with others.
“It’s drawing them out of their world into our world,” said Knupp.
PLAY Project consultant Diana Holderman described the process as “enticing” children into a relationship. “They start feeling safe. If that kid knows an adult ‘gets’ them, … that makes the adult safe,” she said.
And — as the name implies — it’s fun.
“It should look fun,” Holderman said. “What people should see is joy. What they should hear is laughter.”
By 2013, Knupp’s agency started introducing the PLAY project to preschool teachers with great success. But the oldest child in the program was struggling with kindergarten.
Knupp began to explore the possibility of taking PLAY into the county schools.

…Project developer Solomon said that’s not unusual. Every day, he hears concerns from parents of children with [Autism Spectrum Disorders] about the difficulties their kids are facing in school.
His response is an extension of the PLAY Project called Teaching PLAY.
“What Teaching PLAY does … is help teachers and school staff engage students in a way that encourages attention, engagement, interaction and involvement,” said Solomon. “That leads to learning.”
Solomon’s organization did a pilot study last year throughout the state of Ohio, but Preble County is the first site in the nation to adopt Teaching PLAY into its schools, he said.
Kindergarten classrooms in Eaton Community Schools and National Trail Local School District… as well as the preschool at Preble Shawnee Local School District in Camden, are participating.
“Preble County is very exciting,” Solomon said. “Teachers are often stymied by children with autism. … They’re hard to engage.” PLAY strategies can change that. “We can really help these children at the beginning of their school careers.”
Onna Solomon, director of learning and development for the PLAY Project, said Preble County’s effort, though small, is significant.
“This is the cutting edge,” she said.
Courtney Schulte is excited that her son is continuing with PLAY at kindergarten. “I think it will make a huge difference,” she said.
Ethan’s teacher and aide at National Trail Elementary School …received PLAY training in August.

…Once a month, a PLAY consultant visits Ethan’s classroom to observe and videotape him in action. Teacher, aide and consultant watch the video together and talk about strategies and opportunities for the next month.

…“I’ve been in the field almost 40 years, and (PLAY) is one of the most profound intervention techniques I’ve ever seen,” said Knupp. “I really feel that we’re changing children’s lives. And we’re changing families’ lives.”
Ethan’s mom agrees.
“It’s going to help so many kids,” Courtney Schulte said…

Here is a link to a set of presentation slides on the topic of ‘An Overview of the PLAY Project and Teaching PLAY’: https://www.mvnu.edu/fyi/presentations/W-7%20The%20Play%20Project.pptx

(source: Preble County schools pioneer autism program)

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The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Columbus metropolitan area of Ohio.

Easter Seals Central and Southeast Ohio is a Hilliard, Ohio-based non-profit whose services include those for children with various challenges including Autism Spectrum Disorders. The nonprofit serves children with Autism through various means including early childhood education, paediatric therapies, and social skills groups…

…“We are the largest provider of autism services in the nation,” said Lynn Dudek, autism services manager, Easter Seals Central and Southeast Ohio.

“We are focused on the services needed for individuals with autism and their families from our national headquarters through every affiliate right to central Ohio,” Dudek said.

…As the number of clients needing services grows, so does the need for programs such as early intervention and outpatient programs that offer speech therapy to improve communication skills, occupational therapy to address sensory needs, and physical therapy to assist with movement and ability to play.

Addressing social needs is also at the forefront. “Every child with autism has difficulty with social interactions,” said Dudek. “So we conduct social skills groups for different ages that meet the unique needs of each group.” For young children the program may focus on how to play, for older children it might be how to talk to girls or what to do if you have a crush.

…As parents dealing with autism know, getting time for each other can be challenging. So Easter Seals offers respite services for a Friday evening, a Saturday, even all weekend. “Parents can go on dates knowing their child (age 6 and up) will be in a safe place,” said Dudek.

“Meanwhile, the child is watching movies, making snacks or practicing social skills. It allows the kids to be kids and the families to reconnect.” The 8-hour Saturday respite care sessions allow children to go on field trips into the community and have new experiences. The program also gets volunteers from the local high school, giving them a window into perhaps a different world.

…Easter Seals is always there. The organization doesn’t just treat the person with autism; it treats the whole family, said Dudek. And whether or not you know what services you or your family need, or if you don’t know where to start, don’t worry. “We’ll help you navigate the system,” said DuVall. “We work with other like-minded non-profits, collaborating to service the families who need us. If you don’t know who to call, call us.”

Here is a link to a video of Easter Seals Central and Southeast Ohio’s ‘Garden of Giving’ outside its Hilliard, Ohio building, from a couple of years ago: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lAOTPigq-as[tab=album&album_id=1109997332347549](https://www.facebook.com/EastersealsCentralOhio/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1109997332347549)

(source: Until there’s a cure, there’s Easter Seals | Columbus Parent)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Columbus metropolitan area of Ohio.

The Autism Society of Ohio is a Worthington, Ohio-based nonprofit whose mission is to improve the lives of all impacted by Autism Spectrum Disorders. The Autism Society of Ohio believes that each individual with Autism is a unique and important member of society deserving dignity, respect, and an equal opportunity to achieve the highest possible quality of life…

A little over a week ago I had the honor of being a part of an amazing event for a cause that is near to my heart. The Autism Society of Ohio had their annual Up All Night for Autism event at Dave and Busters in Hilliard, OH. Hundreds of people were in attendance for the fun, food, games, and of course raising money to support those impacted by autism. I wanted to give a little bit of background on how I become involved with [the Autism Society of Ohio] and also share some photos and stories from the event.

About 9 months ago, I reached out to the Autism Society of Ohio to see if there were any opportunities that I could volunteer my time and photography to their organization. I heard back from Dean Pulliam, the Executive Director for [the Autism Society of Ohio], and he had told me about an event they had coming up in the fall. They were looking for a photographer to volunteer their time to take candid type photos of people enjoying themselves during the event. After a breakfast meeting with Dean and Ginny, [the Autism Society of Ohio’s] information coordinator, I was very excited for the event and even more excited that I was able to help with a need of the organization. Before I knew it the event was here and it was time to get to work!

I arrived about half an hour prior to the start of the event and already the place was jamming! They had prepared a table and are for me to set up my gear right next to Kaught in the Act photo booth… Be sure to check them out as they brought an extra bit of energy and excitement in our “quiet” corner of Dave and Busters. I was able to speak to them a little bit about their business and hope to work with them in the future for weddings and other large events.

Each guest, upon entry, was provided with a Dave and Busters card that gave them unlimited use of the arcade games. I spent most of my time walking around capturing the reactions of people of all ages having a blast…

In addition to the games, guests were given the opportunity to participate in an item raffle, a 50/50 raffle, and a silent auction. I donated a portrait session for the silent auction to help raise some actual funds for the organization. The 50/50 raffle was won by three kids that were so excited they actual stopped me to make sure that I got a photograph of them…

Here is a link to a video from the Autism Society of Ohio for its ‘Up All Night for Autism’ event: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXIlUmMximI

(source: 400 Bad Request)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Columbus metropolitan area of Ohio.

The Stynchula Family Foundation is a Grove City, Ohio-based non-profit whose mission is to provide fundraisers and enrichment events for all special needs Children, focusing on children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. It also has a mission to raise funds to support the treatment and research for children with autism, as well as to expand into supporting other causes that could enhance children’s lives…

My name is David Stynchula, Founder of The Stynchula Family Foundation. For the past 13 years my family and I have found what you may consider a ‘calling’ in life. Personally, I [knew] a family who, when their son turned 18 months old, woke up a different child. Shortly after this event, he was diagnosed with Autism. My wife and I, being one of the lucky ones with two healthy children, were compelled to find a way to help this family in some way. Little did I know how something like this would find a life of its own!..

Our ‘FUND’ raisers include a 10-70 mile Bicycle Run, pick your poison for distance, a 5K Run, and our premier event, the Outing for Autism golf event with a live and silent auction. Just added is a group of ceramic students at the local high school making ceramic mugs and selling them at the Holiday Parade in Grove City, Ohio. Last year they raised $1,600 for our foundation. We have found people are looking for good foundations to get involved with. Many found ours and everyone associated with the Stynchula Family Foundation is a benefactor in some way.

…The ‘FUN’ Raisers we have, or are part of, include [a kids] Soapbox Derby Race, the Buddy Camp, a Holiday Party … and our Football/Cheerleading Camp, which raises the most interest. Imagine if you can, …children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder on a football field with a typical peer or parent helping them do running, kicking, and passing drills as well as sprints and crab races; and young ladies doing cheers and tumbles for a half time show. The coaches are past college and NFL football players and cheerleaders taking time at no cost to coach these children. After the event, it is hard to figure out who was affected more, the coaches or the children.

…The most gratifying thing that happens is to have one or more of the children come up to a coach, parent or even myself and give one of the best gifts anyone can receive—a big HUG!! Nuff said.

Here is a link to a video on the Stynchula Family Foundation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QdSf1xp_OZg

(source: https://www.autismspeaks.org/blog/2012/10/25/supporting-children-autism-one-event-time)

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The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Columbus metropolitan area of Ohio.

The Make It Fit Foundation is a Columbus, Ohio-based nonprofit whose name is indicative of its main goals. The puzzle piece has become the symbol for autism awareness; Make It Fit aspires to ?fit? the missing pieces together to help bring about more research, better treatment, and someday hopefully a cure for Autism…

How great it was ? during the Arnold Sports Festival, hanging out with not one, but two Mr. Olympia champions!
And they were not just champions but four time winners ? both of them! The Make It Fit Foundation [had] their 3rd Annual Phil Heath Fundraiser at the Park Street Complex ? Park Street Saloon and Social Room during the Arnold Sports Festival Friday, March 6.
Mr. Olympia winners Phil ?The Gift? Heath and Jay Cutler were present and supportive of the cause. There is no doubt these men are big in stature but more importantly, huge in heart, giving their time to raise money and awareness for the Make It Fit Foundation.
The Social Room was thumping to the sounds of DJ’d music packed with hot fit people having fun ? talking, enjoying food and drinks with some sitting at tables reserved by meaningful donations. Next door at the Park Street Saloon, an online auction took place for a variety of fitness items while [the] photobooth captured images of Phil and Jay with attendees for a donation.
Around 11 p.m. that night, an hour training session with Phil Heath was auctioned off to the highest bidder, won by Angela Kegler for a $600 donation ? afterward the band Swagg played and people danced to cover music.
Make It Fit is dedicated to improving lives affected by autism. They develop and maintain a community of caring, unified and knowledgeable people dedicated to raising money for autism research, treatment, advocacy, education and family services.

…100 percent of funds raised have helped send kids with autism to surf camp, provided equine therapy …and provided iPads to over 100 non-verbal children.
The Foundation supports research at The Ohio State University and Nationwide Children’s Hospital while also giving families affected by autism an opportunity to spend a day at The Columbus Zoo.
This party was dominated by fitness ? fit people, fitness sponsors and Mr. Olympians.
The perfect combination for the Arnold Sports Festival weekend.
Continue your legacy of support: Bring friends and join the fun for The Make It Fit Foundation’s next event: ?Outrun Autism 5k?..

Here is a link to a video on a Make It Fit Foundation charity event from last year: Make it Fit Foundation Charity Evite

(source: Park Street Complex ‘Make It Fit’ fundraiser wields ‘Olympian’ guns for charity - Now It’s Dark)

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The subject of the last few posts has been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Columbus metropolitan area of Ohio.

Fluttering Families is a Powell, Ohio-based non-profit that is founded on a belief that families of children with special needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorders, are like butterflies: they flutter their unique, beautiful, yet fragile, wings to stay in flight and moving forward. Weeks, months, and maybe, even years, may pass before every member of a special family can adjust to their metamorphosis; in each person’s own way, and time, the walls come down, the darkness begins to fade, and a beautiful butterfly emerges, fluttering through a new, once unimagined, beginning…

Food, dancing, music and popcorn are things just about any kid loves, but not every kid gets to enjoy them at the same events.

Laura Sefcik of Powell knows what that’s all about. She has three children, one of whom is a daughter with autism…

“For the past several years, I’ve noticed that my friends with typically-developing children, especially daughters, were going on these events in February,” she told 10TV Sunday, while preparing for a dance she’d initially organized as a father-daughter dance.

“I wanted to give my husband the opportunity to experience something that people take for granted as a rite of passage,” Sefcik continued, “and a father-daughter dance is definitely that.”

After announcing the event, at the Everal Barn in Westerville, on Facebook and her website, Sefcik quickly discovered she wasn’t alone.

Some 45 families with special needs children attended, and in the theme of non-exclusion, it wasn’t just for daddies and daughters. After all, developmental challenges affect both genders.

“And now it’s fathers, daughters, mothers, sons, care providers, aunts, uncles, grandparents, basically anyone who loves their special kid,” Sefcik proudly smiled.

…If the smiles and laughter were any indication, the Sweetheart Dance looks like the start of something families with typically developing children just might come to envy.

“It just gives our kids the opportunity to interact with people just like them, which is the same in a typical community,” Sefcik concluded…

Here is a link to a video of a rock show fundraiser for the above-mentioned family as well as another one with a child on the Autism Spectrum, from six years ago: https://vimeo.com/13883571

(source: Central Ohio Mother Organizes Sweetheart Dance For Children With Special Needs | WBNS-10TV Columbus, Ohio | Columbus News, Weather & Sports)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Columbus metropolitan area of Ohio.

Ohio’s state capital, like most other major cities in North America, is home to an annual ‘Walk Now for Autism Speaks’. The event acts as a fundraiser and awareness event for Autism Speaks, North America’s leading Autism science and advocacy organisation…

More than 17,000 walkers participated in the 7th Annual Columbus Walk Now for Autism Speaks on Sunday… To date, the event has raised more than $1,040,000 in support of Autism Speaks’ mission to fund research, increase awareness and family services and advocate for individuals with autism and their families.

The sun was shining. Walkers came out in their best team t-shirts. Families came out in the thousands to show their support of [those] on the autism spectrum. With nearly 40 service providers in the resource fair and family friendly activities from the Clippers and Home Depot, walkers of all ages …had fun while learning more about autism services in Central Ohio.

To get the walk kicked off, shout outs were given to local sponsors and corporate partners such as E-Cycle as well as check presentations from two of Columbus’ largest supporters Covelli Enterprises/Panera Bread and White Castle.
Thank you to the 2014 Columbus Walk Now for Autism Speaks Planning Committee, sponsors, service providers, families, and the countless volunteers that made the walk a day that everyone could celebrate and advocate for those we love on the spectrum!

Here is a link to a video on the 2014 Columbus, Ohio ‘Walk Now for Autism Speaks’: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7d_lEE1Sa4

(source: https://www.autismspeaks.org/news/news-item/2014-seventh-annual-columbus-walk-now-autism-speaks-recap)

[Visionary7903]

Agricultural specialisterne’: rural employment revolution for those with Autism

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Columbus metropolitan area of Ohio.

To the west, Dayton Children’s Hospital is a Dayton, Ohio-based not-for-profit pediatric hospital. Dayton Children’s Autism Diagnostic Center provides screening tests for children younger than 5 years to determine whether behaviours are consistent with Autism Spectrum Disorders…

Dayton Children’s Hospital became a second home to Kevin Teall [the general manager of the Panera Bread bakery-cafe] and his wife, Dominique, after the birth of their twins in 2012…

So when Panera Bread launched its “Pieces of Hope for Autism” cookie campaign, benefitting Dayton Children’s autism diagnostic center, Kevin jumped onboard. “Everyone at the hospital was like family to us as we learned Aiden would have some special needs so it’s wonderful to help support the hospital,” he says. “I feel fortunate to work for Panera Bread, a company that is committed to charity fundraising for the great organizations in our community.”

The “Pieces of Hope for Autism” cookie campaign runs from April 13 through April 19. Puzzle Piece Shortbread cookies will be available in all 11 Dayton, Ohio, Panera Bread bakery-cafes. 100% of proceeds from all cookie sales will be donated to Dayton Children’s Hospital autism diagnostic center. The donation will be used to help fund programs that will provide timely diagnostic assessment for families who are concerned about their child having autism as well ongoing education and support to primary care physicians to assist them in the identification and management of children with autism.

Kevin says the effort is bigger than a bake sale. “I have seen amazing acts of kindness this week.

People have been paying it forward – paying for the next person in line in the drive-thru. One woman who had never come to a Panera Bread bakery-cafe before saw the cookie campaign and was floored by the effort. It was personal for her because her son has autism.”

Kevin’s twin sons are now two years old, and his family which also includes four year old son Noah and wife Dominique, are the light of his life.

He’s made it his personal goal to sell 3,000 cookies …to support Dayton Children’s, an unequaled feat. His team is well on their way. A chalkboard sign spells out the effort and keeps a running tally of the number of cookies sold – they are almost halfway to the goal.

Here is a link to a video from Dayton Children’s Hospital: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u6d6sVxJhac

(source: Cookie campaign is more than just a bake sale for Panera Bread manager)

[Visionary7903]

Agricultural specialisterne’: rural employment revolution for those with Autism

The subject of yesterday’s post was Dayton Children’s Hospital, a Dayton, Ohio-based not-for-profit pediatric hospital. Dayton Children’s Autism Diagnostic Center provides screening tests for children younger than 5 years to determine whether behaviours are consistent with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Staying in the area, 4 Paws for Ability is a Xenia, Ohio-based nonprofit that enriches the lives of children with various challenges, including Autism Spectrum Disorders. It seeks to do this by training and placing quality, task-trained service dogs which provides increased independence for the children…

Chris Wallrauch is a bright and lovable nine-year-old boy. He goes to school and enjoys spending time on his family’s farm in Wayne Township. But while other boys his age might be enjoying Cub Scouts, parties or soccer with their friends, Chris and his family must follow a strict daily routine. Any deviation from that routine - even a different turn on the way home from school – could trigger a reaction that includes odd body movements like hand flapping… He has difficulty interacting with others which causes him to fear social situations. In a crowd or noisy environment, Chris may dart away… Chris has Asperger’s syndrome, a high functioning form of autism.

As Chris grows older, his parents Ken and Beverly worry that he may miss out on opportunities to gain social skills and make friends…

…Fortunately, many kids like Chris are getting help from a unique, highly-trained companion and friend – a service dog. A service dog can:

• Recognize and react to signs that Chris is beginning to experience sensory overload. The dog can respond by providing deep pressure or nuzzles that help break the cycle…
• Act as a protective guardian, holding Chris back before he darts away. If Chris were to become lost, his service dog would be able to track him. At night, the dog can [act] as a weighted blanket, something children with autism often find calming.
• Help Chris interact more with others, make friends, and feel more confident in group settings. After all, dogs are often kid magnets!

…The Wallrauchs have begun the journey to get Chris a service dog – a long-term companion that will help him live up to his full potential and help others see him as his family does – a …boy who genuinely cares about others. Chris’ service dog will come from 4 Paws for Ability, non-profit organization that specializes in placing service dogs with children on the autism spectrum. So far, they have placed over 400 service dogs – mostly for autism assistance.

There’s a lot that goes into training a dog to be a companion for a child with autism. Most of the dogs come from shelters or rescue groups, and part of their training is done by prison inmates who are trying to give back to society.

Training typically takes about nine months and families assist by preparing videos that document their child’s unique behaviors, as well as common situations the service dog will need to assist in.

Each family that receives a service dog must help raise funds to offset the cost of the dog’s and the family’s training. Insurance does not cover this cost. To meet Chris’ unique needs, the cost for training is $13,000. That’s quite an expensive friend, but one that his family knows will pay many dividends in the years to come…

Here is a link to a video from 4 Paws for Ability, showing the above-mentioned family from 2:00-2:30: 4 Paws for Ability

(source: Local boy struggles with Asperger)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the last couple of posts has been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Dayton metropolitan area of Ohio.

Roads to Recovery is a Fairborn, Ohio-based nonprofit dedicated to helping children with Autism Spectrum Disorders find individualised solutions. Its activities include organising social skills and art camps for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders…

There are few things more treasured than the companionship of a good friend. But for children living with autism, the process of forging friendships can be especially difficult.

For those on the autism spectrum, social cues are sometimes misunderstood and new people and experiences can feel overwhelming. As parents, we want all children, no matter what their abilities, to feel valued and included. How can you help achieve this? By teaching your kids about autism and showing them how to reach out to children on the spectrum in the classroom and beyond.

…Leigha Herrmann, an autism therapist with Roads to Recovery, a Dayton area learning and resource center for children with autism and their families, stresses two small but important words: “Just try.” Herrmann suggests parents talk with their children about the unique hurdles they may stumble upon when befriending a child on the autism spectrum. “Some kids will not necessarily respond upon the first greeting,” she explains.

It’s not that children with autism don’t want to communicate. Often, Herrmann says, it’s a matter of patience and persistence. “Many times, I have been disheartened to see well-intentioned parents of ‘typical’ children shunning their child from ‘pressing’ an initially unresponsive peer.” Parents are sometimes quick to advise their child to leave the child on the spectrum alone, when in reality, persistence may be just the key.

“I have seen children with autism, who struggle with language, blossom with a bit of persistence,” Herrmann says. “Don’t give up! Both children benefit from the encounter. The best way to learn is by doing.” Before having a play date with a child with special needs, talk with your child about what strategies they can use to help make the experience go well.

…Outside the classroom, some children on the spectrum face difficulty getting involved with activities outside the normal routine. The national Autism Speaks website recommends planning ahead with the child’s input to help lessen stress. For kids and parents who are trying to reach out to a child on the spectrum, this could mean trying to extend play date and party invitations as early as possible, and to provide plenty of details about what the child can expect. Lauren agrees with this sentiment and stresses that like most children, those on the spectrum do want to enjoy new friends and experiences. “It’s helpful to us when we have plenty of advance notice,” she explains. “Parents can encourage their kids to think ahead when it comes to including a child on the spectrum – try to ask way ahead of time for a play date.”

…When it comes to autism and other labels, “person first language” is important. It is more respectful to say a child has autism versus referring to them as an autistic child. This is considered more respectful and accurate, since autism is only one aspect of a child’s whole being. The word “spectrum” is used to describe autism because how it manifests in different people can vary greatly.

…Dayton is home to several high-quality organizations focused on programs for children on the spectrum and their families. In addition to the previously mentioned Roads to Recovery center, the Dayton Autism Society and Dayton Children’s Hospital (which has recently opened a new autism diagnostic center) also provide autism support and community outreach. Do you know a child with autism? Reach out to them! Your friendship can enrich their lives as well as your own.

Here is a link to photos of children at Roads to Recovery from a few years ago: https://www.facebook.com/316527155078104/photos/?tab=album&album_id=332712190126267

(source: Issuu)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the last couple of posts has been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Dayton metropolitan area of Ohio.

Roads to Recovery is a Fairborn, Ohio-based nonprofit dedicated to helping children with Autism Spectrum Disorders find individualised solutions. Its activities include organising free gym parties for younger children (6-9 year-olds) with Autism Spectrum Disorders…

There are few things more treasured than the companionship of a good friend. But for children living with autism, the process of forging friendships can be especially difficult.

For those on the autism spectrum, social cues are sometimes misunderstood and new people and experiences can feel overwhelming. As parents, we want all children, no matter what their abilities, to feel valued and included. How can you help achieve this? By teaching your kids about autism and showing them how to reach out to children on the spectrum in the classroom and beyond.

…Leigha Herrmann, an autism therapist with Roads to Recovery, a Dayton area learning and resource center for children with autism and their families, stresses two small but important words: “Just try.” Herrmann suggests parents talk with their children about the unique hurdles they may stumble upon when befriending a child on the autism spectrum. “Some kids will not necessarily respond upon the first greeting,” she explains.

It’s not that children with autism don’t want to communicate. Often, Herrmann says, it’s a matter of patience and persistence. “Many times, I have been disheartened to see well-intentioned parents of ‘typical’ children shunning their child from ‘pressing’ an initially unresponsive peer.” Parents are sometimes quick to advise their child to leave the child on the spectrum alone, when in reality, persistence may be just the key.

“I have seen children with autism, who struggle with language, blossom with a bit of persistence,” Herrmann says. “Don’t give up! Both children benefit from the encounter. The best way to learn is by doing.” Before having a play date with a child with special needs, talk with your child about what strategies they can use to help make the experience go well.

…Outside the classroom, some children on the spectrum face difficulty getting involved with activities outside the normal routine. The national Autism Speaks website recommends planning ahead with the child’s input to help lessen stress. For kids and parents who are trying to reach out to a child on the spectrum, this could mean trying to extend play date and party invitations as early as possible, and to provide plenty of details about what the child can expect. Lauren agrees with this sentiment and stresses that like most children, those on the spectrum do want to enjoy new friends and experiences. “It’s helpful to us when we have plenty of advance notice,” she explains. “Parents can encourage their kids to think ahead when it comes to including a child on the spectrum — try to ask way ahead of time for a play date.”

…When it comes to autism and other labels, ‘person first language’ is important. It is more respectful to say a child has autism versus referring to them as an autistic child. This is considered more respectful and accurate, since autism is only one aspect of a child’s whole being. The word ‘spectrum’ is used to describe autism because how it manifests in different people can vary greatly.

…Dayton is home to several high-quality organizations focused on programs for children on the spectrum and their families. In addition to the previously mentioned Roads to Recovery center, the Dayton Autism Society and Dayton Children’s Hospital (which has recently opened a new autism diagnostic center) also provide autism support and community outreach. Do you know a child with autism? Reach out to them! Your friendship can enrich their lives as well as your own.

Here is a link to a video from the Roads to Recovery golf outing from about a month ago: https://www.facebook.com/RoadsToRecovery/videos/1160578204006324/

(source: https://issuu.com/indyschild/docs/0415-dp-issuu)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the last few posts has been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Dayton metropolitan area of Ohio.

Good Works Farm is a Miamisburg, Ohio-based profit whose mission is to provide an environment where individuals with Autism can learn, work, grow, and become vital members of a community, where they are respected and treated with dignity. Nancy Bernotaitis is the Executive Director of Good Works Farm…

…Nancy Bernotaitis …has an autistic son, Sam

…“Sam was delayed in hitting milestones as a baby and toddler,” Bernotaitis said. “But he was my third child so I didn’t worry too much and just thought he was on his own schedule. I went through the denial.”

By the time Sam was 3, it was clear something was wrong, but at that time, doctors were not diagnosing autism until after the age of 5. “He was a picky eater, he was sick, he had chronic constipation and he wasn’t benefiting from speech therapy,” Bernotaitis said. “The speech therapist at preschool finally said it might be autism.”

At age 4, Sam was finally diagnosed with Pervasive Developmental Disorder, which was as close to autism as a professional would give him at his age. Bernotaitis ended up going to a Defeat Autism Now (DAN) conference in 2007 and said she was “completely blown away” by the people she met and by what she heard there.

“It was eye opening, and I met Dr. Phillip DeMio at that conference,” Bernotaitis said. DeMio, a father of an autistic child himself, has clinics in Cleveland and in Columbus and believes that “autism is medical, not mental and therefore is treatable.”

Sam, like all new clients that begin medical treatment for autism, was tested initially to determine levels of toxicity in his body, along with nutritional deficiencies. First steps include changing the diet to a gluten- and dairy-free plan that is also free of preservatives, fast foods and soy.

“It really goes beyond just detoxifying the diet,” Bernotaitis said. “You really need to detoxify his world.” The center gives clients a list of items to avoid including cleaning supplies, cookware, detergents and even flame-retardant pajamas.

Today, Sam …attends a school especially for autistic children. Since he has begun treatments, he has improved greatly. “I believe that Sam’s autism is caused by an inability to detox in an overly toxic world,” Bernotaitis said…

Here is a link to a video from Good Works Farm’s Summer Enrichment Program, for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders from the age of 5, from last year: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hAptbFjOyvA

(source: Women with autistic sons create successful care plans | www.mydaytondailynews.com)

[Visionary7903]

The subject of recent posts has mainly been on Autism-related events and organisations in the Dayton metropolitan area of Ohio.

An Autism Program at a school in Kettering, Ohio has been developed for children starting at fourth grade…

Though programs for special needs children, especially those diagnosed with autism and Asperger Syndrome, are becoming more regularly offered in public schools, they are less commonly available in private schools.
Megan Apple, the director of the Autism Program at St. Albert the Great School in Kettering, said its program was developed at the school…
“We researched another autism program…” Apple said. “We found they had a program for kindergarten through eighth grade.”
Apple, who has been teaching for 15 years and has a master’s degree in special education, came to [the school] and started working with special needs children. The school started the autism program last year.
“The program is up for renewal every year by the Ohio Department of Education,” Apple said. “Each child in the program must be diagnosed with autism and each can receive up to $20,000 in services with an approved provider.”
Parents must apply for the scholarships each year and there have been six children in the [the school]'s program each year. The children, who Apple said range from fourth- to eighth-graders, spend most of their school days integrated in regular classrooms.
“I have them about two hours a day, but the teachers work with me to figure out how they can be in the classrooms as much as possible,” Apple said.
Two paraprofessional aides assist Apple with the children, who range from having severe cognitive disabilities to being high functioning.
“Most of my kids need one person with them all the time to help them with social situations and emotional issues,” Apple said.
Occupational therapists also help the children with what Apple calls a ‘sensory diet,’ which includes balance, speech and language.
“It’s also important that peers model for these kids,” Apple said. “They all work together.”
As the second-year program comes to a close, the feedback has been very positive, according to Apple. She hopes to keep expanding the program in order to open it to more children.
“In January of this year we started taking field trips to help the children learn about functioning in real life,” Apple said. “The kids have really done beautifully in the program and we have a waiting list of two or three for the next school year.”…

Here is a link to an advertisement for a bowling event for the school’s Autism program from last year: https://www.facebook.com/100772620008451/photos/a.132043063548073.35334.100772620008451/911893305563041/?type=3&theater

(source: ??St. Albert autism program completes 2nd year | www.daytondailynews.com (http://www.daytondailynews.com/news/news/local/st-albert-autism-program-completes-2nd-year/nf5n9/))