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

Visionary7903 · April 16, 2017, 6:44am

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

The Parents’ Place is a Glen Burnie, Maryland-based nonprofit organisation and parent center. It helps families of children with disabilities and special health care needs, including Autism Spectrum Disorders, throughout Maryland…

PPMD Staff visiting with Kinera CEO, Christy Russell in the Family Lounge
Kinera Foundation is committed to ensuring that families raising children with special needs have equitable access to therapies and treatments, within the Region the family resides. Their partnerships with Kennedy Krieger’s Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities and the Office of Genetics and Persons with Special Health Care Needs has helped Kinera Foundation establish the first Regional Hub within the State located on the Eastern Shore. Kinera Foundation is proud to announce its new location in the KRM Chesapeake Business Park Complex in Stevensville, MD.

Services provided at Kinera include:
speech therapy, including PROMPT
occupational therapy
psychology
pediatric G. I.
DME and orthotics outfitting
care coordination
family support
Services provided within the Hub are geared toward children with special healthcare needs, and are patient and family-centered, coordinated, and centralized. The therapists and specialists have years of training and experience in the pediatric field, and are focused on providing Family Centered Care.

Playing in the therapy room
Kinera forgoes the traditional waiting area for a Family Lounge, which allows for families to interact in a more natural environment, is aimed at easing anxiety for children waiting, and is equipped with resource computers allowing access to information pertaining to your child’s need…

Here is a link to a video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Na8sq07hpSU

(source: News from The Parents’ Place of Maryland)

Visionary7903 · April 17, 2017, 6:22am

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

The Arc of the Central Chesapeake Region is an Annapolis, Maryland-based nonprofit. Its mission is simple: to promote respect, create opportunities and advocate for equal rights for all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities…

Ethen Daugherty nibbles on a cookie while a cartoon plays on the TV in his family’s Glen Burnie home. A toy motorcycle lay on the table in front of him.
It was the day before Ethen’s third birthday.

But all is not well.
The services Ethen receives for his autism have been cut in half. He’s on a waiting list for additional day care services and his family faces mounting bills. It’s a common dilemma as health organizations across the country report increases in autism referrals.

“It seems to us that the county doesn’t really have a program for kids like our son, kids who are academically high-functioning, but lacking in social and communication skills,” said Ethen’s mom, Michelle. “I’m confused as to why these kids are being left behind.”
In April - National Autism Month - and in every month, the Daughertys and other families across the country are dealing with the difficulties of educating children with developmental disabilities. They often face long waiting lists and hefty bills for private assistance.
The Anne Arundel County public schools have resources available for children with developmental delays and disabilities, said Edward Feinberg, coordinator of the system’s Birth to Five special education programs. Those services extend from birth through 12th grade.
While Feinberg wouldn’t talk about the Daughertys’ case, he said a child’s recommended amount of services could be reduced if the child makes progress and meets certain standards.

“For many of the kids, when they turn 3, they’re performing very well in all of the areas except social interaction,” he said. “We may feel they’re ready to go to a preschool.”
Ethen was in the county’s Infants and Toddlers program, which covers children with developmental delays and disabilities from birth to 2 years old. Under it, he was receiving six hours of services per week. The program, based out of Point Pleasant Elementary School, did wonders for Ethen, his mother said.
Ethen now knows letters, numbers, shapes and about 50 words.
“He really started showing us what all he knew,” she said. “His speech improved, his processing time seemed to decrease and he had less meltdowns.”
The program is provided by the county school system, the county Department of Health, the county Department of Social Services and a host of nonprofit organizations.
A few months ago, evaluators determined Ethen no longer needed special education services, Michelle said. So services were scheduled to stop.
“It’s both rewarding and terrifying that your child goes into an evaluation and does great,” Michelle said. “Of course you want him to shine, but then you want the evaluators to see where help is still needed. That was not our case.”
After voicing their concerns over an oddity in Ethen’s test results, the Daughertys were granted a new evaluation. This time, the county also viewed Ethen in his day care setting, which didn’t happen during the first evaluation, Michelle said.
The new team qualified the boy for special education services. But Ethen is now getting only three hours a week - down from the six hours he was receiving as a 2-year-old.
A developmental pediatrician at Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore recommended Ethen receive 12 hours of services per week, Michelle said.
Private occupational therapy classes can cost $120 an hour.
Ethen recently began attending a county social skills program for two hours per week at Oakwood Elementary School and one hour per week at the Daughertys’ home. The Daughertys don’t believe Ethen will be getting enough services.
“They’re letting kids fall through the cracks,” said Michelle’s mother, Nora.

…State and federal law requires public school systems to provide special education services to children with disabilities.
The Anne Arundel County public school system has a department dedicated to services for children from birth to 5 years old. The program provides nurses, psychologists, occupational therapists, speech therapists and others in the classroom and in the home.

…The Anne Arundel school system has contacted physicians, day care centers, parents and others with information on its programs for children with developmental delays or disorders, Feinberg said.
That, coupled with an increased awareness of the symptoms of autism, has played a role in the school system’s growing special education programs, he said.
“We’re really just trying to let them know about the resources that are available,” Feinberg said.

…[The Arc of the Central Chesapeake Region] is one of several organizations in Maryland that provides services for families of children with developmental disabilities.
“When parents get the diagnosis of a developmental disability, their first priority is to find out how to help their child,” [said Kristen Lasker of The Arc of the Central Chesapeake Region.] “Often they don’t think about the financial implications.”
Costs include paying for support, therapies, medication and special adaptive devices. Parents also could have to pay for additional counseling, rehabilitation, physical therapy, occupational therapy, social and emotional development and schooling.
The Daugherty family already has a $600 bill from Kennedy Krieger, where Ethen is on a waiting list for social skills services for 3-year-olds, Michelle said. The family applied to other private day care programs for 3-year-olds, but they wouldn’t accept Ethen, Michelle said.
Back in their home, Ethen nibbled another pre-birthday cookie, as his grandmother watched Michelle with her son.
“We just want what’s best for him,” Nora said.

Here is a link to a video from The Arc of the Central Chesapeake Region from last year: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=veYJ1XgGW5U

(source: Glen Burnie family struggles to find help for son with autism - Capital Gazette)

Visionary7903 · April 18, 2017, 5:54am

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

The Arc of the Northern Chesapeake Region is an Aberdeen, Maryland-based nonprofit. The Arc of the Northern Chesapeake Region offers services to individuals with various challenges, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, living in Harford and Cecil Counties…

On Sunday, September 29 Harford County residents gathered at The Highlands School in Bel Air for the first ever Sprout Film Festival, which starred and shared the stories of people living with [various challenges including] autism. The festival raised $3,500 for The Arc Northern Chesapeake Region, and organizers plan to make this an annual event.
The one day festival featured two 90-minute showings, each comprised of nine short films that depicted the lives of individuals living with developmental disabilities. Sprout Film Festival founder Anthony Di Salvo attended the event to introduce the films and answer audience questions.
According to Julie Chmura, The Arc Northern Chesapeake Region development director, the festival was a success and gave the organization a platform to showcase and highlight the abilities of individuals with developmental disabilities. “I thought the event was great,” concurs Elio Scaccio of Palumbo Insurance Associates, who attended the Sprout Film Festival with his two daughters. “I was very impressed with the quality of films, and how inspirational, moving and eye-opening they were. My girls and I had the opportunity to talk about the movies on the ride home, so that was nice.”
“The Sprout Film Festival would not have been possible without the support and generosity of our sponsors and the Cultural Arts Board” said Chmura. “We would like to take this opportunity to thank our sponsors, including direct level sponsors Dimensional Health Care Associates, Elegant Restoration and Goddard School; talent level sponsors Palumbo Insurance Associates and Wilmot Modular Structures; and concession level sponsor WSM&T Insurance.”

Here is a link to a video from the Arc of the Northern Chesapeake Region froma couple of years ago: The Arc Northern Chesapeake Region on Reels

(source: Sprout Film Festival Raises Awareness for The Arc Northern Chesapeake Region - Sprout)

Visionary7903 · April 19, 2017, 9:15am

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

To the east, Autism Delaware is a Newark, Delaware-based nonprofit whose mission is to help people and families affected by Autism. Autism Delaware is a strong advocate for the autism community and provides services and resources such as: information and referrals, parent mentoring and support, family and teen social/recreational opportunities, and much more…

Louis Rizzo and Arthur Kuhl, Partners in Reger Rizzo & Darnall’s Wilmington, DE office, participated in the Defense Counsel of Delaware’s (DCD) Guest Bartending Happy Hour to Benefit Autism Delaware on Thursday, June 9th at Catherine Rooney’s Irish Pub in Wilmington, DE. All tips collected while DCD Board Members tended bar were donated directly to Autism Delaware.

Lou Rizzo, Managing Partner of Reger Rizzo & Darnall and Member of the Board of Directors for DCD, was joined by his guest barkeep and RRD Partner, Art Kuhl, and several other Board Members from the DCD. The group collectively raised over $1,500, which will go towards Autism Delaware’s goal of providing much needed service and support to Delaware’s autism community.

The Defense Counsel of Delaware is dedicated to promoting justice, professionalism, and integrity in the civil justice system by bringing together attorneys dedicated to the defense of civil actions…

Here is a link to a video from Autism Delaware: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SURUXlcCgRs&t=39s

(source: Legal Resources | Reger Rizzo & Darnall LLP)

Visionary7903 · April 20, 2017, 10:01am

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

The Karasik Family, Infant & Child Care Center is a Silver Spring, Maryland-based nonprofit that is an inclusive, family-centered child care program integrating typically-developing children, children with developmental disabilities and children with chronic medical conditions. Program are available for ages 6 weeks to 3 years and 3 years to 10 years…

The newly opened Karasik Child Care Center has opened up a new world for Michael Dauster.

The 5-year-old, who has autism, can play there among a mix of children – some disabled, some not – supervised by a staff trained to care for youngsters with special needs.

The center in Silver Spring is believed to be the first of its kind in the state designed to both accommodate disabled children and mainstream them into a traditional day-care setting.

Outside the $750,000 facility on Tenbrook Drive, the playground equipment has ramps and steps so children can crawl or wheel themselves to the tops of slides and bars. One of two sandboxes is about 30 inches off the ground, easily accessible for a child in a wheelchair who wants to roll up his chair and play in the sand.

Inside the center is a waist-high water fountain with a push-bar that shoots out water when leaned against. Floors are heated to warm those who crawl. And classroom lights are triggered by motion detectors. That’s so no child assigned as class leader will have to fret about not being able to turn on the lights when the group enters the room.

“The biggest thing is to promote independence,” said Chrissy Colandreo, center coordinator.

There was a “glaring need” in the county for a disabled children’s day-care facility, according to Ellen Widoff, director of services for ARC/Montgomery County…

…the ARC now runs the center as a nonprofit program of Montgomery County Children’s Services. The center provides before- and after-school care and full-time day-care programs for chidren ages 2 to 9. Parents pay weekly rates ranging from $80 to $150, depending on the amount of care required. The rates are competitive with those of other area day-care programs.

The school is licensed for 60 children and has enrolled 32. Disabled children make up at least one-third of the enrollment at the center, which will have an open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday. County Executive Neal Potter and Nancy Grasmick, Maryland schools superintendent, are expected to attend.

The design of the one-story facility is based on the recommendations of a panel of physical therapists, occupational therapists and child-care experts who consulted with Columbia-based architects Wiencek & Zavos.

The new Federal Americans with Disabilities Act requires child-care providers to make reasonable efforts to accommodate children with disabilities. Along those lines, the Karasik Center will serve as a statewide training ground, advising providers on how to make simple adaptations to their own day-carefacilities.

Some parents with school-age disabled children said that the center allows them to work full time now that there is a place for their little ones to go before and after school.

Ellen Weintraub, mother of Michael Dauster, said she struggled with six nannies in three years and “still couldn’t get decent child care” for her son, who does not speak. Then she found the Karasik Center.

Before and after school, Michael attends the center, where the staff is trained in language skills and behavior management of children with special needs.

The center is not just for the disabled, however. Its goal is mainstreaming disabled children with typically developing youngsters.

Widoff stresses the importance of mainstreaming because “families {with disabled children} need to have a sense other families accept them and their communities accept them.” All children benefit, she said, because they “become comfortable with their own limitations.”

Here is a link to a video from the Arc of Montgomery County: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Pj__Ys6Jss

(source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/local/1992/12/03/where-differences-dont-matter/036a4bef-c092-482b-af57-0ee0fcd408e1/?utm_term=.e2000bd6ef97)

Visionary7903 · April 21, 2017, 10:23am

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

HLD Advocates is a Glenwood, Maryland-based small independent consulting group serving families in Maryland with children that have educational needs related to the special education process. With over 10 years of experience HLD Advocates has direct knowledge of how the public school programs work and how they should work for you including a review of records or private/school evaluations, and the development of a 504 Plan or an Individual Education Plan (IEP)…

Here is a link to photos from HLD Advocates: https://m.facebook.com/pg/hldadvocates/photos/?ref=page_internal&mt_nav=1

(source: https://www.facebook.com/events/272163676496891/)

Visionary7903 · April 22, 2017, 10:25am

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

Independent of Autism (IOA) is a Hampstead, Maryland-based nonprofit that serves everyone from newly diagnosed to the whole family including siblings and grandparents of individuals with Autism.

Anna Curtis, of Hampstead, will graduate from Towson University with a post baccalaureate certificate in autism studies in December and an individualized master’s degree in autism in May. But when her studies led her to discover a need within Carroll County, she didn’t want to wait until graduation to do something to make a difference.

“…[Children with disabilities] age out when they graduate and get their high school diploma or certificate. All the services they were getting from the state drop off across the board. We didn’t really have much out there for [this transitioning group].” [Curtis said.]

Curtis, who is in her third year of graduate school at Towson University, started the nonprofit Independent of Autism to help people with autism who are in that transitioning age group. She said she has been working on the project for almost a year but received 501(c)3 status in January. Since its inception, the organization has served 66 families, and currently provides social groups and social skills training, one-on-one social assistance, life skills and transitioning age assistance. Future plans are to include support groups for siblings and grandparents, therapy scholarships, free workshops, and additional transition age programming.

“I really wanted the individuals we serve to one day be independent of autism,” Curtis said. “They will always carry the autism diagnosis, but we want to see them able to live on their own, have a job, and have plenty of supports in place. It is to help them get into a home on their own and to help them get jobs if they can.”

Curtis said she has been providing social skills to groups in Howard County through the Howard County Autism Society for a year, with clients ranging in ages from 11 to 23.

Even before Curtis started Independent of Autism, she volunteered in the field.

“I volunteer with the Special Olympics of Carroll County and I started the Young Athletes program in Carroll County,” Curtis said. “Except for two, all of my athletes [last year] were on the autism spectrum somewhere. I do this for the love of families and the individuals I meet.”

The Young Athletes Program within the Special Olympic program is for children age 2 to 7 with intellectual, developmental, and closely related disabilities.

Deborah Mills, of Columbia, said she is pleased with the work Curtis is doing with her 18-year-old daughter, Racquel. She found out about Curtis through the Howard County Autism Society.

“She is so good with them,” Mills said of Curtis. “Some kids don’t want to be social at all but she really tries to involve them. She asks them questions and listens to them. She talks to these kids like she would to anyone else and you can tell she is interested in everything they have to say.”

Mills said the work Curtis is doing is making a difference for her daughter.

“Last week they went bowling. They go to movies. They had a post office outing and they go to stores and do training on making purchases. They do all kinds of life skills training,” Mills said. “There are usually about eight [clients] in her group and she has about four or five volunteers as well. I never worry.”

One of the things Mills said makes her happy is seeing her daughter form friendships within the group. She said some children on the autism spectrum have no desire to be social, but Curtis brings them out of their shell.

“Oh my goodness, my daughter really looks forward to this,” Mills said of the outings. “Now Racquel has something to do on the weekend like any other teenager. She’s made real friends and one [close friend] she even calls on the phone and she went to her birthday party. It is a beautiful thing to see.”

Michael Thomas, of Hampstead, is a board member for Independent of Autism.

“I worked with her with Special Olympics,” Thomas said of their connection. “She was running the Young Athlete’s program and I was a coach in the soccer skills program and the basketball skills program for Special Olympics. We hope to see an increase in the amount of children and teenagers that we are helping, especially in the social skills group.”

When asked why he agreed to become a board member, Thomas said he closely understands what their clients are going through.

“I am on the autism spectrum, too,” he said. “I didn’t have social skills when I was in school. I picked up on them over the years by watching others. They didn’t teach those skills in school that you need to get around and for a job. I left Baltimore County schools when I was young because I couldn’t advocate for myself. It is important, [for those with autism] to be able to advocate for their selves. They get that from [the programs at Independent of Autism].”

Thomas said that after his move to the Howard school system he adjusted and he now works in transportation in Howard. The work Curtis is doing through Independent of Autism is important, he said.

“A lot of the schools still don’t teach social skills. If they are not getting these skills they don’t know how to go in the world or relate to their peers,” he said.

Curtis agreed.

“Even if it is just a listening ear, we want to help. Working on social skills seems to be my calling. My undergraduate degree is in early childhood education and I’ve always been child-oriented. I’ve always wanted to help kids and now it has rolled around to help parents, grandparents and siblings, too. Sometimes it is the parents who need a listening ear, someone to offer support, encouragement or help finding a speech pathologist or extra services. I have also had calls to, ‘Come speak with my child.’ I think they know their child knows me and respects me and trusts me,” she said.

Independent of Autism also recently worked with the corollary soccer program in Carroll County, providing shin guards and soccer socks to the North Carroll Soccer Club for two teams – a total of 22 to 24 kids. Because several participants in the program have learning disabilities, the initiative fit with the organization’s mission. In addition, the nonprofit has also partnered with Carroll Community College to help college students get service learning hours when it is required by specific classes.

Curtis said she started a GoFundMe account last year to raise funds for Independent of Autism.

“Those funds helped me go to the Kennedy Krieger Institute last year for a conference and helped fund some office supplies and to apply for the 501(c)3 [status], which was $400. That about wiped us out. But I have sponsors in the community now and family sponsors. We are working our way up so we can do more,” she said.

Curtis said raising funds for the organization has been a family affair. Her mother, Ruth Colson, sews, and Curtis’ husband, Joe, makes dog collars out of fabric that they sell to raise funds.

“She’s made tote bags, pillows, aprons, headbands and tea towels,” Curtis said of her mother. “They have been purchased by families we serve and professionals in special education and we have some for sale on our website.”

Mills said Curtis is a “wonderful person and is great with the kids.” She said the organization is “something to see.”

But for Curtis, her main focus is just making a difference, however she can.

“I just want to help,” Curtis said. “Families need support. Grandparents need support and siblings need support. Everyone needs support. I feel lucky that I am able to help.”…

Here is a link to a video: https://www.facebook.com/pg/autismanna/videos/?ref=page_internal&mt_nav=1

(source: Carroll County Times)

Visionary7903 · April 23, 2017, 9:42am

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

The Ivymount School is a Rockville, Maryland-based nonpublic, special education school serving students with various challenges, including Autism Spectrum Disorders, from the age of 4…

Derwood, Maryland mom Diana Martin is an entrepreneur whose business is her son’s business. Alex, age 17, is an artist, and he has autism. Alex’s Art Loft, opened in 2009, started out offering creative cards for every occasion but has expanded to promotional items like shirts and hats and even skateboards bearing his designs. He also creates custom bracelets to benefit autism awareness and other causes.

…Martin describes Alex as “primarily nonverbal, at a 2nd grade level academically and has few social skills. He is considered by some to be in the middle of the [autism] spectrum, which I interpret as neither too high nor too low.” When Alex entered his middle teens, his occupational therapy began to include trying on possible job situations. Alex is in the …school at Ivymount… “I had always seen that Alex was very good one-on-one with crafts,” says Martin. “I knew how it was important for Alex to have his own business, because adult services were so limited for kids with disabilities.”

Alex also has severe apraxia–his oral motor skills are underdeveloped. “So he’s very visual,” explains his mom. Originally, he used an augmentative communications device called ChatPC but now works with Proloquo2go on his iPod, which helps him with difficulties talking. As she describes, “It’s automated picture symbols. Each symbol has a recorded voice on it. Also it has a section for commonly used statements like, ‘Welcome to my craft table’ or 'My favorite card is …”

Martin blogs on the business’ website (alexartloft.org) about her learning curve handling many of the operational aspects of Alex’s Art Loft, the website management, resource lists and more. “I’m learning a lot about website design and online marketing,” she says, adding, “we could use an intern who has computer/website experience!” Her husband Don co-runs the business, helping with finances and with the craft table. “Because of his unique skills as a person with autism,” she says, Alex can keep inventory, enter customer names in QuickBooks, put the bracelets they sell into their plastic bags and help set up and break down the craft table at events.

Alex’s work has been featured in two galleries, Mary Pfister Studio in Frederick and Skyloft Gallery in Baltimore. Alex’s Art Loft has become a community affair with the support of local Montgomery County businesses offering to sell his products: Parcel Plus at Loehmann’s Plaza, Cheryl’s Health Boutique, VisArts, Butler’s Orchard, Mosaic Cuisine & Cafe and others. “We’ve had a lot of good support,” says Martin.

…A key facet of Alex’s Art Loft has been charitable giving. “I believe it’s really important, because so many people have given to us, for Alex to give back.” They’ve worked with the art program at the Center for Adults with Autism at Towson University, Adult Autism Program in the Arts, Autism Speaks and Project Change (whose mission is to prevent bullying in schools), and are open to working with any organization on fundraising…

Alex was a recipient of the HSC Foundation’s LEAP (Life Enrichment Awards Program) grant, part of the foundation’s Youth Transitions Initiative, and his parents put a lot of money into the business as well. Martin is looking into whether a LEAP grant will be available again for the coming year but worries because the economy is so tight. She adds, “We hope to become a nonprofit in the coming years.”

Martin is also an adjunct professor with Montgomery College’s Rockville campus and a writing specialist with the college’s Writing, Reading, and Language Center, a free service for ESOL and other students. She received her MFA in creative nonfiction in 2002 from Goucher College, when she was already a mom raising a child with special needs. Fortunately, the program only required that she spend several weeks in the summer on campus, and she was able to do most of the coursework online with independent professors. The busy mom was also working freelance at that time, too.

Among Martin’s hobbies are yoga and pottery. Wightman Road Pottery owner Valerie Haber has been loaning her kiln to Alex for Alex’s Art Loft’s recently launched pottery line and offering his mom her pottery skills. In return, Martin offers Haber some help with marketing.

Mostly, Martin is happy to be spending time with her son, and wants to ultimately help other parents see their way to their children’s future with autism. “Dan and I created this business for Alex so he could be a contributing member of society and educate and inspire people about what individuals with autism can accomplish.”

Here is a link to photos of works from the ‘Loft Shop’ from several years ago: https://m.facebook.com/pg/alexartloftshop/photos/?tab=album&album_id=303534852990190&ref=page_internal&mt_nav=1

(source: https://www.washingtonparent.com/articles/1011/mom.php)

Visionary7903 · April 24, 2017, 10:02am

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

Talk About Curing Autism - Maryland and Washington, D.C. provides general information regarding medical research, treatment options, therapies and nutrition to the Autism community. A resource library is provided of the latest Autism books and DVDs/CDs that can be checked out by members at no charge…

On any given day, there is a professional stopping by the Hamiltons’ home in Crofton to help 14-year-old Leah Hamilton with her moderate autism. Her mother, Alison Hamilton, said she has learned to roll with it.

“There is no one road map for treating autism,” Hamilton said in her house last Saturday morning as Leah watched cartoons on YouTube. For Leah – who is meeting that morning with an intensive individual support service therapist – that includes going to a special education school in Baltimore and meeting regularly with a speech therapist, occupational therapist and social skills specialist.

Hamilton received Leah’s diagnosis in 2003 when she was nearly three, just one week after Alison had given birth to twin girls. “It’s not something you ever want to hear,” Hamilton said.

After the diagnosis, Hamilton wondered if she would laugh again. “You wonder how you’re going to make a positive difference in your child’s life.”

She immediately sought out resources and parenting support groups. A few years later, Hamilton came in contact with a parenting network group for autistic children called Talking About Curing Autism that started out in California.

“We liked how oriented they were toward efforts that helped autistic children be the best they could be,” Hamilton said, noting that she became inspired to start the first TACA chapter in Maryland…

And though extra attention is being pair to autism during April as it is Autism Awareness Month, the Maryland chapter offers year round activities and support to families with autistic children. It has held presentations at Anne Arundel Community College, parent meet-ups at the Wegman’s in Crofton, and even a birthday party at Severna Park Baptist Church just for autistic children.

The Crofton Community Library also supports autistic families with a pilot program the branch has been doing since December 2013. The Sensory Storytime, which happens once a month, is a storytime tailored to autistic children.

Featuring a routine of songs, short stories, and interactive activities, the story time is a free-flowing hour where children with autism can, and do, get up and move around without interrupting the program.

Crofton mom Angela Henson brings her four-year-old son Montese Henson to the story time regularly. “He loves it,” Henson said during the April story time. “You would think he’s not paying attention, but we’ll be out somewhere and out of the blue he’ll start singing one of the songs we sing here.”

Progress like this is something that can happen at any time, Hamilton said, adding that Leah has in the last six months shown more outward care toward her family. To prove that point, Leah asks her mother, “what happened to your arm?” during a therapy game. Alison Hamilton explains that their dog, Cookie, had given her a sizable welt at the vet.

…For those interested in the Crofton library’s Sensory Storytime, call 410-222-7915.

Crofton Kiwanis 10K

The race is still weeks away, but the Crofton Kiwanis Club is looking for hungry patrons to help with its annual 10K race. The club will hold a fundraiser from 4 to 9 p.m. Monday at the Chipotle at 2503 Brandermill Blvd. in Waugh Chapel.

Patrons must provide the club’s fundraiser flier to have 50 percent of their dinner proceeds go toward the Kiwanis 10K race…

Here is a link to photos from last year’s Autumn festival from Talk About Curing Autism - Maryland and Washington, D.C.: https://www.facebook.com/pg/TACAMarylandDC/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1191033487651087&ref=page_internal&mt_nav=1

(source: Capital Gazette)

Visionary7903 · April 25, 2017, 6:17am

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

To the northeast, Adelbrook, is a central Connecticut-based nonprofit that offers services for various challenges, including Autism Spectrum Disorders. Its services range include preschool, with programs for individuals from the age of 3…

Here is a link to a video from Adelbrook of an ‘Autism fun day leapfrog challenge’ from almost a couple of year back: 13 reactions | The Autism Awareness Fun Day Leap Frog Challenge...30 participants, including our leaper! #adelbrookleapfrogchallenge | Ädelbrook Behavioral & Developmental Services

(source: A Mother And Son Navigate The Challenges Of Treating Autism - Hartford Courant)

Visionary7903 · April 26, 2017, 9:32am

The subject of the last post was Adelbrook, a central Connecticut-based nonprofit that offers services for various challenges, including Autism Spectrum Disorders. Its services range include preschool, with programs for individuals from the age of 3.

Ability Beyond Disability is a Bethel, Connecticut-based nonprofit that is dedicated to empowering every person, no matter their ability, to have the opportunity to live, work and thrive as an integral part of their community. Roses for Autism is a Guilford, Connecticut-based nonprofit that is a partnership between Guilford’s Pinchbeck Farms and Ability Beyond Disability…

Like most high school seniors, Joshua Tourangeau is looking forward to life after graduation this June. But unlike many of his classmates, Joshua, who has Autism, already has a full time job and is pursuing a retail management career thanks to the experience he gained at the Roses for Autism program.

Roses for Autism, in conjunction with its parent company, Ability Beyond, helps young adults with Autism discover their unique strengths and learn the skills necessary to obtain meaningful employment and achieve their goals. The comprehensive curriculum offers individualized instruction in social dynamics, research and technology skills, real world academics, life skills, and career training.

Joshua was accepted into the Roses for Autism (RFA) program in 2015 as part of his school day. This is the first job Joshua has ever had. Since then, Joshua obtained a seasonal job at Kohl’s for the 2015 holiday season. Within weeks of finishing Kohl’s, he started a part time job at Walgreens as a cashier. Joshua will complete his internship at RFA in June.

“Joshua quickly learned retail and e-commerce responsibilities,” said Michelle Ouimette, Managing Director of Roses For Autism and Ability Beyond. “He takes pride in the work he does and ensures that the retail store is welcoming to customers and stocked with fresh flowers. He also enjoys interacting with the customers.”

…To ensure Joshua continues to be successful, the RFA staff has routinely checked in on him at Walgreens. Now a year after starting at the drug store chain, he has decided to pursue the company’s management track. RFA staff members continue to meet with Joshua periodically to coach him to be an effective manager and supervisor.

During Autism Awareness month in April, Joshua’s mother, Annette… hopes that the number of social programs like Roses for Autism will increase and help more children like her son.

“I am extremely grateful that Joshua has had the amazing opportunity to participate in Roses for Autism,” said [Joshua’s mother]. “The changes in Joshua have been astounding. He has definitely matured. Josh will be graduating high school this June with a full time job and a bright future.”

Here is a link to a video from Roses for Autism from last year: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=6&v=yTvKgTJJ8Uk

(source: https://bristolroundup.com/2017/03/28/organization-encourages-autistic-individuals-to-learn-employable-skills/)

Visionary7903 · April 27, 2017, 9:58am

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

The Kennedy Center Autism Project is a Trumbull, Connecticut-based nonprofit that provides social, recreational, educational, vocational, therapeutic, and residential services to individuals with various challenges, including Autism Spectrum Disorders. Their tailored programs help enable children with Autism Spectrum Disorders to become active members within their communities…

Children with autism have a couple of upcoming opportunities to have fun and get creative. Cooking and art classes are being offered in March and April through The Kennedy Center’s Autism Project.

Both programs will be held at The Kennedy Center Children’s Building, 4021 Main Street, Stratford.

Artworks will meet on six consecutive Tuesdays, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. beginning on Tuesday, March 3, through Tuesday, April 7. This hands-on program for children and teens provides a unique experience through art. Participants will explore different types of media, including drawing, painting and mixed media.

Cooking Kids will meet on six consecutive Thursdays, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. starting on Thursday, March 5, until Thursday, April 9. This new cooking program is geared to children of all ages and abilities with autism.

Its purpose is to develop cooking skills and make children feel comfortable in the kitchen. The course will teach kitchen safety, healthy eating habits, and a ‘take home’ cookbook. Recipes include all natural ingredients and gluten-free alternatives.

Contact Jessica Sachse …to register for either class. Both classes cost $155 for the six-week session.

…In 2006, The Kennedy Center created The Autism Project in response to the growing number of children with ASD and the critical need to provide financial support for these underfunded services. The Autism Project provides a host of social activity groups, respite services, recreation and sibling groups, family supports services and information/referral services to over 300 children and families in the Greater Bridgeport community. The program has grown and expanded over the years due to high demand.

The Kennedy Center is a nationally accredited, non-profit, community-based rehabilitation organization that currently serves 2,400 individuals annually. The agency actively responds to the needs of the community by offering innovative, comprehensive service options to persons with disabilities and special needs, from birth to senior years.

The Kennedy Center operates 26 community experience programs, 16 group homes, an industries program composed of six businesses, supported and competitive employment and job placement services, a family support and respite service, travel training, and a variety of children’s programs…

Here is a link to a video from the Kennedy Center Autism Project from last year: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nrkMkDTy64M

(source: Kennedy Center)

Visionary7903 · April 28, 2017, 11:08am

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

The variety of Bridgeport, Connecticut school programs serving students on the autism spectrum is increasing…

The students in Room 309 at Madison School can tell you what autism looks like.
Ethan Aponte says it’s rocking back and forth. To Jonathan Revolus, it is worrying and fidgeting. For Kenny Jones it’s pacing.
The programs serving students like Ethan, Jonathan and Kenny, however, can look as varied as the students themselves.
At Beardsley School, regular and special education teachers work together in a “co-teaching” autism program. While at Johnson School there is a full continuum of services for those on the spectrum, from self-contained classes that offer intensive instruction, to regular classes where autistic students work with mainstream students, but are provided extra support.
“Every child on the spectrum is an individual. Students have the right to their neighborhood school, but if that is not working and parents agree, we have other options in our district,” said Doreen Tilt, supervisor of the district’s Autism Spectrum Disorder Program.

…“I don’t want to bring them back if it doesn’t fit,” said Tilt.
With the district 10 years, Tilt has slowly been developing a program that pulls from a number of nationally recognized models, but which is also custom-designed to meet the needs of the students it serves. Bridgeport’s program is gaining national, and international attention. Delegations from Holland and Japan have visited. Tilt has been asked to present at the annual Autism Conference in Columbus, Ohio, in conjunction with educators from Southern Connecticut State University’s Center of Excellence on Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Last month, that center presented Tilt with its first-ever school administrator’s award.
“Every district is different,” said Ruth Eren, director of the autism center at Southern. “Every district strives to meet the needs of their children in the spectrum. I think in Bridgeport you have a person in Doreen Tilt who has certainly addressed the complexities of autism. She always has the best interest of children at the core of what she does.”
Marisola Vigil, a parent, says Tilt is a matchmaker.
Two of Vigil’s three children are on the autism spectrum, one in school at Johnson, the other at Madison. The family came from Norwalk and Vigil remembers being so petrified at the programs she would find here she considered putting her children in an out-of-district placement. At a planning and placement team (PPT) meeting held to weigh her options, however, Vigil said she was impressed with what Tilt offered her.
“She offered them classes to fit their needs,” said Vigil. That meant separate schools, but each program seemed right.
In some classes students learn to raise their hands, ask for help, take a deep breath and, perhaps most important, identify autism and advocate for themselves.
LaTonya Mooney, whose son DyShaun Sistrunk, 12, has been in the program two years said she appreciates the skills he is learning.
“It really is teaching him to cope with the outside world,” said Mooney.
In the self-empowerment class led by teacher Keriann Maxelix and assisted by Kevin Sheehy, a social worker, and Jessica Caird, a speech pathologist, DyShaun raises his hand often and is quick with answers.
“Autism, it’s like a disorder,” DyShaun said, when asked to explain autism. “More boys get it than girls, but autism happens out of nowhere.”
DyShaun spends much of his day in regular classes. That is the goal for all students in the program.
At Beardsley, the co-teaching model includes first-grade teacher Dina Vogt, special education teacher Tara Oliwia, two teacher aides and 17 students, some with autism. It is impossible to tell them apart. Little pictures that illustrate class rules throughout the room seem to aid all students, not just the ones who have trouble reading.
“Some of these kids just need that little push before regular ed,” Oliwia said, pointing to one student who cried the first couple of weeks he was there and is now on the honor role.
“We work as a team,” said Vogt, who has been teaching 13 years, two as a co-teacher.
Tilt spends a lot of time training teachers and working with parents. One of the reasons Tilt was recognized was because of her extensive outreach to parents.
Jacqueline Kelleher, vice chair of the school board and a special education professor at Sacred Heart University, has twin boys on the autism spectrum. They are sophomores at Bassick High School.
“It’s been the best programmatic experiences we have ever had,” said Kelleher, who used to be the autism program liaison between the state Department of Education and school districts.
Her job was to consult on appropriate, compliant programs and train on autism spectrum guidelines.
“I know when a program is not working,” said Kelleher. “I know when a program is pretending to work. I know when a program stands out above others. The latter is the case of Bridgeport. Before, we had great teachers, but they didn’t always know how to help. It is the first time they have ever been to a PPT meeting where people were fluent in autism.”

(source: Schools’ autism programs increase along with numbers of cases - Connecticut Post)

Visionary7903 · April 29, 2017, 9:28am

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

Hospital for Special Care, located in New Britain and Hartford, Connecticut, is a nonprofit long-term acute care hospital in the U.S. and the only one in the nation serving adults and children. Hospital for Special Care is recognized for advanced care and rehabilitation for various challenges, including Autism Spectrum Disorders…

On Wednesday, Dec. 28, 2016, The Autism Inpatient Unit at Hospital for Special Care (HSC), celebrated its first anniversary. At the time of its inception, this eight-bed unit was the first of its kind in Connecticut and one of only 10 interdisciplinary treatment facilities in the nation. The Autism Center at HSC is recognized as the nation’s first Patient-Centered Specialty Practice (PCSP) by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) and the inpatient unit is an extension of the Center and provides the beneficial resources and progressive services necessary to improve quality of life for local youths living with Autism.

The unit provides specialized pharmacologic and behavioral treatments to individuals, ages 10 to 21, with an established diagnosis of Autism who have already exhausted multiple levels of care in their communities. Prior to the foundation of the inpatient unit, many children were forced to travel out-of-state for proper treatment of aggression, self-injury or severely impaired functioning.

Over the past year, the Autism inpatient unit admitted 31 patients from a variety of placements including hospitals, emergency departments and group homes. Most of the children were between the ages of 11 and 16, but others were as young as six and as old as 19.

“The Autism inpatient unit has been essential in our quest to cater to the specialized needs of these children while reducing the cost and travel complications that burdened many of their families” said Lynn Ricci, FACHE, president and chief executive officer, Hospital for Special Care.

Each patient receives an interdisciplinary assessment that helps formulate a treatment plan by identifying target behaviors requiring improvement. This treatment occurs over a period of 30 - 45 days and includes behavior strategy development, medication management, parent education and training and discharge needs planning.

In an effort to reduce emergency department visits and hospitalization, Hospital for Special Care has also collaborated with caregivers and providers to ensure each child has appropriate support after discharge. This includes a follow-up questionnaire a week after departure and status calls with the child 30, 90 and 180 days after the conclusion of their treatment at the inpatient unit.

“It is our mission to ensure these children are not provided with a temporary fix, but a tangible solution that allows them to become independent and productive members of the community after they leave our facility,” added Ricci.

20 children have already been discharged into their own homes, as opposed to just 11 experiencing this type of living arrangement prior to the program. Furthermore, this figure has potential to increase as five more patients are nearing the completion of their stay. “It has been a wonderful first year on the AIU. We have demonstrated a series of successful outcomes; but more importantly we have had a direct and positive impact on the lives of both these children and their families” said Patricia Aguayo, MD, MPH, medical director autism services, Hospital for Special Care.

The inpatient unit became a reality when HSC was awarded a $500,000 developmental grant in September 2015 after responding to a request for proposal (RFP) issued by the Department of Developmental Services…

Here is a link to a video of a TV ad from a couple of years ago from Hospital for Special Care: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9UM0Yxft2S4

(source: Hartford Courant)

Visionary7903 · April 30, 2017, 9:22am

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

The Hospital for Special Care is a Hartford County, Connecticut-nonprofit rehabilitation center which also has a separate Autism program. Its ‘Manes & Motions program’ is a therapeutic riding program serving individuals with various challenges, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders…

The boy was 7 or 8 years old when he said his first word.

“Goodbye,” the child said to his horse.

“That was huge for us,” said Janice Anderson.

She’s one of the leaders of Manes & Motions on Daniel’s Farm in Middletown. It’s one of 16 therapeutic riding centers in Connecticut, serving [individuals with various challenges, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.]

The boy who was moved to speak for the first time has autism. His speech therapist had tried very hard, for a very long time, to motivate him and engage him enough for him to reach inside and come out with words.

The riding did it: The motion; a routine that is comforting once mastered; the freshness of the outdoors or the warmth of an indoor arena; the connection between human and horse; the calmness that inevitably envelops the rider as staff members and volunteers guide horse and rider around arenas throughout Connecticut.

There is a list of certified centers in the state on the website of PATH International – the Professional Assocation of Therapeutic Horsemanship. PATH provides training and certifies hundreds of programs across the country.

The therapy is gaining in popularity and acceptance.

…These folks have the therapy down to a science, so much so that that it is consistently producing reliable results. The Hospital for Special Care in [Hartford County], a rehabilitation center which also has a separate autism program, has long recognized the benefits.

After six years of affiliation, the hospital purchased the Manes & Motions program 2008 and made it permanent part of the hospital’s …therapies.

The program leases part of the 160-year-old Daniel’s Farm, on Millbrook Road, and recently built a heated indoor riding arena, with a treaded rubber surface and a viewing area wired for sound so parents and other family members can follow along with the program. The therapy costs $42 a week at Manes & Motions, and sessions of varying lengths are offered through the year.

On beautiful days, like this week, all the riding is done outside. About 140 trained volunteers work with Anderson and a staff of eight PATH-certified instructors.

For children and adults on the autism spectrum, the feeling of controlling and guiding a large animal provides a heavy dose of sensory input – and that helps the person focus and learn. And the more they learn, the more motivated they become to communicate with the horse, to move it right, or left, or gain some speed, said Anderson.

With the invigoration of the senses and the engagement that the riders with autism feel, they very often leave the therapy sessions with a calmer bearing that lasts well into the evening and helps make interactions with family easier, said Anderson.

"We see non-verbal children start using words or sign language to communicate with the horse,‘’ Anderson said. “The routine also helps with focus and learning – first the helmet, then mount, then ask the horse to walk on – We see them gaining self-esteem and learning life skills.”

…Manes & Motions and many of the other therapeutic riding programs depend on grants and donations. Anderson’s program held a fundraiser Friday at Daniel’s Farm to help pay for the new arena.

Here is a link to a video on the ‘Manes & Motions program’: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=28d8kt56zMg

(source: Hartford Courant)

Visionary7903 · May 1, 2017, 9:34am

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

The Autism Society of Connecticut is a Guilford, Connecticut-based nonprofit that helps to connect parents and professionals with autism resources, educates communities about autism and supports families through mini-grants. A statewide organization, ASCONN offers many resources, including support groups, autism orientation workshops, information and referral, conferences, educational programs, social opportunities, advocacy and training…

Eight years ago, very few resources existed for parents of autistic children [here]. Tina Stawicki was one of them.

Stawicki spent Saturday afternoon at the fifth annual Puzzlethon, which benefits the Autism Society of Connecticut. According to Stawicki and Sharon Cable, the motif – a jigsaw puzzle piece is perhaps the most public symbol of autism – was especially fitting. “A lot of people on the spectrum enjoy puzzles,” said Cable.

Estimates about how much the Puzzlethon – structured much like a walkathon – raised were unavailable. The event was one of 10 going on throughout the state… The attendees – an estimated 50 – who met at Northwestern Connecticut Community College gathered to complete puzzles of any kind, ranging from jigsaw puzzles to crosswords and Sudoku puzzles, as well as assembling Lego bricks.

…“Everyone sees a different piece of the puzzle,” Stawicki said.

However, it was not long ago that parents such as Stawicki had few, if any, resources available. Stawicki contacted Cable shortly after finding out that her son, Ethan, was autistic. Cable lent support wherever possible, advising Stawicki on meetings before potentially enrolling Ethan in public school. Stawicki eventually decided to home-school her son, but resources have been growing in Litchfield County.

…Stawicki’s husband posted a bulletin about the Puzzlethon at his workplace – O&G Industries’s main office on Wall Street in Torrington – and, according to Stawicki, his coworkers pooled together approximately $1,000 to donate towards the Autism Society of Connecticut. Stawicki said that after talking to them, her husband found that other coworkers had children along the spectrum.

“It opened doors in that sense,” Stawicki said.

Northwestern Connecticut Community College has been helpful in that regard as well. In addition to hosting the Puzzlethon, Northwestern Connecticut Community College will host an advocacy program for parents, starting in the coming days. The college also holds a parent support group on the second Thursday of every month. All of these programs come in advance of April, which is Autism Awareness Month.

“The school’s been very generous,” Beck said…

Here is a link to photos from the Autism Society of Connecticut’s ‘Puzzlethon’ event from seven years ago: Autism Society of Connecticut - Puzzlethon 2010 | Flickr

(source: Puzzlethon held in Winsted to raise awareness, funding for autism research)

Visionary7903 · May 2, 2017, 9:49am

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

The Litchfield County Autism Spectrum Association is a Torrington, Connecticut-based nonprofit whose members have a keen interest in ensuring that those affected by Autism spectrum disorders have local access to quality support and services. The annual Autumn Party that the nonprofit helps to sponsor provides an evening of fun for children on the Autism Spectrum…

The Warner Theatre Center for Arts Education in Torrington is introducing ‘Parallel Play’ this summer, a three-week pilot program for high functioning children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The WTCAE serves hundreds of students in their pursuit of performing arts skills, but this is their first attempt at such a specialized program. One of the founders, Isabel Carrington, the WTCAE’s Director of Education, says the aim of the program is to use “a variety of applied theatre techniques, such as improvisation, scene work, and various theatre exercises to foster social awareness and self advocacy among children with autism by partnering them with their typical peers.”

Applied theatre is a tool employed by everyone from educators to law students, in which role-playing is used to explore real life situations. It’s no secret that theater and the arts in general benefit the social skills of children on the autism spectrum, often more effectively than an typical day at school. In the past few years, more students with autism and other special needs have been attending the school for such reasons. With this program, theatre would be used as the vehicle through which to achieve social skills, whereas in a general theater class, social skills are just an extra benefit.

Parallel Play is the first program of its kind in the area. It will run from Monday, July 18 to Friday, August 15 and will be open to students [from the age of 10]. The program will be taught by veteran instructors like Carrington, along with help from members of …the Litchfield County Autism Spectrum Association. [The Litchfield County Autism Spectrum Association] has used their experience with children with special needs to help format the program, and the merger of the two groups will provide students with instructors that have a variety of educational backgrounds.

One of the unique aspects of the program is its mixture of [Autism Spectrum Disorder] students and typical peers. This interaction will enable active and productive discussion and help both groups learn to better relate to one another. Carrington says, “The information of a day in life with someone who struggles with this type of affliction would be equally advantageous for the typical peer.”

The main reason the WTCAE decided to start this program now is because they have seen, “great strides in social skills and self confidence” that students with [Autism Spectrum Disorders] have made. Now they want to take that a step further. Parallel Play will create a more approachable setting for children that have increased anxiety in larger social situations and may not be ready for general classes at the Warner. Anna Driscoll, a former student and current counselor at the Summer Arts Program, is happy to see such a program come to fruition, saying, “Over the years I’ve seen countless numbers of students grow and expand their capabilities through the WTCAE in terms if their acting abilities as well as skills for succeeding in life. It’s brilliant idea to focus their efforts on a group of students that can truly benefit from the teachings of applied theatre.”

If the pilot program succeeds this summer, the Warner plans to create semester-based program in the spring of 2012. Carrington explains, “If we can just help a handful of students, that’s great, but we’d like it to expand.” The Warner has always been a place where children go not only to learn, but to be understood. Parallel Play exemplifies what the WTCAE has always strived for–a nurturing, welcoming and encouraging environment in which every student can thrive…

Here is a link to a photo: concertnewheart | Republican American Photos

(source: Warner Theatre Launches)

Visionary7903 · May 3, 2017, 11:56am

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

Autism Spectrum Resource Center is a Wallingford, Connecticut-based nonprofit that serves an essential role in helping to provide knowledge and empower individuals and families affected by autism. ASRC’s mission is to improve the quality of lives of those affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders…

People from all over Connecticut, with their dogs and wagons flooded the streets downtown Sunday for the 16th annual Autism Spectrum Resource Center walk.

About 2,600 people turned out, Julie Hipp, board president of resource center, estimated based on registration and food tickets.

Earlier, about 250 people attended the Cinco de Miles run in Orange that the resource center cosponsored with the Orange Chamber of Commerce, according to Hipp.

…The 3-mile walk began at 10:15 a.m. Many families donned T-shirts announcing their teams or who they were supporting.

Dogs were dressed up in costumes; some children were rolled around in wagons. Singers were placed along the trail strategically to entertain.

After the walk, families convened at Choate Rosemary Hall to play games, eat and catch up with one another.

Cheryl Gamester, team Sweet Pea Autism Rocks, has been attending the walk for years in support of her 11-year-old nephew, Brett, who has autism.

“We’ve seen people here year after year, we’ve made friends, we run into them every year,” Gamester said.

Rachel Macht, whose husband has been taking photos of the walk the last few years, said it’s fun to look at the photos over the years and see how the teams have grown.

'We’ve noticed that these groups are doubling in size," Macht said. “So they’re even more aware and bringing awareness to autism. There are also families who don’t have names, but they’re here for the same exact reason, to raise money and awareness for autism.”

Macht says even though smaller families might not consider themselves as “teams,” they’re representing their children and they face the same struggles the larger teams do.

Hipp, whose 19-year-old son is affected by the spectrum, says it is critical to have a state-based organization to help guide families to the right services for their children, and to advocate for legislation on the state level.

ASRC works with families to provide education, recreation and support for the families and individuals affected by the spectrum. The group also works with paramedics and other professionals to educate them on what autism is to help them better serve the community.

“I know probably 70 percent of these families, and it’s nice to know that we really helped them,” Hipp said.

As a nonprofit, Hipp says the money raised from the walk is critical to the organization’s ability to provide services. On average, the walk generates $150,000, making it ASRC’s biggest fundraiser, Hipp said.

“I’m thrilled that people come out to support us, to say thank you for the work we do,” said Lois Rosenwald, Executive Director of ASRC. “And that to me is probably the most meaningful thing, more than what we raise.”

Here is a link to a video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d-PtpGByP7w

(source: Thousands walk in Wallingford to back autism center)

Visionary7903 · May 4, 2017, 9:48am

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

Friends of Autistic People is a Greenwich, Connecticut-based nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with Autism from childhood through adulthood. It intends to help them reach their highest level of independence possible…

A Greenwich mother is trying to start a farm for adults with autism in the area.

If it comes to fruition, the farm could become a large scale version of a small volunteer project going on at Eklund Gardens in Shelton.

That’s where Vanessa Darany, an autistic woman in her 30s, spends Tuesday mornings working.

Vanessa doesn’t speak, but her eyes light up in the minutes before she sets to the slow task of weeding.

She shows her excitement by pumping two fists rapidly by her chest.

Gardening calms Vanessa and gives her purpose, said her mother, Brita Darany von Regensburg.

For now, it’s just a once-a-week volunteer activity. But von Regensburg is leading an effort to create a communal farm where autistic adults can reap the therapeutic benefits of nature and animals 24 hours a day.

It’s important because services for people with autism often end when they turn 21, von Regensburg said. But the people need support beyond that.

“Parents want to think – (their children) will have a life to look forward to because they will be getting the amount of support that they need” von Regensburg said. “That’s really what’s going to happen on the farm.”

…When they’re young, children with autism can often get services through their schools, von Regensburg said.

So what happens to the people with autism when they turn 21 and no longer qualify for any services?

That question looms for many parents like von Regensburg, who started the group Friends of Autistic People (FAP).

…Friends of Autistic People needs to raise almost $3 million to start the Autistic Persons ‘Academy Farm’ in the southwest corner of Connecticut.

The group has been working on the project for the past four years, von Regensburg said, and so far they have a business plan, a farm model and some money gathered for the project. The plan is modeled after Bittersweet Farms, a 25-year-old farm for adults with autism located in Ohio…

BIttersweet is one of few examples of farms for adults with autism…

…For Connecticut, von Regensburg envisions a farm with four homes, which would each house five residents. The farm would have staff on hand to help the autistic adults through their daily tasks – much like what happens at a group home.

On the farm, the autistic adults would be able to connect with nature, grow their own food and contribute to the community, von Regensburg said.

“Small shops and lots of handwork will provide the residents with a sense of self worth and community,” FAP wrote in its description of the farm.

The project would be extensive, according to the description. About 25 adults with autism would live there. Another 20 to 30 would come to the farm during the day for programs. And about 50 to 60 people would work at the farm helping the residents. Von Regensburg envisions the staff as interns or specialists in autism.

“Our kids need very intensive care,” von Regensburg said. “A loving care.”

But for now, that goal is a long way off, as FAP continues to seek grants and donations to help purchase property.

…Meanwhile, in Shelton, just one adult with autism is busy at work on the land.

The gardens occupy several tiers of earth, framed by elaborate stone walls in a fenced-in public space on Oak Valley Road. Away from the noise of the highway and shops, the garden sits in the middle of the 10 mile Shelton Lakes Greenway.

The city acquired the land when it was overgrown and still contained the ruins of an upscale log cabin, said Shelton Conservation Agent Teresa Gallagher. Now, she’s looking for as much volunteer help as she can get weeding, cleaning, clearing and maintaining the public space.

While Gallagher was looking for help, Vanessa was looking for a volunteer activity that dealt with animals or nature. The activity is arranged by Marrakech Inc., the organization where Vanessa attends day programs.

Donna Schreiber, the day program manager at Marrakech, said the gardening helps with Vanessa’s behaviors.

“It just calms her. It’s something she likes,” Schreiber said.

Flanked by two Marrakech aides, Vanessa moves between trails and flower beds, slowly picking up trash that had found its way into the emerging garden and weeds that have sprouted between the plants.

“A calm sets in,” von Regensburg says of the effects of gardening on Vanessa. “The work with the hands – it’s soothing. It’s calming.”

Here is a link to a video: https://m.facebook.com/pg/fap.autismct/videos/?ref=page_internal&mt_nav=1

(source: Shelton Garden Model For Autism Farm? | Valley Independent Sentinel)

Visionary7903 · May 5, 2017, 10:16am

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

Benhaven is a Wallingford, Connecticut-based nonprofit that provides services to students with the diagnosis of autism and pervasive developmental disabilities. Dependent upon the recommendations of the Planning and Placement Team, educational services can be provided at Benhaven School up to a 6and a half hours a day for 5 days per week for a total of 255 days per year…

When Kevin Frederick first saw Sabatino “Sabby” Zona, it was under Zona’s deck at his family’s home in Wallingford. After Zona was persuaded to leave his sanctuary and come out, he chose to stand in a distant corner in the backyard.

Frederick understood because he knew Zona had autism, a developmental disorder that can be characterized by severe trouble with social interaction.

“I worked with an autism family support program; Sabby’s parents asked if I could mentor Sabby,” said Frederick, the football coach and a special-education teacher at Maloney-Meriden. “I remember there were different colors on the wall past their front door, where Sabby had punched or kicked holes in it. They were fixed, and his dad, Skip, would have Sabby repaint them. But over time, there were more holes and unpainted Sheetrock repairs.”

In the seven years since, Frederick has helped to recolor and smooth out many of the rough spots in Zona’s life.

Frederick, 29, and Zona, 21, recently went to the Westfield Meriden mall, a place where Zona would have been reluctant to go in the past. If he did, his head would be down and he would cover his ears with his hands. Conversations and noises, for many people with autism, are like multiple radio stations playing in their brain.

In addition to being a special-education teacher at Maloney, Frederick works part time for the Individual and Family Support Program at Benhaven in Wallingford, where he is a mentor to children on the autism spectrum. And he leads or participates in social-skills programs affiliated with nonprofit national organizations Welcome to My World Autism and Autism Speaks.

In April, Frederick led “Social Sabby,” a camp for children with autism …in Meriden. The camp’s purpose is to teach social skills, so the kids become “socially savvy.” Frederick says the camp is named for Sabby Zona.

“I don’t know how Kevin does it all: teacher, football coach, worker at Benhaven, volunteer, mentor,” said Southington football coach Mike Drury, a good friend and former football teammate… “I do know he has helped many families.”

One of them is the Zonas.

“When Kevin first got here, Sabby was breaking things, putting holes in the wall,” Skip Zona said. “At one point, we actually were in a situation where we were thinking, ‘We can’t keep him here anymore.’”

Skip paused to collect his emotions. “Many people have helped Sabby,” he said. “I can’t tell you what Kevin has meant to our family.”

…Frederick said he believes sports helped him connect with Sabby Zona.

“Sports have been a great teaching tool for me,” Frederick said. “Social skills, like following directions and working together, are important positives. And then there is that joy of success when you do something. Exercise also is a great physical benefit for those with autism, and everybody to get out there and do something.”

Frederick has helped run autism fundraisers, which included basketball and flag football tournaments.

As a football coach, he has had a natural resource at his disposal: the whole team. He uses it.

Zona has met, lifted weights and been at practices with the Maloney football team. He also did this when Frederick was a volunteer assistant coach or assistant coach at Platt-Meriden and Middletown.

“I believe it’s important for our team to meet and know him,” Frederick said. “It’s educational and enlightens people who don’t know about autism. My most important message to my team and others is: impact the lives of others, go out and help someone in need.”

Justin McEwen, a Maloney junior free safety/receiver, has been affected by Zona and Frederick.

“Sabby has shown me not to get down on myself,” McEwen said. “He’s upbeat and has a smile with all that he deals with.”

McEwen said the team has participated in tournaments, walks and runs for autism. In April, the players were peer mentors at Social Sabby.

“When I have a free period during the school day, I go to coach’s classroom to play with or to try to help [autistic students],” McEwen said. “I hear other people complain how tough things are. It could be in a football game or just in life. But in the real world there are others who have greater things to deal with. Coach and Sabby helped open up my eyes and heart.”

Skip Zona said the camaraderie of sports has been an asset to Zona’s social skills and self esteem.

“When Kevin was at Middletown, the team huddled at one end of the field,” Skip said. "They wanted Sabby to try to kick a field goal. He made it. Everyone cheered. I can’t tell you what that meant just for him to get up there and to try it. And then he made it.

“This was a young man who for a long time wouldn’t blow out the candles on his birthday cake because he felt the situation was too overwhelming.”

As in any sports team’s success, Frederick said he’s one part of a collaborative team effort that has helped Zona.

Skip and his wife, Sheila, praise teachers, the town of Wallingford and others who have helped as advocates for their son.

And they credit Frederick.

“He has been a fit since day one,” Sheila said. "If you first see Sabby, he doesn’t appear any different than anyone else. But if he was at a deli, and there were 10 people ordering a sandwich, he couldn’t handle it back then.

“Those are everyday struggles that other people don’t understand. Kevin understands. He has helped Sabby grow into the person he is. Kevin is a part of our family.”

Sports, The Starting Point

Frederick says football game him his start in helping people. He was a place-kicker and receiver at Platt, and in his senior year, Marist College coach Jim Parady came to Platt to recruit him.

“He asked what I’d like to do careerwise,” Frederick said. “I didn’t really know. Then I said something like, ‘I like to help people.’ He said Marist had a very good special-education program.”

Frederick graduated with degrees in psychology and special education from Marist in 2007. Since then, he has worked in special-education classrooms in Rocky Hill, Middletown and Meriden.

“It’s all because of football at Marist,” Frederick said.

And all about learning from others.

“I’ve helped others, but others have helped me, like Sabby,” Frederick said. “He taught me don’t judge any person only by what you see. Sabby was a tough, aggressive guy early on. But if you peeled away those layers he’s a sensitive, great guy.”

Frederick paused and then said: “I really believe God put me here to help kids.”

Zona acknowledged the progress he has made in his social interaction.

As for hiding under the deck when he first met Frederick, Zona said, “I’m not scared anymore.”

And regarding punching or kicking holes in the wall: “I don’t do that anymore. I was just being aggressive as a kid.”

And now that he is older? “I’m assertive now,” Zona said.

“That’s a new word,” Frederick said. “What does that mean?”

“Assertive means being nice…” Zona said. “That’s bad.”

Zona and Frederick connected on a mentor-client level, but more importantly they are now friends.

“We like to hike, go to the mall, hang out, whatever,” Frederick said. “In fact, the first time we met when I was his mentor, we got in the car turned up rap music loud on the radio and went to Hubbard Park in Meriden.”

Zona, finishing his ice cream cone on that trip to the mall, smiled and said, “That’s right, rap music.”

…Though Frederick’s official work with Zona through Benhaven ended when Zona turned 18, Frederick continues to be an important person in Zona’s life.

“We’ll talk on the phone, when he comes home we’ll get together, like going to the mall, out to eat; whatever, it doesn’t matter,” Frederick said. "He’ll ask about the new house I just bought or how my mother or my girlfriend Lorraine Lespier is. He doesn’t forget a name. He’s genuine. That’s Sabby.

"“When I get married, Sabby will be in the wedding party. He’s my friend.”

Here is a link to photos: https://www.facebook.com/search/382249605258727/photos-in

(source: Hartford Courant)

Topic		Replies	Views
Specialisterne: leveraging the unique skills of Autistics at competitive market terms Lounge	1083	103062	March 17, 2018
Remaking the meaning of 'disorders': trend of harnessing those with unique skills Lounge	21	1193	February 14, 2011
Steve and Mickaelia: Poll Men's Pheromone Advice & Field Reports	25	1	September 3, 2010
Soothing any cultural differences. Introductions - New Users, Say "Hello"!	23	869	February 15, 2009
some non-personal PMs from tacitus Lounge	10	1867	April 21, 2011

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

Related topics