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

[Visionary7903]

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

The PLAY Project is an early intervention program offered through the Preble County Board of Developmental Disabilities, based in Eaton, Ohio. PLAY stands for Play and Language for Autistic Youngsters…

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…

…Preble County began using the PLAY Project for children age 3 and younger in 2010.

“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.

Teaching PLAY

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 in New Paris, as well as the preschool at Preble Shawnee Local School District in Camden, are participating.

…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, Cindy Herrmann and Tammy Kimball, received PLAY training in August.

“It’s mainly doing what the child loves,” Herrmann said. Ethan loves cars and trucks, so she and Kimball use them to help him practice counting, number recognition and other skills.

“Once you’ve got their attention and see what they’re comfortable with … then you can approach them academically,” said Herrmann.

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.

“It’s not hard to do,” Herrmann said. “It almost seems like second nature.”

To be successful, it does require time and attention. The rewards, however, are great.

“It kind of brings the kids out of their shells,” said Kimball.

Finding funds

Courtney Schulte was surprised to learn that Ethan’s teachers would need PLAY training before he entered kindergarten.

“I thought this was in all the schools,” she said.

Krupp said she had a good response from all county school districts when she first fielded the idea of introducing PLAY to the classroom. Twin Valley South in West Alexandria and Tri-County North in Lewisburg both expressed interest but don’t have any former PLAY Project kids enrolled right now.

The trouble was funding.

With only 11 children total involved in PLAY for Preble County, Krupp’s agency didn’t need a lot of money, but it did need some.

Krupp saw a draft state budget that included $500,000 to introduce Teaching PLAY to Franklin County, Ohio, preschools. In April, she wrote to Ohio State Sen. Bill Beagle of Tipp City for help. Beagle, State Rep. Jeff Rezabek and Stephanie Garrett of the Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities, visited Preble County in June to meet with Knupp and Holderman.

The visitors were shown videos documenting PLAY students – including Ethan in his preschool classroom – and their progress.

On June 30, the Ohio budget signed by Gov. John Kasich included $8,500 for the Preble County Board of Developmental Disabilities to take Teaching PLAY into the schools.

The amount – which is to be spread over two years – is modest, but so are Knupp’s plans. Preble County will continue to share one PLAY consultant position with Mercer County and another with Greene County. Training and the monthly consultant visits are the only significant costs associated with Teaching PLAY. Consultant visits will continue to be an essential part of PLAY, Knupp expects the training costs to go down as the program continues.

“I hope we’re going to build internal capacity,” she said. “We’ll give (staff) the tools and techniques, then they won’t need us anymore.”

Knupp hopes to use some of the funds to follow this year’s kindergartners into first grade. She is excited about the possible long-term effects of building the capacity of [Autism Spectrum Disorder] kids for school success.

“We won’t know for years, but I believe if you invest in early intervention, … you’ll save taxpayer dollars in the long run,” she said. Not only might students require less support in higher grades, they could be more likely to be independent, productive adults.

“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.

(source: Preble County schools pioneer autism program)

[Visionary7903]

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

The following performance from just over a year ago was presented by various nonprofit organisations. These were: the Autism Speaks/Autism Treatment Network, the Autism Society of Central Ohio, Bridgeway Academy, the Columbus Association for the Performing Arts (CAPA), the Center for Autism Services and Transition (CAST) at Ohio State University and Very Special Arts (VSA) Ohio…

A relaxed performance for individuals and families with autism.

Join us for a special presentation of Wizard Academy! This performance will be geared specifically for individuals on the autism spectrum.

The bumbling Professor Hackensneeze makes a visit from the Hogwarts Academy to teach kids and their parental Muggles the Secrets of their Powers. This loony Professor of Wizardry leads children on a zany and mystical day-in-the-life of a Wizard In Training (W.I.T.). Magic potion recipes, wand etiquette, slapstick antics, talking Trolls and a visit from his furry Sidekick Mortimer are all hallmarks of this great family-friendly show. Children are encouraged to attend in costume. Ages 4+

Veteran New York-based variety performer and physical comedian David Engel has been delighting audiences …with his special blend of theatrical clown and slapstick antics.

Here is a link to photos: WIZARD ACADEMY!

(source: The Arts & Autism: Wizard Academy!)

[Visionary7903]

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

To the east, Tobii Dynavox, based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is the leading provider of Touch and Eye Tracking based Assistive Technology hardware and software for those with communication and mobility challenges. Tobii Dynavox AAC devices, developed through clinical research and customer feedback, have helped many individuals with various challenges, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders…

Fifth graders at Robinson Elementary School …love having Kelby Johnson in their group for class projects. He is smart, funny, easy to work with, pays attention and gets things done. Best of all, he has a kind heart.

Kelby’s cousin Donna Smith, a sixth grader at the school, looks forward to when he stops by her locker to say hello, sometimes with a gentle hug. Such moments have a way of taking her back to when they were small. Kelby would pull Donna or her brother Kain by the hand when he wanted to join them in games or activities. Or he simply walked away when he didn’t feel like playing.

Non-verbal because of his autism, Kelby has always communicated by making gestures, showing pictures, pointing or writing. All are OK for getting simple messages across, but let Kelby share just limited amounts of information. Those who’ve known Kelby all his life or see him every day know he has way more to say. So, people are super excited that Kelby has a more complete way of letting others hear his voice now that Tobii Dynavox Compass software on an iPad is his main mode of communication.

We met Kelby when he made the local news in his hometown back in the spring when he gave a presentation using Compass at a Special Needs Awareness Evening in a neighboring school district. His budding advocacy means a lot, said his mother, Amanda Johnson. “Now he can tell people what it’s like to live with autism.”

Kelby told a captive audience that he wants to be known as a regular kid who likes hanging out with other kids and is eager to make new friends. Frustration and silence have been lifted from Kelby’s interactions, thanks to the technology, while others have a new appreciation for who he is as a person.

“It’s just been awesome,” Mrs. Johnson said. “Totally awesome.” She delights in the revelation of her son’s lighter and more serious sides now that he has a reliable means of self-expression.

In the past, Mrs. Johnson said, Kelby expressed important things, like the hurt he felt when peers teased him for being different, by crying. Now he can channel his feelings into words and talk it out. Kelby’s strong receptive language skills have been obvious all along. But now his sense of humor, with a dose of gentle sarcasm now and then, emerges as he speaks through the technology. Unafraid to utter ‘Duh’ at his own–or a loved one’s–honest everyday mistakes, Kelby is also not shy when it comes to letting others know when he is too busy for small talk. His cousin Donna likes the Quickfires feature on Compass because he can voice such things simply without typing every word, a perfect workaround for his motor planning issues. She likes that he listens, too. Once when they were doing homework together, he heard her tell her mom she didn’t know how to answer a science question. Kelby walked over to her and showed her the correct response using his Compass app…

Here is a link to a video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mf010cq_Kvk

(source: Autism Archives - Tobii Dynavox)

[Visionary7903]

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

To the east, Mayer-Johnson LLC, based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is the leading provider of special education software that enables educators, speech-language pathologists and parents to created adapted activities and lessons that enable individuals with complex learning and physical needs to reach their education potential. Mayer-Johnson is an operating entity of DynaVox Inc.…

The National Autism Association (NAA) announced today the launch of a $10,000 match donation program supported by Mayer-Johnson, the maker of products to support participation, communication and learning for students with autism.
“We are delighted to have such a generous corporate sponsor during autism awareness month,” says NAA President Wendy Fournier. “This effort not only shows their commitment to the autism community, but indicates their desire to get others involved by supporting our organization as well.”
This matching opportunity will allow NAA to raise a total of $20,000 in the month of April. For each donation made through the dedicated portal, Mayer-Johnson will match it dollar for dollar. Donors may visit the official NAA web site at www.nationalautism.org for information on how to make their donation beginning April…
“We are proud to partner with the National Autism Association during Autism Awareness Month,” said Michelle Heying, President and COO of DynaVox Mayer-Johnson. “The funds raised through individual donations ? and matched by Mayer-Johnson – will help support the many families affected by autism by providing access to resources, information, and grants that are so desperately needed.”…

…About National Autism Association (NAA):
NAA is a parent-run nonprofit organization and the leading voice on issues related to autism safety and crisis prevention. The organisation’s mission is to respond to the most urgent needs of the autism community, providing real help and hope so that all affected can reach their full potential. For more information on wandering prevention, visit NAA’s Safety Site at AutismSafety.org, or its sister site at AWAARE.org.

Here is a link to a video from Mayer-Johnson: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ooMK-DvPVI4

(source: Mayer-Johnson $10,000 Donation Match)

[Visionary7903]

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

The Beyond Words Foundation is a Cuyahoga County, Ohio-based nonprofit whose mission is to assist individuals with autism and their families with funding of therapy and recreational based services. It provides three opportunities a year for families to receive scholarships for recreational therapies and services…

I recently got to speak with Erin Jester the Executive Director of Beyond Words Foundation for Autism, a non-profit organization that provides scholarships that local children with special needs can use for recreational therapies and services.

Since I know that there are some of you who either have a child with special needs, or know of a family that has a special needs child, I wanted to make you aware of the Beyond Words Foundation…

Here is a link to photos from the nonprofit’s 2nd Annual Autism fundraiser: https://m.facebook.com/pg/beyondwordsfoundation/photos/?tab=album&album_id=774631415984640&mt_nav=1

(source: https://northeastohiofamilyfun.com/beyond-words-foundation-for-autism/)

[Visionary7903]

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

The National Autism Association of Southeast Ohio is a Zanesville, Ohio-based nonprofit whose mission is to raise awareness of Autism, as well as to advocate on behalf of people with Autism Spectrum Disorders…

Last Friday, Cortney Yarish thought she was walking into a normal day at Harrison County’s Board of Developmental Disabilities (HCBDD), for what is called, ‘2’s’ where she works as an Early Intervention Specialist for the Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities, which Harrison County’s BDD is a part of a three-part county alliance with Belmont and Noble.

As she walked into the gymnasium the entire staff and friends greeted her with a certificate and a check for $250. The award was in appreciation for her hard work with children diagnosed with autism. [Ms.] Deluca was on hand with her son …who Yarish has been working with and was so impressed with her work that she nominated Yarish for the special award recognizing her efforts.

The award was on behalf of the National Autism Association of South East Ohio and Operation’s Manager, Brittany Wood had the honor of reading the letter of recommendation written by Deluca.

“Cortney has gone out of her way to help find resources for funding so that we can attend conferences to better understand [my son’s] sensory needs, to help fund therapies and doctor visits that are not covered by our insurance, as well as resources and materials for use at home,” Deluca’s letter read.

Deluca also said that since [her son] has become so attached to Yarish that she has been there each morning when he comes to school and even cleared her schedule to be there for him on his first day, where he began about one month ago.

Deluca also credits Yarish for helping [her son] transition into a regular classroom setting as well as all of her preparation in helping her son. Deluca raved over Yarish’s work stating that Yarish has gone ‘above and beyond’ time and again to help her son, who only communicates non-verbally as of now, according to Deluca.

She said Yarish has provided much materials for [her son’s] development and generally has ‘gone out of her way’ to help her son using photographs, for example, in helping his progress.

“She is always available,” Deluca said of Yarish adding that she is also good about checking up on her son’s progress as well. Deluca stated that Yarish has been working with Jackson since March of 2016

“We are so happy to have her as part of our Autism journey, she celebrates our victories, and truly works with us to get through our struggles.”

Here is a link to a short video: 14 reactions | I wanted to share how helpful our NAASEO support has been, I’ve been waiting to hear MaMa for 3 1/2 Years. Thank you so much for all the help and support you’ve provided us. We are making strides and are grateful each and every day for our milestones. 💙 | Amanda DeLuca

(source: Teacher Presented With Surprise Award ? Harrison News Herald)

[Visionary7903]

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

Autism Internet Modules (AIM), based in Columbus, Ohio, teaches families and professionals how to support individuals with autism. These free internet programs provide information for those working and living with individuals with Autism…

Here is a link to a video: Autism Internet Modules | Using AIM for Professional Development

(source: Autism Internet Modules | Welcome)

[Visionary7903]

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

The Murphy Thomas Foundation (MTF) is a Central Ohio company that serves individuals with various challenges, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders…

The Murphy Thomas Foundation, a local organization, was started by Tina Vetter, a mother of a child with Down syndrome and autism, and Tina’s father, Donald Thomas in June 2014. They started the foundation to help fill a void that was in this community, advocacy, information, and placing families with the appropriate provider based on their needs.

In 2017, the Murphy Thomas Group was established to continue the work that the Foundation started, such as the Summer and Winter Camps, advocacy, psychiatric services, medication management, counseling, after school and more. Which allowed the foundation to fine tune it’s mission to help more families in need throughout Ohio.

The Murphy Thomas Foundation’s mission is to raise awareness and money to assist families with their financial needs and allow all adolescents with autism and other disabilities attend Summer Camp. This is accomplished by generous donations and fundraising for MTF. Donald Thomas, the Director of Operations for MTF, along with the Board of Directors, organizes events and fundraising opportunities to allow these types of scholarships.

The MTF’s staff and Board of Directors are always looking for ways to help the community as well. This is done by meeting with politicians, talking to families, lawmakers and more, to advocate for the needs of our kids. We are proud to have amazing relationships with our community…

Here is a link to a video from MTF: https://www.facebook.com/murphythomasfoundation/videos/518888338281547/

(source: Murphy Thomas Foundation, Columbus, OH | Murphy Thomas Group)

[Visionary7903]

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

Richland Newhope, officially known as the Richland County Board of Developmental Disabilities (RCBDD), based in Mansfield, Ohio, exists to make a difference. It work with individuals with various challenges, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders…

Local teens and young adults with autism spectrum disorder …have an opportunity to improve their social and problem-solving skills in a friendly and accepting atmosphere via Richland Aspirations.

Modeled after the “Aspirations” program developed by Dr. Tom Fish of The Ohio State University Nisonger Center, Richland Aspirations was designed to meet the needs of teenagers, ages 13-17, and young adults, ages 18-25, with [Autism Spectrum Disorders]. It was created by a group of local entities, including Richland Newhope, Catalyst Life Services, Richland County Mental Health and Recovery Services, and The Ohio State University at Mansfield, with the help and guidance of Dr. Fish.

After more than a year of preparation, the first Richland Aspirations session was held in February of 2013. Since that time, a total of five groups have completed the eight-week program–three young adult groups and two teen groups.

Participants are guided in ways to improve and enhance their skills, while developing self-awareness, social insight and independence.

Facilitators of the hour-long group sessions include staff from both Richland Newhope and Catalyst Life Services.

“The teens have said, ‘This is one area where I actually feel like I fit,’” said Catalyst’s Jamie Starkey, who serves as one of the facilitators.

During the program, the group participates in a social outing at a local restaurant, where they work on their social skills and learn cultural etiquette, like leaving a tip.

…Newhope’s Carla Rumas, another facilitator, noted that an 18-year-old girl who participated in program had previously never felt comfortable ordering food at a restaurant for herself; her mother would always order the food for her, Rumas said.

"At the end of this program, or close to the end, the mother said, 'You’ll never believe what happened over the weekend… We went to a restaurant Saturday night and when the waitress came up to the table and said, ‘Can I help you?’ my daughter turned around and said, ‘Yes, I would like to have a such-and-such and this to drink.’

“And the mother sat there with her mouth open because this had never happened before,” Rumas said. “This mom couldn’t believe the change.”

Rumas continued, “The girl continued to blossom after she left our group and actually went into the classroom and worked with other children to help them deal with some of the issues she had dealt with.”

Another success story shared by Rumas dealt with one young man who was part of the program last year. She said he’s slated to return to school this, noting, “[His parents] were thrilled to death and feel like he’s now ready and able to handle it because he was part of this Aspirations group.”

Once the program is completed, quarterly reunions are held for the participants, giving them a chance to reconnect.

“Some of them have formed very good friendships with each other,” Starkey noted.

The program also includes sessions for the parents of the teenage and young adult participants. While their child is in the program, the parents meet weekly at the same time and have the opportunity to talk and share useful information.

The parent meetings often involve outside speakers who discuss a variety of topics. Starkey said they’ve had speakers from vocational services, housing departments, among other services present at the meetings. Check out the video, “Parent’s Perspective on Richland Aspirations,” to learn how the meetings impacted a parent who participated in the program with her child.

The program is held in the spring and the fall at OSU-Mansfield.

Starkey said that participants are not required to be a client of any service provider like Newhope or Catalyst to apply for this program–which is offered free of charge.

…On how the enrollment works, Starkey said, “We interview the kids, we interview the parents and then we pick a group of people that fit together. We don’t want anyone to feel like they’re the ‘odd ball out’ in this group of people, so we have to figure out functioning-wise, age-wise, interest-wise who fits together.”

For those who aren’t immediately accepted into the program, they’re put on a waiting list.

The program is open to residents of Richland and neighboring counties, though first priority is granted to those who are Richland County residents.

Here is a link to a video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XyfYFvu5QeI

(source: Richland Aspirations helps area teens, young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders | News | richlandsource.com)

[Visionary7903]

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

HopeTree Care, based in West Chester, Ohio, provides In-Home Health Care for individuals with various challenges, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. HopeTree Care also provides health and safety training courses…

HopeTree Care, LLC was founded by three Firefighter/Paramedics. The Founding group had over 40 years of experience in public service, firefighting, and emergency medicine.

During a 21 year career as a Firefighter/Paramedic, Darrell saw a need for better in home care and support of the developmentally disabled. That public service experience served as the driving force behind the development of the core values for HopeTree Care. When teaching emergency medicine to future Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics Darrell would make a point about how you can affect a patients quality of life. This belief was brought to HopeTree Care and became the basis for our Mission Statement.

Having made the decision to open an agency Darrell naturally turned to his fellow Firefighters. One had previous ownership experience in the Home Health Care field and Darrell brought previous business experience. HopeTree Care was started in earnest. Shortly after opening we added a fourth firefighter to the ownership group and we got to work.

Wanting to have a family atmosphere we took our time and developed a foundation of beliefs that are rooted in our core values of COMPASSION, RESPECT, and PATIENCE. These values were grown from our time in public service and cultivated in our MISSION and VISION statements.

…Our work has been very fulfilling and we look forward to many years of GROWING A BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE for those we support.

(source: https://hopetreecare.com/about/)

[Visionary7903]

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

“I’m speechless.”

That’s what Dargan Bristow, 16, said to his grandmother when his high school basketball coach put him in to play during Tuesday night’s game.

Five years ago, the high school freshman was diagnosed with both fetal alcohol syndrome and autism spectrum disorder.

For the past six years, Dargan’s grandparents have been his primary caretakers, moving him from South Carolina to Ohio, where his grandmother Diana Bristow said he’s had more opportunities to socialize with others.

“They really preferred [in South Carolina] that kids with special needs do Special Olympics and not participate with team sports, per se,” Bristow said. “Since we’ve been in Ohio, he’s had all these great coaches and teachers. Proud isn’t even a good word. I’m just awestruck with him. He’s become this social butterfly and he loves everything he does.”

One activity Dargan loves is serving as the manager for his basketball team, …in De Graff, Ohio.

“My favorite sports are basketball and swimming,” he said. “I helped with the water and got out the basketballs for practice. I still help with the water.”

After participating in drills during team practices, Dargan’s coach planned on surprising the teen by letting him play in the final six minutes of the game.

…Although [his team] lost the game, Dargan said, for him, it wasn’t about winning.

“It’s all about being a good sport and having fun, and being part of a team,” he told ABC News. “I’m still the manager and I like being able to practice with the team.”

Dargan is looking forward to the final basketball game…

(source: Ohio Teen With Autism Achieves Dream of Playing Basketball - ABC News)

[Visionary7903]

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

Autism Certification Center is a free course that will introduce participants to characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorders and dispel common misconceptions through the experiences and perspectives of individuals on the Autism Spectrum. Whether the participant is a parent, grandparent, neighbor, co-worker, teacher, bus driver, or librarian, they will find valuable insights and information in this 90-minute course…

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

[Visionary7903]

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

‘My Hiccups are Gone’ is a story of 5-year-old twin boys with Autism and their parents as they try to find the best path for their lives…

…Another of Mr. Schaffer’s films, My Hiccups Are Gone, won the 2016 Chagrin Documentary Film Festival Official Selection. This film is a story about twin 5-year-old boys with autism, Jake and Luke, whose parents, Lesley and Brad were frustrated with seeing years of little progress. They decided to move the family across the country to Ohio to receive specialized autism treatment and care using an innovative technique developed at Integrations Treat- ment Center. Within days, the boys showed incredible progress and the family learned how to find their way. This feature documentary premiered in The Chagrin Falls Film Festival in 2016, and more screenings are planned.
When I asked Mr. Schaffer about filmmaking, he said "I’m an ideas man. I contemplate everything and try to find ways to communicate thoughts in some kind of artistic way. This could be …using unusual camera angles to highlight a perspective, for example, My Hiccups Are Gone, which is filmed entirely at the eye level of a 5-year-old, using unexpected music to give a particular vibe; or telling a story in a nonlinear way, that keeps the audience wondering where the movie is heading…

Here is a link to a video: My Hiccups Are Gone - Official Trailer

(source: the Noise March 2017 Edition)

[Visionary7903]

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

BalletMet’s Professional Company in Columbus, Ohio, has a 10-week program that it offers in conjunction with Nationwide Children’s Hospital, designed for children in kindergarten to third grade with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Creative and fun dancing becomes a learning experience for children as youngsters wiggle, glide, leap and twirl while developing motor skills, socio-emotional behavior, cultural literacy and critical thinking…

Marie Dunlea is far from the only member of National Honor Society at Pickerington High School Central, but she might be the one you’d be least likely to see on any given school day.

Dunlea, a senior, is certainly still taking classes, but during the school day, she’s at the BalletMet Dance Academy.

She started dancing when she was 3, shortly after witnessing a production of The Nutcracker performed by New York City Ballet. Now, it’s all she ever thinks about.

“I remember wanting to get up and dance with them, and I was just enchanted by the whole spectacle,” says Dunlea. “I fell so in love with the feeling of being on stage and the rewarding feeling after working so hard that I knew I wanted this to be my career.”

Dunlea continued her ballet training throughout her youth, starting at Pickerington Dance Academy and then taking classes at BalletMet. Dancing alongside such talented dancers had always been a dream for her, and she was excited to join the ranks.

Marie Dunlea is far from the only member of National Honor Society at Pickerington High School Central, but she might be the one you’d be least likely to see on any given school day.

Dunlea, a senior, is certainly still taking classes, but during the school day, she’s at the BalletMet Dance Academy.

She started dancing when she was 3, shortly after witnessing a production of …performed by New York City Ballet. Now, it’s all she ever thinks about.

“I remember wanting to get up and dance with them, and I was just enchanted by the whole spectacle,” says Dunlea. “I fell so in love with the feeling of being on stage and the rewarding feeling after working so hard that I knew I wanted this to be my career.”

Dunlea continued her ballet training throughout her youth, starting at Pickerington Dance Academy and then taking classes at BalletMet. Dancing alongside such talented dancers had always been a dream for her, and she was excited to join the ranks.

…BalletMet also introduced Dunlea to its Wiggle Jig Program, a dance class designed for children who fall on the autism spectrum. She has been able to volunteer with several of the dance classes offered, allowing her to share her love of dance and give back to the community. Her involvement as a dancer and volunteer at BalletMet has made the experience so much more memorable than she could have ever imagined…

(sources: Re-Education Services prepares Fall Run for Autism; Central senior takes a turn on the dance floor - CityScene Magazine)

[Visionary7903]

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

Aspirations Ohio is a Columbus, Ohio-based nonprofit that acts as a social and vocational skills support group for high functioning young adults (13-30 years) on the Autism Spectrum. Aspirations is designed to provide the opportunity to discuss and learn about social and vocational experiences in a small group setting of maybe six or seven other individuals…

…Two experienced group leaders facilitate an atmosphere of acceptance and support as participants develop self-awareness, social insight, and vocational success strategies. Aspirations also provides an opportunity for group members to meet others on the autism spectrum and gain support and understanding from one another. Participants are encouraged to develop friendships with other group members.

The program was established in 2002 by the Department of Neurology and The Ohio State University Nisonger Center. Aspirations runs for eight weeks and meets once a week from 6.30-7.30pm at The Ohio State University. We run the program three times a year. The program does include a reasonable fee to help cover the costs of running the group. After the eight week program, individuals join the monthly reunions where we now have around twenty young adults from previous groups in regular attendance. The reunions give the group members the opportunity to meet and socialize with a large group of young adults on the autism spectrum, and to practice the skills they learned during the eight week program. A number of our group members have made friends and meet up outside of Aspirations.

Here is a link to photos: Photo Fun! - Aspirations Ohio

(source: About - Aspirations Ohio)

[Visionary7903]

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

VSA (Very Special Arts) Ohio is a Columbus, Ohio-based nonprofit whose mission is to make the arts and arts education more accessible and inclusive for people with any disability and their support networks. At VSA Ohio, creativity transcends disability…

VSA, OHIO lead by Executive Director, Erin J. Hoppe, will be hosting an Arts and Autism Conference: Creating, Learning, Living at the Columbus Museum of Art on September 20th.

…This full day conference features practice, presentation and research in the arts and autism.

The purpose of this second annual conference is to bring together individuals with autism and their families, practitioners, support professionals, researchers, therapists and advocates who specialize or have an interest in the intersection of arts and autism in order to fundamentally change the landscape of accessible arts in our State and society.

(FYI, PFW has worked with the Children Theatre in Columbus Ohio who brought sensory friendly theatre to autistic children and their families and, we also ask you to read our blog about the project we are working with through a grant we gave to Helping Hands, which you will find interesting).

…this great Conference [will include] CCAD’s new President, a gallery owner promoting outsider artwork, an individual with Asperger’s syndrome making a career as an artist, a clinical psychologist and a national award winning artist…

(source: Program is a good)

[Visionary7903]

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

The Autism Society of Central Ohio (ASCO) is a Columbus, Ohio-based nonprofit that offers families and professionals educational opportunities to learn about autism on a local, state and national level…

Covelli Enterprises, the Ohio-based franchisee of Panera Bread, is partnering again with Autism Speaks of Central Ohio during Autism Awareness month to raise money for research, awareness and advocacy programs.

Monday, April 3 through Sunday, April 9, 100 percent of the proceeds from all ‘Pieces of Hope’ cookie sales will be donated to Autism Speaks. The puzzle piece cookie has been specially designed to represent the symbol for autism and will be sold in all cafes in the Columbus/Central Ohio region.

Last year’s ‘Pieces of Hope’ cookie campaign resulted in a $40,000 donation to Autism Speaks of Central Ohio. Since 2010, Covelli Enterprises has donated over $1.2 million to non-profit autism organizations in the areas it serves.

“We’re so proud to once again support Autism Speaks of Central Ohio and the important work they do to for individuals with autism,” said Sam Covelli, Owner/Operator of Covelli Enterprises. “This special cookie campaign allows us to make such a positive difference in the community, which is what we aim to do every day through our products and our bakery-cafes.”

Throughout the month of April, Panera Bread will also be collecting community cash-box donations at the registers of all of its local cafes to raise additional funds for the cause.

“I am beyond thrilled to work with Covelli Enterprises again on this amazing campaign. In the past 6 years, the organization has raised more than $240,000 in Central Ohio,” said Sheri Weithman, Director of Field Development for Autism Speaks. “Throughout our partnership, the company has demonstrated not only a true commitment to giving back to the community, but has created amazing awareness of autism in the region.”

Last year the cookie was reformulated to align with Panera Bread’s clean food policy. It is now made completely free of any artificial colors, flavors, additives or preservatives…

(source: Cookie sales benefit Autism Speaks - Delaware Gazette)

[Visionary7903]

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

Colliers International is a global leader in commercial real estate services which supports Autism Speaks. Autism Speaks is North America’s leading Autism science and advocacy nonprofit organisation…

Colliers International in the Greater Columbus Region, a leader in global real estate services, showed their support for Autism Awareness month by adding blue lights to the interiors and exteriors of several properties …in the spirit of Autism Speaks’ Lighting it Up Blue campaign.

The Property Management team of Colliers | Columbus shined a light on the following properties to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day: 630 Morrison Road, 655 Metro Place South, [a property on] Metro Place North and Chase Tower… Regardless of wind and storms Columbus received over the weekend the buildings shined a light of blue on Autism for the city to see. Colliers | Columbus also encouraged their tenants to consider wearing blue on Friday in support of World Autism Day…

Rick Hilyard, maintenance technician of the Metro properties, was even able to capture pictures of the blue buildings using a remote controlled drone.

“It’s great to be able to support Autism Awareness by the Light it Up Blue campaign,” said Hilyard, “The buildings really stood out in the night and really reflected a special sense of community we value here at Colliers.”

(source: http://www.colliers.com/-/media/files/marketresearch/unitedstates/markets/ohio/columbus/press%20release/lightitupblue_pr.pdf)

[Visionary7903]

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

Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI) is a Columbus, Ohio-based nonprofit that serves families, educators, and professionals working with students with autism and low-incidence disabilities. The Universal Design for Learning Center at OCALI offers professional development, technical assistance, and resources to help design educational environments that enable all learners to gain knowledge, skills, and enthusiasm for learning…

Here is a link to a video on Universal Design for Learning: UDL Overview

(source: Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence | Learn about OCALI)

[Visionary7903]

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

Holiday Playland in Cincinnati, Ohio will soon have a new playground installed to replace the current one. It will have features for youngsters with sensory challenges such as Autism Spectrum Disorders…

[Holiday Playland] will soon have a playground unique to the area in that it will include features that appeal to youngsters with autism.
The playground is a collaborative project among Green Township officials, Playground Equipment Services and Tina Stanton-Chapman, associate professor and associate director of Early Childhood Education and Human Development at the University of Cincinnati’s College of Education.
The new playground will replace the former Holiday Playland at West Fork Park, which will be torn down in August. It is expected to be operational by October.
Eric Schmidt, CEO of Playground Equipment Services, said the playground will have “a universal design” in that it will offer something to children of all ages and abilities.
“It will be a premiere destination for play value,” said [township] Trustee Triffon Callos adding the playground is a central feature of [the park].

…The new playground will feature a maze for toddlers, a climbing and sliding hill, a musical playground, a zip line, slides and swings. However what will set this playground apart is that elements of it will appeal to children with sensory challenges, specifically children with autism.
For example, the maze will incorporate visual and tactile elements.
Stanton-Chapman, who was formerly a special education teacher, has done a lot of work with families of children with special needs. She said children with autism often feel overwhelmed in a traditional playground setting.
These children will often walk around the perimeter of a playground and not really interact with the other children, she said.
“We’re hoping with this playground to get children more involved and more willing to be around other kids (as well as) have fun,” she said.
Another unique feature of the playground is it will have a musical portion with a variety of percussion instruments that should engage the entire family, Schmidt said.
“There is play value for everyone from toddlers [onwards]” he said.

…Tax increment financing funds will be used to pay for the construction.
The original Holiday Playland was built by volunteers in 1999.
Safety was a big factor in developing the new playground, [township] Administrator Frank Birkenhauer said. “It was time for an upgrade.”
Memorial plaques and a portion of the original tower from the Holiday Playland will be preserved at the park in honor of the volunteers who helped set it up originally.
The new playground will be about 8,000 square feet.

…Details on the ribbon cutting and official opening will be provided when the information becomes available.

(source: https://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/2017/08/03/new-green-twp-playground-have-features-children-autism/534711001/)