'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.

“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 …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 [Logan County] 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.

“I planned for him to go in the last quarter and he ended up hitting two three-pointers and he had an assist,” said [the] Riverside High School special education teacher and freshman basketball coach. “It was pretty special. At the end of the game, the team gave him hugs on the floor and the other team gave him high-fives. It was pretty cool.”

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 …when [the team’s coach] said he will get more playing time.

“He’s great in class, he’s an awesome kid,” [the team’s coach] said. “He’s just very happy to be around everyone and he’s happy to have friends. He’s a good boy. He’s a good, humble boy. His grandparents did a very good job of raising him.”

(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.

The Make it Fit foundation is a Columbus, Ohio-based nonprofit whose mission is to develop and maintain a community of caring, unified, and knowledgeable individuals dedicated to raising money for autism research, treatment, advocacy, education, and family services…

Some run for fun, others for fitness, but one young man is doing it to raise awareness of autism, and his path isn’t a short one.

Tyler Aldrich is on a mission – a 220-mile run, from Toledo to Cincinnati.

His mother, Tami Aldrich, said she can remember the day close to 17 years ago when she spoke with a doctor about her son’s condition.

…Living with autism has been a challenge, but for higher functioning individuals like Tyler, it’s manageable.

Now he has a message he hopes to spread with his feet.

“The idea just popped into my head. I thought I would use my [love of] running to do something bigger,” said Tyler.

That …has turned into a 220-mile run, from Toledo to Cincinnati. He tied up his laces two weeks ago and has been running close to 20 miles a day ever since.

“You feel exhausted, but for every mile that you’ve run, it feels like an accomplishment,” Tyler Aldrich said.

As of Friday, he is just 30 miles away from his goal of 220 miles. Along the way, he is hoping to raise $100,000 for Make It Fit, a nonprofit that provides support to families living with autism.

“There are no limitations to what we can do. The sky is never the limit,” Tyler said.

Tyler will finish his journey to Cincinnati on Monday and will be honored at Great American Ball Park before the noon game on Wednesday. He will be the honorary grand marshal of the pregame parade.

Tyler just earned his associate degree and plans on continuing his education, going for a bachelor’s in criminal justice with a minor in autism.

He eventually wants a career that will help spread awareness and use his condition as a demonstration of what is possible.

Here is a link to photos: https://www.facebook.com/pg/TheMakeItFitFoundation/photos

(source: Our five favorite memes from 2017)

[Visionary7903]

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

Ohio residents can support the Autism Society of Ohio through purchasing Ohio’s Autism Awareness license plate…

A new specialty license plate that will raise funds to help people with autism and promote autism awareness is available from the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

The new plates feature an image of the multicolored ribbon that is well-known to supporters of autism programs. The plates cost $35 annually, in addition to the usual registration fees. A portion of the plate fees, $25, will go to the Autism Society of Ohio. The society’s programs include legislative advocacy, referrals, family support, education, training and information. Purchasing the plate will help persons with autism, and their families, across Ohio.

The autism plates can be issued at any deputy registrar’s office, by mail or online… or call the Bureau of Motor Vehicles…

Here is a link to a video: Autism Ohio :15secSpot

(source: Autism license plate available | Community | starbeacon.com)

[Visionary7903]

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

Autism Living is a Columbus, Ohio-based nonprofit that creates and champions safe community-based live, work, and play opportunities for people with autism spectrum disorders…

Here is a link to photos: https://www.facebook.com/pg/Autism-Living-221047001763940/photos/?ref=page_internal

(source: Two therapy centres…)

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

The Autism Society of Greater Akron is an Akron, Ohio-based nonprofit that is committed to improving the lives of those affected by Autism by increasing public awareness, advocating for appropriate services and providing educational opportunities and support…

Despite having an extensive Hollywood career …Ed Asner still has to deal with everyday problems. And sometimes, those problems can escalate.
Take, for example, the time he got pulled over. Asner said he knew he was in the wrong, and he was prepared to cooperate with the police officer.
But his son, Charlie, had a different idea.
When the officer approached the window, Charlie Asner leaned over his dad and said: “Do you know who you’re talking to?”
Charlie Asner has autism spectrum disorder.
“I had to do some fast talking with the big, towering cop,” Ed Asner recalled.
It’s a story Ed Asner often tells when he talks about his son’s autism, as he will at this year’s Autism Summit on Thursday, along with his oldest son, Matt Asner.
In its third year, the Autism Society of Greater Akron’s two-day Autism Summit aims to focus on autism in the community and how to support individuals living with it.
The summit kicks off at 7 p.m. Thursday in the Akron Civic Theatre, where Ed and Matt Asner will discuss their personal journeys with autism while Bruce Winges, the editor of the Beacon Journal/Ohio.com, moderates the conversation.

…Charlie Asner, who is now 30, was diagnosed with autism when he was 7 or 8, Ed Asner said, around the time of the incident with the police. Since then, Charlie Asner has received his bachelor’s degree in ecology and is pursuing a master’s degree.
“[People with autism] are blessed in terms of wonderful brains, but at the same time, they have personality quirks,” Ed Asner said. “It’s an experience, and everybody should go through the experience, because they come out smarter.”

…Autism spectrum disorder is a range of neurological disorders characterized by communication deficits, social difficulties and restricted and repetitive behaviors, according to the Autism Society of Greater Akron.

…By now, Ed Asner and his immediate family are well acquainted with the disorder. Matt Asner became the national vice president of development for the Autism Society of America last year.
But more personally, Matt Asner has six sons, and three are on the spectrum: a 9-year-old, 14-year-old and 15-year-old.
“We are kind of like the Brady Bunch of autism,” Matt Asner said.
Together, Matt and Ed Asner have learned a lot from autism. Ed Asner said it’s made him more patient. Matt Asner, who left the filmmaking world to work full time for Autism Speaks in 2012, learned how to become a professional advocate for his sons. But more than anything, the two discovered that autism can look completely different in each individual.
"There’s no right statement on, ‘What is autism?’ " Matt Asner said. “It’s different for everyone.”

…The second day of the summit, which is from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday at the …will take a deeper dive into the disorder during a full-day conference centered around the theme, ‘Effective advocacy.’
Laurie Cramer, the executive director of the Autism Society of Greater Akron, said advocacy is part of daily life for people in the autism community, whether they are parents, educators or people with autism themselves.
“[The autism] community can sometimes be considered difficult to work with. There’s a lot of fear in our community,” Cramer said. “We were trying to think of tools for our community to become better advocates without burning the bridge.”
The conference will feature Jeanne Wiedt as the keynote speaker. Wiedt is a certified trainer with the Dale Carnegie Training of Northeast Ohio, and she will teach a mini course in applying the principles of Carnegie’s book, How to Win Friends and Influence People, to advocacy.
At lunch, Gary Tonks, the executive director of the Arc of Ohio, will talk about the importance of speaking up at the local, state and federal levels to create changes to support people living with autism.
The afternoon will consist of breakout sessions.
Also at this year’s summit, Cramer said she plans on revealing the results of the Autism Wellness Survey that the Greater Akron Autism Society conducted in Northeast Ohio in 2015. The survey measures the quality of life for people living with autism based on a variety of factors.
Cramer said the area took an important step in the right direction when Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro declared the county ?autism friendly? this April. Still, as the survey shows, there are many steps left to take.
“People know about autism and understand it a little better, but I think we still have a long way to go,” Matt Asner said. “We’re nowhere near acceptance like we should be.”
Now, advocates like Cramer and the Asners want to begin educating members of the public who might not have a direct stake in autism spectrum disorder. Cramer said that’s a large reason why the summit is open to everyone, not just stakeholders.
By doing so, people who encounter individuals with autism can relate and communicate with them effectively.
It’s a move that could benefit not just people with autism, but society as a whole, advocates say.
“They have an enormous amount to contribute to us and our society,” Ed Asner said of people with autism. “If we can find the way to marshal that energy, that intelligence, mankind will advance far greater than it has before.”…

(source: https://www.ohio.com/akron/news/local/ed-asner-and-son-matt-to-kick-off-autism-summit)

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

‘The World Through My Eyes’ is a patient-centered art exhibition commissioned as part of the Children’s International Theater Festival May 8 - 10 at Playhouse Square in partnership with Cleveland State University and University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital…

Five-year-old Arihant Sarabu likes to draw, but for him it is more than just about making pictures. Arihant is among 25 children with autism working with Art Therapist Michelle Chavez at Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital on a special project. “Art Therapy promotes mental health and emotional health by using art processes,” Chavez said.

Sometimes Arihant has difficulty expressing himself with words, but he can get his thoughts across on paper. “So, detailed because he’s talking to us. He’s not creating a piece of art as far as he is concerned, he is talking to us,” Arihant’s mom Anwesha Chattopadhyay said.

Like many children with autism, Arihant is a visual learner. His mom plans out his day with pictures. So, art therapy has become a perfect fit for him. “Before this was in our lives …Anyone would be frustrated if you want to talk to people but, you can not. …And, now, it is a very calming process and a means of understanding him,” Chattopadhyay said.

Chavez also believes the art therapy is helping Arihant. “He is incredibly verbal now – as well as social skills,” she added.

The World Thru My Eyes exhibit, with 25 pieces of the children’s favorite artwork will be featured at a professional gallery next month. But, it is meant to do more than just showcase their talent. “To give the public a glimpse into their world – and, what it means to have autism and what it means to express yourself visually rather than verbally,” Chavez said.

Arihant’s mom agreed. “This is an opportunity to speak to the world. To display what they want to say,” Chattopadhyay added.

The World Thru My Eyes artwork will be on display during the International Children’s Festival at Playhouse Square on May 9th and 10th.

Here is a link to a virtual art gallery from the event: Art Gallery | Autism Center | Division of Pediatric Neurology | University Hospitals Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital | Cleveland, OH

(source: Your child’s health: Art therapy and autism | fox8.com)

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

On the other side of the world, Surfer’s Healing, a United States-based nonprofit has offered its own unique therapy to children on the Autism Spectrum in Australia. Surfers Healing introduces the unique experience of surfing to children on the Autism Spectrum…

…We ride waves together and tap into the tranquillity of the ocean to help calm the sensory overload that can often accompany autism.

On the surface, it seems simple, our surf days give children with autism and their families a fun, engaging day at the beach. But go deeper, and you’ll see it’s so much more than that. Through the simple act of surfing, we’re defying the status quo.

When we help kids get up on a board, we’re challenging preconceived notions of capability. When we encourage participants to dive in, we’re supporting them to engage with the world. And when we go out and ride waves together, we’re empowering families to believe their kids ‘can’.

Autism Awareness Australia and Surfers Healing USA are thrilled to be partnering again to bring this awesome experience back to Australian families in 2017.

Here is a link to a video from a Surfer’s Healing event in Australia from just a month ago: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n0FVPJfIrqs

(source: Surfers Healing Australia -February 2017! - Autism Awareness Australia)

[Visionary7903]

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

The Early Childhood Assessment Clinic at the nonprofit Akron Children’s Hospital’s NeuroDevelopmental Science Center assesses children with a known or suspected developmental delay due to various challenges, including Autism Spectrum Disorders. Its clinical psychologist tests children under age 6 when parents, caregivers or doctors have a concern about a child’s development in one or more of these areas…

Siblings often have lots of similar characteristics – eye color, temperament – but for the Broom family of Plain Township, their 3 boys have something in common that couldn’t be more different – autism spectrum disorder.

“Autism isn’t a cookie-cutter disorder,” said the boys’ mom, Jodi Broom. “Like typical siblings each boy has his own strengths and weakness so we try lots of different things to support them individually.”

According to Rebecca Lieb, PhD, director of the Akron Children’s Hospital Early Childhood Assessment Clinic, there used to be 3 different diagnoses (autism, Asperger’s disorder and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified). But now doctors use a single diagnosis – autism spectrum disorder…

For the Brooms, getting an [Autism Spectrum Disorders] diagnosis wasn’t easy.

…“It’s so important to get an accurate diagnosis early because it allows the child to get the services and therapy he needs right away,” said Jodi. “For parents, it allows you to start building foundation skills that are imperative for later on.”

Max, 23, Cameron, 20, and Tristan, 16, were all diagnosed early thanks to their parents’ persistence and intuition.

“When Max was 18 months old he wasn’t achieving milestones. He had little to no verbalization, fine motor issues and was timid around strangers,” Jodi said. “As first-time parents, we looked to our doctor for guidance. She was never concerned – always telling me he was just delayed and would catch up – but I knew something wasn’t right.”

The Brooms sought a second opinion and enrolled Max in an integrated preschool where a school psychologist evaluated him and validated their concerns.

At the same time, the Brooms had another baby boy, Cameron. During his first year, they began seeing developmental delays.

Five years later, the Brooms welcomed the arrival of their third boy, Tristan. And, once again, they saw the all too familiar signs of [Autism Spectrum Disorders.]

…Desperate for a professional advocate, the Brooms found a specialist who was aware of the condition and helped guide them down a path that would allow their boys to thrive.

“I honestly don’t know what we would have done if it weren’t for Dr. Duby (former director of developmental-behavioral pediatrics at Akron Children’s) and Akron Children’s Hospital,” said Sean Broom, the boys’ dad. “Dr. Duby was a great mentor, listener and sounding board for us. Akron Children’s was the only place with the level of knowledge needed to help our boys. We’re forever grateful for their help.”

…With newfound guidance, the Sean and Jodi worked to strengthen their boys’ academic, social and communication skills, which included collaborating with their school.

“We encouraged the boys’ teachers and administrators to think outside the box,” said Jodi. “Sean and I always came prepared for each IEP (Individual Educational Program) meeting with ideas that would help the boys succeed. I also created a peer mentoring program the school used to help them socially.”

Sean and Jodi kept talking with professionals, trying every suggestion and using every resource available to help their boys blossom and succeed.

“Some things worked and some didn’t…It’s all about trial and error. It’s how we learn,” said Sean. “The only time we really fail is when we don’t try. All our parenting to this point has been about changing and adapting to what each boy needs.”

…“Dr. Duby kept telling us to find something each boy liked – sports, photography, whatever – and to get involved with it and build on it,” said Sean. “The opportunities that sports teams, the schools and coaches have given our boys over the years really helped them grow personally and improved their confidence.”

…Max is athletic and has a great sense of humor. He found his niche managing GlenOak’s varsity and junior varsity basketball and football teams in high school. He also played Canton Challenger baseball and won gold at the 2014 Special Olympics USA games as part of the TEAM OHIO softball team.

Throughout school, Max earned awards and praise for his positive attitude and athletic abilities. As an adult, he continues to be a hard worker who isn’t afraid of responsibility, holding 2 part-time jobs and volunteering…

Cameron has always shown strength with numbers and enjoys academics. He found his comfort zone running cross-country and track for GlenOak High School and playing Canton Challenger baseball.

When he graduated, Cameron ranked in the top half of his class and earned the distinction of receiving GlenOak’s Outstanding Male Senior Award. Cameron’s genuine personality and dedication served him well as a peer mentor at the Ohio Youth Leadership Forum in Columbus. Today, he’s an intern at Canton City Hall and an advocate for young adults with disabilities.

Tristan, who has always had a keen sense of awareness, excels in golf, fishing and bowling. He also ran track for the Stark Public Special Olympics and attended the Special Olympics Region 10 Unified Golf Tournament where he and his partner placed first in their level.

…As part of the GlenOak High School boy’s golf team, Tristan can stay engaged with his peers while playing a sport he loves.

…Jodi and Sean are proud of their boys’ accomplishments and know there’s more to come.

“I think stereotypes (about autism) are being crushed every day because of what these kids are proving they can do,” Jodi said.

(source: https://www.akronchildrens.org/cms/sharing_blog/c01c94ae4ce254e9/)

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

Hope Bridge is a Cincinnati metropolitan area-based nonprofit that is committed to helping children affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders or other various other challenges by providing quality Applied Behavior Analysis, Occupational, Speech, and Physical Therapies…

…a new treatment option in Cincinnati opened its doors.

…“Autism wasn’t diagnosed nearly as early. It was typically once they got to school. We are seeing a real push for early identification,” [Hope Bridge Chief Clinical Officer Kim Strunk] said. “There is just such a need and there is not an abundance of providers.”

That’s why the treatment center is opening its first facility in Ohio…
Strunk said Hope Bridge is trying out a different treatment approach.

“We provide applied behavior analysis also known as [Applied Behavior Analysis] therapy. We offer it in a unique way because we offer a 360 model. We offer the expertise of occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech therapy along with our applied behaviour,” Strunk said.

The center has work stations, play space and one-on-one training rooms.

“This location can service up to 50 kids. Each one can get one on one attention,” Strunk said, “The impact that we have seen has been huge for families. Whether that means going to the grocery store. Going to a family dinner out.”

The center is training staff now. Strunk said the center will hire up to 50 new people to help families get the tools they need.

“We want to have that hope for these families to help them achieve the best life possible,” Strunk said.

The center is currently enrolling kids into the program.

Here is a link to photos from the nonprofit: https://www.facebook.com/pg/hopebridge360/photos/?ref=page_internal&mt_nav=1

(source: ‘This is the story all about’: N.M. officer raps to the tune of ‘Fresh Prince’ theme song ('This is the story all about': N.M. officer raps to the tune of 'Fresh Prince' theme song - WLWT))

[Visionary7903]

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

To the east, the Northeast Regional Autism Center is a Scranton, Pennsylvania-based nonprofit offers treatment options unique to the area. The Center provides information, support and extensive outreach services to individuals affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders living in its community…

People hit the hoops Sunday for the sixth annual Alley Oop for Autism in Lackawanna County.

Students from Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine hosted the 3-on-3 basketball tournament at the University of Scranton.

The event also included a three point contest.

The medical students wanted to raise money while having fun.

“We already know that there’s a pretty large population of people that are interested in playing basketball. Everybody wants to be in a tournament anyway, so why not support a good cause?” said Jonbrandon Mullholand, Scranton.

All the money raised will benefit the Northeast Regional Autism Center …in Scranton.

Here is a link to photos: https://www.facebook.com/pg/friendshiphousepa/photos/

(source: Sixth Annual Alley Oop for Autism Basketball Tournament | WNEP.com)

[Visionary7903]

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

To the southeast, the First Tee is a Jacksonville metropolitan area, Florida-based youth development organization introducing the game of golf and its inherent values to young people. Through after-school and in-school programs, the nonprofit helps shape the lives of young people from all walks of life by reinforcing values like integrity, respect and perseverance through the game of golf…

I know some golf [fans]. It’s a well-deserved label. It’s why some area courses had bunches of cars in their lots this past February weekend despite wind gusts and temperatures registering in about equal numbers. Any chance to play.

…There were upward of 75 exhibitors selling every conceivable type of equipment and fashion, offering deals at local courses, representing destination courses [in the Central and Eastern United States], letting the [golf fans] take their shots at/in a simulator, and offering electronic swing analysis. There was a celebrity stage where experts offered advice from wedge play to mental preparation to yoga.

Hundreds, probably thousands, filed through over three days, trading money for bargains and planning their next golf getaway. The aisles in the big hall were shoulder-to-shoulder at times.

You’d have thought the golf industry was booming.

It isn’t, you know. Not really. Not like the old days. Rounds played have been on a downward spiral. Courses have closed. When’s the last time you heard of a new one opening in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan where, for sure, there are more holes than there is demand?

That’s why the most important booths at the golf show were the two featuring the First Tee Lake Erie. Here is golf’s future. Not to get too carried away, but here is the future, period, for a lot of our youth.

The First Tee is golf based, sure, but to state its mission: “To impact the lives of young people by providing educational programs that build character, instill life-enhancing values and promote healthy choices through the game of golf.”

The organization’s core values include promoting honesty, integrity, sportsmanship, respect, confidence, responsibility and courtesy … all building toward physical, emotional and social health.

In this or any day and age, who can find fault with that? And if it also happens to open doors for some who will make up the next generation of golfers, dandy.

The First Tee has been around, nationally, for quite awhile. It was established to serve underprivileged kids, but is open to all youngsters.

Thanks to Chuck Benes, long involved as a PGA Professional and now as an owner at Oak Harbor Golf Club, the First Tee has been active in northern Ohio for more than a decade. But only in the past couple years has it established roots in the metro area, thanks in large part to the efforts of guys like Alan Fadel, a noted amateur golfer, and Joel Rupp.

The local executive director, Adam Reny, was introduced to the game as a caddie at Inverness Club and got a full ride to Ohio State University via the Evans Scholars Program for caddies. He knows well what doors the game can open and now he’s doing his best to open them for others.

Through his efforts, some 10,000 local kids have been introduced to the sport through the First Tee’s involvement in phys ed programs at about 30 schools and through the Boys & Girls Club.

They’re projecting some 450 youngsters, almost double last year’s number, will take part in summer-long programs at eight local golf facilities where the First Tee has installed coaches.

There is a modest fee to cover course expenses, but no one is turned away. “If a family can’t afford it, we’ll find a sponsor to take care of it,” Reny said.

Benes, who was manning the skills booth for kids at the golf show, and Dave Sanford, the First Tee’s lead coach at Crosswinds Golf Club in Perrysburg, recently returned from special needs training at the Ernie Els For Autism Center in Florida, so that will be the next inclusive step in expanding the local program.

“People know we’re here now and a lot of parents want to learn about how to get their kids involved,” said Reny, who welcomed a good number of guests to the First Tee booth over the weekend.

A major step for the organization is still a few months off – the announcement of a permanent First Tee Lake Erie youth development facility in cooperation with a [local] golf club.

In the meantime, Reny, Benes, and others spent the weekend spreading the gospel of golf’s future.

And all the other exhibitors, the ones trying to make a buck or two off the game, should have stopped by the First Tee booth to say thanks.

Here is a link to a video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2jZh7Ls_T0

(source: https://www.pga.com/news/pga/first-tee-program-in-northeast-ohio-busily-developing-golfers-future)

[Visionary7903]

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

To the south, The Autism Trust is an Austin, Texas-based non-profit organization with the mission of providing vocational, educational, wellness, and semi-independent residential programs for individuals with Autism…

Here is a link to a video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QhxI3TDATvA

(source: Two therapy centres…)

[Visionary7903]

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

Founded fifteen years ago, the Destiny of a Child committee work on a voluntary basis to raise money and provide assistance for worthwhile causes by organising challenges and social events. For 2018 the non-profit is organising four distinct challenges along the Camino de Santiago, the famous path that goes through France, Portugal and Spain, ending in the famous city of Santiago de Compostela…

…This time Destiny is raising money for ‘Dogs For Good’ to train puppies to become Assistance Dogs for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and for their families. A three year research project, whose results were published in February last year, and other research has shown what we can all intuitively understand. Namely that owning a pet dog helps the development, behaviour and stress of the child and the functioning of the family as a whole.
As with all journeys this adventure is functioning on different levels. The Silk Roads like the paths of the Camino are ancient ways that have had an enduring and important place in social history. This is a personal challenge, an opportunity for my son, who is 27 years old, and I to share and grow together and it is an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for an organisation doing important and compassionate work.

Here is a link to a video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4FeUDdxyXw&t=31s

(source: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/james-sumerfield1)

[Visionary7903]

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

To the southeast, Making Strides For Autism, Inc. is a Jacksonville, Florida-based nonprofit that will hold late next month a Friends With Autism 5K and Community Walk! Community Resource Fair, Friendship Village, Medals for finishers, Grants for autism families and Northeast Florida Schools…

Carrence Bass is a woman with a mission.

Her mission, and her nonprofit organization, Making Strides for Autism, is firmly committed to making the First Coast the best place to be for children with special needs like autism.

Carrence is veteran business owner and mother of a child with autism. …Carrence saw an opportunity to make a difference not only for her son, but for her community. She founded MSFA, whose goal is to promote awareness, acceptance, inclusion and understanding for every person with autism, so that person will be embraced, encouraged, and acknowledged as a citizen with value, worth, and dignity.
…by positioning Jacksonville as the best place to be for these families, MSFA makes business sense, as well as showing a heart of compassion for families in desperate need.

MSFA offers the ?I?m Friends With Autism? identification brand, which signifies that a business provides a level of understanding and acceptance for families and people on the autism spectrum in the community. In addition, MSFA offers business consulting services, thereby creating autism-friendly locations across a vast array of settings. All services are specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of each business client. More recently, MSFA has been offering popup sensory friendly rooms at community events, including the Florida Theatre in downtown Jacksonville. Two upcoming events of MSFA in 2018 include the February 25 Friends with Autism 5K Walk and the April 8 3rd Annual Worldwide Autism Awareness Day Kickoff.

Clearly, Carrence’s mission is never ending, as the barriers to these children can seem insurmountable at times. But for a woman like Carrence, who embraces the challenge of breaking these barriers, it is clear that she is well suited for doing exactly that…

Here is a link to a video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lH9dB_RpR68

(source: https://iwantabuzz.com/blog/making-strides-for-autism-with-carrence-bass-at-the-helm/)

[Visionary7903]

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

To the south, Community Living in Kentucky, or CLiK, aims to give parents access to services for their children with various challenges, including Autism Spectrum Disorders, more quickly.

…many parents face a long waiting list when they seek help for their children.

…The Paducah CliK clinic has been around six years, but only recently has the location offered its applied behavior analysis …services.

According to the clinic director, Sarah Smith, [Applied Behaviour Analysis] is the leading treatment for autism.

“[Applied Behaviour Analysis] is a research-based approach,” Smith said. “Evidence has shown it is the most effective treatment for autism. It’s a systematic approach to changing behaviors, shaping the non-preferred behaviors to more socially appropriate behaviours.”

…Many families seeking treatment have to rely on what’s called the Michelle P. Waiver, which is a program connected with Kentucky Medicaid to help families afford services.

However, only 10,000 slots are available, and families could be waiting as long as four years for their children to be assessed.

“We know with autism, early intervention is most important,” [Casey Dail, regional director of CliK] said. “Most children are being diagnosed between 2 and 3. Then to have a three or four year wait to get on a waiver, that’s years of progress they could have accessed.”

Dail said CLiK has found a way to help families access care through insurance, opening a door to get services without being on a waiting list.

“[Applied Behaviour Analysis] therapy is very expensive if you pay out of pocket, especially if you’re talking about 20 or 30 hours per week,” Dail said.

The Paducah clinic is one of 12 in the state, the next closest one being in Murray. Since the [Applied Behaviour Analysis] program is so new in the area, there are 10 ABA clients so far, which Smith said was good news for parents in the region.

“That’s something about us being new in this,” Smith said. “Right now, the waiting time is much shorter than it is typically to get started in [Applied Behaviour Analysis] services.”

Dail said if a family goes to CLiK today, the waiting time would typically be about four to six weeks to begin services.

There isn’t a cap as far as the number of children who can be accepted. Dail said some of the clinics across the state see 30 children. Some of those services are provided at home, but most are at the clinic.

CLiK, along with its sister company, Growing Minds, offers more than ABA services. The companies also provide mental health counseling, community living support and support for adults with acquired brain injuries.

They service about 470 clients throughout the state.

Both Dail and Smith are excited about their growing [Applied Behaviour Analysis] program.

“It’s very hard for families,” Smith said. “They want to do everything that they can and help their child the best way possible. [Applied Behaviour Analysis] is huge. It’s a wonderful treatment, and we want it to be easier for families to access it.”

Families can get more information about CLiK’s services by visiting clikgroup.com.

(source: Paducah clinic offers autism services -)

[Visionary7903]

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

To the south, the Bluegrass Center for Autism (BCA) is a Louisville, Kentucky-based nonprofit which provides individualized 1:1 ratio programming, including for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Louisville, Kentucky area. BCA’s unparalleled approach to therapy focuses on developing the learning tools and skills that these children need…

Imagine being told that your child will never speak, then one night you sit down with them to read a book only to hear their quiet, small voice say ‘mom’ for the first time.
“He just looked over and said mom and I guess she lost it,” says Bluegrass Center for Autism Executive Director Paul Kichler. “I guess she never thought she would hear his voice.”
Stories like this from the Bluegrass Center for Autism (BCA) make the countless hours of speech, occupational and physical therapy worth every minute. The secret of their success is their one-on-one therapy model and an outpouring of support from the community. What started as a handful of concerned parents of children with disabilities in a church basement in 2010, grew in 2012 to become the rebranded Bluegrass Center for Autism with two locations.
The Center currently has 68 children enrolled for fall 2017 and a staff of more than 70 teachers and therapists. Student ages at the center range from 2 to 21, with the younger students (ages 3-11) at the Kosair Charities East Campus in Jeffersontown and the older students (ages 12-21) at the Mid City Campus in the Highlands. A new playground was completed last fall at the Kosair campus that addresses the special needs of the children…

“It’s wonderful because J-town absolutely rallied around Bluegrass Center for Autism to make this happen,” Kichler says. “We are forever grateful to J-town for recognizing the need, addressing it and getting it done.”

…[The Center’s] unique model of one instructor with one child allows each student to work on the skills and behaviors that need the most attention. It’s a model that is cost prohibitive in most mainstream schools, but Kichler said the center has found a way to make it possible.
“It’s amazing to see what these kids are capable of when given the opportunity to have the one-on-one model,” Kichler says.
In a traditional school setting many of the behaviors that are common with autism may result in a child being sent out of the classroom or the need for resources that are not covered by the budget. The centre’s private, non-profit status means that they are not limited by the learning objectives that public schools must cover each day.
“We can take as much time as we need to focus on behaviors,” Kichler says.
If a child is unable to sit for more than a few seconds at a time, the staff at BCA can use positive techniques to work with them to extend that. The center only uses evidence-based curriculum, such as Applied Behavior Analysis… in an effort to focus on developing communication, academic, social and life skills for its students.
BCA loosely follows the Jefferson County Public School schedule to make it easier on families with multiple children. Their day starts at 8:45 a.m. and ends around 3:30 p.m. While the center uses a one-on-one approach, staff rotate about every 30 minutes to expose the children to different teachers and personalities.
“It would be exhausting for one child and one staff to be together all day,” Kichler says. The children also have opportunities to play with one another to build their social skills and just be kids.

There is an art to designing the classrooms at BCA. While each classroom may have only three to five children in it, the rooms must be arranged not only by age group but by ability and sensitivities. For example, some autistic children are sensitive to loud sounds while others enjoy making a lot of noise.
While Kichler says that early intervention is typically preferred, it is never too late to seek help for an autistic child. For example, teaching any teenager to fold their laundry or make their bed can be challenging, however it is a necessary life skill that many autistic teens must tackle in preparation for a residential placement later in life.
“We have a little apartment in our upper campus so the kids can learn how to sweep the floors and clean the dishes,” Kichler says.

…An area of specific interest to most families is simply learning how to act appropriately in public so they feel more comfortable going out to eat or to the store.
As you can imagine, such intensive therapy is expensive, which Kichler says was a big obstacle in the early years. The $26,000 per student tuition didn’t even cover the salaries. Two years ago, the center hired a part-time insurance specialist and now much of the tuition is covered for about 90 percent of the families.
BCA is not your typical school as it is their goal to help students gain the tools they need within a year or two so they can graduate to the mainstream educational system.
“We’re obviously not looking to cure autism because there is no cure,” Kichler says. “We just want to treat the symptoms that are aligned with autism so we can help these kiddos reach their maximum potential to be out in the community and being in a typical developing world.”…

Here is a link to a video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OBQtxV-CQd4

(source: You are being redirected…)

[Visionary7903]

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

To the northwest, On the Spectrum, Inc. will host the ‘4thAnnual Autism Awareness 5k Run/Walk’ at the Washington County Fair Park in West Bend, Wisconsin in a few months…

Join us for the 4th Annual Autism Awareness 5K Run/Walk on April 14th, 2018! This is a family event designed to bring awareness and raise funds for autism. You can participate in the race or just enjoy the days events. There will be a bake sale, silent auction, petting zoo, local vendors and more! Proceeds will go toward funding items needed to improve the quality of life for local families living with autism.

Here is a link to a video from the ‘3rd Annual Autism Awareness 5k Run/Walk’ from last year: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zS_o5Onzz6s

(source: 4th Annual Autism Awareness 5K - Washington County Fair Park & Conference Center Washington County Fair Park & Conference Center)

[Visionary7903]

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

‘Seek Potential’ is an app designed by an Ohio State University student that can be seamlessly integrated into the classroom setting to support each child with Autism Spectrum Disorder to reach their potential. The design focuses on minimal information, which means reducing textures, animations, and presenting problems individually…

[The app’s] themes that differentiate it as a concept app for kids with Autism Spectrum Disorder: utilizing subject fixation, utilizing gamification, and using minimal design to decrease distractions and anxiety.

Here is a link to a video on the project: Seek Potential - Marek Mutch

(source: Marek Mutch | Seek Potential Demo Renders)

[Visionary7903]

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

To the south, Any Baby Can is a San Antonio, Texas-based nonprofit that provides direction and guidance for individuals affected by various challenges, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. The child must reside in Bexar, Atascosa, Bandera, Blanco, Caldwell, Comal, Edwards, Frio, Gillespie, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Hays, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, Medina, Real, Uvalde or Wilson County…

Herlinda Trevino was distraught when her 3-year-old son, Joelle, was diagnosed with autism.

Trevino was later overwhelmed because she had no idea where to find help for Joelle and herself.

She finally found the help she needed from the nonprofit organization, Any Baby Can.

Trevino said the nonprofit changed her life.

Any Baby Can helped Trevino with resources and the realization that despite Joelle’s developmental delays, nothing was wrong with him.

“You’re not supposed to treat them different. You’re supposed to treat them just like everybody else,” she said. “Give them the special attention. And I learned how to do all that.”

Even though Joelle, who is now 11, can only use three or four words in a sentence, Trevino said that doesn’t hold him back from expressing what he loves.

“My son loves computers and vehicles. He can tell you anything about a vehicle, make, model,” she said.

Trevino said that perhaps the best help she received from Any Baby Can was getting connected with other parents who are also raising special needs children.

“When I see people that have kids like this, I always tell them, ‘Any Baby Can will help you. Just call,’” she said. “I don’t know where I would be without Any Baby Can.”

Trevino gives back to the organization by supporting Any Baby Can’s Walk For Autism…

The event will be held Saturday…

Here is a link to a video from Any Baby Can:

2018 Walk for Autism & Superhero 5K

(source: Nonprofit helps mother of autistic child face challenges)

[Visionary7903]

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

Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries is a Cincinnati, Ohio-based nonprofit that is one of the largest providers of rehabilitation services for individuals with various challenges, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, in the State of Ohio. Ohio Valley Goodwill was an exhibitor at the 2017 autism expo…

Ohio Valley Goodwill was pleased to be an exhibitor for the 2017 Autism Expo and All Special Needs Expo which took place [in April 2017]. This year’s event welcomed more than 100 different exhibitors including Goodwill as well as a host of different activities for the families, individuals and other interested people attending the Expo.

Goodwill has been an exhibitor and sponsor for the annual Autism Expo since it’s beginnings eleven years ago. “Ohio Valley Goodwill is pleased to be part of this important community outreach event which offers critical information to families and individuals with Autism as to relevant programs and services. For more than a century, Goodwill has been providing employment and training services and each year serves more than 3500 people with barriers to employment,” explained Hannon. Goodwill’s mission is to help people become fully involved in their home community as well as to obtain employment as desired and to achieve personal success. As such, the organization has a number of award-winning programs and services that are designed to support individuals in their vocational and life enrichment goals.

…Ohio Valley Goodwill offers a variety of programs that support relationship building opportunities as well as community involvement and inclusion. These services range from the organisation’s award-winning Center for Advocacy, Recreation and Education (CARE) program to its Community Access and Community Living Supports programs. The CARE program offered through its main headquarters in the village of Woodlawn as well as at its Westwood location offers community outings and volunteering, home life skills, functional academics as well as advocacy and self-determination opportunities. All activities are designed with the input of the individual participants and reflect the interests of the group.

…The Community Access program offers individualized support to participate in activities of choice throughout the Greater Cincinnati area. Examples include: concerts, …festivals, …movies, shopping, …museums, …and other destinations of interest.
The Community Living Supports program offers personalized assistance with activities of daily living in home environments. Supports include: assistance with banking and budgeting, laundry, housekeeping, meal planning and grocery shopping, scheduling and day planning and other needed supports as desired…

Here is a link to a video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u34XsgYgris

(source: Ohio Valley Goodwill Exhibitor at 2017 Autism Expo! - Goodwill Cincinnati)