Specialisterne Ireland: understand and utilising the unique abilities of Autistic

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from nearly a month ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the south, Autism New Jersey is a Robbinsville, New Jersey-based nonprofit that attempts to help those with autism connect to necessary resources and achieve their full potential...

...Becoming an Autism New Jersey Ambassador inspired me to petition the government for proclamations, establish annual kick-off parades, read a fact a day about autism, disseminate Autism New Jersey literature in the schools, day care centers, my masjid and in the community. Currently, I am currently working on all of the above-mentioned activities...

Here is a link to a video from Autism New Jersey from nearly four-and-a-half years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch?ref=s...e-05366089e154

[source: https://www.autismnj.org/news/ambassador-of-the-week-4-meet-wafiyyah-muhammad/]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from almost a month ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the southwest, Los Angeles, California is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

[Many individuals affected by Autism, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders] laced up their shoes and united for a single cause ...in Pasadena Saturday ...for the annual Walk Now for Autism Speaks.

Organizers say the walk ...generates vital for funds.

...the event [was] sponsored by ABC7 and Autism Speaks...

"This is the greatest day for our kids of the year," said Autism Speaks chairman Mark Woodsmall. "It's an excellent chance to come on down and be with family and friends, and just really work together towards moving towards awareness and meaningful research for our kids."

As a father to an autistic son, Woodsmall says the walk means a lot to him.

"It makes you feel comforted to know that there's a community that's building up around you..." he said.

His daughter Sofia also attended the event, despite the early morning rain and chilly temperatures.

"I'm really happy that we're celebrating people with autism to make them feel good and to not make their world so different than everybody else's," said Sofia.

ABC7 is a proud sponsor of the event. Eyewitness News Anchor Phillip Palmer served as the emcee at the event. ABC7's Ellen Leyva, Dallas Raines and Michelle Tuzee also joined the community dedicated to raising money to find a cure for autism...

Here is a link to a video on the Los Angeles Autism Speaks Walk from almost six-and-a-half years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=...5-649ac779734d

[source: https://abc7.com/walk-now-for-autism...bowl-la/35235/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from about a month ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the southwest, Los Angeles, California's Orpheum Theatre played host to a 'Rock Your Speech' concert in conjunction with the Autism Society of America...

r Rock Your Speech, an organization he co-founded with his wife Alison that's dedicated to helping children diagnosed with autism — specifically through the use of music, a technique the Peterssons started investigating after their son Liam was diagnosed.

Read More: Cheap Trick to Headline Rock Your Speech Autism Benefit Concert | https://ultimateclassicrock.com/chea...edium=referral
...

Here is a link to a video on the Rock You Speech benefit concert from nearly five years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/AutismSocie...55090943111194


[source: https://abc7.com/walk-now-for-autism...bowl-la/35235/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from about a month ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the southwest, the Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM)is a Southfield, Michigan-based nonprofit that attempts to ensure that individuals affected by Autism lead lives that meet their greatest potential. The nonprofit attempts to improve the quality of life for individuals with autism through education, access to comprehensive services, community awareness, inclusion efforts and coordinated advocacy...

[AAoM's 5th Annual Autism] Walk
Join us Sunday, July 28th

The 5th annual Autism ...Walk will raise funds for crucial programming in the state of Michigan. [AAoM] is leading Michigan on the path to becoming a top 5 state [for raising] a child with autism.

The Walk begins with an energetic opening ceremony followed by a 1-mile walk... Immediately following the walk, attendees are encouraged to enjoy a day [outside] and post-walk activities at the events pavilion.

Event Details

TIMELINE:

• 7:00 am — Registration Opens
• 8:30 am — Opening Ceremony Begins @ Penguin Conservatory and walk takes off
• 11:30 am — Event Concludes

INCLUDES:

• ...Free [AAoM] t-shirt

Register...

Here is a link to a video from AAoM from over four years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=...906-e7db5d9310

[source: https://www.thechildrenscenter.com/e...ism-hero-walk/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from about a month ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the southwest, Phoenix, Arizona is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

On Sunday, Oct. 27, [many individuals affected by Autism, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and] teams from across the state gathered at Tempe Beach Park in support of the Autism Speaks Walk in Partnership with [the Southwest Autism Research & Resource Center (SARRC)]. ...half of [the funds raised] will go to the important national initiatives led by Autism Speaks and the other, to support local families through SARRC's innovative research and programs.

In addition to [the Walk,] a robust resource fair featuring [many] vendors provided valuable resources to walkers.

...Events like the Autism Speaks Walk in Partnership with SARRC not only promote awareness about autism spectrum disorders but also raise funds for critical research and programs for those impacted by autism....

Thank you to all of our sponsors including MC Companies, Sprouts, Arizona Multihousing Association, Newman's Own Foundation, BARD, Pump It Up, Wells Fargo, White Castle, Sun West Federal Credit Union, Alkaline88, ABC15, APS, CDW and Get Your Move On. We are grateful for your support of Arizona’s autism community!

Here is a link to a video from the Arizona Autism Speaks Walk from over six years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=...d-9c52cb16c3e6

[source: https://www.autismcenter.org/sarrc-a...th-annual-walk ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from just over a month ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the west, the Autism Society of Oregon is a Multnomah County, Oregon-based nonprofit that attempts to provide services for individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Oregon...

This year's 'Autism Walk' took place at Oaks Amusement Park, and THE BEE was there....

[Many]residents gathered at Oaks Amusement Park on Sunday, April 24, to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Autism Society of Oregon's "Autism Walk". The half-mile Walk is held yearly — typically in support of Autism Acceptance Month. This year's walk was a return to normal for the society, after having had their previous two walks modified...

"This is really the first time since 2019 that we've had the community really coming together again, after all this isolation from the pandemic," remarked Tobi Rates, Executive Director of the organization.

Last year, the society held the event in August, and saw a down-tick in registration as a result of the high summer temperatures, and the virus. In 2020, they were forced to hold the event only virtually. The annual Autism Walk is the society's largest fundraiser and community event of the year — and this year, it raised $50,000, all of which will go to supporting programs in Oregon and Southwest Washington.

Here is a link to a video from the Autism Society of Oregon's annual Walk from about two years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch?ref=s...9-2b85b29a18ee

[source: https://pamplinmedia.com/sb/75-featu...standing-pwoff ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from over a month ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the southwest, Miami, Florida is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

The Miami-Dade division of Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization, announced that the 14th annual Miami Walk Now for Autism Speaks fundraising and awareness event will take place on April 6 at JC Bermudez Park in Doral.

All event proceeds will [go to] Autism Speaks’ work, both locally and nationally...

Each Walk Now for Autism Speaks event is unique, offering a safe and fun day for families impacted by autism. The day includes a two-mile Walk and Community Resource fair with educational sources, therapists, schools, recreational organizations, and creative child-friendly activities – a true “one-stop-shop” for families affected by autism.

“We are thrilled to be launching the 14th annual Walk Now for Autism Speaks with the [backing of individuals] affected by autism, [including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders],” said Manny Gaunaurd, president of IMUSA.

Local sponsors include South Florida Ford, Sedano’s Supermarkets, BDO, Cindy and Mike Moran, Baptist Health South Florida, IMUSA USA, TD Bank, City of Doral, FPL, Johnny Rockets, Greenberg Traurig, MasTec, FirstBank Florida, FedEx, SunTrust Bank, DHL, Mercantil Commercebank, Robert and Patricia Cambo, Michelle and Ralph Cruz, Coca-Cola Company, and Publix Super Markets...

Here is a link to a video from the Greater Miami Autism Speaks Walk from nearly three-and-a-half years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=...7-e06f38d55679

[source: https://miamilaker.com/autism-speaks-walk-set-for-april-6-at-jc-bermudez-park-in-doral ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from over a month ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the southwest, the Autism Society of South Central Wisconsin is a Madison, Wisconsin based nonprofit that provides services to individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Madison and surrounding areas...

One Walk, Big Strides for Autism, will take place in a couple of weeks. Proceeds from the walk will go to South Wisconsin Autism Society to help [individuals affected by Autism, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in] Southern Wisconsin... this year’s goal is [to raise] $30,000.

Participants may create a team, join one already formed and set up fundraising pages on social media. These social media pages could include donation goals, and personal stories.

The virtual kick-off event will take place April 17th. Walkers will have one week to complete their walks in local parks, along country trails or any location they choose and an online closing celebration will be on Sunday, April 25th.

Some fun ideas to make the walk more enjoyable are have a dress-up parade, bring balloons, or make signs. Participants will want to share their videos or pictures online. They can use the hash tag #onewalkbigstridesforautism.
Registration is $20 for individuals and $15 for team members. Kids from 3 ...years old can register for $10.Teams having four or more members can get tee-shirts featuring the team’s logo design.

Top fundraisers will receive prizes and there will be prizes for the best outfits.

Donations can be made online and added to individual and team walkers’ totals or sent directly to the Autism Society of South Center Wisconsin, 437 S. Yellowstone Dr. Ste 217 A, Madison.

Here is a link to a video from the Autism Society of South Central Wisconsin's annual Walk from over five years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/AutismSouth...3206343702380/

[source: https://minuteman.com/us/locations/w...-autism-180987 ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from over two weeks ago was the Autism Society of Maine, a Winthrop, Maine-based nonprofit that attempts to serve individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Maine.

To the west, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada is home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation...

Join us for Autism Awareness Night with the Ottawa [NHL team] on Tuesday, Mar. 15, when the [Ottawa NHL team] host [Minnesota] at Canadian Tire Centre. 4 Local Autism communities including Autism Ontario- Ottawa Chapter, the Capital City Condors, QuickStart-Early Intervention for Autism & Children at Risk have joined forces with the [Ottawa NHL team] to host Autism Awareness Night. This includes great experiences available for groups, families, and children.

Tickets are available at a special discounted rate. Each ticket purchased will include a special commemorative Autism Awareness Night hockey puck, while all group ticket purchases will also include a special donation that will go back to the local Autism organizations involved.

• 300L tickets starting at $40 and includes a $15 donation for the Charities
• 200L tickets starting at $73 and includes a $20 donation for the Charities
• 100L tickets starting at $108 and includes a $35 donation for the Charities...

We have [already] sold [many tickets], the landing page has been updated to reflect the current partners, and for those with interest about the opportunity for individuals and sponsors for this night - please see attached sponsors material

Here is a link to a video on the Ottawa Autism Speaks Canada Walk from over four years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch?ref=s...c-304a892811f0

[source: http://www.childrenatrisk.ca/e_sensA...reness1603.php ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from yesterday was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

In Australia, the Autism Association of Western Australia is a Perth-based nonprofit that provides assistance that makes a positive difference to the lives of individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Western Australia...

...The First Steps for Autism Early Intervention program for children aged 0-7yrs, is designed to help and support [individuals affected by Autism] to be empowered to teach their children skills for everyday living in the areas of communication, social interaction, sleeping, toileting and managing mealtimes. Our Early Intervention Program is tailored to meet the individual needs of each child and their family to maximise their potential and build a bridge between their strengths and difficulties...

Here is a link to a video from the Autism Association of Western Australia from over a month ago:
https://www.facebook.com/AutismWeste...14094105369703


[source: https://www.ethicaljobs.com.au/membe...intervention-1 ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from a couple of days ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the west, the Northwest Autism Center is a Spokane, Washington-based nonprofit that exists to build, facilitate, and coordinate comprehensive services for those with autism spectrum disorder and various other challenges...

Washington State University Spokane has partnered with Northwest Autism Center, of Spokane, to launch an interdisciplinary program for speech and hearing sciences graduate students to gain hands-on experience while helping children with autism spectrum disorder ...improve their verbal communication skills.

The program, called the Domino Early Learning Center, also is open to students in Eastern Washington University’s department of communication disorders as part of collaboration between the two universities.

The student program launched last September, says Georgina Lynch, an assistant clinical professor in WSU’s department of speech who provides the training at Domino. However, Northwest Autism Center ...has offered what’s known as the Domino Program here since 2005.

Dawn Sidell, executive director of Northwest Autism Center, located at 25 W. Fifth, says that prior to September, the Domino Program contracted with private speech therapists to come to the Domino classroom at EWU to work with children. The only students working in the program at that time, she says, were volunteers and work-study students.

“This was the first contract for speech and language pathology students to get practicum experience in Domino,” Sidell says. “We were really happy that this department (at WSU) was enthusiastic about taking that on.”

The goal of the Domino Early Learning Center, which is located in Martin Hall on EWU’s main campus in Cheney, is to use speech, language, and behavioral therapy techniques to help children with autism.

Autism is a complex neurological disorder that appears at birth or in early development. Autism impacts behaviors like language and communication of ideas and feelings, imagination, self-regulation, and relationships. It’s known as a “spectrum” disorder because no two people with autism display the exact same symptoms; some may have deficits in only one or two areas, whereas others require full-time care and assistance.

...“The hallmark deficits with autism are language and communication,” Lynch says. “Our goal is to teach initiation of verbal speech or communication.”

Two graduate students are selected per semester for the program, typically in their first year of graduate school, Lynch says. Currently, there is one student from EWU, Lauren Burrows, and one from WSU, Ming-Yeh Hsieh. The two also take a graduate-level course on autism in tandem with the practicum, to help further their understanding of the disorder.

The program currently has seven children, Lynch says. The ratio of children to student clinicians and staff is one-to-one; the children are taught in a group as well as individually with a clinician or staff member.

The graduate clinicians work with the children two days a week alongside certified behavior analysts, occupational therapists, and special-education teachers from Northwest Autism Center, and the families of the kids in the program.

Domino accepts children as young as two years old and works with them until age five. Most of the children enter the program around age three, Lynch says. Sometimes, children of a similar age who don’t have autism are brought into the classroom as behavior models, Lynch says, to help show the children in Domino what acceptable behavior looks like.

Sidell says that the costs for most of the children enrolled in the Domino program are covered by the school districts, which can contract Northwest Autism Center to provide services. The districts typically conduct an evaluation to determine if a child has developmental delays that would make them eligible for special preschool services, she says.

“If a child has an established delay, they are eligible for early intervention services,” she says. “It used to be from age 3 to 21, but now it’s from birth to 21.”

Northwest Autism Center charges tuition of about $8,400 a year, Sidell says, which covers about 23 percent of the total cost for providing the service. The rest is covered by Northwest Autism Center through fundraisers, grants, donations, and a small allocation of funds from the state, she says.

“Almost all the children are under school contracts now,” Sidell says.

Domino runs five days a week year-round, with children spending about five hours a day there. In the classroom, the graduate clinicians and Northwest Autism Center employees focus on using visual cues to encourage the children to use words, Lynch says.

“We use language enticements, such as toys and activities, and a variety of cueing systems to help them make verbal speech,” She says.

For example, during snack time, a clinician or staff member will show a child two picture cards, one with a glass of water and the word “water,” and another with a picture of food and the word “snack.” The clinician will prompt the child to select which one he or she wants.

The first step, Lynch says, is just to get the child to correctly identify which picture corresponds with the desired outcome. Then, the child is prompted to say one word out loud, such as “snack” or “water” to identify his or her wants. Eventually, the child is prompted to string more words together to form a sentence, such as “I want a snack.” The child is then immediately rewarded with a snack or water.

“Systems of reinforcement are very important,” Lynch says.

Some children enter the program already able to communicate with single words or sentences, Lynch says, and some come into it not speaking at all.

“We have kids who started in September completely nonverbal now putting two words together,” Lynch says. This is a huge victory, she says, as many children with autism have trouble asking for things.

“Kids with autism won’t tell you what they want; they’ll just wait,” she says.

In addition to helping the children to initiate verbal communication, Lynch says the program focuses on building their vocabulary, “so they can identify things in their environment.”

She says the program also works on fundamental functional skills that the children will need in school, such as sitting still and paying attention. Each day at Domino begins with circle time, which involves the children sitting in a circle and listening to an instructor, Lynch says, something that many of the children had trouble with at first.

“When these kids came in the fall, even being able to sit still was a challenge,” she says. “So our circle time has gone from 2 minutes to 15 minutes.”

Lynch and the graduate clinicians also make visits to the children’s homes and work with the parents to help them understand and communicate with their child, Lynch says.

The results for children coming out of the program depend how early they were diagnosed and how early they began treatment, she says.

“Language outcomes are correlated to the age of diagnosis and the age that intervention started,” she says. “If they’re diagnosed at two years, language outcomes are much more positive. There’s a much higher potential for verbal speech.”

Lynch says some of the children in the program now are able to communicate at a level within one year of their peers. When a child nears the end of the program, staff and clinicians at Domino meet with educators at the school the child will be going to and discuss the next steps, she says.

“Some will probably not be fully integrated,” she says. “We work with the school system to develop goals, and work with the families as well. Part of it is visiting with the team that will work with that child.”

Executive Director Sidell says Northwest Autism Center also recently launched a 12-week intensive intervention program that’s separate from the Domino Center. That program, which will be operated out of St. Anne’s Children’s & Family Center downtown, is meant to provide intensive intervention at the time of diagnosis, which is critical, Sidell says.

“The research heavily supports earlier intervention for better outcomes,” she says.

Lynch says graduate clinicians working at the Domino Center will have the option to participate in the 12-week clinic.

She also says that early-diagnosis intensive intervention can be the key to helping a child with autism develop communication skills.

“Those first 90 days are critical,” she says.

Lynch says that the average age of autism diagnosis is 5 years old, but it can be diagnosed as young as two. Some early signs to watch for include not gesturing, looking away, not smiling, playing with toys in a nonfunctional way, tantrums that are inconsolable, and not adapting to change.

Pediatricians will screen for signs of autism at every 18-and-24 month checkup, Lynch says, which can help lead to earlier diagnoses.

“Pediatricians are now much more proactive in looking for those signs,” she says.

Here is a link to a video from Spokane's 'Step for Autism' Walk from over four years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch?ref=s...1-9e2fbfb14b9d

[source: https://www.spokanejournal.com/up-cl...g-their-voice/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from under a week ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the south, the Howard County Autism Society (HCAS) is a Baltimore metropolitan area, Maryland-based nonprofit that attempts to provide services to individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the county...

We are excited to announce our partnership with the [HCAS] to bring the 2021 Every Step Counts Autism Walk & ...Run to life.

The collective goal is to raise $100,000 toward programs and services for [the] local autism community ...

The timed ...Run is back this year with a 10AM start, followed by a ...Walk and ...Stroll at Ellicott City’s Centennial park.

... be sure to designate your funds to the [Autism Society of Baltimore-Chesapeake] when registering...

Here is a link to a video on HCAS' 'Every Step Counts' Autism Walk and Run from nearly two years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=...c-6b89ee90f12f

[source: https://www.baltimoreautismsociety.o...s/fundraisers/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from about just over a week ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the southeast, Manchester, New Hampshire is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

[Many individuals affected by Autism, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders] laced up their sneakers and walked for autism awareness Sunday in Manchester.

"Walk Now for Autism Speaks" is a one-mile trek through the Southern New Hampshire University campus. Organizers said this 10th annual walk drew one of the biggest crowds to date.

Jay Petros of Autism Speaks said the turnout gives him a good feeling...

“The more awareness and money we can raise, it can go to advocating for those kids, ...and getting that awareness out there. It’s what really relates to the acceptance at the end of the day for children with autism,” Petros said...

Here is a link to photos from last year's New Hampshire Autism Speaks Walk: https://www.flickr.com/photos/walkno...57719888247860

[source: https://www.wmur.com/article/hundred...ess-1/5204103# ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from about over a week ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the southwest, the Autism Society of Southern Arizona is a Tucson, Arizona-based nonprofit that attempts to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in the Tucson area...

...“I think it is common for people, no matter what age they are, to learn strategies to help them cope ... and people living with autism are just people living their lives who have a different skill set,” she said.

“You might have friends or co-workers who are on the spectrum and you have no idea: It is their personal choice to disclose or not. Autism is a wide spectrum, and every person’s experience is different and everyone presents differently. Some people actively try to mask symptoms and others don’t, and that is OK. People on the autism spectrum could be all around you and you might have no idea.”

...The Autism Society of Southern Arizona seeks to [assist] with education and outreach and facilitating detection and intervention services for people of all ages, according to associate director Brie Seward.

“We help families navigate autism resources from the beginning stages when they need to talk to doctors and then following diagnosis with a Next Steps Guide that we have developed to aid with treatment options and therapies,” said Seward. “We provide a plan to assist families at every stage, including an adult diagnosis and resource list. Last year we even had our first sensory-friendly job fair for adults, which was a great opportunity for adults with autism to interact with different employers.”

Seward emphasized that although early detection is optimal to maximize a child’s potential, she encourages families to seek out information and assistance through the entire lifespan.

“If you have concerns, talk to your pediatrician or physician and contact us to see where you go for evaluation, whether you are a child or an adult. Families can also get involved in our programs, most of which are free of charge,” Seward said.


The Autism Society offers a variety of diverse programs, including Sonoran Dolphin Swim Club; Sensory Friendly Films; and Science, Technology, Engineering and Art Camps through partnerships with the UA Biomedical Engineering Club and UA Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences.

Other offerings include Playformance Teen Meet-Ups and a peer-led Social Club for adults over age 18 who are on the spectrum; and a Speaker Series for Parents, Professionals and Students that highlights topics such as “Transition from Youth to Adulthood Services,” “Navigating Autism Services” and “Becoming Empowered in the IEP Process.”

The organization also offers an online Tucson Resource List guide created by a committee of developmental pediatricians, psychologists, behavior analysts, nurses, speech therapists, experts in special education and other professionals. And it provides reputable online educational information, a lending library and other workshops and classes.

The upcoming walk provides an excellent opportunity to inform the public about these resources and those around them who live with autism, according to Groskind.

“The walk helps to show that there are so many of us who are out there and we are accessible and we are living real lives,” she said. “It is this amazing space where [many] people come together — families and friends and those on the spectrum — and no one thinks you are strange and no one judges you. ... It is a beautiful experience...”

Here is a link to a video on the Autism Society of Southern Arizona's annual Walk from about three-and-a-half years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=...8-3c7d3024bcc6

[source: https://tucson.com/tucson-autism-wal...910c12cbf.html ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from over a week ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the southeast, Autism Services and Resources Connecticut (ASRC) is a Wallingford, Connecticut-based nonprofit that is that state's largest advocacy organization for individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Connecticut...

[ASRC] is holding its' Walk for Autism on May 22nd, 2022 at the North Haven Fair Grounds...

Participants may sign up individually or with a team and enjoy ...raffles, contests, music and much more. For the first time, select inclusive businesses, transition organizations and state agencies will be on hand to share best practices and ideas as part of the "Inclusive Employment Showcase", aimed at helping special populations navigate the often difficult paths to employment. In addition, a "Recreation Resources Showcase" will also take place, to highlight various recreation opportunities for neuro diverse populations.

"We strive to provide lifelong access to opportunities for persons on the autism spectrum," ASRC president, Julie Hipp, shares. The Walk for Autism is ASRC's largest event to fund this vision.

ASRC paved the way for Connecticut's Autism Community as the state's first advocacy organization and original Walk for Autism...

Here is a link to a video from ASRC on its annual Autism Walk from nearly a year-and-a-half ago:
https://www.facebook.com/ASRConnecti...78399440590995

[source: https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/autis...181800358.html ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from yesterday was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada​. Autism Speaks ​is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the southwest, the Burkhart Center for Autism Education and Research is a Lubbock, Texas-based nonprofit that serves individuals affected by Autism by providing services, preparing educators, and conducting research...

...April is Autism Awareness month. On the last day of the month, we want you to meet someone with that condition. You may not think you know Brandon Buzzank, but I bet you’ve seen him many times on [television.]

Brent McGavock owns McGavock Nissan Auto Dealership. He told me, “I look up and see a guy in a suit cleaning the counter, handing out cookies. I knew he wasn’t employed here. He said ‘I thought I would help out while I was getting my car serviced.’ I hired him on the spot."
​
Brent is talking about Brandon Buzzank, who has since become the frog mascot for the dealership.

When Brandon puts on the frog suit, he makes everybody happy.

Abbie Ancell, an employee, says with a smile, “He likes to go everywhere in the frog suit, even places he shouldn’t go.”

Katy Sanders, another employee adds, “He’s so much fun around here. All the little kids love him."
​
What you can’t see beneath the costume is a brilliant mind.

Brent ...says, “They checked his IQ and it was over 160. So, he’s a genius."

At the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Sherry Sancibrian is a speech and language pathologist with a special interest in the communication problems that come with the Autism Spectrum Disorder.

She says, "Some people have significant deficits, but so many in the ASD are able to go to college or find employment that fits them.”
​
Brandon has taken classes at Texas Tech University. For now, he is pouring his interest into his job at McGavock. Basically, he does what they ask him to do and more.

Jorge Arguelles works with him in Inventory Management. He says Brandon developed a system where customers can scan a vehicle code with their iPhone which takes them to that vehicle on the McGavock website.

Brandon also figured out how to put graphics on the cards printed with the scan codes. Jorge adds, “Previously we had no idea how to do that.”

Jorge and I watched Brandon as he demonstrated the sticker process. It was a lengthy job. We must have looked like we were ready to move to something else, because Brandon said while he worked, “I’m almost done. I just have 5 more.” And Jorge explained, “Sometimes you just have to let him do his thing."
​
Ironically, he and Sherry both told me the same thing, that more than Autism Awareness, the idea should be Autism Acceptance. And he says instead of a month, the effort should continue throughout the year.

Sherry says, “If we could appreciate that all our brains are different, we could appreciate the gifts that might come with autism." She says at Texas Tech, the Burkhart Center for Autism has helped 70 people with that condition transition into employment in and around Lubbock. And she adds that typically, they have proven to be loyal, dependable and hardworking employees.

Brent agrees.

Remember, Brandon never applied for work at McGavock. He began helping customers at the dealership even before he was hired. Now, Brent says there’s no limit to what Brandon will do to help the business.
​
Brent tells the story that one time, Brandon made sure every car on the lot was locked at the dealerships in Lubbock, Amarillo and Abilene, all in one day. But Brent adds, “I would never ask him to do that. He just did it." Brent also told me, “He’s rewarded us more than we’ve rewarded him. It’s been a blessing for us.”

Here’s what Brent doesn’t know: Just minutes before the story aired, Brandon sent me a message. It said, “Give a shout out to Amy and Brent McGavock for me tonight. I appreciate them both.”

I’m sorry I couldn’t give the shout out, but I think they know...

Here is a link to a video from the Burkhart Center for Autism Education and Research from nearly six months ago:
https://www.facebook.com/burkhartcen...63786828277214


[source: https://www.kcbd.com/2019/05/01/man-...y-unusual-job/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from a couple of days ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada​. Autism Speaks ​is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the northwest, the Alaska Autism Resource Center is an Anchorage, Alaska-based nonprofit that serves the needs of individuals affected by Autism. This includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders throughout the state of Alaska...

Anchorage Walks for Autism will be held on April 22nd, 2017! The goal of the Walk is to help establish a sense of community spirit among [individuals affected by Autism, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.]

This untimed walk does not have a specified length: you can walk 1 lap, or sprint 20!

The event is meant to be fun for all ages and abilities...

Here is a link to a video from the Anchorage Autism Walk from about five-and-a-half years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/AlaskaAutis...55100802433781

[source: https://www.customink.com/fundraising/akwalksforautism ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from about three weeks ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the southwest, Dufferin County, Ontario, Canada is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada...

The annual Autism Speaks Canada Walk is returning to [Dufferin County]...

The fun filled event ...takes place this Sunday (Sept. 25) at Fendley Park from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The walk is ...open for everyone to enjoy [,] not just individuals with a personal connection to autism.

“You don’t have to have an autism connection,” said Karrie Daponte, walk organizer. “People assume they shouldn’t come because they don’t have connection but that’s what this event is for… the walk is all about learning to accept them [people with autism]. Not just include them, but accept them.”

For the event, Fendley Park will feature 13 fun mascots like Marshall from Paw Patrol ...prize draws, live music, and free food/refreshments.

The park will also feature a children’s area...

Dance Ability Movement, which teaches dance to individuals who are neurodiverse, will be at the event for a performance.

...Daponte said that the Autism Speaks Canada Walk is a judgement free space and a great opportunity for children with disabilities to feel welcome and have fun.

“A lot of parents don’t feel comfortable taking the kids up in the community… but this is somewhere where everybody can go,” she noted.

Daponte’s daughter, Yazime Wilson-Daponte is this year’s Autism Speaks Canada ambassador for Orangeville and the surrounding area.

She’s been fundraising for this year’s walk since February through bottle drives, Bubly stands, raffles, and a “Celebrity Server Night” at Boston Pizza...

Her team shirt for the autism walk reads “Born to Stand Out”, and her message with respect to inclusion and acceptance of people with [various challenges] is “Don’t judge me by my cover.”

“Don’t judge. Don’t stare. That’s it,” Wilson-Daponte told the Citizen.

The walk has been made possible through many generous sponsors in the community who have both donated monetarily and offered products in-kind.

Tim Hortons, McDonalds, PepsiCo, and Pure Water Canada are providing free drinks, [and] Lavender Blue Catering is providing free snacks...

...bags filled with coupons and items from local businesses and crafters are also being provided to [many of the] first ... attendees.

“It’s a fun filled ...community event for everyone… all ages,” Daponte noted...

Here is a link to a recent video on Dufferin County's Autism Speaks Canada Walk: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=...304f521c7b59&q

[source: https://citizen.on.ca/autism-speaks-...-this-weekend/ ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from over three weeks ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

To the southeast, Manchester, New Hampshire is also home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks...

[Many individuals affected by Autism, including children with Autism Spectrum Disorders] laced up their sneakers and walked for autism awareness Sunday in Manchester.

"Walk Now for Autism Speaks" is a one-mile trek through the Southern New Hampshire University campus. Organizers said this 10th annual walk drew one of the biggest crowds to date.

J​ay Petros of Autism Speaks said the turnout gives him a good feeling [:]
“The more awareness and money we can raise, it can go to advocating for those kids, ...and getting that awareness out there. It’s what really relates to the acceptance at the end of the day for children with autism,” Petros said...

Here is a link to a recent video on Manchester, New Hampshire's Autism Speaks​ Walk from about three-and-a-half years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=...d4673dd6d0f0&q

[source: https://www.wmur.com/article/hundred...ess-1/5204103# ]

[Visionary7903]

The subject of the post from over three weeks ago was Ottawa, Ontario, Canada being home to an annual Walk for Autism Speaks Canada. Autism Speaks is North America's leading Autism science and advocacy organisation.

Autism Speaks​ has been instrumental in celebrating the siblings of individuals affected by Autism. This, of course, includes children with Autism Spectrum Disorders...​

You are probably reading this guide because your brother or sister has been diagnosed with autism. You have come to the right place! You are likely experiencing lots of different feelings right now ...It is normal for you to have a mix of emotions because your life is now going to be a little different. This guide is for siblings like you to understand a little bit more about autism and learn what you can do to [be there for] your brother or sister and take care of yourself. You will also read some great stories from autism siblings just like you!

It is very important to remember that your brother or sister is just like any other boy or girl, except he or she has autism. [Attempt] to always keep in mind that he or she is still the same brother or sister you know and love, [those closest to him/her] just [have] learned something new about him or her. Now that your brother or sister has been diagnosed, [those closest to him/her] can start getting him or her the help he or she needs to address challenges he or she might face. This is a time for you and [those closest to him/her] to learn as much as you can about autism. Your [contribution] is very important and will help your brother or sister to improve and be the best he or she can be!...

Here is a link to a video from Autism Speaks​ celebrating siblings of children with Autism from about five-and-a-half years ago:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?ref=...ad20bc0d739b&q

[source: https://www.autismspeaks.org/sites/d...o%20Autism.pdf ]