MAR August 2015 - Missouri Autism Report

Autism Report
Missouri
and beyond…
New
Resources
from
MOF2F
pg. 8
MAR Goes
Viral on
KY3
pg. 4
Camp
Barnabas
pg. 11
August 2015
Letter
from the editor
Inside
1. Cover Photo: Rivendale Student, Xander
Mann, helps with packaging of emergency
autism magnets and stickers for mailing.
2. Table of contents, Letter from the Editor /
MAR contact info and Disclaimer
3. MAR Subscription Form / MAR Distribution
sites.
4. MAR Goes Viral on KY3
6. The Wonders of Blackstrap Molasses - Dr.
Sonia
7. SWAN Develops Autism ID Cards
8. Southwest MOF2F Creates Needed
… Resources / Wine and Tunes Fundraiser Pix
9. Southwest MOF2F con’t.
10.Watch your Language Editorial
11. Camp Barnabas a Special Place
12. Springfield, Branson Area Events
13. Springfield / Jefferson City and Columbia/
. Kansas City Area Events
14. St. Loui Area Events
15. Save the Date / Announcements
~Dayna Ault, Editor
Missouri Autism Report
Dayna Ault
Editor/President
Journalist and
Autism mom,
Dayna Ault is
Editor-in-Chief
and President of
the Missouri
Autism Report, and host of
Growing Out of Autism TV
Show. Dayna has eight
children of her own and two
step-children.
Dayton Ault
Editorials/
Treasurer
Co-Editor,
Dayton Ault,
holds a BA in
economics and
an MS in Health
Administration. Presently
he works with medical
insurance and is the
Editorial writer and
Treasurer for the Missouri
Autism Report.
FREE online subscription:
[email protected]
More information:
www.MoAutismReport.com
(417)209-0103
Page 2
Our Sponsors
1.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Pierce Vision Specialists
MAR Subscription Form
MAR Autism Magnets
Great Circle Edgewood Campus
Health Quest Physicians Group
St Louis University ABA Program, Project
Access, Victoria Jones, Mary Kay
Consultant
8. Dr. Robert Jason Grant, Ed.D
10.Bill & Virginia Leffen Center / Burrell Autism
Center
13.Belle Children’s Services - St Louis Arc
14.Integrity Home Care / Burrell Autism
a Center
15. DCO Jeep Give-away / MAR Phone App
16. The Arc of the Ozarks Autism Services:
Counterpoint and Rivendale Institute
Disclaimer: The MAR is happy to publish a variety of
articles, in response to the requests of our readership
and sponsors. However, not everything we print is
necessarily the opinion of the MAR staff, its sponsors or
all of its readers. If you have questions about the
content of an article, please use the contact information
provided at the end of the article to gain more insight on
the issue. We would also encourage you to ask your
health care team about any changes in diet, routine or
therapies, before administering. Thank you for reading
and for being an advocate for autism.
www.MoAutismReport.com
Subscribe Now to the MAR!
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Where you can get copies of the MAR
Springfield, MO
Other Areas
Individual/
Department
of Mental Health
Family
1515 E Pythian
Memberships
starting at $5
Burrell Autism Center
perBradford
month. Pkwy
1300
Call
Greene
County Libraries
417-209-0103
all locations!
for
info!
CC Counseling
380 E Hwy CC, Suite A105
Nixa Behavior Intervention Services
10176 Corporate Square. Dr.,
Suite 220 Creve Coeur
Health Quest Physicians
3349 American Ave
Jeff City
Kirksville Regional Office
1702 E LaHarpe
Kirksville
Leffen Autism Center
3230 S. Wisconsin Ave.
Joplin
Rivendale
1613 W. Elfindale
Judevine Center for Autism
3450Business
S. Campbell
(M-F 9am-1pm)
Sponsorships
starting at $50
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4140 Sper
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Ave # A
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Springfield!
(417)209-0103
www.MoAutismReport.com
SCAN Office
238 S. Jefferson
Lebanon
Cox Medical Center
Branson
St. Louis Arc 1177 N Warson Rd
Easter Seals
10176 Corporate Square Drive
Suite 150
St. Louis, MO.
107 Waugh St.
Columbia, MO.
Judevine Center for Autism
1333 W. Lockwood, STE 130
St. Louis, MO
Page 3
MAR Goes
Viral on KY3
with Emergency Autism Magnets
by staff writer
The Missouri Autism Report (MAR) has become
The Missouri Autism Report and beyond, as of July, 2015.
Since a TV News report about autism emergency magnets,
developed by autism mom, Elizabeth Obrey, MAR readership
has hit an all-time high.
KY3 Reporter, Ashley Reynolds, well known for
covering autism issues in the Ozarks, contacted Dayna Ault,
MAR editor, when she learned of autism ID cards being
developed in Alabama. “She wondered if we have ‘anything
like that’. And we did. Sort of,” said Ault.
A few years ago, Obrey created the magnet,
following police training, held in Springfield, and the MAR
offered it in their online store. No one seemed to be interested,
so it eventually made it’s way into a box on a shelf.
“I guess it just wasn’t time yet,” said Obrey.
About three minutes after the interview aired on KY3,
the MAR phone began ringing. Then the emails started
pouring in. The barrage of orders continued day and night, for
at least a week.
Planning to price the items, for a donation to cover
“cost”, the original suggested price of magnets had to be
raised to cover postage and fees taken out by the card
companies. They were still able to keep the prices to $2.50 for
magnets and $3.50 for stickers. “We will keep them there, as
long as we can get them at the same price. Those who
donated above and beyond, made it possible for us to send
them to those who couldn’t,” explained Ault. We had orders
from Wales, Australia and Canada!
The two ladies worked together to create a bumper
sticker, in addition to the magnet. Both items were popular. “At
first we ordered 10 magnets and 10 stickers. In about 24
hours, it became very apparent that we needed to order a
whole lot more,” said Ault. “People ordered stickers for their
car windows and for placing on doors of homes, but the
magnets were the most popular, by far. I think they both have
their place.”
The two advocates have now developed a magnet
which serves to alert emergency personnel of an adult or teen
with autism. This item is also now available for order.
The emergency magnet was originally developed, as
a way to alert emergency responders that a child with autism
was in the
vehicle, on the
chance there
was a wreck or
o t h e r
emergency
which rendered
the driver,
unable
to
communicate.
“I knew, if
Nathan was
taken out of a
Page 4
car and told to stand still, he would probably bolt right into
traffic,” said Obrey. It was that fear, which prompted her to
think of some alert system, in the event of this sort of
emergency.
Thinking more broadly, Obrey and Ault used the
verbiage “Attention: Police and Emergency Responders”, in
hopes that all emergency personnel would see the magnets.
“We used a photo of an ambulance and an autism puzzle
piece, which are both intended to draw attention to the cause
of the magnet,” says Ault.
With almost 200 orders to process, Obrey made
arrangements with Rivendale Institute of Learning’s
Transitions Class, to assist with mailing and packaging of the
orders. “It was a fun day, and before it was over, we had more
than just the Transitions Class helping. Everyone was
delightful, and we had the orders all prepped for the post office
by lunch time,” said Ault.
con’t on pg. 5
Autism emergency magnets are 4 1/4 x 5 1/2
Autism emergency stickers are 3x11
www.MoAutismReport.com
MAR Autism Magnets
con’t from pg. 4
“We are now moving forward with plans for educational
materials to go with the magnets. Parents not only need to know what to
do in the event of an emergency, but we need to coordinate with police
and other emergency personnel, so they understand the purpose of the
magnets and stickers, and what to do in the event they must deal with a
person on the spectrum. We now have a group of parents, around the
world, who are ready to be ambassadors to their local emergency
personnel,” said Ault. “That is exciting.”
Contact with parents across the globe, has brought several
needs to the attention of the MAR. Ault says readers should be watching
for some exciting new developments, down the road.
Anyone interested in obtaining magnets, stickers, or other resources, may go to
www.MoAutismReport.com/resources/.
Photo: Magnet day at Rivendale was a success, as they
packaged almost 200 orders to be shipped world-wide.
Do you know a child who…
⎯ has High Functioning Autism?
⎯ refuses to cooperate at home?
⎯ has trouble making or keeping friends?
⎯ needs motivation and
encouragement?
⎯ is alone at lunch or on the playground?
⎯ is often bullied?
⎯ performs below potential in school?
⎯ is unable to resolve conflicts?
⎯ has trouble focusing and
appears disorganized?
⎯ constantly forgets or loses schoolwork?
⎯ requires constant supervision?
Hitchcock School is devoted to children with social skill challenges.
Hitchcock School is a small, private school option for non-traditional learners grades 6
through 12. We emphasize the whole child socially and academically through individualized
instruction and a social skill program generalized across all school settings. Hitchcock has
a low student-to-staff ratio and offers strong student and family support. Hitchcock is fully
accredited by the Independent School Association of the Central States (ISACS).
Great Circle – EDGEWOOD CAMPUS
330 North Gore Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63119
Ph: 314-919-4700
www.greatcircle.org/hitchcock
www.MoAutismReport.com
Page 5
Grandma Had it Right!
The Wonders of
Blackstrap Molasses
by Dr. Sonia O’Donnell-McGowin, D.C.
I remember how much my grandparents loved
blackstrap molasses (BSM). They put it on biscuits and
mixed it with milk. As usual, the wisdom of our ancestors
is proving to be right! I’ve written in the past about the
variety of nutritional issues associated with kids with
autism, ranging from vitamin deficiencies to constipation.
As it turns out, blackstrap molasses is a great remedy for a
number of those problems.
What’s the difference between blackstrap
molasses and plain molasses? Regular molasses is the
first or second boiling of cane sugar syrup; blackstrap
molasses is the third boiling. Something amazing happens
during that third boiling that drastically increases the
nutritional value.
Unlike table sugar, BSM has only a moderate
glycemic load, meaning that it will not affect your blood
glucose levels as drastically. Most people on the autism
spectrum have a difficult time maintaining stable blood
glucose levels. BSM are an excellent option for sweetening
foods without using table sugar.
Minerals are often a problem for people on the
spectrum. They tend to metabolize through minerals more
quickly than you or I would. Because BSM contain high
levels of important minerals, such as copper, zinc, calcium,
magnesium and potassium, it would be very beneficial to
add to your child’s diet.
Remember that antioxidants are usually very low
in kids with autism. Two very important antioxidants are
manganese and selenium…and guess what?! BSM is high
in both! BSM is high in iron and Vitamin B6, which are also
very important nutrients for kids on the spectrum.
I know many of your kids deal with digestive
problems, including constipation. BSM is a great remedy
for constipation as it acts as a natural stool softener,
making toileting easier without difficult side effects like gas,
rumbling or diarrhea.
What’s the best way to take BSM?
Some people find BSM quite tasty… to be honest,
the taste is very distinct, and may take some getting used
to. There are several ways you can use BSM. Some
people like to just take it straight, right from a spoon.
Others will mix it with softened butter and spread on toast.
You might dissolve it in a small amount of hot water, then
mix with milk and ice, or add it to chai tea. It would also be
Page 6
tasty mixed into oatmeal.
(add some nut butter for an
extra treat ~ ed). There are
recipes for gingerbread,
pancakes and other items
where you can ‘hide’ the
flavor. Just a tablespoon a
day can make a big
difference for your child’s
health!
As always, if you
have questions, please
email
me
at
[email protected]!
Dr. Sonia O'Donnell-McGowin, D.C., is a
chiropractor currently specializing in
treating children and adults with autism
and other disabilities. She is a DAN! / ARI
(Defeat Autism Now! / Autism Research
Institute) trained doctor, offering biomedical
treatment at Health Quest Physicians
Group in Jefferson City. She has worked in
the field of autism since 1988, many years
for the Judevine Center for Autism. She
lives in Jefferson City with her husband,
son and daughter.
www.MoAutismReport.com
SWAN Develops
Autism ID Cards
by Annette Brandenburg
In an effort to equip individuals on the spectrum, with
a tool to alert others that they need help, SWAN created a
card with , information which could help prevent
misunderstandings, and avoid unpleasant situations, with law
enforcement, or bystanders who may not be familiar with
autism. The card could also be helpful if the individual
should become disoriented, confused, or lost.
This card, and the representatives listed, are not
intended to serve as the first approach to an emergency
situation. Call 911 in the event of an emergency. During the
emergency, this card could be helpful to first responders. If
apprehended by police, this card will give them helpful
EARN YOUR DEGREE IN
APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS
information, on how to deal with an individual who may not be
able to communicate. A phone call to their representative,
could help everyone save time, and possibly avoid unpleasant
situations altogether.
The cards are a free service, courtesy of SWAN
parents, and can be individualized at your request. Simply
send in the full name of the individual you wish to give the
card, along with the names and phone numbers of two
representatives, who can be called, on their behalf, in the
e v e n t o f a n e m e r g e n c y, t o J i l l M a r c u m a t
[email protected].
SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY
OFFERS THREE ABA PROGRAM
OPTIONS:
M.S. in applied behavior
analysis
M.S.W. with applied behavior
analysis concentration
Post-master’s certificate in
applied behavior analysis
Andrew Licis, OTC Graduate
SLU’s unique program is the first in
the nation to offer a master’s in social
work with an ABA concentration, and our
graduates have a board certification pass
rate higher than the national average.
TO LEARN MORE, VISIT ABA.SLU.EDU
www.MoAutismReport.com
Page 7
Southwest MOF2F
Creates Needed
Resources
disability and a referral for a personal care aide; a six-year
delay for private duty nursing. In very few cases were
physicians the source of the referral, yet they are involved
with families from birth.” McNeal notes that home care is
only one of the services described in the material.
con’t on pg. 9
by staff writer
The Communication Committee of the
Southwest Missouri chapter of the Missouri
Family-to-Family Network (MOF2F), has
completed a project, which fills a need in
the professional sector. The project,
suggested by Dr. Doug McNeal, of Integrity
Home Care, arose from a need to get
resource information into the hands of
practitioners in our community. “The value
of a resource guide for physicians, became
apparent to me, when I was confronted
with my own lack of knowledge in this
area. I had practiced for 30 years as a
pediatrician, with an emphasis on caring
for children with special health care needs.
After retiring, I became a consultant for
Integrity Home Care. Only then did I
become aware of in-home, long term,
pediatric care (both Private Duty Nursing
and Personal Care Aides). In spite of all
my training and experience, I had never
referred a patient for these services,” says
McNeal. “My research confirmed that I was
not alone. A survey of our families revealed
that there was a seven-year delay between
the diagnosis of a child with a significant
MO Family to Family
Online
Resources
Developmental
Disability
Resources
Safety & Security
• Emergency
• Well-being
• Guardianship
Services & Supports
• Legal Rights & Issues
• System Supports
Healthy Living
• Natural Supports
• Medical
• Personal/Family
Supports
• Mental Health
• Financial Supports
Community Living
• Housing
• Transportation
• Community Access
Daily Life
• Everyday Life
• School
• Employment
Social & Spirituality
• Friends
• Relationships
• Recreation
• Leisure Activities
• Networks
in the Greater
Springfield
Area
• Behavior
• Developmental
• Wellness
• Nutrition
Family Support
• Peer Support
• Self Advocacy
Hot Topics
• Affordable Care Act
Resources for
Diagnostic, in-home and site-based
SERVICES,
Technology, accessibility and personal
SUPPORTS,
http://disability.mo.gov/resource_search
For education and school services
www.dese.mo.gov
In cooperation with Missouri Autism Report www.moautismreport.com
Wine and Tunes at Three Moons Fundraiser
Here are some photos of our Wine and Tunes at Three Moons fundraiser. Thank you to all who donated and participated!
Page 8
www.MoAutismReport.com
Southwest MOF2F Creates Resources
con’t from pg.8
The two communication committee leaders,
for both internet and telephone. If someone really wants
Elizabeth Obrey, an autism mom and Family Advocate at
help, we have the starting point of receiving services, in
The Arc of the Ozarks, and Dayna Ault, Editor and
one flier.”
Publisher of the Missouri Autism Report, worked in
“Those included in this resource tool, are the
cooperation with other professionals. Dr. McNeil at Integrity
initial point of referral for all other services,” explains Ault.
Home Care, members of Southwest Missouri Autism
“We had to stop there, or we would have been making a
Network (SWAN), The Arc of the Ozarks, the Down
book, rather than a flier.”
Syndrome Group of the Ozarks, and other contributors,
The committee sees this as the beginning of
helped with the planning of the resource guide, which is
several new publications. “Our next project will take this
scheduled to go to print in August.
same format to connect families and the public school
Several formats for the publication, were
system with developmental disability services,” says Obrey.
discussed, before the committee settled on a three-fold
The committee plans to continue to identify pockets of
flier, which would be inexpensive to print, and would direct
individuals that need this sort of resource.
practitioners to the primary contacts for families needing
Funding for the project, has been secured from
services. With this resource guide in-hand, practitioners
The Arc of the Ozarks and Christian County Links. Other
will know where to send patients after an initial, or
agencies may be included in that list, as the project
suspected diagnosis.
continues.
“When families are first diagnosed, they usually
don't realize the varying resources that are available. They
often turn to their physicians for guidance. Our local Family
Missouri Family to Family Network (MOF2F) was first launched, as a
to Family partnership is making a grand effort to assist
way to connect struggling families, with experienced parents, who could
medical professionals in getting this information to
mentor them through the maze of living with autism. An auxiliary group
families,” says Obrey.
in Southwest Missouri, was formed, under the vision and direction of
Department of Mental Health, Autism Navigator, Judy Wanko (now
“There is a lack of available information for
retired), who envisioned bringing local organizations together, to create
physicians. They have little or no direction, on where to
solutions for lingering problems within the disability community. MOF2F
send their patients who might be dealing with a
website is at www.mofamilytofamily.org.
developmental disability,” said Ault. “We wanted to be sure
that doctors have the information they need, to get families
started in the right
direction.”
“The production
of these brochures,
serves to fill that
information gap, which
The Arc of the
First Steps
Ozarks
can be confusing to
ages 0-3
MO Family To
Family Advocacy Office
navigate,” adds Obrey.
Family
(417)886-0404
(417)874-1982
The group hopes this
(866)583-2392
Resource Website
www.thearcoftheozarks.org
https://www.mofirststeps.com
simple flier can help
(800)444-0821
Contact for information on
Parents
as
demystify the process for
how to access and navigate
www.mofamilytofamily.org
Teachers
local resources for
physicians and families.
ages 0-3
individuals with
Department of
Contact local
developmental disabilities.
Disability Portal
school district.
The flier builds
Mental Health
and Resource
Regional Office
on information provided
Directory
Intake/Determine
on the MoF2F Website,
(800)877-8249
Eligibility
giving primary resources
http://disability.mo.gov
(417)895-7400
for assistance in
www.dmh.mo.gov/dd
applying for and
receiving services.
“Some people will go to
Bureau of Special
RESOURCES
a website and search for
Health Care Needs
SB40 CountyBoards
(417)895-6905 * (800)451-0669
FOR LIFE
answers, while others
(Service coordination for
http://health.mo.gov/living/families/
Regional Office Clients)
shcn
would rather pick up a
Developmental Connections
Healthy Children and Youth Program
phone and call an
(HCY)
(417)335-4135
Contact these resources if:
www.developmentalconnetions.com
agency or organization,”
Medically Fragile Adult Waiver Program
Patient
is
not
reaching
their
developmental
•
(MFAW)
CC Links
says Ault. “Our goal is to
milestones,
(417)551-4901
Service Coordination and authorization
www.christiancountylinks.net
provide information to
• Family needs therapies, in-home or site-based
for Mo Health Net Services, with
services, not yet accessed,
Abilities First
assessment through home services
both sets of people, in an
(417)886-0404
and resources for at-home living.
• Parent/family, needs peer or social supports,
www.abilitiesfirst.net
easy-to-follow format, for
Services may include
• Patient has accessibility, equipment or
in-home care.
technology needs.
both patient and doctor,
with contact information
RESOURCE GUIDE FOR DOCTORS AND THEIR PATIENTS
www.MoAutismReport.com
Page 9
Watch your language:
an Editorial
by Dayna Ault, Editor
In my family we have a little joke we play - when
someone says a new, difficult, or mispronounced word, we say,
“watch your language”. Of course, the joke never gets old (at least
around here it doesn’t). Another game is one my children enjoy,
where they say a common word over and over,
until it sounds funny and doesn’t seem like a real
word anymore.
I’m sure most of us have played word
games, and most of them are harmless.
However, there are times when words are not
harmless, when words hurt, or they denote
something that is negative, even if we didn’t
mean it that way. I think of the name games that
children play in school, twisting someone’s
name into a phrase or rhyme. Sometimes it’ is a
teacher’s name, sometimes a student’s name. Rarely, however, is
it a kind name. If you were ever the recipient of one of these
twisted names, you may find it to be, well, not as harmless as it
might first seem.
I remember a time, in elementary, when a boy in my
class asked me if I was “retarded”. Since previous conversations
were about adoption, I knew that he really meant “adopted”, but I
was offended, nonetheless. The “R” word was common in my day,
but it is no longer acceptable. Anymore, I find myself aghast, when
I hear someone using the “R” word to describe someone with
developmental disabilities, or as a derogatory comment about a
person’s intelligence. More often than not, I launch into a
Page 10
determined explanation of why we don’t use that word any more;
that the American public, has chosen to use words with more
compassion, such as “persons with additional needs”.
I occasionally get the “who cares” response. But the
point is all about educating people. Next time they say that word,
they will stop and think. Eventually, maybe they will have a close
friend with additional needs, and that “R” word won’t be quite so
entertaining any more.
Another word I struggle with, is the “A” word: “autistic”.
This is another word we are replacing with more compassionate
words. You may consider this my “educational rant” on the
“A” word.
The community and people, who work with, live with and
raise awareness for, persons with autism, have come to
the conclusion that our loved ones, are not defined by a
certain condition or additional need, they may possess.
Rather than saying a person is autistic, we are
transitioning to a new terminology that is more
compassionate, and sees a person, first for who they
are, and somewhere down the line, we acknowledge
their condition, whether it is autism, or something else.
We no longer believe a person should be defined by a
developmental disability.
I prefer to say that I work with persons with autism.
Though autism might be a part of their lives, it is not what or who,
they are.
I would like to suggest, as we are removing the “R” word
from our vocabulary, that we also remove the “A” word,
remembering that people are valuable, and they are people, first
and foremost. And let us teach our children that labeling and name
calling, should not be part of our language, because the names we
call others, just might hurt more than we think.
Let’s all “watch our language,” even in the fine distinction
of respecting the dignity of individuals with autism.
www.MoAutismReport.com
Camp Barnabas:
A Special Place for
Those with Special Needs
by Dayna Ault, Editor
You might have heard about
Camp Barnabas in 2005, when they won a
free make-over from the TV show,
Extreme Home Makeover. If you are one
of the lucky ones, you know about Camp
Barnabas because you, or a loved one,
has experienced this exclusive special
needs camp, first-hand.
From the vast, ornate front gate,
to the ancient relics of early beginnings,
the camp is a sight to behold. What is so
special about Camp Barnabas? Well, I’m
glad you asked.
Barnabas is a premier Christian
camp, that provides a summer experience
to those with Special Needs, both young
and old. Throughout the summer, 1500
campers, travel from near and far, to
spend a week at Camp Barnabas,
enjoying friends, activities, and learning
about God.
The camp, is located, just
outside of a little town called Purdy.
Traveling there takes you down some
winding, twisting roads, which we are told,
were gravel, before Extreme Makeover
came through, paving not only the roads
at the camp, but the roads TO the camp,
so they could get their equipment in
safely.
The camp is beautifully
landscaped, with air conditioned cabins,
for both campers and staff. But as any
parent, with a child with special needs will
www.MoAutismReport.com
tell you, air conditioning is the least of their
worries. In a world where we are afraid
our children might have a life threatening
seizure, be bullied, molested, or endure
other physical or emotional harm, it is
difficult to let our children out of our sight.
However, with a medical facility (the
“Wellhouse”), which looks more like an
urgent care, hosting a doctor and team of
nurses on-hand to distribute medications
and care for critically ill campers, and the
three-person buddy system, where no
camper is without two other people at all
times, this camp might be safer than
keeping them home!
We were privileged to enjoy the
closing ceremonies, the awards, the
songs, the tears. The place was swarming
with staffers, who are on a 1-to-1 ratio with
the campers. Barnabas utilizes
“missionaries” from churches, who come
as volunteers to help at the camp, often
arriving by the bus-load. All of these
volunteers, mean campers have their own
personal helper, ensuring they have a safe
and fun time at camp.
“Our mission at Barnabas is to
show others the love of Christ…not only in
changing the lives of those with special
needs and chronic illnesses, but also in
changing the lives of all who come in
contact with Barnabas: campers,
missionaries, parents, staff and donors.
and fellow staff. The experiences gained
from Camp Barnabas go beyond a week
at summer camp. These experiences
change perspectives, redefine disability
and become life-changing.” ~ Camp
Barnabas
Page 11
Springfield, Branson and Surrounding Area Events
Tuesdays, August 4-25
Saturday, August 8
Special Needs Boy Scout Troop 2, for
ages 11 and up, every Tues. at
6:30-8:00pm at VFW Post, 2525 E.
Division. Scoutmaster: Wes Nicholson
( 4 1 7 ) 4 1 3 - 0 5 9 7 o r
s c o u t m a s t e r. w n @ g m a i l . c o m
www.sntroop2.com
People First of Springfield monthly
meeting (2nd Sat.) 11am - 12pm. At
Easy Living Office, 3061 S. Fort Ave.,
Suite C., Spfd. For more information
contact Marisa Clary at (417)886-7180
or [email protected]
Special Needs Cub Scout Pack now
forming for 1st-5th graders. If
interested, contact Debra Barker (417)
9
8
8
5
0
1
9
,
[email protected].
Meeting Tuesdays, 6:30-8:00pm at
VFW Post Annex, 2525 E. Division St.,
Spfd
Tuesday, August 4
JOPLIN Bill & Virginia Leffen Center
for Autism, Parent Support Group,
Joplin (1st Tues.) 6-8pm, 3230 S
Wisconsin, Suite D. Free and open to
the public. For info, contact Edyth
(417)347-7850.
Wednesdays, August 5-26
Single Mom’s Support Group from
6:15-7:30pm at South Haven Baptist
Church. Most moms attending have
children with special needs. Respite
provided. To RSVP contact Kathy
Meyer at (417)496-2773 or
www.thecaringpeople.org
Wednesday, August 5
MPACT Workshop - McKinney-Vento
Homeless Assistance Act
Overview will be held at the The
Library Station, 2535 N. Kansas
Expressway, Springfield, from 1-2pm.
For info go to www.ptimpact.org or call
(417)423-7695.
Thursday, August 6
SCIL Support Group for Parents of
Youth with Disabilities (1st Thurs.)
from 6-7pm at Southwest Center for
Independent Living, 2864 S. Nettleton
Ave. Cost is FREE, refreshments
included. RSVP: [email protected] or
call (800)676-7245.
Tri-Lakes People First Chapter Mtg.
(1st Thurs.) at 6pm, Developmental
Connections office 1533 E. State Hwy.
76, Branson. For info, (417)335-4135
Branson Family Connections Parent
Support Mtg. (1st Thurs.) at 6:30pm at
Developmental Connections office,
1533 E. Sta. Hwy. 76, Branson. For
more info call (417)335-4135.
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Free Respite Night for families with
children with special needs in the
Bolivar, MO area, (2nd Sat.) from
5-8:30 pm. For more info, contact
(417)773-6326
or
[email protected]. Reserve spot
one week in advance please.
SWAN (SouthWest Missouri Autism
Network) (2nd Sat) 3:30-5:30pm at Arc
of the Ozarks, 1501 E. Pythian. August
will be a Dad Panel.Gym and pool
open, RESPITE AVAILABLE, RSVP on
the SWAN event page on Facebook.
www.swmoautismnetwork.org and
Facebook Page www.facebook.com/
SWMOAutism, for additional events
and updates. SWAN office,
(417)874-1912 or Arc Advocate office
(417)874-1982.
Jasper Christian Church, 213 East
Grand Ave., Jasper, MO., from 5-7pm.
For info go to www.ptimpact.org or call
(417)423-7695.
Tuesday, August 11
SWMO Parent Advisory Committee
(PAC) Meeting (2nd Tues.) at 6:30 am.
Location TBA. For more info go to
http://www.mo.gov/meetings. For
meeting locations, call Judy
(417)895-7446, Kandice (417)629-3237
or Mike (417)621-5362. To be on email
distribution list, contact
[email protected].
Sunday, August 16
Shoot Out for Autism - 4th Annual
Doubles Shoot at 2pm at Ozarks
Shooters Sports Complex, 759 US Hwy
65, Walnut Shade, MO. (11 mi. N. of
Branson) Entry fee: $60 per team. To
register call (417)443-3093 or
(417)693-0583
or
[email protected].
Registration 1-2pm. Lunch available but
not included.
Monday, August 10
MPACT Workshop - The Art of
Effective Advocacy will be held at the
HOMESCHOOL HAPPENINGS
Learning Adventures Academy is a
special needs homeschool co-op. To join
or learn more, connect Mandie Funk at
[email protected] or find them at
www.facebook.com/groups/
learningadventuresacademy Find
information on more events, such as a
Mom Chat and Teen Events, on the
Facebook page.
Thursday, August 6th
"Act it Out” Playdate at Enrichment
Alternatives (1st Thurs.) at 12:30 pm at
Enrichment Alternatives at 2100 E.
Pythian St., Springfield. Cost $5.
Thursday, August 13th
Sand Volleyball, Playdate and Lunch.
Meet at 11 pm at Sonic on W. Battlefield
Rd., Springfield.
Thursday, August 20th
Music Therapy at Enrichment Alternatives
(3rd Thurs.) at 12:30 pm at Enrichment
Alternatives at 2100 E. Pythian St. Cost
$6.
Saturday, August 22nd
DADventure Float Trip with Learning
Adventures Academy (3rd Thurs.) at 9 am
on the Finley River with James River
Outfitters.
August
BASKETBALL
Branson
Ozark Mountain YMCA
BOWLING
Aurora
The Strike Zone
Branson
Woodland Lanes
Nixa
Century Lanes
GOLF
Springfield
Betty Allison Course at Rivercut
Millwood Golf & Racquet Club
Branson
Don Gardner Golf Course
SWIMMING
WATER AEROBICS
Springfield
Millwoood Golf & Racquet Club
[email protected]
(417) 890-1599
www.MoAutismReport.com
Springfield, Branson and Surrounding Area Events
Thursday, August 20
Friday, August 29
MPACT Workshop - Bullying Prevention - What Parents
Can Do will be held at the Southwest Center for Independent
Living, 2864 S. Nettleton, Springfield, from 6-8pm. For info go
to www.ptimpact.org or call (417)423-7695.
Through the Roof worship services for individuals with
disabilities and their families, meeting at the Library Center.
(Last Fri.) For more info, watch website
[email protected] or call (417)894-7844
Monday, August 24
Monthly S.C.A.N. Support Group meeting (4th Mon.) at the
new Center location 215 E. Elm 6:30-8pm. Respite available
on-site: $1 member, $3 non-member. Membership $25.
Events are free or reduced for members. For more info call
Terry at (417)718-7081 or email [email protected]
Therapy services for children with Autism
birth to 13-years of age.
Jefferson City and Columbia Area Events
Thursdays, August 6-27
Special Needs Ice Skating
Program, 7-7:30pm at
Washington Park Ice Arena, 711
Kansas St., Jefferson City, MO.
To register contact Victoria at
[email protected]
Sundays, August 2-30
Adapted Gymnastics at Tiger
Performance Complex,
Champions Drive on MU
campus, Columbia. 3-9yo. meet
4-5pm. 10-18yo meet 5-6pm.
Cost per child is $20 per
semester. Contact Jeff Krug for
more info (573)882-3561
[email protected].
Thursday, August 27
Cole County Autism Support
Group, (last Thurs.) 6:30 pm at
The Ability Center 601 E. High
St., Jefferson City. For info, call
(573)634-4555.
Behavior Supports
• • •
Social Skills Groups
(ages 3 – 20-years-old)
• • •
Family Workshops,
Trainings and Supports
• • •
Occupational
Therapists (OT)
• • •
Physical Therapists (PT)
• • •
Speech & Language
Therapists (SLP)
Kansas City Area Monday, August 3
LEE'S SUMMIT - MOAFAA
meeting (Missouri Advocates
for Families Affected by Autism)
(1st Mon.) 7pm at Legacy
Christian Church of Lee's
Summit, 2150 East Langsford,
Lee's Summit, MO Phone:
(816)554-3017
Tuesday, August 11
Cass ASD Support Group
(2nd Tues.) 6-8pm, Casco Area
Workshop, 1800 Vine,
Harrisonville, MO.
Thursday, August 20
Autism Society Support
Group for Wyandotte County
(3rd Thurs.) from 6-8pm at the
www.MoAutismReport.com
KC Early Childhood Center,
1708 N. 55th St. Info at:
www.asaheartland.org.
Thursday, August 27
Northwest Autism Spectrum
Family Support Group (last
Thurs.) 7-8pm at Christ
Episcopal Church, 207 N 7th
St., St. Joseph, MO. Contact
Jamie at (816)390-8545 or
Contact us:
314-569-2211
[email protected]
www.slarc.org
Robin at (816)792-2823
Sunday, August 23
Young Adults Art Club (4th
Sun.) from 2-3:30pm at KCAI
campus, 4415 Warwick Blvd.,
Kansas City. Admission is free.
Ages 15-25. Theresa
Krahenbuhl at (816)519-9321
1177 N. Warson Road, St. Louis, MO, 63132
Page 13
St. Louis and Surrounding Area Events
Thursdays, August 6-27
ICAA Radio at 6:30 PM Thursdays.
Tune in for autism/disability/education
news, community outreach, action
alerts, and resources.
www.icaaonline.org
Friday, August 7 and Saturday,
August 15
Capable Kids and Families®
Playgroup (1st. Fri. and 3rd Sat.).
from 10-11:30am. Open to any
families with children, ages birth-six;
older siblings are welcome. Nonstructured opportunity for play and
friendships. Must be fever and
symptom free for 24 hours. For more
info, contact Julia Schaffner at
[email protected] or
(314)817-2247.http://www.slarc.org/
site/554/community_playgroups.aspx
Saturday, August 1
contact [email protected] or call
Donna at (314)743-9890 or
(314)752-4064 for more info.
Dad’s Night Out - Get together with
other dads who understand the
unique challenges of raising a child
with a disability. 5:30-7:30pm.
Location TBA.
contact
[email protected]
or
(314)817-2269
Wednesday, August 19
Sibshops at St. Louis Arc, 6-8pm, for
ages 6-10 and 11-15, (3rd Wed.), for
sibs of kids with special needs. For
more info, contact Bre Ward at
[email protected] or (314)817-2211.
Saturday, August 15 and
Thursday, August 20
ICAA Monthly Autism Support
Meeting (1st Sat.) at 6pm NEW
LOCATION TBA, St. Louis. Families
welcome. Refreshments served. For
more info, go to www.icaaonline.org
or [email protected].
Asperger Mom’s Group, (3rd Thurs.
and 3rd Sat.) from, 9-11am at St.
Louis Arc Family Center, 1177 N.
Warson Rd., Saint Louis, MO.
Contact (314)817-2222 or
Wednesday, August 12
Teen Meet Up from 6-8pm. Social
and recreational activities, including
karaoke, board games, Wii, and team
sports at St. Louis Arc Family Center;
[email protected] or (314)817-2226.
Friday, August 21
Informal Support Group for Adults
with Aspergers (2nd Wed.) from
6:15-7:45pm at TouchPoint Service/
Easter Seals, 10176 Corporate
Square Drive, St. Louis, MO 63132.
Page 14
Friday, August 28
Caregivers of Adults Who are 40
and Older will meet at 10am, at the
St. Louis Arc Family Center, 1177 N.
Warson Rd. More info (314)817-2222
or [email protected]
Friday Family Fun Night from 6-8pm
at St. Louis Arc Family Center, 1177
N. Warson Rd., St. Louis. Aug Family Cooking Competition. Contact
[email protected], or call
(314)817-2226
Friday, August 28
MO-FEAT Social Meet-up Group for
individuals on the Autism Spectrum,
from 6:30-9:30pm at T.A.S.K., 980
Horan Dr., Fenton, MO. (Last Fri.)
Two groups: Teens and older, and a
young group. All family members are
welcome to stay and parents are
invited to participate in our discussion
group. Childcare will be available.
Snacks will be available.
Sunday, August 30
ICAA Meet-Up (last Sun.) at the St.
Louis Animeggroll Store at 9254
Watson, St. Louis, MO. FREE
Starbucks served. ASD individuals
and families are invited to attend.
www.MoAutismReport.com
Save the Date
Friday, October 16
Fall Education Conference - Best Practices in the
Classroom, with speakers Patti McVey and Laurie
Pachl. From 8am-3pm at the Library Center, 4653 S.
Campbell Ave., Springfield, MO. 65810. Presented by
Down Syndrome Group of the Ozarks. Seating is limited.
P l e a s e r e g i s t e r a t w w w. o z a r k s d s g . o r g o r
(417)885-9905
Down Syndrome Group of the Ozarks Named Values Inside Out Recipient Springfield, MO - July 13, 2015 - Sephora Battlefield has
chosen Down Syndrome Group of the Ozarks, (DSGO), as
their Values Inside Out partner for 2015. DSGO will receive
$4,000, as well as the proceeds from various Values Inside Out
events, making Sephora Battlefield their top 2015 sponsor.
"Sephora created the Values Inside Out program to
inspire and engage our teams to play a part in making a
difference in our local communities, and to do so in a way that
is completely aligned and integrated with our company values,”
said Lauren Best, Sephora Battlefield Store Director. “We know
that beauty is both inside and out, and through philanthropic
events, fundraising and volunteering, our team will feel proud
of what they accomplish for the community and the Down
Syndrome Group of the Ozarks.”
Sephora will be helping DSGO to raise awareness
about Down syndrome, by hosting various in-store events and
fundraisers, throughout the remainder of 2015. Proceeds will
be used by DSGO, for educational initiatives, and member
outreach.
“We look forward to Sephora teaming up with
DSGO. Their volunteerism and support is monumental.”
Gretchen Miekley, DSGO Executive Director.
Contact: To make a donation to the Sephora Battlefield’s
donation site, visit www.ozarksdsg.org and click on the
Sephora Values Inside Out tab. You can also make a donation
in store at Sephora in the Battlefield Mall. For more
information, call the DSGO office: Gretchen Miekly, DSGO
Executive Director PO Box 1598, Springfield, MO 65804
Office: (417) 885-9905 [email protected].
Announcements
PRICE CUTTER CHARITY CHAMPIONSHIP
GOLF EVENT
August 13-16
Highland Springs Country Club
These MAR Sponsors have alerted us that they are
participating in the Price Cutter Championship. Beside
their name, is a link where you can purchase your
ticket. Each of these sponsors is an important aspect of
autism care in the Springfield Area. Please support
autism by participating in the Championship Event.
This year’s car give away is a 2015 FORD MUSTANG
or $10,000 cash.
Burrell Autism Center - http://www.burrellcenter.com/
events/special-events/
The Arc of the Ozarks - (417)864-7887 or
[email protected]
You + Jeep
=
MAR Has New Phone
App
Get your
Missouri
Autism
Report app
now! go to
missouriaut
ismreport.a
ppsme.com
www.MoAutismReport.com
$25/ticket
NOW ON SALE
DCOonline.com/events
Page 15
Go Blue! for Autism Awareness Day
presented by
The Arc of the Ozarks
Championship Sunday
Highland Springs Country Club
August 16, 2015
The first 100 individuals through the
door will receive an autism awareness
t-shirt or golf towel.
Individuals with an autism diagnosis and their families will
receive free admission on Championship Sunday.
All funds raised from The Arc’s participation in the
Price Cu er Charity Championship benefit our
No Limits Summer Camp Program.
For more information contact:
Danielle Wise at 417-864-7887 or [email protected].