MAR March 2014 - Missouri Autism Report

Autism Report
Missouri
March 2014
Here Comes
Spring!
(cover)
Vision
Therapy
Can Help
Learning
Problems
pg 7
Passive
Restraint
Training
pg. 6
Letter
from the editor
Missouri Autism Report
Dayna
Busch
Dayton Ault
Editor/
President
Journalist and Autism
mom, Dayna Busch is
Editor-in-Chief and
President of the
Missouri Autism Report
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
~Dayna Busch-­Ault, Editor
Inside
1. Cover Photo: Here Comes Spring! Photo contest winner
from September; Charley Prichard gives us a much-needed
glimpse of Spring.
2. Table of contents, Letter from the Editor / MAR contact
info, Printing Credits and Disclaimer
3. MAR Subscription Form / 31 Ways to Light it up Blue
4. Todd Gentry wins Legacy Award
5. Ask Dr. Kerri
6. Passive Restraint Training
7. Virtues of Vision Therapy - Pierce Vision
8. Wandering and Eloping Solutions
9. Governor’s Council Award Winners
10. Missouri Trust Funds Available
11. Easter Seals March Activities
12. Springfield, Branson Area Events
13. Springfield, Branson Area Events, Joplin Area Events
14.-15. St. Louis Area Events, Workshops and trainings
16. Kansas City Area Events / Jeff City, Columbia Area
Events
17. Save the Dates
18. Announcements
The cost of printing our magazine this month, was underwritten by J Todd
Gentry CFP, MetLife Midwest Associates, Special Needs Financial
Planner, partners with the MetLife Center for Special Needs Planning.
(314)548-4825
Page 2
www.jtgentry.metlife.com
[email protected]
Our Sponsors
1. Pierce Vision Specialists
3.-4. MetLife Printing Sponsor
5. Burrell Autism Center
8. Rivendale Institute of Learning / Victoria Jones, Mary
Kay Consultant
10. CounterPoint Autism Services
11. Equi-Librium Therapy Center / Robert Jason Grant,
Ed.D, LPC,RPT-S
13. Forest institute School of Psychology
14. Saint Louis University
15. Great Circle Edgewood Campus
16. Just Push Play Web Design
19. Bill & Virginia Leffen Center for Autism / Dayton Ault,
Insurance Specialist
20. Life Skills/Easter Seals Autism Services
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
Order a GIFT subscription to the MAR!
31 Fantastic Blue Events You Can Host in April! Reprinted with permission from
Autism Speaks
Autism Awareness Month
kicks off on Tuesday, April 2 with
Autism Speaks’ annual Light it Up
Blue campaign! On this day, iconic
landmarks and schools, across the
country, will change their lights from
white to blue, in honor of World
Autism Awareness Day and Autism
Month.
Looking for ways your group
can raise money and awareness?
Here are 31 BLUE fundraisers and
events, your organization can host
during April!
www.MoAutismReport.com
1.
Blue bake sale
21.
Blue scavenger hunt
2.
Blue basket raffle
22.
Blue sports night
3.
Blue bingo night
23.
Blue tie-dying station
4.
Blue bowl-a-thon
24.
Blue trivia night
5.
Blue candy-gram sale
25.
Blue t-shirt sale
6.
Blue cupcake eating contest
26.
Blue water balloon toss
7.
Blue dodgeball tournament
27.
Blue wristband sale
8.
Blue drink bar night (21+
only)
28.
Blue zumbathon
9.
Blue face painting station
29.
Blueberry bagel eating
contest
10.
Blue fashion show
30.
11.
Blue flower sale
Blue-cheeseburger
barbeque
12.
Blue glow stick sale
31.
Blues music themed concert
13.
Blue hair extension booth
14.
Blue ice cream night
15.
Blue karaoke contest
16.
Blue light dance party
17.
Blue M&M eating contest
18.
Blue pancake eating contest
19.
Blue pie toss
20.
Blue puzzle piece campaign
Be sure to watch for the MAR’s library
displays, Blue
lights in your
neighborhood,
a
n
d
awareness
events in your
area. Plan
now to “Light
it up Blue”!
Page 3
MAR Sponsor,
Todd Gentry,
Wins Legacy
Award
J. Todd Gentry, CFP®, CAP®, ChFC®, is the 2014 recipient
of Community Living’s Legacy Award. Gentry has over 20
years of experience in financial services. He was inspired to
become a Special Needs Financial Planner, when he was
asked to be a guardian for a family member with special
needs. All his years of service have been with MetLife.
Gentry, born and raised in St. Charles, graduated from
St. Dominic High School in O’Fallon. After graduation, he
attended Missouri State University and received a
bachelor’s degree in finance. Through American College,
he completed the Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC®),
which is an additional financial planning credential to serve
families who need retirement and special needs planning.
He also completed the Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy
(CAP®) from American College. With this credential, Gentry
is equipped to help individuals articulate and advance their
highest aspirations for self, family and society, while helping
advance philanthropy in local communities.
Gentry’s extensive knowledge in special needs
planning, has given him the expertise needed to work with
Community Living in the planning and coordination of the
Special Needs Trust workshops offered annually by CLI.
Gentry and his wife, Tammy, live in O’Fallon and have
two children, Reece (14) and Ava (10). Todd volunteers his
time on numerous boards and committees, including the
Down Syndrome Association of Greater St. Louis, St.
Charles County Roads Board, O'Fallon Convention &
Visitors Bureau, Children's Hospital Foundation Advisory
Board, and the MetLife Center for Special Planning. He is a
Past President of the O'Fallon Rotary Club, a member of
the former Professional Advisory Network of Community
Living; and past board involvement includes Habitat for
Humanity of St Charles County and Family Support
Services, which merged with Community Living in 2010.
The Missouri Autism Report (MAR) would like to give a
special thanks and congratulations to Mr. Todd Gentry, who
is not only an advocate of the disability community, but has
also joined the MAR as our newest sponsor, with MetLife
underwriting the MAR printing costs for a few months.
Congratulations, Todd for this well-deserved award!
J. Todd Gentry
MetLife Midwest Associates
Partners with the MetLife Center for
Special Needs Planning SM
m
Page 4
www.MoAutismReport.com
Ask Doctor Kerri
Dr. Kerri Duncan answers a reader’s
behavioral question
Dear Dr. Kerri,
My son is struggling with hygiene issues. I will coax him into
taking a shower maybe once a week. He will be in and out
of the shower in a minute and his body is wet, but I have a
feeling he is not washing himself properly. He is 14 years
old and changing physically. I feel uncomfortable ‘helping’
him. My husband says our son will grow ‘out of it’. What
should I do? Any suggestions would be GREATLY
appreciated!
~Stinky in Missouri
If, after this demonstration, he
still fails at proper bathing, then
go to the next step which is a
picture schedule that he can
follow once in the shower. I have
developed schedules using
pictures of the actual child as well
as finding pics online. What you
are doing is providing him a
visual prompt of each step, so
that he can bathe independently.
I would recommend laminating the schedule and hanging it
right on the wall of the shower. (Be sure to make a few
laminated copies of the schedule just in case…)
Prior to hanging the schedule, of course, you will want to
review the schedule first with him. Verbally state each step.
You do not need to add any additional language. Just
simple, direct steps are needed. You may need to stay in
the bathroom with him, while he showers providing
additional prompts, if needed. However, I would begin with
least-to-most prompts, because he may surprise you and
need very little!!
If, after you have provided this instruction, he continues to
come out of the shower only wet and not clean, you may be
dealing with a different issue all together. In that case, I
would suggest further investigation into “why” he is not
complying. Is it because he lacks the skill set? Is it
attention? Sensory? There could many other reasons.
Dear Mom of Stinky in Missouri:
This is a very common occurrence with teens diagnosed
with autism (and some without the diagnosis I am told). It is
awkward to say the least to assist a 14 year old with
bathing. However, I do have some ideas.
Let’s first assume, he truely doesn’t know what to do. Go
through what you expect, step by step, prior to him getting
into the shower. Of course he may be like, “Mom!” But that’s
OK. Onward! You, yourself, step into the shower (with
clothes on of course) and role play exactly what you want
him to do. Start by saying, “first we…then…” and so on.
www.MoAutismReport.com
I hope this helps you with your challenge. Best of luck!
Dr. Kerri
If you are struggling with your child’s behaviors and need
some professional advice from Dr. Kerri, send your questions by email
[email protected], subject line: Ask Dr. Kerri. or by “snail
mail” to: the Missouri Autism Report, Attn: Ask Dr. Kerri, PO Box 443,
Fair Grove, MO 65648.
Page 5
Passive
Restraint
Training Offered
to Families
Families with the Mothers of Children Who Have
Autism (M.O.C.H.A.) support group, have been learning
new options for handling an out-of-control child in
meltdown, through a restraint training program offered by
Elite Training, LLC. The program, taught by Martial Arts
specialist, Brian Chaffin, is geared for teaching not only
passive restraint to parents and teachers, but also goes into
protective and defensive maneuvers against attackers and
bullies.
Chaffin, who is a 7th degree black belt, has
compiled many of the martial arts techniques he has
learned over the years, to produce his own style of training.
The training teaches a technique, geared to isolate volatile
incidents as quickly as possible, without inflicting pain,
leaving marks, or escalating the meltdown. “ I really don’t
like to use the term, ‘restraint’, because it has a negative
reputation, but for now it’s the only word we have,” says
Chaffin. “The method we use lets us move in close, using a
type of “hug”, which is calming to a child with autism.”
Other safety methods are geared to help a person
or child, stop an attack, protect themselves and get away
safely. Chaffin says several of his past students have
reported using the methods they learned, to get away from
impending danger, which may have saved their lives.
Chaffin and his wife, Tracy, have eight children of
their own, and a close relative with autism. Still, he was
surprised at some of the things that families of children with
autism were dealing with. “Parents find it hard to talk about
it and it takes a while for them to open up”.
Page 6
As parents
began to share,
however, Chaffin was
able to show them,
step-by-step, how to
deal with each
situation. “We work
backwards and show
them how to defend
from
that
(aggression).”
Shortly after
the session ender, the
Chaffins received this
message from a
parent:
“Thank you,
Elite Systems Training
for an amazing
training! Unfortunately,
I had to put my
newfound skills to the test as soon as I got home tonight.
What a difference, the skills you taught me made! I was in
complete control and able to neutralize her [behaviors]
immediately. I let her go once, when she assured me she
could be calm. She tried hitting me again, so I easily
subdued her. I was very confident, where before I had
questioned everything I was doing. I feel like the knowledge
you gave me tonight, is a game changer. I am so glad I took
this class and I cannot thank you enough! “ ~ J.P.
(M.O.C.H.A. mom)
Chaffin’s wife Tracy, who assists with the trainings,
says that Brian has a passion for empowering and teaching
self defense, to women and children. “This is just an offshoot of those trainings,” adds Brian.
The couple does trainings for schools and other
organizations, and encourages families to contact them for
more information on cost and availability. For more info, call
the Chaffins at (417)540-1433 or email
[email protected].
More about Elite Systems by Brian Chaffin
Master Brian Chaffin, founded Elite Systems Training's
Bushido Ki Traditional Combat Arts and Strategic
Submissions, and gun and knife techniques. He is honored
as Professor in the Hawaiian Ikaika Association. Brian is
also an advance partner in the growth of Combat Arts for
Military and Law Enforcement,
Elite Systems’ C.L.A.S.S. (Children Learning
Awareness Safety and Security) teaches school age
children situational escape techniques against abductions.
In Women's Self Defense, Brian incorporates effective
techniques enabling women to utilize their strengths in a
rape situation.
Brian is a graduate of Missouri Southern State
University with an Associate’s Degree in Law Enforcement,
a graduate of the Police Academy and holds a Bachelor’s
Degree in Criminal Justice Administration. He, and his wife
Tracy, have a blended family of eight children, five still at
home. They enjoy canoeing, kayaking, fishing, fitness and
whatever sport their children are playing.
Elite Systems Training, 107 Knott Street, Jasper, MO 64755,
(417)540-1433, Email: [email protected], Facebook: Elite
Systems Training
www.MoAutismReport.com
Patients Extol Virtues of Vision Therapy
Pierce Vision Helps Struggling Learners
“When I was first told of your facilities, I had
doubts...within the first two months, I saw great
improvement in Diana’s spelling.”
~ Danette Cozzi, parent
When my son,
Caden, was 18
months old, I strongly
suspected he had
A s p e r g e r ’ s
Syndrome. He has
always been very
sharp, constantly
moving, easily
a g i ta te d ( s e n s o r y
issues), and often
misunderstood. In
many ways, he
seemed like a typical
o r n e r y, e a s i l y
distracted, hyper little
boy with some social
glitches which he
should have been
outgrowing. I am a teacher with a master's degree in
education, yet I was lost and exhausted.
My daughter had previously seen Dr. Pierce, and I
had learned so much about her learning style from her visit;
I hoped Dr. Pierce could help Caden. However, my son and
daughter are nothing alike, so I hoped to gain much more
than a prescription for glasses, when I made Caden's first
appointment at six years old.
I chose not to share my
suspicions about Asperger ’s
Syndrome with Dr. Pierce. I knew I
would need to go elsewhere to get
a diagnosis, but I felt he could help
me understand how Caden
processes information, and what I
could do to help him. In less than
an hour, not only did he discover
his nearsightedness, but
everything he observed about my
son, was dead on. My bluff was
called and I laid my Asperger’s cards on the table. Dr.
Pierce helped us make a plan for pursuing an Asperger’s
diagnosis. More importantly, he talked with Caden, and then
with me, about his vision, explaining how my son processes
information, how he learns, why he struggles, and how to
overcome his educational hurdles.
I left Springfield that day, not only with a
prescription for glasses, but with a better understanding of
my child's needs and a plan I felt good about. Caden left
feeling good about himself, which was amazing. Dr. Pierce
understood each of my children, as unique as they are. He
www.MoAutismReport.com
helped me understand the differences in how they learn. He
explained simple strategies I could use to make my job
easier and accommodate their polar opposite learning
styles. Dr. Pierce has a gift for finding the missing pieces to
a child's education puzzle.
Now, my daughter is 15, and Caden is 11. They
are both on the "A" honor roll, and it would not have been
possible without Dr. Pierce. I am so thankful my kids have
him in their corner! We will never go anywhere else.
~ LaDonna and Caden Nickell
“Dr. Pierce has been very
supportive and answered all my
questions. He has helped me
understand my child, Diana, and
how better to help her learn.”
~ Danette Cozzi, parent
“Vision is not just about 20/20; it’s how we see
things altogether and how we use our eyes.”
~ Dr. David Pierce
Not Just for Special Needs Children:
My job requires that I spend long days on the
computer. Recently, I started experiencing incredibly
debilitating headaches and dizziness while I worked.
Over the course of several months I saw two
different optometrists and received two separate
prescriptions, neither of which solved the headaches. In
fact, they worsened to the point that I could only work for 2
hours before retiring to bed with incredible dizziness for the
rest of the day.
Finally, I called Dr. Pierce, who had been my
childhood optometrist. He chose a prescription that was
different from the previous two doctors. On top of that, he
identified my condition as "Computer Vision Syndrome" and
set me up with a special pair of glasses for computer work.
I was immediately able to resume my 12+ hour
work days and doubled my income as a result. Huge thanks
to the Doc for being on top of his game!
~ Q.Hamp, Independant Entrepenuer
For more information or to make an appointment, call Pierce
Vision (417)887-7151.
Page 7
Wondering and Eloping Solutions
Available In Missouri
One mother’s story
As a parent raising a child with
ASD, there are many things I worry
about, but losing my child is the one
worry that never leaves my mind. He
has been labeled an elopement risk,
so I never let him leave my side, for
fear he will run into harm. He has run
out of doctors’ offices, into parking
lots, and out of the dentist, with all the
staff chasing him.
announced it over the intercom.
When no one could find him, I began
to fear the worst. I worried that he
may run into the parking lot and be hit
by a car, a stranger would take him,
or he might run onto the football field
and get hit by a fast running line-man.
My heart was beating so fast, I
thought I would be leaving in an
ambulance.
The worst experience, was at a
high school football game. Other
children his age were playing below
the bleachers, so I took him there, in
hopes that one of the children might
want to play with him. He was doing
very well, so after about an hour I
decided to sit at a picnic bench and
allow him to play, like any other
average 10-year-old boy. I felt that as
long as I could keep him in my sight,
he would be safe. However, after
about 10 minutes, he looked at me
with a silly grin, and dashed around
the corner, into the bleachers. I ran
to catch up, but to no avail. I called
for him in the bleachers and when he
did not answer, I began recruiting
other parents to look for him. I got
the security guards, and we
At last, one of his classmates
hollered, “here he is…here he is!”.
He had climbed to the top of the
bleachers and laid down, where no
one could see him. He popped his
head up and smiled, completely
oblivious of the fear he had just
instilled in the whole crowd, or the
fact that he had stopped the game.
He had no understanding of the
impact of his actions or the danger he
could have been in. With
overwhelming relief, I picked him up
and apologized to everyone who
could hear me. I held his hand tight
in mine, and vowed to not let him
more than a foot away from me, ever
again.
Page 8
That had been the scariest 20
minutes of my life! How can I let my
child develop and grow socially, if I
cannot trust him to move about
safely? How can I sleep at night if I
fear he will dart out the front door and
I will not be able to find him in the
woods near my home? It is my hope
that the new free tracking devices,
offered by local law enforcement, will
be part of the cure to my never
ending worries. ~ Anonymous
Project Lifesaver in Missouri
Presently, Project Lifesaver is
active in Taney, Greene and Christian
Counties. This is not a government
program, but is administered through
county law enforcement, in
partnership with local disability
organizations, and community
support. Call your county sheriff's
office, to find out if Project Lifesaver
is available in your area, and whether
your child qualifies* for this lifesaving
program.
*No financial requirements are
attached to this program.
www.MoAutismReport.com
GOVERNOR’S COUNCIL ON
DISABILITY NAMES 2013
AWARD WINNERS
Winners exemplify standards of excellence
in enhancing life for individuals living with
disabilities
JEFFERSON CITY, MO, January 24th, 2013 - The
Governor's Council on Disability (GCD) has selected
the award winner and honorable mention of the 22nd
Annual Inclusion Award and the winner of the 1st
Annual Youth Leadership Award.
The Inclusion Award, and one Honorable Mention, are
presented annually, to recognize private and public
employers, individuals, and organizations that have
successfully included people with disabilities in education,
employment, housing, and leisure activities. Individuals are
also encouraged to nominate state and local government
divisions or employees, they truly feel excel in inclusive
practices.
The 2013 Inclusion Award winner is Deborah Baldini,
University of Missouri St. Louis (UMSL)
UMSL has emerged as a leader in
fostering a culture of inclusion for
people with intellectual and
developmental disabilities with the
implementation of its SUCCEED
program. UMSL has spent the last
five years developing this program,
utilizing the principles of universal
design. SUCCEED is a postsecondary program that allows
people with disabilities the
opportunity to live on campus,
while taking classes that help them
focus on employment that matches
their skills and interests, and
experiencing internships with local
employers. The program was initially proposed to UMSL by
Dr. Deborah Baldini, a parent of an individual with an
intellectual disability and Associate Dean for the College of
Arts and Sciences at UMSL. Her vision, commitment and
leadership lead to the implementation of the SUCCEED
program for the 2013-14 Academic Year. SUCCEED is the
only residential post-secondary program in the State of
Missouri at this time.
The Honorable Mention for 2013 goes to Jeff and Andrea
Cunningham; Melaina’s Magical Playland
www.MoAutismReport.com
Jeff and Andrea Cunningham had a beautiful little girl named
Melaina. Born with Nemaline Myopathy, Melaina died from
complications of her condition and has been the inspiration
for the all-inclusive, accessable playground, that is now a
reality in Cape Girardeau. The Cunninghams formed a notfor-profit organization that worked to raise the funds to build
this inclusive playground. Adults and children of all abilities
now have access to a playground where children with
disabilities can play alongside their peers without disabilities,
and adults with disabilities, can play with their children.
F i r s t A n n u a l Yo u t h
Leadership Award winner is
Aaron Likens
New in 2013, the Governor’s
Council on Disability initiated a
program to award an annual
Youth Leadership Award to
recognize an outstanding
Missouri youth (age 18-30),
with a disability, that has
demonstrated exemplary
leadership, by making a
difference in their community.
The winner of the 2013 Youth Leadership Award, is Aaron
Likens, a young man who was diagnosed with Asperger’s
Syndrome at the age of 20. After receiving his diagnosis and
finding his way to a career as an Autism Ambassador for
Easter Seals Life Skills, Aaron began to spread the word
about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). He is an
accomplished speaker, having led presentations to more than
37, 000 people in Missouri, over the last three and a half
years. He is also a published author of a book titled Finding
Kansas: Decoding the Enigma of Asperger’s Syndrome,
and a blog, Life on the Other Side of the Wall, which has
thousands of followers. Aaron’s most recent focus is on
speaking to students with the hope of reducing bullying by
increasing awareness.
For more information on the Inclusion Award, go to http://
disability.mo.gov/gcd/inclwin.htm. For more information on
the Youth Leadership Award, go http://disability.mo.gov/gcd/
youth_leadership_award.htm.
For additional information, please contact the GCD at
573-751-2600 or via e-mail at [email protected].
Page 9
Charitable Trust of the Missouri Family Trust
Funds Available
Missourians with disabilities are invited to
apply!
The Charitable Trust has more grant money in 2014 because investment earnings improved. The Board invites
Missourians with disabilities to apply for financial awards up to $1000 to assist with unmet needs such as:
•
•
•
•
•
•
Wheelchair ramps
Wheelchair repairs or batteries •
Camps for people with
•
disabilities
•
GED or other educational
•
programs
•
Adapted vehicle lift repairs
Communication devices
Assistive devices &
technology
Orthotics
Durable medical equipment
Dental treatment
Hearing aids
•
•
•
Family education & support
activities
Safety equipment (grab bars,
shower chairs, etc.)
Transportation (bus passes,
accessible transportation
services)
Grant applications and instructions for completing the application are available on our website at the link provided at the
bottom of the page. Only complete applications will be considered. Additional information and limitations are described on the
website and the application. MSNT staff cannot assist with completing the application. Grant award checks are only issued
to the third party provider, agency or store, to protect public benefit eligibility. http://midwestspecialneedstrust.org/
charProgGrants/default.htm 1-877-239-8055. First deadline, March 31, 2014. See website for future deadlines and
award information.
Page 10
www.MoAutismReport.com
SWMO Easter Seals March Activities The following events are for referred clients only, unless
otherwise stated, and reservations are required. To register,
call (800)420-7410 or (417)781-3616. To find out if you are
eligible, contact your service coordinator.
SPRINGFIELD at Springfield office, 1740 S. Glenstone, Suite S.
March 10 | Teen Night
Ages 13-17, 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Join us for fun activities while
practicing communication and social skills.
SOCIAL EVENTS
March 13 | My Sibling & Me
Ages 7-13, 5:30-7:30 p.m. This event is for children and their
siblings to engage and play games with each other and peers.
10th
AVA at MOCH Wellness Center 603 NW
Ave, Room 201.
March 17 | St. Patrick’s Day Party for the Family
All ages, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. Come meet other families while enjoying
games and snacks in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day.
CLINTON at First Baptist Church, 209 E. Jefferson St.
March 5 | Social Groups
• Adults, 2:30-4pm
• Adolescent ages, 4:30-5:30pm
JOPLIN at Joplin office, 1211 S. Illinois
March 10 | Relaxation Strategies
11 a.m.-1 p.m. Open to consumers and parents. Doug Osborn,
Licensed Massage Therapist, will be with us to share information
about relaxation techniques in stressful situations. The group will
likely be in the floor, stretching & relaxing.
March 13 | Art Group
5:00-6:00 p.m. This group will be doing fun artwork while practicing
social skills.
March 17-21 | Spring Break Respite
9 a.m.-4 p.m. We will provide Respite at our office with each day
having a fun theme.
• March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, wear your green!
• March 18, Sports Day, wear your favorite sport jersey
• March 19, Superhero Day, wear your favorite superhero
• March 20, PJ’s Day, wear your PJ’s to the office
• March 21, Crazy Hat & Sock Day, wear your crazy hat and
socks to the office
March 17 | Adult Social Group
Ages 17 and up, 6-7 p.m. St. Pat’s Party! Wear green and be
ready for games & snacks.
March 20 | Adult Social Group
Ages 17 and up, 11 a.m.-2:00 p.m. We will be making snack foods
to enjoy with an afternoon movie. Please mention any special
dietary needs when calling to sign up.
PHASE ONE PARENT TRAINING WORKSHOPS
March 19, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. in Branson at Mount Branson Christian
Church, Annex Building, 178 Saints Street
March 24, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. in Seymour at Seymour community
Library, 320 E Clinton Street
March 27, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at our Joplin office, 1211 S. Illinois
March 27, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at our Springfield office, 1740 S.
Glenstone, Suite S
Saturday, April 19
Easter Seals Walk With Me Southwest 5k run and a 1mile fun walk will both be available. For more info, contact
Kathryn at 314-394-7070, and check our website often for
updates at eastersealsmidwest.com.
MOUNTAIN GROVE at First Baptist Church, 807 E 17th St.
March 10 | Family Connections Meeting & Social Groups
All ages, 6-7:00 p.m. While parents/guardians are participating
in the Family Connections Meeting, social groups will be
offered for two age groups: 14 & under and 15 and up.
Please call us at 800-420-7410 to sign up so we may prepare
supplies & activities. For this meeting, Judy Wanko, Family
Support Coordinator/Autism Navigator with Springfield
Regional Office will be presenting: “What is the MO Family to
Family Network-Southwest”
NEVADA at On My Own Center for Independent Living, 425
E. Highland
March 26 | Social Groups
• Adults, 2:30-4 p.m.
• Adolescent ages, 4:30-5:30 p.m.
• Jr. High & High School ages, 6-7 p.m.
www.MoAutismReport.com
Page 11
Springfield, Branson and Surrounding Area Events Tuesdays, March 4-25
Troop 2 meetings for Boy Scouts
of America, every Tues. at 6:30-8 pm
at Green Valley State School. Contact
Te d d y H e a t o n , ( 4 1 7 ) 8 8 3 - 6 6 8 0
[email protected]
www.ozarktroop2.com
Wednesdays, March 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, March 5
SCIL Support Group for Parents of
Youth with Disabilities (1st Wed.)
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.
Thursday, March 6
Feeding Issues for Children with
Autism: Addressing feeding issues
for children with autism. All sessions
will be held from 10am - 12:30pm, in
Room 1 at the Burrell Autism Center,
1 3 0 0 E B r a d f o r d P a r k w a y,
Springfield, MO 65804. For more info
or to reserve your spot, contact
Melissa Davenport at (417)761-5333
Families4Families meeting (1st
Thurs.) at 6:30 pm, Tom Watkins
Nbhd. Bldg., 2100 W. High St.
Contact [email protected] or
Lynn (417)987-0811.
Tri-Lakes People First Chapter
Mtg. (1st Thurs.) at 6pm,
Developmental Connections office
1533 E. State Hwy. 76, Branson. For
info, (417)335-4135
better future. Be part of the change.
RSVP to [email protected].
Saturday, March 8
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)881-8033 x307 or
[email protected].
S WA N ( S o u t h W e s t M i s s o u r i
Autism Network), (2nd Sat.) New
time: 3:30-5 pm.at Arc of the Ozarks,
1501 E. Pythian. March. topic: Sibling
Panel .Please
RSVP on SWAN’s
w
e
b
s
i
t
e
:
w w w. s w m o a u t i s m n e t w o r k . o r g .
Contact phone number for Elizabeth
Obrey at the Arc, (417)655-2235.
Watch SWAN’s Facebook Page
(www.facebook.com/SWMOAutism)
for additional events.
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 www.fbcbolivar.org/
recess, Reserve spot one week in
advance please.
Enabled Service at Central
Assembly of God chapel on the east
side of church, 1301 N. Booneville.
(3rd Tues.). Contact Ethel Campbell
at
(417)343-9027
or
[email protected]
Thursday, March 27
Transition Fair, 3-7pm at Ozark High
School Cafeteria. Sponsored by Nixa,
Ozark and Republic Schools. For
more information, contact
[email protected]
or (417)582-5712.
Friday, March 28
Through the Roof worship
services for individuals with
disabilities and their families (LAST
Friday) location TBA. For more info,
watch
website
[email protected] or call
(417)894-7844.
Tuesday, March 11
S.C.A.N. of Lebanon
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].
All Activities will be held at the NEW
SCAN Education & Activity Center,
679 W. Elm, Suite 5 Lebanon, unless
otherwise specified. Membership
$25. All events are free or reduced for
members. Further info/RSVP on
F a c e b o o k o r c o n t a c t Te r r y
F a u s t ( 4 1 7 ) 9 9 1 - 2 0 2 9
[email protected]. Order
newsletter at [email protected]
Monday, March 17
SCAN of Lebanon support meeting
from 6:30-8pm. Childcare at
StringBeans, 511 Harrison, Lebanon,
$1 per child or non-perishable food
item. Non-members $3 per child.
RSVP on Facebook.
Monday, March 24
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.
NEW! Your Life Middle School
disability youth group for ages 10-14.
Registration now open for this group,
to be held at SCIL, 2864 N. Nettleton
Ave, Spfd. from 5:30-6:30 pm. For
more info, call (417)886-1188.
MOF2F Strategic Planning Meeting
from 8:30-10:30am at Springfield
Regional Office, 1515 E. Pythian,
Spfd. Any organization serving the
disability community is invited to help
with networking and planning for a
Dallas County Support Group
meeting (3rd Tues.) 6pm at O’Bannon
Bank, 1347 S. Ash St., Bolivar, MO.
This month Judevine will present
Page 12
Autism 101: What to do After the
Diagnosis.Families, educators &
caregivers in and around Dallas
County are invited. Info and RSVP to
Mary (417)343-0612 or
[email protected].
Tuesday, March 18
Saturday, April 12
Ribbon Run for Inclusion at Harke
Park in Lebanon. for more info, go to
www.scan4kids.com/Ribbonrun.
Online applications available with
payment thru PayPal.
www.MoAutismReport.com
Springfield, Branson and Surrounding Area Events Other Homeschool Resources:
• New homeschoolers training: www.shemonline.org or 417-725-8648
• Families for home education * [email protected]
417-859-7908 Al and Sheryl Schmidt
• ASD Homeschoolers of Missouri Facebook page, sponsored by the
Missouri Autism Report
Our mission is to help families make connections with other
homeschool families in the area and hold monthly adventures,
where our children can experience the world and friendships
while learning together through planned field trips. We will also
be holding monthly mom meetings to plan and connect.If you’re
a homeschooler and would like to join our newly formed special
needs homeschool co-op, join us on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/groups/learningadventuresacademy/
BOWLING
Aurora
The Strike Zone
Branson
Woodland Lanes
Nixa
Century Lanes WATER AEROBICS
Monett
Monett YMCA BASKETBALL
Springfield
Boys & Girls Club
Nixa
Nixa Jr High School
Branson
Ozark Mountain YMCA SOCCER
Springfield
Now Accepting Applications for Fall 2014
BA
MSA
BCB
A®
BA®
BCa
Our programs offer small class
sizes and real world training that
prepare you to work in the field.
s-ASTEROF3CIENCEIN!PPLIED"EHAVIOR!NALYSIS
s"OARD#ERTIFIED"EHAVIOR!NALYST¤#ERTIFICATE
s"OARD#ERTIFIED!SSISTANT"EHAVIOR!NALYST¤#ERTIFICATE
Learn more or apply today!
Forest.EDU 1.800.424.7793
Lake CountrySoccer
Branson
Ozark mountain YMCA
SWIMMING
Springfield and Branson
Springfield Gymnastics & Aquatics
Other Locations TBA
www.championathletes.org
[email protected]
(417)890-1599
Joplin Area Events
Tuesday, March 4
Ozark Center for Autism Support
Group, Joplin (1st Tues.) 6-8pm,
3230 S. Wisconsin. Free and open to
the public. For info, contact Heather
(417)347-7850.
www.MoAutismReport.com
Page 13
St. Louis and Surrounding Area Events
Saturday, March 1
Tuesday, March 11
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].
Dad’s Group from 5:30-7:30pm.
Location TBA. For info contact
[email protected] or call
(314)817-2269. RSVP requested.
Thursday, March 6
Parent Support Group (1st Thurs)
meets at Giant Steps of St. Louis,
7281 Sarah St. Call (314)932-1051
for more info.
Thursdays, March 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
Saturday, March 8
L i f e S k i l l s / To u c h p o i n t P a r e n t
Support Group (2nd Sat.) 10176
Corporate Square Dr., Suite 150, St.
Louis Parents of adults from
9:30-10:30am, Parents of children
from 10:30am-12noon.
MO-FEAT Trivia Night at Assumption
Greek Orthodox Church, 1755 Des
Peres Road, Town & Country, MO
63131. Cost: $25 per person, or $200
per table of 8 players. Doors open at
6:15pm; Trivia begins at 7pm.All
proceeds benefit Missouri Families
for Effective Autism Treatment. To
reserve your table, call 636-527-3328
or email [email protected], or visit our
website at www.mofeat.org. 50/50
raffles, baskets, auction items and
other games will be available!
Thursday, March 13
Feed Your CLI Knowledge: Learn
more about available services at
Community Living. Held at 6 pm at
CLI Administration Building, 1040 St.
Peters Howell Rd., St. Peters, MO.
This month highlights Respite
Services. Info at 636-970-2800 x3022
Saturday, March 15
Aspergers Mom’s Group, for moms
of child with Asperger’s meets from,
9-11am (3rd Sat) at St. Louis Arc
Family Center, 1177 N. Warson Rd.,
Saint Louis, MO. Contact
(314)817-2222
or
[email protected]
available for your transition age
f a m i l y m e m b e r.
For more
information, please contact Sharon
Spurlock at [email protected] or
314-817-2222.
Asperger Syndrome Moms
Support Group at St. Louis Arc (3rd
Thurs) from 9-11am. for mothers who
have a child with Asperger syndrome
or similar diagnosis.
For more
information, please contact Jean
Haase at [email protected] or
Sharon Spurlock [email protected]
or 314-817-2222.
Friday, March 28
Teens with Aspergers, (last Fri.) at
6-8:30pm at Masonry Centre, 1429 S.
Big Bend Boulevard, Richmond
Heights. For more info, go to
[email protected] or call
(314)817-2222
Wednesday, March 19
Sibshops/Teen Sibshops at St.
Louis Arc, 6-8pm, ages 6-10 and
11-15, (3rd Wed.), for brothers and
sisters of kids with special needs.
For more information, please contact
Ann
Mangelsdorf
at
[email protected] or
314-817-2275.
Thursday, March 20
Transition Families Network Group
at St. Louis Arc (3rd Thurs.) for
families of transition age students,
(ages 14-21) with developmental
disabilities, to learn about resources
for future services, funding, and
family supports. Activities will be
Friday Family Fun Nights (last Fri.),
6-8pm for all family members, all
ages, all abilities. Feb: Pancakes and
PJ’s. No Cost, Donations accepted,
concession stand available.For more
info, go to [email protected] or call
(314)817-2222
Sunday, March 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.
Interested in Applied Behavior Analysis?
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
SLU-ABA graduates have a BCBA pass rate higher than the national average.
To learn more, visit aba.slu.edu.
Page 14
www.MoAutismReport.com
St. Louis Family Workshop & Trainings
St. Louis Arc - Unless otherwise noted, these workshops are
free and take place at the St. Louis Arc Centene Family Center
(1177 N. Warson Rd., St. Louis, MO 63132). Childcare and respite
care are not provided unless specifically noted in the
workshop description. To register, go to www.slarc.org and click
on “View Our Calendar,” email Brianne Smith at [email protected],
or call 314-817-2216. ADVANCE REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.
Thursday, March 6 - 6:30-8:30pm
Guardianship vs. Power of Attorney - Caregivers of individuals
with developmental disabilities must make some important
decisions, before their child becomes a legal adult. Learn the pros
and cons of each.
Wednesday, March 12 - 6:30am-8:30pm
Bullying Prevention - Contains an overview of the dynamics of
bullying, including what bullying is, types of bullying why children are
bullied, steps to intervene, the role of the school, and laws and policies.
Friday, March 14 - 10:00am-1:00pm
Positive Behavior Interventions - Learn the importance of a
Functional Behavioral Assessment, how to reinforce positive
behavior as well as how to develop a Positive Behavior Support
Plan.
Tuesday, March 25 - 6:30-8:00pm
Sharing our Strengths - Free parent to parent/peer program that
connects you with others who know what it is like to walk in your
shoes.
Wednesday, March 26 - 6:30 - 8:30 pm
Quality of Care for End of Life - Covering what is available for
supportive care when someone has a critical/incurable illness.
Focus on support and comfort, while ensuring that their dignity is
preserved, their wishes are honored, and the individual is
respected throughout, so that the person has the highest quality of
life possible.
Impact Trainings - St Louis Area
Tuesday, March 4 - Special Education Law at the Liberty
United Methodist Church, 1001 Sunset Dr, from 7:- 9pm.
Thursday, March 13 - Special Education: What I Need to
Know, at the Rolling Hills Consolidated Library, 1912 North
Belt Hwy, St. Joseph, from 1-3pm.
Thursday, March 27 - Steps to Success: Family Record
Keeping, at the Rolling Hills Consolidated Library, 1912
North Belt Hwy, from 1- 3pm.
For more info, call 417-423-7695 or 877-876-2831 or go to
www.ptimpact.org.
Residential treatment for your
child or teen with autism
Great Circle’s residential treatment program for children with autism provides
and trained staff specialize in 24/7 care. Wrap-around services include an oncampus education program fully accredited by ISACS and specialized training in life
skills and hygiene.
rooms and sensory diets
System
education
education
and
music therapies
Great Circle – Edgewood Campus
330 N. Gore Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63119
(314) 919-4700
www.great-circle.org
www.MoAutismReport.com
Page 15
Kansas City and Surrounding Area Events Monday, March 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, March 11
Cass ASD Support Group (2nd
Tues.) 6-8pm, Casco Area Workshop,
1800 Vine, Harrisonville, MO.
Thursday, March 20
Autism Society Support Group for
Wyandotte County (3rd Thurs.) from
6-8pm at the KC Early Childhood
Center, 1708 N. 55th St. Info at:
www.asaheartland.org
Sunday, March 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
Thursday, March 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
Robin at (816)792-2823
TBA
Young Adults Social Connection
group for young adults, with ASD,
ages 18+ to connect. Participants
should require minimal supervision
and be able to participate
independently. Parents and caregivers
are welcome to attend and assist their
young adult if needed. Visit
www.autism-works.org for dates.
Jefferson City and Columbia Area Events
Thursdays, March 6-27
Sunday, March 16
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].
Rising Abilities’ St. Patrick's Day
Parade and Easter Basket Auction
at Willow's on A Hwy., Linn Creek at
2pm. Linn Creek is past Camdenton
on your way to the Lake of the
Ozarks. Proceeds benefit Rising
Abilities. Please contact
(417)650-8352
or email
[email protected] for more
information.
Sundays, March 2-23
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].
Southridge Dr, Jefferson City, MO.
Cost is $3 for each person attending,
including parents. Please RSVP by
March 18, to Jenny at 573-556-0400
or [email protected].
Thursday, March 27
Cole County Autism Support
Group, (last Thurs.) 6:30 pm at The
Ability Center 601 E. High St.,
J e ff e r s o n C i t y. F o r i n f o , c a l l
(573)634-4555.
Saturday, March 22
ILRC Youth Group Pizza/Movie
night
from 10am-12pm, for ages
12-22, with disabilities at ILRC, 1760
Saturday, March 8
M O - F E AT Tr i v i a N i g h t a t
Assumption Greek Orthodox Church,
1755 Des Peres Road, Town &
Country, MO 63131. Cost: $25 per
person, or $200 per table of 8
players. Doors open at 6:15pm; Trivia
begins at 7pm.All proceeds benefit
Missouri Families for Effective Autism
Treatment. To reserve your table, call
636-527-3328 or email
[email protected], or visit our website
at www.mofeat.org. 50/50 raffles,
baskets, auction items and other
games will be available!
Page 16
www.MoAutismReport.com
Save The Date!
Wednesday, April 2
13th annual Disability Rights
Legislative Day, at the State Capitol
Rotunda, south steps and lawn,
Jefferson City, from 11:00 am until
1:00 pm.
Wednesday, April 9
Feed Your CLI Knowledge: Learn
more about available services at
Community Living. Held at 6 pm at
CLI Administration Building, 1040 St.
Peters Howell Rd., St. Peters, MO.
This month highlights Adult
Recreation. Info at 636-970-2800
x3022
Saturday, April 12 2014
6th Annual Autism Awareness Fair
from 10am-1pm at Burrell Behavioral
Health, 1300 E. Bradford Parkway,
Springfield. Vender booth space free
to autism community partners. Email
[email protected]
m for registration form.
Christian County Voice Talent
Show Fundraiser at 3pm at
Aldersgate United Methodist Church
(by Wal-mart), 460 W. Aldersgate Dr.,
Nixa, MO. Individuals with any
disability are invited to sign up and
show their talent. To register, email
[email protected].
Vendor spaces available.Volunteer
helpers are needed. Donations
acceptedl. Sponsored by Christian
County Links.
Sunday, April 13
The second annual Big Party Half
Marathon & 5K event in Springfield,
MO., to raise funds for the Camp
Barnabas Camper Scholarship Fund,
will send kids with special needs and
chronic illnesses to a life-changing
week at Camp Barnabas. The event
will start at Mercy Hospital at 7:45
am, with a stroll that will invite
campers from Camp Barnabas and
any individuals with special needs
and chronic illnesses in the
community. The race route through
midtown Springfield will have live
entertainment along the way and end
www.MoAutismReport.com
at Jordan Valley Park with food,
games and live music for the whole
community. For more information,
visit www.bigpartymarathon.com.
Monday & Tuesday
April 14 & 15
Power Up 2014 Assistive
Technology Conference and Expo
at the Tan-Tar-A Resort, Osage
Beach, Missouri. Presented by
Missouri Assistive Technology. To
learn more, go to http://
www.at.mo.gov/powerup/index.html.
Monday, May 12
Living and Decoding Asperger’s
Syndrome at 6:30 pm, for all ages in
the Library Center Auditorium.
Speaker, Aaron Likens, will share
how the Autism Spectrum Disorder
works, in a talk and discussion of his
book, “Finding Kansas: Living and
Decoding Asperger’s Syndrome.”
Aaron was diagnosed with Asperger’s
Syndrome, a high-functioning form of
autism, at age 20. Now, at age 30, he
is a published author and avid
blogger. Aaron is also an Autism
Ambassador at Life Skills/TouchPoint
Autism Services.
Monday, April 28
Mo Family 2 Family Network
Quarterly meeting. Through local
and statewide partnerships, a
comprehensive and coordinated
system, within and outside of the
disability system, emerges to support
an individual and family across the
life span. From 10am-12pm at the
Library Center, 4653 S. Campbell. Be
part of the change! RSVP to
[email protected] or call
(417)895-7446.
Color Run 2014
April 5, 2014
The Color Run is coming to
Downtown Springfield, to
benefit MAR Sponsor, EquiLibrium Therapy Center
(ETC). ETC is looking for fun
loving volunteers to help with
registration, packet pick up,
and throwing color! To learn
more and sign up to volunteer,
contact [email protected]
Page 17
Announcements!
ILRC In Home Services Available
ILRC is proud to announce the opening of ILRC In-Home Services,
Inc., a subsidiary of ILRC. ILRC In-Home Services, Inc. provides
home care services that are available to adults and seniors as well
as those with disabilities in Cole, Callaway, Osage, and Miller
counties in Missouri 24 hours a day, every day. Missouri Medicaid
and private pay are accepted. ILRC In-Home Services, Inc. aides
are carefully selected and receive excellent training and support.
Please contact Kelly Sedgwick, In-Home Coordinator for more
information at (573)556-0401, toll-free at (877)257-2646 or
ILRC Needs Assessment in Progress
It is time for Independent Living Resource Center, Inc.'s (ILRC)
Needs Assessment 2014! Each year ILRC asks that persons with
disabilities, caregivers, service providers and community members
participate in a Needs Assessment to help determine the needs of
persons with disabilities in our communities. The results of these
assessments assist our board of directors and staff in developing
new programs, changing current programs and driving our work in
our service area in these Central Missouri Counties: South
Callaway, Camden, Cole, Miller, Moniteau, Morgan and Osage. The
information collected is anonymous and your identity and
participation will remain confidential. You are under no obligation to
take this survey, but your input is appreciated. The survey will take
approximately five minutes to complete. Please visit the link below
to complete:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/2014ILRCNeeds or contact
ILRC at 573-556-0400 for a print version.
2 0 1 4 M i s s o u r i Yo u t h
Leadership Forum
The Governor's Council on Disability is now
accepting applications for the 2014 Missouri
Youth Leadership Forum, held July 20-23, 2014 at
the University of Missouri, Columbia.
The Missouri Youth Leadership Forum is a
unique career leadership-training program for
high school students with disabilities, ages 16 21. Youth delegates are selected from their local
communities to cultivate leadership, citizenship
and social skills at this four-day summer program.
The Missouri Youth Leadership Forum is available
to student delegates at NO COST. Delegates are
responsible for providing their own transportation
to Columbia and back.
Detailed information and the application can be
found on the web at http://disability.mo.gov/gcd/
ylf.htm.
If you are interested in serving as a staff member
or volunteer at the Missouri Youth Leadership
Forum, please contact Dawn Evans
([email protected]) or 573-751-2600 for
more information and to obtain a volunteer
application.
Sign up for Summer Camp NOW!
Camp Encourage is taking applications for campers, volunteers and peer models.
Scholarships available. To learn more, go to www.campencourage.org. Camp dates are:
June 24-27 and July 23-26. Spaces fill quickly so don’t wait!
Rising Abilities is currently excepting enrollment
for the following weeks: June 16 - 20 Youth 5
years to preteen Cowboys & Indians Theme, July 14 - 18 Teen to Young Adult Star
Wars Theme. The dead line for enrollment is April 30, 2014. Scholarships available,
but please register ASAP as funding goes fast. There is a minimum deposit of 150.00
for all campers.
Rising Abilities provides a safe, educational and fun environment for campers with
special needs utilizing the resources at the Bennett Spring State Park.Campers have
the opportunity to fish for trout, swim in the Park pool, and enjoy nature walks. Info at
risingabilities.org or on Facebook: Rising Abilities, or call Angela marks at
417-650-8352.
Page 18
www.MoAutismReport.com
as little as $0 per month for
MAR
31st
www.MoAutismReport.com
Panicked because you haven’t signed up yet? I will be
working on applications until March 31st. Don’t be left
out - don’t find yourself facing a fine. Let me help you
get the best rates for you and your family. Call today!
Page 19
Autism
Services
“Life Skills and TouchPoint share a
grassroots legacy. Each was founded by
parents of children with disabilities with
the goal of creating a better future. By
affiliating with Easter Seals, our team
will have access to deep resources in
programming, advocacy, fundraising
and marketing - all of which will be
leveraged to benefit
those we serve.”
ent
Employm
Services
nity
Commu
Living
Wendy Sullivan
Chief Executive Officer
Life Skills
LIFE SKILLS | TOUCHPOINT AUTISM SERVICES
PARTNER WITH EASTER SEALS
On September 1, 2013, Life Skills joined Easter Seals and its nationwide network of
service providers. As such, our agency is now known as Easter Seals Midwest. By joining
this reputable network, we have access to industry experts and best practices that will help
us better serve our clients.
The resources available to us through Easter Seals and its affiliates will allow us to
enhance our services, generate additional funding to better support our programs, and
develop new programs and/or treatment strategies. In addition, it will give us leverage
with the federal government to promote public policy that expands services to unserved
and underserved individuals. This – combined with our current strengths – gives us the
opportunity to both improve and expand our services to individuals with developmental
disabilities in the communities we serve.
We will retain our statewide operations and continue to be governed by a local board of
directors. Moreover, any fundraising will stay local to the communities in which the funds
are raised and where we provide services.
Life Skills and TouchPoint Autism Services merged in 2012. The partnership with Easter
Seals is the next step in reaching our strategic goals to help more individuals with
developmental disabilities across Missouri.
It’s an exciting time for us to live into our mission: to help individuals with developmental
disabilities – including autism – learn, live, work and participate in the community. Visit
our website to learn more!
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE SERVICES OFFERED VISIT EASTERSEALSMIDWEST.ORG