Spectrum Summer 2014

Spectrum the

VOLUME 30, NO. 2 • ISSN 1044-1921 • SUMMER 2014

Celebrating Acceptance Together at Camp Royall Prevalence Rate Rises: A Call to Action Evaluating Treatments: Which Are Best?

Mission Statement The Autism Society of North Carolina is committed to providing support and promoting opportunities which enhance the lives of individuals within the autism spectrum and their families.

Table of Contents

Vision Statement

A Growing Community: Implications for NC.................... 4-5

The Autism Society of North Carolina strives to create a community where people within the autism spectrum and their families receive respect, services, and support based on individual differences, needs, and preferences.

Choose Evidence-Based Practices for Treatment........ 6-7

Privacy Policy The Autism Society of North Carolina respects the privacy of its members and those who receive our publications. We do not sell or otherwise share our mailing list, email notification list, or any other personal information with other businesses or organizations.

The Spectrum The Spectrum (ISSN 1044-1921) is published in January and August by the Autism Society of North Carolina, Inc.© 2014. All rights reserved.

Viewpoints expressed are not necessarily those of the Autism Society of North Carolina, Inc. or its Board of Directors.

Editor: Amy Seeley Graphic Designer: Erika Chapman Reader input, photographs, and articles are welcome. Articles can be emailed (preferred), faxed, or mailed.

Please send any correspondence regarding this publication to Amy Seeley, Autism Society of North Carolina, 505 Oberlin Road, Suite 230, Raleigh, NC 27605 or fax 919-743-0208 or email editor@autismsociety-nc.org.

The deadline for submissions for the Winter 2015 Edition is November 14, 2014.

505 Oberlin Road, Suite 230 • Raleigh, NC 27605-1345 919-743-0204 • 800-442-2762 • Fax: 919-743-0208 www.autismsociety-nc.org

FEATURES:

Keeping Our Cool When Things Get Heated.................... 8-9 Letting Go: Sending My Son with ASD to College....... 10-11 Q&A on Employment Supports...............................................14 Camp Royall Adds Veteran Staff............................................16 World Autism Awareness and Acceptance Day..........18-19 Meet Joanna Bush from the ASNC Bookstore..................22 Annual Conferences: A Time to Learn..................................31

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: Message from the CEO................................................................3 Autism Resource Specialists ..................................................12 Public Policy Update...................................................................13 Services Updates.........................................................................15 Camp Royall Upcoming Events...............................................17 Chapters and Support Groups..........................................20-21 Bookstore Update......................................................................23 Fundraisers and Events............................................................24 Event Sponsors............................................................................25 Camp Royall Fundraisers and Donors...........................26-27 Donations................................................................................28-30

ASNC is also supported by:

Message from the CEO April 2 has become one of my favorite days of the year. For the past two years, the Autism Society of North Carolina has opened Camp Royall to friends and supporters on that day to come together and celebrate World Autism Awareness Day. It is a day filled with joy, with greeting old friends and making new ones. Families gather around their children, everyone smiling as they blow bubbles, play in the gym, get their faces painted, ride the zap line, conquer the climbing wall, and – of course – enjoy the cookout together.

This day, which we renamed World Autism Awareness and Acceptance Day (WAAAD) for 2014, is what it’s all about. We are here for you. We are here to provide you a place where you and your loved ones are welcomed, and supported, and accepted as you are. We are proud to be able to create that feeling of community for hundreds of people that day. To relive WAAAD, check out the recap and fantastic photos on pages 18-19.

Part of building our community is providing you with the information you need to make informed choices for your loved ones. In this issue, please spend some time with the article on evidencebased practices by ASNC Clinical Director Dr. Aleck Myers. His piece on which interventions have been proven to be effective, on pages 6-7, is sure to be a useful resource. Aleck’s clinical expertise has made him an invaluable addition to our organization, supporting our goal to continue to be the best provider of services for individuals with autism and a clinical leader in the field.

The Autism Society of North Carolina educates the autism community and the public all year.

Our Autism Resource Specialists, themselves parents of individuals with autism, are available for one-on-one consultation and also teach workshops throughout the state. This spring, they created new toolkits to help families. These are available online; to read more about them, see page 12. In this issue, one of our Autism Resource Specialists shares her experience in answering a question to which many parents can relate: “Will we ever reach the point of letting go?” Check out this touching personal perspective on page 10.

In March, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released new prevalence rates for autism.

In the 11 states being studied, 1 in 68 children has some form of autism. In North Carolina, with an 11-county sample, the rate is 1 in 58 children. We took the lead in explaining this report on our blog and through social media when it was released, part of our commitment to keep you informed. On pages 4-5, you can read more about the study and what it means for our state and our organization.

Board of Directors Executive Committee Chair Sharon Jeffries-Jones Vice Chair Elizabeth Phillippi Secretary Darryl R. Marsch Treasurer John Delaloye Immediate Past Chair Bev Moore

Directors Anu Bhatt John Cavanaugh Ray Evernham Ruth Hurst, Ph.D. Monique Justice Taunya Land

Another emphasis has been the expansion of our job training initiatives through the creation of an Employment Supports Department. David Ingram, who is directing that department, shares with us some of its progress and why it is so important to provide these supports for adults on the spectrum, on page 14.

Hortense Lucas

Our friends and supporters also united this spring behind efforts to speak up for the needs of individuals with autism and their families during the state legislative session. We were proud of your courteous and united grassroots efforts! We did not have resolution on our public policy concerns before the printing of this issue of the Spectrum, but we will continue to keep you updated through our website, blog, and social media.

Dale Reynolds

From our Autism Resource Specialists, to our Clinical and Training Department, to our Chapters, to Camp Royall, to our Employment Supports Department, we are creating and improving communities together. We thank you for joining us on this journey.

Dana Williams

Fran Pearson Michael Reichel, M.D. Steven N. Scoggin, Psy.D. Dave Spicer John Townson Jeff Woodlief

And don’t forget, if you’re looking for another event to give you the incredible feeling of togetherness that WAAAD did, you can join us for one of our Run/Walk for Autism events this fall!

I guarantee you will come away with a smile, no matter how fast – or slow – you finish the course!

Tracey Sheriff, Chief Executive Officer www.autismsociety-nc.org • 3

A Growing Community: Implications for Our State

By David Laxton Have you noticed how much more the public and media understand and talk about autism now? Just a few years ago, the stories and information were shared, but not as frequently or accurately. Maybe it’s because more people are being diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Maybe it’s because there are more opportunities to learn about the needs of the community. Whatever the reasons, increased understanding is a good thing. With understanding comes acceptance. With acceptance comes a willingness to listen, collaborate, and focus on the needs of individuals with ASD and the autism community. In April, which is World Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, there were several examples of the progress that the autism community has made in increasing awareness and acceptance.

Before we discuss progress, let’s revisit the numbers. Depending on where you look, you can find many different statistics regarding the prevalence of people living with autism. As an organization, we use information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as our reference point. The CDC has been conducting an ongoing surveillance study across 11 states for many years, measuring the prevalence of 8-year-olds diagnosed with ASD. Why 8-year-olds? Because in most cases, an accurate diagnosis will have occurred by that age. Importantly, North Carolina is one of the states in the study. The CDC releases numbers from the study every two years; the most recent update came March 29.

To no one’s surprise, autism prevalence rates increased overall to 1 in 68 for the 11-state sample. In North Carolina, where 11 counties were monitored, 1 of every 58 children will be diagnosed with ASD. The NC number reflects a 17 percent increase from the prevalence rate of 1 in 70 reported in 2012. What will the numbers be in 2016?

Most likely higher.

Significantly, North Carolina’s median age for diagnosis, 37 months, was the earliest in the 11-state sample, meaning that we are doing a better job of identifying and diagnosing children than most states.

This is because of the statewide efforts of many organizations to make sure that parents and professionals understand the signs and symptoms of ASD and where families can go to get help. The study showed discrepancies for the age of diagnosis based on race (white kids are diagnosed earlier than kids who are AfricanAmerican, Latino, and Asian, etc.) and this is consistent across all states. Despite diagnosing and beginning treatment earlier, we still have much to do to educate and bring awareness to minority populations in our state.

Many people have asked whether the CDC data is reflected in what ASNC sees from information and referral calls and other data sources. The answer is yes! The NC Statistical Profile, a survey conducted annually by the NC Department of Public Instruction of students in public schools, is an excellent resource. (The State Library has digital copies going back to 1975!)

The Statistical Profile shows that the number of NC public school students with ASD has grown 15-17 percent annually and has increased by more than 10,000 in the past decade. That’s a big jump in numbers. Some ask whether that is because there are more students. It does not appear so. The overall student population has grown at an annual rate of 2-3 percent during that time, so student population growth is not the sole contributor.

4 • The Spectrum, Summer 2014

The CDC study authors attributed part of the jump in prevalence to better awareness among school personnel and the public.

This increased awareness of the signs and symptoms means kids can be identified earlier and start receiving support. Considering the student data that we have from the Statistical Profile, it’s important that school personnel are trained in detecting signs and symptoms of ASD to help identify kids at risk of an autism diagnosis. And, our state must continue to invest in training school personnel – both AU classroom teachers and “regular ed” teachers – in best practices for instructing students on the autism spectrum. It’s also important to equip schools with the classroom resources needed to teach each child in the most effective way possible. This cannot be a one-time expense. Ongoing training and resources must be funded.

continue these efforts. Why? To paraphrase a book title, “it takes a village.” Today’s 14,000 students with ASD will become tomorrow’s adults with ASD. Today’s 50,000 adults living with autism deserve the opportunity to choose to continue their education, join the workforce, live in their community, and contribute to society in their own unique ways. Adults with ASD looking for jobs today need employers willing to give them an equal shot.

1 in 58 children born in NC today has

Many communities are taking steps to help teachers and students understand and accept our students with ASD. In April, several schools requested awareness information and posters to put up throughout their buildings. Teachers and parents shared information about autism with other students, and self-advocates shared their stories to help professionals “see the other side” of autism. Throughout the school year, ASNC’s network of chapters and support groups provide scholarships and funding for teacher training and supplies. This is not a one-time occurrence.

AUTISM

As the public learns more about individuals with autism and our community’s needs, the challenge is to turn understanding into ongoing action and support. During April, throughout North Carolina, ASNC and its chapters and support groups held community events and fundraisers to provide money to support teachers and autism classrooms. These activities help meet the goals of increasing understanding and improving the educational experience.

Also, they provided friends, relatives, and co-workers an opportunity to offer support and help. But one month of activity is not enough.

It will take ongoing attention, advocacy, and effort by parents, professionals, legislators, and policymakers to add to the current support services and help provide resources so that each individual with autism can have the opportunity to have the best life possible.

April is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, and we rightly celebrated. Based on media attention, fundraising, and public participation in local events, 2014’s month was a success.

However, it’s just one month on the calendar. Every day presents an opportunity to educate and involve people in our community.

We (the autism community: self-advocates, parents, professionals, etc.) must accept that challenge and actively work together to

Friends, family members, co-workers, and businesses need to understand that it’s no longer a matter of whether they know someone affected by autism, but how many people do they know, employ, or support who have autism as a part of their life.

Thanks to everyone for your ongoing efforts to spread the word and increase understanding and acceptance. After you finish reading this article, take a moment to pat yourself on the back for a job well done. Take another moment to reflect and catch your breath. Okay, now that you’ve done that, let’s get back to work! g David Laxton, ASNC Director of Communications, can be reached at dlaxton@autismsociety-nc.org.

To learn more: CDC Prevalence Data: www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/data.html North Carolina Statistical Profile: www.ncpublicschools.org/fbs/resources/data To learn how you can help with outreach efforts in your community or with policy makers, please send an email to info@autismsociety-nc.org.

This article is an update to a blog post from April. If you have not visited our blog, we encourage you to do so at www.autismsocietyofnc.wordpress.com.

www.autismsociety-nc.org • 5

Choose Evidence-Based Practices for Treatment

By Alexander M. Myers, Ph.D., LP, HSP Evidence-based practices are interventions that researchers have shown to be safe and effective, based on clear scientific research. Efficacy, according to the National Professional Development Center (NPDC) on Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD), must be established through peer-reviewed research in scientific journals using accepted, highstandard methodologies.

Recently, in conjunction with the NPDC on ASD, the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill released the results of an extensive analysis of research on the efficacy of treatment practices for children ages 0 to 22 with ASD. While the methodology details of this research will not be presented here, this was an exhaustive study carefully designed to determine which treatment practices have been empirically demonstrated as effective.

As most of us in the field of ASD know only too well, many practices are promoted as “wonder treatments,” and unfortunately many of these claims are not based on solid evidence. As you make decisions on which treatment would best serve the needs of your loved one or your clients, it is important to know which ones have been clearly and empirically shown to be effective.

The intent of this study was to thoroughly examine quality research to determine which, if any, treatment practices can claim to be “best practice” or “evidence-based practices.” In the course of this study, the authors were also able to identify promising practices (meaning research is supportive of a practice but does not yet meet the full requirements for identification as “evidence-based”) and those unsubstantiated practices that lack any solid empirical support.

Twenty-seven practices were accepted as evidence-based practices (EBP). Of these, 13 are traditional behavior analytic techniques, eight are naturalistic behavioral techniques, and the remaining six are from other theoretical influences. The 27 EBPs are listed below: Antecedent-Based Intervention Cognitive Behavioral Intervention (CBI) Differential Reinforcement Discrete Trial teaching Exercise Extinction Functional Behavior Assessment Functional Communication Training Modeling Naturalistic Intervention Parent-Implemented Intervention Peer-Mediated Instruction and Intervention Pivotal Response Training Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) Prompting Reinforcement Response Interruption Scripting Self-Management Social Narratives Social Skills Training Structured Play Groups Task Analysis Technology-Aided Instruction and Intervention Time Delay Video Modeling Visual Supports (Please note: ASNC will offer detailed descriptions of these practices in upcoming posts on our blog, http://autismsocietyofnc.wordpress.com, and on our website.)

6 • The Spectrum, Summer 2014

In addition, the study reviewed comprehensive treatment models. These models typically use a combination of techniques, and perhaps not surprisingly, those found to be EBP typically involve a protocol that incorporates, at least in part, some of the techniques listed above. Five program models received the highest scores in the four areas analyzed for evaluation: Denver Model LEAP Lovaas Institute May Institute Princeton Child Development Institute It should be noted that studies on comprehensive treatment models are ongoing, and it takes time to gather empirical results. A number of models have had stronger empirical studies published in the three years since this study’s review was conducted. While not yet labeled as EBP, these may be moving in that direction: Early Start Denver Model TEACCH Hanen PRT DIR STAR Finally, and perhaps equally important to families and professionals when selecting treatment approaches, the study identified unestablished interventions that have insufficient empirical evidence of effectiveness. These include: Antifungal treatment Hyperbaric oxygen therapy** Aquatic therapy Medicinal marijuana Auditory Integration Therapy Neuroimmune dysfunction & antiviral therapy Sensory Gym Chelation Removal of toxic metals Stem cell therapy Craniosacral & chiropractic therapy Dietary interventions Traditional & indigenous healing Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation **The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning on the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy: Patients receiving HBOT are at risk of suffering an injury that can be mild (such as sinus pain, ear pressure, painful joints) or serious (such as paralysis, air embolism). Since hyperbaric chambers are oxygen rich environments, there is also a risk of fire. If you’re considering using HBOT, it’s essential that you first discuss all possible options with your health care professional.

Remember, autism – perhaps more than any other condition – has been subject to numerous treatment claims. Some are good and backed by empirical evidence.

Some have involved unscrupulous attempts to prey on people desperate to hear of magical results. Be cautious when you learn of treatment claims, especially those promising magical results. As research continues, you can check reports and updates. Go to the literature; a convenient resource can be found at http://eric. ed.gov/. Make sure reports are peer-reviewed; you’d be surprised how many books, chapters, and articles are not peer-reviewed. Make sure what you are reading is a study, not a conceptual piece. Look for “reviews” or “meta-analyses” like the one cited in this article.

Research is a wonderful thing. New reports come out regularly, and new empirically based treatments will be identified. But be careful to ensure new treatments are supported by research. g Dr. Aleck Myers is the Clinical Director at the Autism Society of North Carolina. He can be reached at amyers@autismsociety-nc.org.

ASNC’s Clinical and Training Department is here for parents and professionals Are you a caregiver who is struggling with your loved one’s challenging or undesirable behavior? Consider behavioral consultation from the Clinical and Training Department. Licensed Psychological Associates and Board Certified Behavior Analysts will develop a comprehensive behavior plan, help you understand why behaviors may be occurring, and coach those involved in the person’s life on effective strategies.

Are you puzzled by how to support communication between your child and the outside world? ASNC trainers can help you determine which type of communication system will be most practical and then coach you and others involved on teaching your loved one to use it effectively.

Do you have a young child who would benefit from intervention strategies based on evidence-based practices? ASNC has specialists certified in Applied Behavior Analysis who can set up a comprehensive program, coach you on its implementation, evaluate its success, and secure tutor staff who are thoroughly trained on program elements.

Want that extra edge in treatment and support of individuals with ASD? Check out our extensive list of trainings that provide the information needed to better understand the nature of ASD, its characteristics, and how it affects your loved one or client. We provide caregivers with the skills they need to promote independence, strengthen communication, and develop effective strategies for managing behaviors.

Know of a school or classroom that could use some additional support in educating children with ASD in the self-contained or mainstream settings? Consider requesting that an Autism Specialist train and coach school staff to increase their understanding of autism and enhance the quality of instruction.

Know a pediatrician or dentist in your area who could benefit from learning more about ASD? Consider recommending our workshop, Autism Strategies for Health & Dental Care Providers.

Contact us today: 919-743-0204, ext. 1118 www.autismsociety-nc.org • 7

Keeping Our Cool When Things Get Heated

By Louise Southern, M.Ed., BCBA I am not the parent of a child with autism, but I am a parent. I know that it can be really hard for me to keep my cool sometimes when my young child starts to fall apart – screaming, dropping to the floor, and being noncompliant. But I also know that I will never make the situation better if I escalate right along with him. In the effort to maintain “control” over him and the situation, if I lose control of my emotions, everything really spirals out of control. Some parents of children, teens, and adults with autism encounter very challenging, persistent behaviors that may come in many forms: aggression, property destruction, screaming and

crying, noncompliance, refusals, verbal threats, arguing, self-injury, and more. As such episodes occur, here are a few basic guidelines to consider:

Ration your words, or stop talking altogether When an individual with autism is highly agitated, they may struggle to effectively process information delivered verbally. Excessive verbal engagement in the midst of escalation is likely to only further escalate and confuse the individual. If possible, temporarily disengage to give processing time and physical space until the individual is calmer.

Rely on visual supports to convey contingencies, expectations A visual schedule can also be used during challenging transitions and in the midst of an escalating episode. If the individual has difficulty transitioning from one activity to the next, wants something right now, or is struggling to persist through an activity, you can use the visual schedule to clarify when he will be able to access something that he wants. When an individual is confused or agitated, he might be able to process visual information more effectively.

In some cases, it may be appropriate to simply use a “first-then” schedule (for example, a schedule that shows “first math homework, then computer”). This visual representation can serve to operate as a non-negotiable rule that parents hold their ground on. The visual reduces the need for continued verbal engagement and minimizes the social attention that the individual might receive from us for the noncompliant behavior.

Depending on the individual’s level of understanding, you might: •P oint to schedule icons/picture cues that show the contingency (the first ___, then____, sequence) • Show the contingency on a tablet app • Write down the contingency • Text the contingency to his cell phone Also consider using a visual timer that depicts the passage of time in a way that the individual can understand, such as on a cell phone, kitchen timer, the Time Timer, small hourglass, or tablet application.

This supports the individual in waiting for a desired activity and/ or persisting through a less preferred activity. The individual’s frustration and anxiety is more likely to escalate if he does not understand how long something will last.

8 • The Spectrum, Summer 2014

Visually represent the options Forced choice procedures may be useful when the individual wants something that he cannot have in that moment. Clarify for him in concrete (and visual terms whenever possible) what he can have in that moment. The visual choices can operate as a non-negotiable “menu” that parents hold their ground on. As with other visual tools, the menu reduces the need for continued social engagement between parent and child in the midst of escalation. Rather than simply saying “no, you cannot have Wii right now,” you can concretely present alternatives to the individual that he might accept. In this way, the individual may also feel more empowered because he has options. Depending on the individual’s level of understanding, you might present these options: • By presenting the actual objects available in that moment, such as a puzzle, book or Play-Doh • By pointing to picture/icon cards that show available options • By showing available options on a tablet device app • By presenting a written list of available options • By texting the individual his/her options in that moment There is a misconception among some that visual supports such as schedules and choice menus are only applicable for young children or individuals who are more severely affected by their autism. Yet in our experience, such visual supports can be highly effective tools for those with high-functioning autism and Asperger’s as well. Remember, the visual support reduces the need for continued verbal escalation, arguing, and negotiations in the midst of an episode.

Direct them to their calm-down space, their calming routine If the individual needs time to calm down before he can be successfully engaged, direct him to a comfortable and safe area.

Provide materials that are soothing or calming. Some individuals can follow picture-based or written calming plans that show what to do to calm down. Be aware that the individual must practice and learn these routines when he is calm – as with all of us, it is very difficult to learn when he is already upset.

Positively frame your language Try to frame verbal directives so that the individual hears what to do, instead of what not to do in a given situation. For example, say “please sit down” instead of “don’t do that!” Try to respond in a calm, neutral manner as you deliver such directives.

Minimize social attention to the challenging behavior: What do I mean by social attention? Social attention can be defined as strong emotional responses from you, corrective verbal feedback such as “no sir” “stop” “that’s not nice,” verbal argument, eye contact, gestures or facial expressions from you that signal disapproval, and yelling/screaming. Instead, be calm, be neutral.

This may seem counterintuitive – and it is really hard to do at times – but the reason to avoid giving any social attention to the challenging behaviors is because attention to these behaviors might reinforce the behaviors and increase the likelihood that they occur again.

It is very important to remember that if the individual is accustomed to getting social attention from you in the midst of challenging behavior, and now you try to stop giving it, the individual may try even harder to get your attention via challenging behaviors. In other words, it could get worse before it gets better. Be prepared to ride this out and know that it really can get better if everyone is consistent in their responses to challenging behavior.

Note that giving no social attention to the challenging behavior is not the same as ignoring the person. Also note that ignoring the challenging behavior is not the same as just letting the behavior continue without any form of intervention. You can still direct them to a calming area or present the visual schedule, choices, or timer.

You should also continue to monitor for safety while disengaged.

No one is perfect, and it is impossible to be calm and cool all of the time. Know that as parents, you are doing your best. Finally, try to remember that you are not alone and we at ASNC want to help! g Louise Southern is a member of ASNC’s Clinical and Training Department. She can be reached at lsouthern@autismsociety-nc.org.

www.autismsociety-nc.org • 9

Letting Go: Sending My Son with ASD to College

By Nancy Popkin In raising children, we as parents reach many small moments in which we must let go. We let go of their tiny hands so they can take their first steps. We let go to wave good-bye on the first day we send them to school. We let go a little more as we drop them off in town to hang out with friends.

We let go (and really hold our breath) when we hand them the keys to the car. We reach the ultimate point of letting go when our children move out and move on to lives of their own. We let go time and time again because that is how children grow, because that is what our children need us to do. But what if your child doesn’t have the same tools in his or her toolbox as all the other kids? What if your child has autism? Do you still let go?

Our son Gray was diagnosed with autism in 1996 at the age of three, and since then, this was a question we would often ask: “Will we ever reach the point of letting go?” Eighteen years later, I can tell you the answer is YES! Gray still has autism, but he has overcome so much of what made life challenging when he was younger. And nearly two years ago, we drove Gray to college, an hour and a half from home.

Getting to this point of letting go has been an enormous undertaking.

Since his diagnosis, we have been using visual tools, structure, and strategies to teach Gray new skills. We have always asked ourselves questions such as: Can he do this task himself? What skills do we need to teach to make this task possible? How do we structure the task so he can understand how to do it? We would work on one thing at a time, but I can honestly say there wasn’t a year when we weren’t working on learning new skills. We worked on self-care, self-regulation, behavior, social skills, and organizational skills.

And we haven’t stopped.

We spent the last year before college – he took a year off after high school – laying the serious groundwork by making our home a “daily living skills boot camp.” We created adaptive tools to help him take care of himself without us there, and once we knew where he was going to college, we connected with support people at the college. During that year, Gray was responsible for taking care of himself almost entirely, including ordering and picking up his own medications, making a grocery list and making arrangements to get to the store to go shopping, changing his linens, and asking someone to join him to play a game or go to the movies. He had chores at home and volunteered in the community. He made his own visual schedules – though on an iPad now instead of a dry-erase board.

Letting go will look different for every person with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. In my role as an Autism Resource Specialist, I tell parents to pick goals for their child but then understand what

10 • The Spectrum, Summer 2014

it will take to achieve that goal and chart a path forward. It is not enough to just want it to happen; it takes work. Take an honest look at all the things you are doing FOR your child today and choose one of them to teach them how to do themselves. It is okay if they must do it with the help of a chart or checklist, as long as you are not there doing it with them. Once that is mastered, choose another one and never stop doing this! At some point in high school, you will start to get a sense of how your child learns new skills and whether he or she is on the right track academically for college.

I remember when we brought Gray to college for orientation; the amount of information that he was to absorb was overwhelming.

After 24 hours of orientation, it wasn’t clear that “letting go” would be an option. But a few days later, on the morning of the fourth day, I realized he was ready. He had been waking independently, taking his meds, and making it to meals and meetings without my help for two days. When I greeted him that morning, before I could say anything, Gray said to me, “When do we put ‘Mom leaves’ on the schedule?”

It is not enough to just want it to happen; it takes work. Take an honest look at all the things you are doing FOR your child today and choose one of them to teach them how to do themselves.

I was so delighted that he was feeling ready, too. Gray pulled out his iPad and we discussed a good time. We decided on late in the afternoon, and Gray put “Mom leaves” on his schedule. Then he put down his iPad and gave me a giant hug (a rare event). I told him I wasn’t leaving yet; we still had a lot to do. He said he knew that, but added, “I am so excited. I am going to go to college!” We finished going over everything on our to do list for that day and said our good-byes. That night on Facebook, Gray posted, “First Day at College. An Occasion This Important MUST BE CAPITALIZED!!” And he was on his way.

Gray has now completed two years of college. He has decided to major in biology, socializes on his own terms, lives in a dorm, and does his own laundry. It has not been entirely smooth sailing. Just when we think we have it all figured out, some new challenge arises.

But we have a system for addressing them now, and we are still teaching new skills to work toward even more independence.

Letting go is so bittersweet. It is the ache of loss and thrill of joy; the swell of pride and choking of fear all rolled into one. We will have bumps along the way, but having reached this point, we know there will be more successes to come. g Nancy Popkin is an Autism Resource Specialist in the Charlotte area. She can be reached at npopkin@autismsociety-nc.org.

To learn more: If you need help deciding whether college is right for your child with Autism Spectrum Disorder, or which goals to work on to gain greater independence, contact one of our Autism Resource Specialists. Find one near you at http://bit.ly/AutismResourceSpecialists.

The Autism Resource Specialists also offer related workshops: • Journey to Adulthood • The Importance of Developing Self-Advocacy Skills • Considering College? Prepare, Plan, Succeed • Preparing for College Starts at Home Nancy Popkin will present an hour-long webinar version of Preparing for College Starts at Home on October 21. See our Schedule of Workshops at http://bit.ly/ASNCWorkshopCalendar for details on that webinar and other workshops.

You can also find books on autism and college, employment, and transitions in the ASNC Bookstore at www.autismbookstore.com.

ASNC Webinars Learn from the comfort of home! Our Autism Resource Specialists now offer webinar versions of their educational workshops. You just register online, receive a password from the presenter, and log in online at the designated time. What could be easier?

The dozens of workshop topics cover the concerns that families and caregivers might have throughout the lifespans of their loved ones. From early intervention to IEPs to residential options to guardianship, we address it all.

ASNC also presents these workshops in locations across the state each month, including some in Spanish.

For a schedule of all of our workshops, visit

http://bit.ly/ASNCWorkshopCalendar

Make this your child’s best school year yet!

Are you ready for back-to-school time? Or does the mere thought of a new school year make you anxious? Our Autism Resource Specialists are ready to help!

They are all parents of children or adults with autism themselves, so they have firsthand knowledge and a unique understanding of what you’re going through. They strive to empower families to be ALLEGHANY ASHE SURRY the best advocates for their children. Find the Autism Resource Specialist serving your area: WILKES WATAUGA MITCHELL

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Advocacy S Advocacy S

Public Policy We’re Advocating for You The Autism Society of North Carolina is always working to advocate for individuals with autism and their families in our state. This spring, with the General Assembly in short session, we have been especially busy. Our state lawmakers have been considering legislation in many areas that affect individuals with autism and their loved ones: insurance coverage for autism therapy, education funding, and Medicaid reform.

As of this writing, these issues have not been resolved. We invite you to connect with us through our website, Facebook, Twitter, our blog, or our email newsletters to get the latest updates. You can sign up online here: http://bit.ly/ASNCStayInformed.

Be Informed To keep up-to-date with policy issues and ways you can help us advocate for the needs of individuals with autism and their families, please subscribe to our new email newsletter, Policy Pulse: http://bit.ly/ASNCPolicyPulseSubscribe

Learn to Advocate Making Your Voices Heard Thank you to all of our families and supporters who came to Raleigh for our two autism awareness events at the General Assembly in June! Your personal stories are our most powerful advocacy tool to create positive change for the autism community.

For two Tuesdays, we set up tables at the Legislative Building where ASNC staff answered questions on current issues and provided information about meeting with legislators. We enjoyed chatting with those of you who stopped by, and we appreciate those who shared their stories and concerns with their elected officials.

If you would like to learn more about how you can help speak up for the autism community, we have another new resource for you! Our new toolkit, Advocacy 101, will guide you through writing, calling, or visiting with your legislators to make your voice heard on issues that matter to you. The toolkit can be downloaded, printed, and shared. Check it out here:

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Together, our voices on public policy and legislative matters will draw more attention to our causes. Thank you for joining us on this mission!

www.autismsociety-nc.org • 13

Q&A with David Ingram, Employment Supports Director Working at ASNC since 2002, I’ve enjoyed getting to know individuals with ASD through a multitude of roles and responsibilities. While I’ve been the Employment Supports Director at ASNC since August of 2013, I’ve supported individuals with ASD in securing and maintaining employment since 2003. Supported Employment is a service that’s funded through the state Division of Vocational Rehabilitation. Our Employments Support staff help individuals explore their skills and interests, and then assists them in finding, keeping, and thriving in a job. I co-developed North Carolina’s Employment First Policy Statement through the North Carolina Alliance for Full Participation and was instrumental in ASNC’s 2010 SEDL National Award for being one of 10 organizations, nationwide, recognized as an Effective Program in Employment for Individuals with Autism.

Why is supported employment a priority for ASNC?

What are some successes in employment supports in the past year?

There are roughly 14,000 students with a primary diagnosis of autism in NC public schools. This means that within 15 years, there will be almost 14,000 young adults with ASD who will be looking for jobs and housing. On the annual surveys that ASNC sends out, employment continues to rank high on the list of needs for individuals with autism.

Since August of 2013, our Employment Supports Department has quadrupled in both size and effectiveness. We’re now connecting with about 60 new businesses a week, we’ve opened up new services and supports in Guilford County, and we’re supporting close to 100 individuals with ASD in securing and maintaining employment throughout North Carolina.

Research bears out that supported employment is a useful means to enhancing one’s quality of life and that people who work for pay report better physical well-being than others. As an organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with autism, it’s important to us to respond to this growing need through the implementation and continued expansion of our employment supports.

Tell us about the new JobTIPS groups.

We’ve enjoyed success on the fundraising side of things as well, raising $50,000 through a Walmart grant. The grant allowed us to expand into Guilford County with greater success, enhance our supports in Cumberland County, and provide some unique supports to individuals with autism such as the JobTIPS vocational program without cost to the individual. What is the JobTIPS vocational program, you ask? JobTIPS helps individuals with autism who are more abstract thinkers, such as individuals who might consider themselves as high functioning or who were diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome or PDD-NOS, obtain the necessary skills to gain meaningful employment, including the social skills that are critical to identifying, applying for, securing, and maintaining employment. The JobTIPS vocational program lasts 12 weeks, and emphasizes peer support as participants share experiences and advice, role play scenarios related to obtaining and keeping a job, and work on resumes. g

To learn more about a JobTIPS program near you and when the next one is getting started, please use the following contacts: Greensboro: Shannon Pena, spena@autismsociety-nc.org, 336-333-0197 Fayetteville: David Ingram, dingram@autismsociety-nc.org, 919-865-2267 Raleigh: Brandi Buffington, bbuffington@autismsociety-nc.org, 919-865-0681 14 • The Spectrum, Summer 2014

Services Updates New Statewide Director of Services The Autism Society of North Carolina is pleased to introduce new Director of Services Kari Johnston.

Previously the Eastern Regional Director, Johnston has been with ASNC since 1997 in a variety of roles providing and overseeing services to young children through aging adults in residential care. We are so excited to have her clinical and service leadership expertise in this position; her leadership during the MCO transition has been remarkable.

Johnston resides in Clayton with her husband and four children, ages 4 to 13.

Johnston can be reached at kjohnston@autismsociety-nc.org.

What are Direct Services?

The Autism Society of North Carolina has six services offices across the state. Please contact the individual offices for more information about which of the following services they offer.

New Services Office in Charlotte ASNC’s new office in Charlotte includes clinical services, Autism Resource Specialists, services staff, and a member of our statewide development team.

ASNC staff members are specifically trained to meet the unique instructional needs of individuals on the autism spectrum, providing children and adults with the skills to increase self-sufficiency and participate in the community in a meaningful way. If you are looking for a direct service provider, consider the Autism Society of North Carolina.

In addition to providing Innovations Waiver (Medicaid) and B3 respite services (state-funded, non-Medicaid) in Mecklenburg County, we provide B3 respite care in eastern Lincoln and Gaston counties and southern Iredell County. These counties are covered by the Cardinal Innovations and Partners managed-care organizations (MCO). Cardinal Innovations now serves as the MCO in Mecklenberg County. ASNC also accepts private payment for a variety of services; call the office for more information. We are fully accredited by the Council on Quality and Leadership, a national accreditation agency.

For more information about services in any of the above counties, contact Kim Jonas, Senior Community Services Coordinator, at kjonas@autismsociety-nc.org or 704-572-8667. The office is located at 8420 University Executive Park Drive, Suite 810, Charlotte, NC 28262.

•R espite Care: Taking care of an individual with autism requires a tremendous amount of physical and emotional energy. Our respite program offers families a break from the demands of caring for an individual with autism and peace of mind that their loved one is being cared for by experienced professionals.

•P ersonal Care Assistance: Our staff can provide support in daily life activities, including eating, bathing, dressing, hygiene, and mobility.

• Independent Living Skills Training: Training is offered to help individuals with autism take part in their communities through recreation, employment, home, and leisure activities.

•F amily Consultation: We work with families to provide specific recommendations for appropriate home supports, opportunities for community participation, and coping strategies. We can help you maintain balance for all family members.

• A fterschool Programs: We offer trained supervision after the school day ends. Children practice social skills and enjoy extracurricular activities in a structured environment. Availability of afterschool programming is limited; check with the services office nearest you.

•S upported Employment Services (through Medicaid and private pay): We offer assistance with finding, keeping, and thriving in a job as your loved one makes the difficult transition to adulthood.

We provide an initial vocational assessment, resume and interview preparation, job search support, placement, on-the-job coaching, specialized job training, and individually tailored supervision. g

www.autismsociety-nc.org • 15

Camp Royall Adds Veteran Staff Camp Royall is a pretty incredible place, full of pretty incredible people: campers, families, counselors, cooks, lifeguards, nurses, maintenance staff, directors, and the most recent addition to that group, program leaders. Camp Director Sara Gage and Assistant Director Lesley Fraser are excited about the program leader position, which they created to help Camp Royall continue to grow year round. The job duties include training new staff, mentoring new and returning staff, supervising staff and staff morale, administrative responsibilities, communication with parents and families, and so much more.

Program leaders report directly to the camp directors.

The position made its debut at Camp Royall in the summer of 2013 and has proven to be a great asset to our summer camp staff and to our growing list of year-round programs.

Each summer, we will hire two veteran summer staff members, who have worked as counselors and activity directors previously, to act as program leaders. They are working hard behind the scenes to make sure that camp is operating at its full potential. Their support enables our camp leadership team to continue making plans that will keep Camp Royall growing and evolving.

Our first program leaders, Cassie Ball, Wykia Macon, and Louiza Hamidi, have each worked at camp for five years. Their cumulative 15 years of experience have made them invaluable in this position.

Here’s what they have to say about being program leaders:

Kia: I feel like being a program leader (PL) brings all of the things I have learned to love about camp together in one position. I get to interact with the campers and learn things about them like counselors; I get to give advice on activities and sometimes assist leading them like activity directors (ADs). However, I think my favorite part of being a PL is that I get to support all the people at camp (campers, counselors, ADs and my fellow admin/ office staff) with big and small tasks to ensure that camp runs as smoothly as possible.

Cassie: Being a PL allows me to step back and turn my focus to our amazing staff. They come from all different backgrounds and have many different levels of experience, but they are all here for the same reasons: to serve people with autism and their families, to increase their knowledge about autism, to learn strategies for helping people on the spectrum thrive, and to have fun! As a PL, the most important part of my job is to help our staff do those things. It’s pretty great!

Cassie Bell (Top photo, bottom right & inset photo, left side), Wykia Macon (Inset photo, right side), Louiza Hamidi (Top photo, bottom left)

16 • The Spectrum, Summer 2014

Louiza: Being a PL was exciting to me because I got to be supportive to a wider community at camp and it enabled me to make more connections with our campers’ families. g

Camp Royall is Fun Year Round After another fantastic summer of camp, we are looking forward to the other three seasons of the year and the many wonderful programs they bring our campers.

We will kick things off with a “Pool Party” at the camp pool on Saturday, August 23. We will offer swimming, hayrides, and a cookout at the pool. Please RSVP. The ever-popular Family Fun Days will continue this fall as well, offering a daytime opportunity for families to experience all the joys of camp together, as well as an overnight experience for those who might be interested in extending the fun and staying the night in one of our cabins. Fun Days will take place on September 6, October 4, and December 13, which will be our holiday party edition with sensory-friendly visits with Santa.

The Family Fun Days will continue next spring.

Families will have the opportunity to participate in many outdoor activities, including boating, face painting, a cookout, hayrides, gym games, arts and crafts, etc. We’ll do the organizing – you just show up and have fun! The overnight option adds dinner in our dining hall, campfire time complete with s’mores, and lodging in one of our cabins. We will also provide a light continental breakfast and more time to play at camp the next morning.

“When Dan arrived at Camp Royall – a little late – last Friday, I got to witness three of his friends walk up to him, hug him, and welcome him into the camp, genuinely pleased to see him. As the parent of a young person who has been socially isolated his whole life, witnessing this was a beautiful moment for me. Having a place where Dan can go and be himself, with like-minded young people, is something we, as a family, treasure.”

– mother of Dan, Adult Retreat attendee

Our Mini-Camp program will run three weekends this fall: September 19-21, October 17-19, and November 21-23. Mini-Camp gives campers the chance to spend the whole weekend at camp enjoying

a miniature version of our summer camp program while families benefit from some respite. Supervision at a ratio of 1:1 or 1:2 is provided for all campers during these weekends.

O u r A d u l t R e t r e a t s g i ve yo u n g , independent adults on the spectrum a chance to spend time with friends as they enjoy a weekend at Camp Royall. This fall, retreats will take place September 12-14, November 7-9, and December 5-7.

Winter Camp will run at Camp Royall from December 29 to January 2, during the holiday break from school. Winter Camp is a day camp open to campers of all ages, 4 years to adult. The program includes a 1:1 or 1:2 counselor-to-camper ratio, based on each camper’s level of need. We will also offer an overnight, weekend Mini-Camp during the winter break, January 4-6.

Our Afterschool Program will start up again this fall on September 1 and run until December 19. The hours are 3-6:30 p.m. each day with some transportation available. Trained staff members supervise children in small groups of one staff member per three participants.

The children will take part in outdoor activities, homework time, group games, and gym play. g

Please contact our camp office for questions on any of the coming events at 919-542-1033 or camproyall@autismsociety-nc.org.

For more information and reservation forms for all events, please visit www.camproyall.org.

www.autismsociety-nc.org • 17

World Autism Awareness and Acceptance Day How do you top an inaugural event that brings together nearly 500 enthusiastic participants from the autism community? Make it bigger and better, of course!

In April 2013, ASNC invited families from around the state to come together for the first World Autism Awareness Day celebration at Camp Royall – and they came in droves. The popular event was repeated on April 2, 2014, but with a new name: World Autism Awareness and Acceptance Day (WAAAD). Why the change? ASNC values the acceptance of each person as an individual and of his or her ability to contribute to society. This year, even more parents, children, and caregivers enjoyed outdoor activities including hayrides, paddleboats, inflatables, arts and crafts, a jousting demonstration, and of course, Camp Royall’s beloved zap line.

WAAAD was a full day of “good old outdoor fun” for families, said Camp Director Sara Gage, but the most important part was the feeling of families celebrating and accepting each other just as they are. “It was a joy for me to wander around camp and see families interacting with each other and feeling a sense of community,” Gage said. “We are very glad that we can offer such an open and supportive environment for people to make those connections without fear of judgment.”

Gage and her staff spent the day at the Chatham County camp greeting guests and supervising activities. Additional help poured in from ASNC’s Raleigh staff and numerous volunteers. ASNC’s Autism Resource Specialists and staff members from Chapters and the ASNC Bookstore provided literature, answered questions, and linked families with resources.

Of course, no celebration would be complete without a hearty communal meal. By the time the first hamburgers and hot dogs came off the grill, the charcoal aroma had already pulled many

18 • The Spectrum, Summer 2014

More than $26,000 was raised on April 2, 2014 for the “Send a Kid to Camp” campaign. These funds went to scholarships giving children the opportunity to attend Camp Royall, a very special, one-of-a-kind camp.

hungry folks to the picnic area behind the dining hall. Chips, cookies, and drinks rounded out the perfect outdoor lunch menu. A special addition in 2014 was a nearby ice cream truck! Maple View Farm offered a great selection of favorite flavors and donated one-third of sales to ASNC. The truck seemed to have a line throughout the afternoon as the temperature flirted with the 90-degree mark.

Quite a few of ASNC’s volunteers left with their first sunburns of the season, but all said they would not have missed the event for anything.

Although families attended WAAAD for free, donations were accepted. Funds raised went to scholarships for families in need who would not otherwise be able to send their children to this very special, one-of-a-kind camp. AT&T kick-started the “Send a Kid to Camp” campaign with a $2,500 gift, and Premiere Communications & Consulting and its employees gave $5,000. The remainder of the $26,000 raised that day came from ASNC, its employees, and many of the families in attendance. It is clear that ASNC families recognize the tremendous value of Camp Royall and want to do their part to enable other children, teens, and adults to experience the camp.

“It was a joy for me to wander around camp and see families interacting with each other and feeling a sense of community. We are very glad that we can offer such an open and supportive environment for people to make those connections without fear of judgment.”

– Camp Director Sara Gage

We’re already planning the third annual WAAAD extravaganza on Thursday, April 2, 2015! If you’ve been to the first or second, you already know that the day is full of fun for all ages. If not, come see what all the fuss is about. Never been to Camp Royall and wondering whether it really is the right place for your loved one on the spectrum? WAAAD is the perfect opportunity to see the facility for yourself and meet the staff before committing to an overnight experience. But be prepared to fall in love. Speaking from almost two decades of experience, Gage said, “I think our families feel a sense of relief when they come to camp, to know that they are not the only ones.” g

www.autismsociety-nc.org • 19

Chapters & Support Groups Spread Autism Awareness On April 26, more than 1,600 people gathered in Mount Airy for the Surry County Chapter Walk for Autism. The walk, which is in only its third year, raised an incredible $32,000 for Chapter efforts, including ASNC training for local parents and teachers. But the event is about more than money; it also gathers the community in support of families who have children with autism.

On June 8, Outer Banks Chapter families met at a Currituck County farm for some activities and fun with therapy horses led by Sam Iulo of Mane & Taill (Meeting All Needs with Equines & Teaching All Individuals Life Lessons).

The children focused on social skills and working in a group as they performed tasks with the horses and solved problems.

Autism Awareness Month is a time to cultivate knowledge and understanding of autism and offers the chance to highlight the uniqueness and personality of our 50 Chapters and Support Groups.

Led by generous volunteers who join together to create an inclusive community of support for individuals with autism and their families, Chapters plan family-friendly activities that range broadly in their scope, from appreciation and educational events to motorcycle rides and sporting events, from dining out fundraisers to community outings and social activities.

Here’s just a sampling of the many ways our Chapters celebrated autism awareness this spring:

Gaston County Chapter members had so much fun at their first family picnic May 10 at Camp Sertoma in Gastonia that they plan to make it an annual event. “We had a group of 20 friends join us for a fried chicken meal and had a ball!” said Mary Kane, Chapter Treasurer. They enjoyed playing games – Hedbanz was a favorite – and blowing bubbles.

20 • The Spectrum, Summer 2014

The Onslow County Chapter and Jacksonville Carmike Cinemas teamed up to bring families affected by autism and other disabilities a chance to enjoy new movie releases in a safe and accepting environment with more light, lower volume, and their own snacks.

“These events give our families the opportunity to attend the great ‘American tradition’ of going to the theater in an environment with them in mind,” said Marina Jorge, Chapter Leader. In May, the Onslow Chapter held its Autism Motorcycle Ride with New River Harley Davidson in Jacksonville. Proceeds from the unique fundraiser and awareness event went toward Camp Royall scholarships.

For the month of April, the Jackson/Swain/ Qualla Boundary Chapter recognized area establishments that “go above and beyond to make our families welcome,” said Amy Welch, a Chapter Co-Leader. The Chapter posted letters of appreciation in the Cherokee One Feather newspaper and gave each establishment a certificate of appreciation.

Pictured: Welch presents a certificate to Huddle House in Cherokee.

More than 800 participants celebrated autism awareness in Greenville with the Pitt County Chapter at its 6th annual Eastern

Run/Walk for Autism on April 12. Some of the proceeds from the event went toward a generous donation to expand advocacy hours for the ASNC Eastern Autism Resource Specialists.

Hispanic Support Group volunteers manned outreach tables outside Latino grocery stores around the state. They provided information about education and support available through the Autism Society of North Carolina.

The Orange/Chatham County Chapter and Chapel Hill Parks & Recreation co-hosted an autism awareness celebration in Apr il. A rt is t a n d a uti s m advocate DJ Svoboda emceed the occasion that included a proclamation from Mayor Mark Kleinschmidt (pictured), book readings, a photography exhibit, teacher recognition, and donation presentations.

The Wake, Durham, and Orange/Chatham Chapters worked together to pilot a Dine 4 Autism fundraiser on April 29 with dozens of locations across the Triangle. Cards informed diners about what ASNC Chapters do to support families, such as providing free workshops and holding inclusive social activities.

“The idea is to get people who aren’t already aware of us, and who might be going through a diagnosis, and then connect them with our chapters,” said Leslie Welch, ASNC Wake Chapter Leader. Proceeds from the event will be used for Chapter efforts, including summer

The Richmond County Chapter , in partnership with the Richmond Service League, recently held its 4th annual Strike OUT Autism bowling event at Striker’s Bowling Alley in Rockingham (pictured far left). This year’s fun event was the largest ever with 19 teams registered. All proceeds went to help send local children to Camp Royall.

Davidson County Chapter, in partnership with The

the Davidson County Parks and Recreation Department and the Arc Davidson County, held its 2nd annual Easter Egg Hunt designed for special needs residents, their guardians, and the community at large. Rain forced the hunt indoors, but the event had a great turnout and also featured music, games, arts and crafts, and face painting. “It’s good to let the community see that we can laugh, that there is life. They see that if you accept (people with intellectual disabilities), they’ll accept you, too,” said Annette Horsley, a Chapter Co-Leader.

The Cabarrus County Chapter Puzzle Run for Autism, held March 29 in Concord, included information tables from area resources and a bouncy house for the kids. But what the kids really like is the running. “They’re freaky fast,” said Maria Anthony, Chapter Leader. “They run like crazy. They just love it.” In addition to funding Chapter activities, the Puzzle Run raises money to help local teachers with activities and classroom supplies.

The Crystal Coast Run/Walk for Autism on May 17 drew a record crowd as folks walked and ran along the scenic Beaufort waterfront.

The event not only spread community awareness of autism, but it also helped raise funds for Crystal Coast Chapter activities and programs to support families. g

camp scholarships. Pictured: Jake Ruggles, driver for Jake Ruggles Racing, and Steve Ruggles, team owner, join Leslie Welch and Jen Mahan to support Dine 4 Autism at Tyler’s Taproom in Apex.

The Mecklenburg County Chapter held Autism Aware Fare, a day when restaurants in the area donate a percentage of their profits, on April 22. The event, which started 12 years ago, raises money for grants to teachers who work with children with autism, training for teachers and aides, and other Chapter activities.

To find a Chapter or Support Group near you, go online to http://bit.ly/ASNCChapters.

www.autismsociety-nc.org • 21

Get to Know Joanna Bush, ASNC Bookstore Employee Joanna Bush excels at spelling and math, and her organizational and clerical skills make her a valued employee of the Autism Society of North Carolina Bookstore. But the 31-year-old with autism brings something else to her several part-time jobs: a chance to educate the people around her.

“It creates more acceptance for someone like Joanna, and really anybody else who has autism, when people come across them,” said her mother, Charlene Bush.

Joanna, who was diagnosed with autism at age 7, has memorized some sentences that she speaks aloud and can use small utterances, her mother said. Joanna also communicates through writing. “When she goes into a workplace where people don’t typically see a lot of people with autism, they’re amazed by the fact that she could do what she could do given that she has this pretty big deficit with expressive language and so many issues with sensory management,” her mother said.

For Joanna, the ASNC Bookstore is a perfect place to use her strengths in a calm, quiet setting. “She really enjoys doing it, and she feels very competent. It obviously promotes self-confidence, which is so important,” Charlene said.

Joanna’s aide, Mary Collins, agrees that working in the bookstore gives Joanna “a tremendous feeling of worth.” Mary, a habilitation technician, has worked with Joanna for a little over a year and spends two days a week with her.

Joanna has worked at the bookstore since early 2010, fulfilling many duties: packing orders to be shipped, shelving books in the correct order, pulling materials for events, pricing, shredding, dusting, tidying, and copying. “She knows where everything belongs,” Mary said. “Sometimes if I forget something, she’ll remind me.”

Kate Hall, Director of Operations for ASNC, said, “The Autism Society of North Carolina Bookstore is unique in that it lives out our mission to provide support and promote opportunities through employing individuals with ASD. Our bookstore staff, like Joanna, gain job skills and independence. Joanna’s contributions are vital to the bookstore, and she is a joy to work with.”

Joanna also uses the media machine for postage and marks on a large map all the locations to which the bookstore has shipped.

“She loves doing that map,” Mary said.

At home in Raleigh with her parents, Joanna enjoys doing art, baking treats, and using the computer for games, YouTube, or wikis.

22 • The Spectrum, Summer 2014

The routine of getting out of the house to work on a regular schedule is beneficial to Joanna, who is calmer because of the consistency, Mary said. Joanna also works in libraries and for Special Olympics. Mary said the pair are working on communication and socialization, making sure to say hello and goodbye to coworkers each day. She would like Joanna to be able to explain what is wrong if she is angry or hurt.

“I’ve got the greatest amount of respect for her,” said Mary, adding that she and Joanna have built a relationship of love and trust.

“She’s not only very smart, she’s very loving.”

Mary’s husband recently had a heart attack. When she came back to work with Joanna, Mary did not talk about her husband, but she said Joanna could tell something was wrong. Joanna looked right in her eyes, which she doesn’t usually do, and said “sad” three times.

“She’s extra sensitive to my moods. She could really feel that,” Mary said. “I feel very privileged to work with her.” g The ASNC Bookstore employs several adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder; ASNC believes meaningful employment is a key part of a fulfilling life.

autismbookstore.com ASNC Bookstore Debuts NEW WEBSITE! The Autism Society of North Carolina Bookstore has a new, easy-to-use website! Help support ASNC by shopping with us for your favorite books, apparel, and autism awareness merchandise.

• Largest nonprofit, ASD-specific bookstore in the United States • More than 600 titles, many exclusive to the ASNC Bookstore • Extensive inventory is priced competitively compared to major online retailers • Proceeds help provide assistance to individuals with autism and their families • We employ individuals on the spectrum The ASNC Bookstore prides itself on customer service. If you need assistance in finding a particular title or a resource on a specific topic, contact us. We love working one-on-one with schools and educational systems for purchase orders, and no matter where you are, we can ship to you. Contact us by phone at 800-442-2762 (NC only) or 919-743-0204, ext. 1132, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. (EST) Monday-Friday, or by email at books@autismsociety-nc.org.

Now through Aug. 31, you can save 10% on online orders.

Use code: LAUNCH2014 at checkout.

www.autismsociety-nc.org • 23

Fundraisers and Events Spring Run/Walk for Autism Series Raises more than $137,000 More than 3,500 people participated in the Autism Society of North Carolina’s spring Run/Walk for Autism series and raised more than $137,000! These much-needed funds will help us improve the lives of individuals with autism, support families affected by autism, and educate communities throughout North Carolina. Beginning in March, we held events in Beaufort, Concord, Greenville, and Mount Airy. ASNC also hosted the Coastal NC Run/Walk for Autism in partnership with GHA Autism Supports with all proceeds benefitting services in the Wilmington area. Each event saw terrific local participation from families, professionals, sponsors, and other community members and raised significant awareness about autism. We are so appreciative of all of the individuals, families, and businesses that participated, donated, volunteered, or sponsored this spring.

Our families, friends, supporters and volunteers work hard year round to make these events successful and enjoyable. We hope you will consider joining us this fall or next spring for one of our signature Run/Walk events. All of the proceeds from our fundraisers stay in local communities to help individuals affected by autism. Whether you are a participant, donor, sponsor, or volunteer, your contribution makes an important difference.

Register Now for a Fall Run/Walk for Autism Now is the time to register, create a team, or join a team for our fall Run/Walk for Autism events: WNC Run/Walk for Autism: UNC-Asheville | September 13 www.wncrunwalkforautism.com Greensboro Run/Walk for Autism: UNC-Greensboro September 27 | www.greensbororunwalkforautism.com Triangle Run/Walk for Autism: Downtown Raleigh | October 11 www.trianglerunwalkforautism.com You can also make a greater difference by joining one of the planning committees for the events. Many roles are available for volunteers in the months prior to and during the Run/Walk for Autism events.

For more information, contact Heather Hargrave at 919-865-5057 or hhargrave@autismsociety-nc.org.

S AT U R D A Y,

AUGUST

23

Zipping for Autism Raises more than $45,000 The third annual Wells Fargo Zipping for Autism drew 225 participants to enjoy Asheville Zipline Canopy Adventures on June 1.

This year, teams raised more than $45,000 to support the services provided by the Autism Society of North Carolina in western North Carolina. Teams were challenged to raise $800 to zip line with views of the Asheville skyline, and those that raised more than $1,100 were also able to participate in the Treetops Adventure Park and the new bike course.

Join OT Sports & the Burlington Royals for a

DOUBLEHEADER

Join us for the 4th annual 5K Fun Run/ Walk benefitting ASNC in the morning and receive free tickets to the Burlington Royals MLB game that night! Or, just bring the family for a fun night of small-town baseball.

24 • The Spectrum, Summer 2014

9 am: 5K Family Fun RUN/WALK FOR AUTISM 7 pm:

Burlington Royals vs. Bristol Pirates MLB game

For more information or tickets, email dlaxton@autismsociety-nc.org.

Event Sponsors We thank the following sponsors of our events this spring; these events would not be possible without them. Please support these businesses and thank them for helping to improve the lives of individuals with autism and their loved ones.

Gold ($10,000)

Advocate ($500)

Friends ($250)

Kilpatrick Townsend

Barley’s Taproom & Pizzeria

A&M Mini Storage

Jennifer Fishel, O.D., P.A.

Behavior Consultation & Psychological Services, PLLC

Azalea Gynecology

Marshall & Helen Dotson

Brevard College

Blue Moon Water Bounce N Round Party Rentals

Moore Orthopedic & Sports Medicine

Visionary ($5,000) Wells Fargo

Partner ($1,000) Camilla Calnan Photography

Cape Fear Camera Club Cape Fear Center for Inquiry Coastal Behavioral Sciences

Clear Channel/Star 104.3

Coastal Vein & Vascular

Dr. Halley White Pediatric Dentistry

ECU Family Autism Center Fast Signs

Fairway Outdoors Advertising

Mountain Xpress

Fit 4 Life

Oceanside Pediatrics

Mayfaire Shopping Center

OT Solutions Inc.

PPD

Pizza Inn of Morehead City

The Graham Nuckolls Conner Law Firm, PLLC

Rack Room Shoes

TrySports

Subway

Wild Wing Café

Road ID Towne Tap & Grill

Broad Creek United Methodist Church Cape Carteret Aquatic & Wellness

Overhead Door Company of Greenville, Inc. Physicians East, PA Piedmont Service Group

Carolina Therapy Connection

Ralph’s Sign Shop, Inc.

Coastal Children’s Clinic

Sealziti.com

Creekside Taphouse

Skyvista Satellite Communications

Diamond Brand Outdoors DP Jewelry Earth Fare Eastern Psychiatric & Behavioral Specialists Garner Farms, Inc. Grandmaster Dong’s HomeCare Management and Corporation

Southeastern Physical Therapy The Hop The Law Office of Richard Poole US Cellular Wilmington Dermatology Center

Spotlight on the Greiner Family Two months before O’Reilly Greiner’s third birthday, TEACCH staff told his parents that he had pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS). A few years later, his diagnosis was changed to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

“Receiving an autism diagnosis is life-changing,” said Sheena Greiner, his mother. ”I was a special education teacher, but suddenly I was on the other side of the table. I never dreamed the public school would tell me that my son did not qualify for services. I turned to ASNC for help. The parent advocates (now Autism Resource Specialists) were able to help secure services for O’Reilly.”

Now 12, O’Reilly has been active in Boy Scouts since first grade, holds a third-degree brown belt, and enjoys all sorts of outdoor activities. He still struggles with peer interactions, but Sheena and Jeff Greiner believe ASNC’s support helped their son. “We were very fortunate to identify our son early, which allowed us to implement intervention techniques at a young age,” Jeff said.

That experience inspired the Greiners to create Zipping for Autism, an annual fundraiser on the first Sunday in June, near O’Reilly’s birthday. “We wanted to make sure that all families had access to parent advocates and an early diagnosis,” Sheena said. In its three years, the event at Asheville Zipline Canopy Adventures has raised more than $114,000 for ASNC. The Greiners and the staff at Wildwater and The Adventure Center of Asheville, along with volunteers, sponsors, and teams, put a lot

of work into the annual fundraiser in which teams raise money to gain access to varying activities. But Zipping for Autism is not all work. “It’s great to see the teams participating in our special contests like our costume contest and our spirit award contest. People just let loose and have fun,” Jeff said.

Each year, Zipping for Autism’s totals grow, from $31,000 raised in 2012, to $39,000 in 2013, to $45,000 this year.

Next year’s goal is $50,000, so join them June 7 in Asheville. Zipping for Autism is a great time for a great cause! www.autismsociety-nc.org • 25

More than $75,000 Raised to Send Campers to Camp Royall Catwalk to Camp This year marked the third annual Catwalk to Camp spring fashion show in Raleigh and the first in Charlotte. The Raleigh fashion show, a luncheon event, was held April 25 at Marbles Kids Museum in downtown Raleigh. On May 1, the inaugural Charlotte event was held in the evening at the Charlotte Marriott SouthPark hotel. Attendees at both events enjoyed delicious food and a fashion show featuring the latest spring fashions from sponsor Macy’s. The Charlotte event also featured fashions from Amina Rubinacci and a silent auction.

Raleigh’s included a fun live auction.

The two fashion shows together featured 32 models, each with a connection to the Autism Society of North Carolina.

Camp Royall Classic Golf Tournament On May 5, the third annual Camp Royall Classic Golf Tournament was held at The Preserve at Jordan Lake golf course. With perfect weather all day, golfers enjoyed the chance to play on the championship course and compete for great prizes.

We were grateful for the opportunity to partner again with local McDonald’s franchise owners Paul, Pat, Rex, and Kelli Willoughby to make this tournament possible. We thank them for their support and hard work with this event and for helping us to provide a life-changing week at camp for individuals from across North Carolina.

In total, the Catwalk for Camp and Camp Royall Classic events raised $75,000 to support the Autism Society of North Carolina’s Camp Royall Scholarship Fund. We are so grateful to all who participated.

Be on the lookout for these events next spring!

Camp Royall Sponsors The Autism Society of North Carolina has been offering recreational, therapeutic, and educational summer camp experiences for the past 42 years to individuals with autism of all ages. Camp Royall is the largest and oldest camp exclusively for individuals with autism in the United States. Because of the generosity of the following donors, we were able to provide $142,000 in camp scholarships for summer 2014. We hope you will consider joining these donors in helping to provide a life-changing experience for a camper with autism. Please contact Kristy White at 919-856-5086 or kwhite@autismsociety-nc.org if you are interested in donating to camp, learning about named scholarships, or helping with fundraising.

Visionary ($50,000)

Champion ($2,500-$4,999)

The Cannon Foundation, Inc.

ASNC Onslow County Chapter ASNC Wake County Chapter AT&T North Carolina Charlotte Observer/ Summer Camp Fund Community Foundation of Gaston County (Roberts-Miller Children’s Fund) Craven County Community Foundation Premiere Communications & Consulting, Inc. Pfizer, Inc. The Eddie and Jo Allison Smith Foundation Chris Norton

Partner ($5,000-$9,999) BB&T Foundation Credit Suisse The Pratt Family Foundation, Inc. Ronald McDonald House Charities of North Carolina and Ronald McDonald House Global

26 • The Spectrum, Summer 2014

John Sears Denise and Stephen Vanderwoude

Leader ($1,000-$2,499) Acorn-Alcinda Foundation ASNC Davidson County Chapter ASNC Davie County Chapter ASNC Guilford County Chapter ASNC Iredell County Chapter ASNC Johnston County Chapter ASNC Montgomery/Stanly County Chapter ASNC Orange/Chatham County Chapter

ASNC Pitt County Chapter ASNC Richmond County Chapter Baptist Grove Church Champs for Camp Dr. Lail’s Fund for Children of Triangle Community Foundation The Eisner Charitable Fund, Inc. Genworth Financial US Mortgage Insurance Golden State Foods Granville County Community Foundation Gunter Enterprises, Inc. The Hunter Snow Fund Iredell County DSS John W. Roffe and Marion A. Roffe Endowment (for Moore Co.) Johnston County Community Foundation Leonard and Virginia Safrit Family Fund Triangle Community Foundation Macy’s of Triangle Town Center North Carolina Partners of Americas Pediatric Possibilities PPR Foods, LLC/McDonald’s RTP Signs & Graphics Senn Dunn Insurance Spyglass Promotions Wake Electric Care Foundation Women of Fearrington, Inc. Ellen Airs in memory of Lee Airs Janet and James Cozart Cecile Graves Lesley and Michael Graves Cynthia Hoyt and Hannah Fouts Susannah and Mark Hough Diane and David Kent JoAnna Massoth and Dan Barnes Lori and Jim Mazany Dolores McGovern Dale Meder Elizabeth and Jeffrey Phillippi Dianna and Timothy Raczniak Lorraine and Dale Reynolds Joseph Roberts Yvonne Sagers Katie and Tracey Sheriff Jeaninne and John Wagner Phyllis Ward Kim and Jeff Woodlief Debra Woody

Supporter ($500-$999) Amundi Smith Breeden Associates LLC Archer Western-Charlotte Regional Office/The Walsh Group ASNC Durham County Chapter

Commercial Site Design, PLLC Diamonds Direct Eastern Alliance Insurance Company Gregory Poole Equipment Company Innovative Construction Group, LLC Ken Melton & Associates, LLC Kennon Craver, PLLC Kohl’s Corporation Lenior County Community Foundation Moore County Community Foundation Perry’s at South Park S&J Foods, Inc. Saint Luke Lutheran Church Senecal Construction Company, Inc. Synergy Coverage Solutions US Foods Michelle Becker Kelly and Malcolm Branch Denis Brosnan Ruthann Brown Ann Marie Cade William Cole John Figuera Amy and Vance Fowler Deborah and Rene Gonzales Anna Harmon and Jon Graf Brenda and Philip Julian Janice and Kevin Kidd Helene and Bill Lane Jeanne McGovern and Michael Schwenk Kristi Milowic Nancy and Joe Nestor Deborah O’Briant Kathleen and Patrick O’Brien Nathan Queen Susan and Marc Roth Cynthia and Mark Sokal Gina and Jeffrey Stocton Judie and Mark Strickland Cornelia Stutz Kate and Andrew Sugg Kristy and Andrew White

Friend ($250-$499) ASNC Randolph County Chapter ASNC Roanoke/Chowan County Chapter ASNC Vance/Warren County Chapter Ballantyne Country Club Blue Heron Services Chatham County Arts Council The Deep, Comics & Games, LLC Johnson Lambert, LLP Kiwanis Club of Lee County, Inc. KTL - McDonald’s, LLC

Mollybeads, LLC Ogden Carwash Spyglass Promotions, LLC Taylor Richards & Conger Thomas, Knight, Trent, King and Company TPC Piper Glen Triple J Services Walker Shortbread Wilmington KOA Helen and Brian Bowman Mary Dionne Jennifer Foster Robert Goodale Hollin and John Goodwin Eileen and James Herbst Julie Hill Patricia Hollingsworth Melissa and Matt Huemmer Barbara Imboden Brian Jackson Glenda and Thomas Jeffries Suneet Kaur Kathleen and Robert Kennedy Jeanne Lawton Lay Im and Jeswant Gill Amanda and Kristian Lloyd Sue and Jan Martin Beverly and Alan Moore Mindy Moore Maureen and Rob Morrell Timothy Morris Mary Moss Lisa O’Connor Erin and Colm O’Loughlin Nancy Popkin Kathy and Stephen Pretzer David Rucker Karen Salacki Denice and John Short Susan and Derek Smith Barbara and Gordon Still Racheal and Laddeus Sutton Matthew Swierz Nancy Teer Ardith and Richard Vines Sarah and William Weiser Susan and Bob Wood

“There are no words to express what a wonderful experience Camp Royall was for our daughter and our family. Kaitlyn had never been to camp before last summer, but we were amazed at how much she blossomed with the unique opportunity.”

– Mom of camper Kaitlyn

www.autismsociety-nc.org • 27

The Autism Society of North Carolina would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all of our donors. While we appreciate every gift, we have limited the donation list to Honorarium/Memoriam gifts in the interest of space and printing costs. Thank you for your tremendous support.

This list reflects donations received on or between December 1, 2013 and June 30, 2014. Please contact Beverly Gill if you have any questions or corrections at 800-442-2762, ext. 1105 or bgill@autismsociety-nc.org.

Honorariums Charlie Abb

John Abb Richard Abb Mary Ann Bamber Meredith Bolon Aimee Brosnan Denis Brosnan Carolyn Buckner Jamie Campbell Dale Carlton Virgelio Carpio Timothy Chyma Charlene and Richard Clendaniel Nancy Cohn Scott Coleman Amber Craig Bronwyn DeFigueiredo Kristin Ferriter John Figuera Robert Goodale Susan Hansen Kelly Hernandez Ellen Horner Anthony Hotong Richard Kohn Harold Kudler Warren Kuhfeld Troy Kunz Carol Labarrere Peter Leousis Laura Malinchock Alison Marquis Domciely Oda Kirk Owen Nicole Parkis Misael Rebollar Kelly Ross Angel Santos James Schasteen Richard Silc Janet Skinner Elsabeth Srubas William Stonecypher Gregory Trnka Linda and James Varblow Janet Walters Barbara Ware Court Weathers Sarah and William Weiser Harold Willis Karen Zeliff

ABC of NC in Winston-Salem Kurt Klinepeter

28 • The Spectrum, Summer 2014

Kelly Alexander

Cantey and Bill Carpenter

Jacob G. Fox

Jean Alvarez

Jacob Carpenter

Liam Freeman

Leica Anzaldo

John Cavanaugh

Susan Davis

Tali and Robert Denton Paula Munos

Gonzalo Arriagada Mary Hunter

Carolyn and John McCoy Jacqueline Cullipher Penelope Hawkins Kirsten Huber Jean McKnight

Cassie Julian Ball

Patrick Cavanaugh

Julian Ballen

Robbie Clarke

Lynda Bauer

Bettie Chandgie

Jacob Beasley

Ellen Chrysogelos

Tyler Drake Billings

Alyssa Coleman

Brandon Bisby

Sidney Collins

LeeAnn and Jim Ball Martin Kendrick Ronald Shuster Lynn Beasley

Crystal Billings Tonya Bisby

Cindy and John Cavanaugh Jamison Clarke John Lalonde

Christine Anderson Marion and Gordon James Marlene and Joseph Diorio

Bobby

Matthew Cookson

Nicolas Borbomio

Conner Corzine

Mikey Borneman

Keith, Meredith and Henry Dangel

Laura and Rodney Huckaby David Allen Company, Inc. Terri Sharpe

Adam Grant Bradshaw II Shannon Bradshaw

Mindy and Tom Storrie Debbie and John West

Thomas Eisenhart

Kerri Brady

Judy, Kim, Loren and Drew Davis

Pam Brafford

Richard Dawkins

Mr. and Mrs. Robert Louis Brake

Scott Denton

Mary and Charles Obermeyer Beth and Ronald Swanner

Sarah Ann Butts Sasser

Holden Brooks

Phyllis and Wayne Alley Jerri Lynn and Jim Thomas

Marabbi Brown Crystal Brown

Shanley and Paul Brown Shannon and Darin Mock

Sally Buckner Anne Dahle

Ruth and Lance Thomson Gail and LeRoy Dawkins Kathy and Mark Green

Diana Devore

Hollis and Thomas Mullen

Nate Elkins

Elise and Hugh Nichols

Ella and Josh

Vicki Bowinkel

David Emmons Harry Emmons

Kerri Erb

Linda and Michael Bryant

Sally Lynn Buckner

Joel Ferro

Heather and Marty Burch

Derek Flake

Ward Cameron

Drew Tyler Flesch

Anne Dahle Peter Burch

Hayward Cameron

Cameron Carlyle

Holly and Ricky Carlyle

Ed Ferro

Christina and Gordon Flake Martha Carbonaro

Hannah E. Fouts

Cynthia and Hannah Hoyt

Yaidsee Fox

Phoebe Hill Holly and Michael Shoun

Sara Gage

Robert Vaccarelli

Mr. and Mrs. Banks Garrison Beth and Ronald Swanner

Nick Gonzales

Patricia Ausdenmore Debra and Roger Bess Lynn Eyermann Deborah and Rene Gonzales Rebecca Timblin

Robert Gooden

Carolyn and William Gooden

Cara and Peter Goodwin Lucy and Hugh Edmunds

Owen Goodwin

Sherrie Goodwin

Alex Griffin

Whitney Griffin

Miles Hancox

John McLaughlin

Susanne Harris Mitchell Heflin

Lou and Ralph Harwood Beverly and Jesse Thomas

Joshua Haye

Sharon and Dennis Yaddow

Samuel Patrick Heitman Amy Krebs

Shelby Herrett

William Herrett

Katie Holler

Catherine and T.R. Rouse

Austin Holmes

Laura and Daniel Holmes

Joseph Hough Emma Carter

Mark Hough

Ave Lachiewicz

Susanna Hough

Flynt Burton Wingrove

Paul Hoyt

Patricia and Michael Petelle

John Hufstader Jean Baker

Mark Hurst

Barbara Avant Steve York

George Hovey III

Kay and George Hovey

Arden Howard

Tracy and Dominic DeMuro

Logan

Ymkje Wideman

Parker C. Love

Sallie Ann and Bob Hart

Hien Nguyen and Tuan Pham and Family Jean and Gustav Leichte

Mr. and Mrs. Bob Odom

Beth and Ronald Swanner

Matthew Ross

Elizabeth and Michael Ross

David Sasser

Jean and Henry Sasser

Jack and Jake Howard

Jessie Lunsford

Christopher Hydeman

Harrison Machikas

Windy James-Sarnes

Ryan Mathis

Christopher and Steven Olivencia

School Teachers

Alyssa McClure

Dr. and Mrs. Robert Overcash

Julie and John Seibert

Taylor McDuffy

Carroll Overton

Frank K. Douglas Johnson, Jr.

Marvin McManus

Robyn Palomo

Amber Sheely

Evan Blake Jones

Sam McOwen

Alex Pantlin

Peggy Shufelt

Bobbie Meredith

Michael Perry

Courtney Meyer

Ryleigh Perry

Marie and Joseph Blizzard Lawrence Sheppard Renee Goss

Luke Jenkins

Keith Buchanan

Douglas Johnson

Courtney Ferguson Annie and Frank Johnson Mitzi Bland Jessica Mills

Miles Jones

Suzanne and Daryl Jones

James Jay Jordan III

Dorothy and James Jordan

LuAnn Jordan

Caren and Charles Gale

Jimmy Joy

Barbara and Robert Campbell

Mary Keiger

Brooke Barnard

Keagan Kelly

Rosemary and Michael Spagnola

Matthew Kelly

Jean and Jeffrey Kelly

Mary Kenney

Patricia and Thomas Doyle

Kathy and Lanny Vaughan Harry Densel

Mary and Robert Love Mary Kroohs

Nancy and James McDuffy Catherine and Thomas Fox Jane and Coburn Beck Gayle and Wayne Meredith Kathleen Krumpter

Jack Mies Wendy and John Mies

Eric Mihalyi

Danaly Y. Landaverde Erica Landaverde

Lane and Ethan Joanne French

Mason LaPointe Jeff Leathers

Ronda Layman

Rockingham County Speech Pathologists

David Laxton

Evelyn Laxton

Leslie J. Lepp

Katherine Jones

Chrissy Lessey

Ann and Robert Rivers

Barbara Lipson

Ellen and Marvin Eckstein Josephine and Angelo Vivelo

Barbara and Karl Stein Sarah and Robert Busko Gloria Furman Laquisha Dills Brenda Avant

Jacob Petery

David Mortimore Evelyn Petery

Elizabeth and Nord Woodside Gail Pope

Victoria Shea

Kelly and Andrew Alexander Megan Sheely

The Birthday Girls Gwynne and Bruce Chadwick

Gertrude Siege

Ellen and Marvin Eckstein

Jahlani Malik Singleton

Gwen and Reggie Singleton

Isaac and Samuel Soderstrom Amy and Ken Soderstrom

James and Matthew Smith

The Mihalyi Family

Gail and Robert Pope

Kassidy Smith

Mr. and Mrs. Matt Moeller

Dr. and Mrs. Gerald Poplin

Mary Moss Nancy Teer

Beth and Ronald Swanner

Amy Moore

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Beth and Ronald Swanner

Jessica and Edward Schneider

Daniel Phillippi

Blake Kress

Nancy LaCross

Doreen and Will Olivencia

Maria and Thomas Lambert

Annelise R. Schneider

Jonathan Small

Mr. and Mrs. John Montgomery

Jo Ann and Ronald Reichenbach

Carol and Neil Offen

David Sawyer

Alonzo Phifer

Blake Ellis Amanda and Kristian Lloyd Nan and Craig Maples Madeline and John Nicholson

Max Kuller

Susan and Jeffrey Kuller

Paul Offen

Beth and Ronald Swanner Carol and Chuck Moore

Justin Morrell

Rebecca Christian Kathleen and Patrick O’Brien

Maureen and Rob Morrell Emily Ballance Meredith Champ Debra Woody

Michael Jacob Morris

Melissa and Michael Morris

Will Murray

Mary Berridge

Colton James Myers Jean Henderson

Mr. and Mrs. Jim Nance

Beth and Ronald Swanner

Isaac Nash

Stephanie Brodsky

Lars Newton Jeff Leathers

Victoria and Lougenie Phifer Joy and Christian Kenefick Doris and Mark Edwards Julie and John Seibert Beth and Ronald Swanner

Ian Powrieck

Gloria and David Mertz

Toni Small

Barbara and Crawford Smith Elaine and Donald Kaopuiki Gillen and John Neff

Judy Smithmeyer

Madison-Mayodan Rotary Club Heidi Bublitz Carolyn Nieri

Patricia Puret

Deedee Spillane

Andrew Lee Raxter

Zach Sternlieb

Katherine Jones Linda and Henry Raxter

Jack Redding

Nega Ghebrehiwot and Zeman Feshazion Michelle King

Jay Weikel

Michelle Becker Marianne Schild

Grayson Stocton

Gina and Jeffrey Stocton

Mr. and Mrs. Mike Redwine

Mr. and Mrs. Doug Stokes

Kristen Reeves

Students, past and present

Alex Reynolds

Suggs’ Wedding Guests

The Dale Reynolds Family

Jennifer Summer

Colin Roberts

Adrienne Sutton

Jack Rodriguez

Cameron Sutton

Joe Rodriguez

Noah Sutton

Mr. and Mrs. Art Rogers

Miles Targosz

Beth and Ronald Swanner Darla Goldfuss Jane Williams

Mary Beth Cecil

Stephanie and Matt Gardner Yvette Leone Yvette Leone

Beth and Ronald Swanner

Beth and Ronald Swanner Haley Everhart

Kate and Andrew Sugg Cherise Jones

Nancy and Ivan LaCross Linda and Edward Sutton Randy Joyner Ellen Nielsen

www.autismsociety-nc.org • 29

Trey G.

Louise and Michael Southern

Tripp Vallery

Ashley Vallery

Tricia Wildman Mary Hunter

Z. Youngquist

Amy and Eric Youngquist

Shawnee Wakeman

Caren and Charles Gale

Judge and Mrs. William Wellons Susan and Donald Beck

Nicholas Williams

Kathleen and James Jansen

Edward Williamson William Sims

Holden and Todd Wolfram Michelle Becker David Mathes

Tim Wooten

Edwin Davis

Ella Wright

Betty and Robert Wright

The Zarrillo Family Chris Wilson

Pam and Albert Zelt Sandra Malasky

Memorials Leo Aft

Rachel Friedman

Lee Airs

Ellen and Lee Airs

Michelle Qualey Barnard

CEM Corporation Growing Up Pediatrics, P.A. Anthony Hatley Cynthia and Ronald Hazelwood Gail and Richard Hazelwood Thies Hoffman Margo Mckee

Lila W. Bierscheid

Betty and William Winter

Adam Grant Bradshaw Shannon Bradshaw

Martin Louise Camnitz

Mary-French and Richard Evans

John A. Capps

Phyllis and Wayne Alley Beth and Jerry Graves Kay Parker Jerri Lynn and Jim Thomas Shirley and Doug Wade

Deborah Diane Carter Susan and Jeff Parno

Bettie Schiffman Chandgie

Katharine and Harry Clendennin

30 • The Spectrum, Summer 2014

Sally and John Cohen Jane Levy Beverly and George Moody

James Conneely

Dolores McGovern

Francis V. Darling

Kim and Tony Puorro

Alfred B. Davidson Joanne Faiola and Thomas Noonan Barbara and Donald Lane Betty and George Neu Emily Orlando and Nels Pearson Andrea and Jonathan Parker William Rangnow

Mary Carter Davis

Patricia Roseman Steve Simmons Beth and Terry Walton

Dolores and Michael Satira Kathleen and Anthony Satira Linda Satira Sandra Seech Robert Shanahan Jean Smith Ellen and James Wood

Charles “Chuck” Craig Hydeman

Cheryl Farlow Valerie Fyans Kathleen and Edward Pulliam Jill Smith Sandee and Al Steinberg

Kalon Jeffries

Glenda and Thomas Jeffries

Frank Johnson

Elwanda and Ted Cook Ann and Ken Ward

Jacqueline and Ronald May Diane and John McQuade Sherry and Michael Moman Ginger and Stephen Newcomb Margaret and Ronald Preston Mary and Anthony Salem

Mickey O’Leary

Robert Horsman

Kathleen Salmons Patterson Edwards Metal Shop Inc. Western Stationers Lori Ann Patterson Jane and John Stanley Janet and Thomas Styers

Myron Pfeifer

Shelia and Ken Cone

Paul Phillippi

Jean Burgess Elizabeth and Jeffrey Phillippi

Kaye Frye-Dooley

Steven Johnston

Arlene Price

Frank Dunlap, Jr.

Jean D. Kaiser

Jackie Ransdell

Doug Eli

Michael R. Katz

Joan Regan

Phyllis and Jeffrey Heitman Myrtle Rebekah Lodge No. 51 Perry Eli

Louise “Ludie” Hall Funderburk

Mindy and Jim Cawley Susan and Lynn Slayton

Betty Morin Goble

Chattahoochee Cutlery Club Kay Helms

Sharon Kessler Gore

Tyco Electronics Diane and Daniel Arventos Lyn Dunn Barbara and Crawford Smith

Keith Hanger

Robert Horsman

Burnice Lee “B.L.” Harris

Mountain View Lake Water Association Neuse Regional Water & Sewer Authority

Daniel Hibbitts Julia Scott

Marie Greineisen Holleran

AseraCare Hospice of Pittsburgh Lost and Found Pharmacy, Inc. Swissvale Chapter 2067 of AARP Lisa Brozek Jeanette and Thomas Bucko Susan Clayton Kathleen Colwell Karen Hough Andrew Loschert Annette Loschert Jeanne Mayo Linda and William Peterson

Diane and Robert Newman O’Brien Atkins Associates, PA Shirley Snyderman

Katherine Louisa Legg Carr Helen Cain

Timothy W. Lewis East Duplin High School EC Department

Martha J. Lloyd Kitty Lassiter

Elliott Hildred Marshall Lee Reynolds

Earnest M. McCabe, Sr. Betsy and David Parker

John J. McGovern

Jean and Mark Calkin Betsy Douglass

Gerhard Horst Mendlik

Debra and Johnny Cano Sharon and Michael Chudalski

Jared Meyers

Ernestine Cofield Terri Meyers

Patricia Victoria Miller Joseph Mathlin

Tony Miller

Melissa Jo Joyce and Ken Johnson

Ruby Ellington Nabors

Laura Clark Hazel and Marvin Coleman Joyce and Billy Davis Faye Ham Mary Ann and Phillip Strader

Mark Russell Newcomb Stella Bedard Cheryl and Michael Davis

Randall Hinds Carol and Chuck Moore Clare Hall

Sid Reynolds

Elizabeth Park

Bernadine Rutgers

Nancy and Steve Albery Shirley and David Creamer Phyllis Pearson-Gelinas Nancy and Steven Piper Gale Rutgers Anne Wilson

Vita J. Schonde

Marie and Nathan Amato

Billy and Bill Scott

Maureen and William Scott

Butch Schwenger

Shirley Winterbottom

Michael Smith Linda Bass

Jasmine Tilden

Denise and Paul Tilden

Nicholas Walker

Cynthia and Greg Walker

Karen Willis

Marie Morina

Phyllis Zeller

Jane Zeller and John Townson

Helen Zorn

Rosemarie and Joe Totaro

Annual Conferences: Together We Are Better Earlier this year, more than 700 parents, self-advocates, and other caregivers came together in Charlotte for the 2014 Autism Society of North Carolina annual conference. Attendees heard from nationally recognized author and presenter Dr. Jed Baker, ASNC clinical and resource specialist staff, family support expert Kat North, and self-advocate, parent, and ASNC Board member Dave Spicer during the two-day event.

Attendees gave the conference high ratings. “The conference was VERY informative. I gained insight into additional strategies that will assist me with addressing the behavioral challenges of the population I serve,” said one attendee. “Excellent information. Thank you for bringing excellent speakers!” was another response.

The annual conference provides more than an opportunity to hear practical tips and strategies from experts and individuals living with autism. Attendees are also able to connect with other parents, selfadvocates, professionals, and a variety of resources in the sold-out exhibit hall. The ASNC Bookstore provided one-stop shopping for hundreds of titles and unique works of art created by individuals with autism.

We would like to recognize the following sponsors for their generous financial support: • NC Council on Developmental Disabilities – underwriting for Dr. Jed Baker • MetLife Center for Special Needs Planning – lunch sponsor • Earth Fare – breakfast sponsor • Cardinal Innovations Healthcare – refreshment break sponsor • Charlotte AHEC – educational sponsor

Save the Dates for 2015: March 27-28 ASNC Clinical Director Dr. Aleck Myers and his team are already planning the 2015 conference with input from professionals, parents, and last year’s attendees. We encourage you to join us March 27-28 for the 2015 conference, “Autism: Lifelong Learning,” again at the Hilton University Place Hotel in Charlotte.

At press time, the speaker and topic lineup was not finalized, but we can share that the Friday presentation will feature Drs. Lynn and Robert Koegel, of the University of California Santa Barbara Koegel Autism Center. The Koegels are a remarkable husband and wife team and developed the Pivotal Response Treatment (PRT) method. PRT is an intervention method cited by the National Research Council and National Academy of Sciences as both comprehensive and empirically supported. You do not want to miss this daylong learning opportunity.

On Saturday, the program will include Dr. Geri Dawson of the Duke Autism Project and one of the co-creators of the Early Start Denver Model of intervention. She is an internationally acclaimed researcher and presenter who was Chief Science Officer at Autism Speaks prior to moving to Duke. Following Dr. Dawson, attendees will be able to choose from two concurrent workshops prior to and after lunch. A session with Dr. Mary Van Bourgondien will address adult issues, including sexuality, which is a major challenge for many families. Other tentative sessions include research pertaining to medication treatments, school issues, and employment issues/ small businesses for individuals with autism.

Saturday will conclude with a panel of young adults who are members of the IGNITE program in Davidson. IGNITE provides social and life skills training, job development, and classes and activities that are driven by the members’ needs. The program is operated by ASNC with funding from the Evernham Family Racing for a Reason Foundation.

Registration opens September 15 on our website. Guests will also be able to reserve overnight rooms at a rate of $95 per night through a web link.

A variety of sponsorship and exhibitor opportunities are available.

For more information about ways to support the conference or fund scholarships for those in need, please contact David Laxton at dlaxton@autismsociety-nc.org or 919-865-5063. g

Save the Date:

2015 Annual Conference: “Autism: Lifelong Learning” March 27-28, 2015 • CHARLOTTE Hilton University Place www.autismsociety-nc.org • 31

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage

PAID

505 Oberlin Road, Suite 230 Raleigh, NC 27605-1345

Raleigh, NC Permit No. 2169

AUTISM AWARENESS GAME AT UNC UNC vs. Liberty University 6 pm | August 30 | Chapel Hill

We thank Hardison & Cochran Attorneys at Law and UNC for their generous support.

The game will promote autism awareness with radio/TV public service announcements, game program advertisement, and ASNC staff available to answer questions.

Purchase special $10 tickets @ http://bit.ly/UNC-ASNCtickets

Register Now for a Fall Run/Walk for Autism

To register, create a team, join a team, or make a donation for our fall Run/Walk for Autism events, please visit the individual websites:

S E P T . WNC Run/Walk for Autism

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UNC-Asheville wncrunwalkforautism.com

S E P T . Greensboro Run/Walk for Autism

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UNC-Greensboro greensbororunwalkforautism.com

OCT. Triangle Run/Walk for Autism

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Downtown Raleigh trianglerunwalkforautism.com