The Echo….
Keeping you informed!
February 2015 Volume 13, Issue 6
ASCC Parent Education Presentation Monday – February 9, 2015 at 6:30 pm
Social Security Benefits: An Introduction to SSI/SSDI Presented by : Brenda Brown, Public Affairs Specialist (see pg. 2) This presentation will provide an overview of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and how these programs apply to children with disabilities before and after age 18. The speaker will present an overview of her agency’s services, with time allowed for audience questions. Learn about eligibility requirements, when and how to apply for services, how work affects benefits, etc.
In the event the program is cancelled due to inclement weather, the ASCC will send out notification by email. IN THIS ISSUE
Driving with Autism: A Harrowing Experience Made Not So Hard By Austin Gillum
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earning to drive can be a nerve-racking experience for anyone. However, for those with autism, the experience can be doubly anxiety inducing. Fortunately, as an autistic boy who has gone through the experience, I can state firsthand that this experience doesn’t necessarily have to be so difficult. I know for a fact that if done right, learning to drive can be an enjoyable activity for autistic young adults like myself yet also considerably easier to handle at the same time. One of the best ways for an autistic person to have an easier time at learning how to drive, at least from my own personal experience, involves using imagination to make it more fun. With imagination, autistic people can pretend that they are doing something slightly different yet related while paying attention to the real world at the same time. This technique is especially helpful if the imaginary activity is somehow related to the person’s own personal subject of interest. For example, if such a personal interest is in any way involved with dragons, then the autistic person can imagine that he or she is riding a dragon. Likewise, if an autistic teenager’s personal interest is Star Wars, then he or she can imagine piloting a space ship or, in particular, the one that Luke Skywalker piloted when he destroyed the first Death Star. However, with this strategy, autistic people do need to be careful not to get so focused on their imaginative fantasies so as to lose focus on the real world around them while driving. Another helpful strategy that I used was to learn how to drive at a pace more comfortable for me. For example, unlike most neurotypical teenagers who jump at the chance to learn at the earliest legal age, I waited until I was 18 years old. This helped in that it took place at a time where I didn’t
ASCC Programs & Events Find information on upcoming programs and events in the enclosed program and calendar pages.
See Page 2/3
ASCC Camp Sunshine 2015 Information on the status of Camp Sunshine applications and the next steps in the application process.
See Page 2
feel like I had too many other activities keeping me busy. I also felt truly ready to learn how to drive and mature enough to handle the responsibility. In addition, I not only participated in a class with other teenagers, but I also took weekly private lessons outside the class for about six months. Finally, it also helps to have an instructor that allows the autistic person to feel at ease. Instructors like these, as opposed to those who are more like drill sergeants, are more helpful in helping autistic people relax. However, even with these strategies, I still found plenty of hurdles to deal with over the course of my training. In particular, one element that I seemed to never succeed at on the first try was parallel parking. In fact, over the course of my learning to drive, this difficulty once led to me getting so frustrated that I ended up accidentally smashing part of the bumper of my mother’s car while making another attempt to pull up to the curb in front of my house. The whole experience was both humiliating and supremely upsetting; and I also learned just how bad an idea it was to drive while emotionally compromised. Continued on p. 4, See Driving With Autism
Fall Volunteer & Donor Support – Thank you! See Pages 4-5
Faith Based Workshop Learn more about an upcoming Autism Workshop geared toward helping the faith community support families of special needs children.
See Page 4
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ASCC Programs-Opportunities for Parents and Children Parent Education Program Please join us on Monday, February 9, 2015, 6:30 pm at the
Partnership for Children Resource Center 351 Wagoner Drive, Multipurpose Room 343 for a presentation titled
“Social Security Benefits: An Introduction to SSI/SSDI”
Fayetteville restaurants. Focus: Families of adolescents and adults with ASD. Childcare will not be provided. The Autism Breakfast Club (ABC) Support Group meets every first and third Wednesday of the month at the PFC Resource Center, Room 414. Focus: Families of children with ASD up to age 12. Childcare will be provided. The Preschool Support Group (The High Fives) meets weekly on Thursdays at the PFC Resource Center, Room 343. Focus: Families of young children with ASD ages 1-5 years. Childcare will be provided.
Brenda Brown Public Affairs Specialist
ASCC Support Groups Support Groups provide an opportunity to share, learn, and connect. Parents, caregivers, guardians, and professionals are welcome to participate in all of our support groups. Please check the calendar on page three for meeting dates/times/locations. The HFA/Asperger’s Support Group meets every second Monday of the month, Sep—Nov, Jan—May, immediately preceding the Parent Education Program. This group meets in Room 414 of the PFC Resource Center. Focus: Families of children, adolescents, and adults diagnosed with HFA or Asperger’s. Childcare will not be provided. The Autism Lunch Club (ALC) Support Group meets every second Tuesday of the month at various
Registration for Camp Sunshine is now closed. Thank you for submitting your child’s application to attend Camp Sunshine. We are currently reviewing all camp applications and will notify families of their acceptance or placement no later than Friday, March 6, 2015. Staff applications will be disseminated via Cumberland County Schools and per request later this month. Camp Sunshine offers many volunteer opportunities. If you are interested in making a difference in this year’s camp, please contact the ASCC office at (910) 8263005.
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Free respite care will be available on site through Community Based Developmental Services. Please contact Cynthia Billops at 488-5820 or 488-4584 to reserve your space at least 24 hours in advance.
ASCC Families and Friends,
Workshops Please call the ASCC office at (910) 826-3004/3005 to register for all workshops. The After the Diagnosis Workshop is led by Amy Perry, ASNC Parent Advocate, and is held every first Tuesday of the month from 9:30 am—12:00 pm. (odd calendar months) Autism Resource Roundtable is led by Amy Perry, ASNC Autism Resource Specialist, and is held every first Tuesday of the month from 9:30 am12:00 pm. (even calendar months) The Individualized Education Plan Workshop, led by Amy Perry, provides an opportunity for parents and providers to learn all about IEPs. It will be offered quarterly. Please Note: In the event a program or meeting is cancelled due to inclement weather, the ASCC will send out notification by email.
2015 ASNC Annual Conference The 2015 Autism Society of North Carolina Annual Conference, “Autism : Lifelong Learning , “ will be held March 27-28 at the Hilton University Place Hotel in Charlotte. This year’s conference will feature nationally and internationally recognized speakers, Drs. Robert and Lynn Koegel and Dr. Geri Dawson. Throughout the two-day conference, self-advocates, families affected by autism, and professionals in the autism field will have the opportunity to network, learn more about available resources, meet with a variety of businesses that support the autism community, shop the ASNC bookstore, and earn continuing education units (CEUs). The ASCC is excited to be able to offer scholarships for parents to attend this conference. Scholarship applications were due in January and parents who were chosen will be notified no later than February 2, 2015. For more information, please visit: www.autismsociety-nc.org
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February 2015 Sun
1
Mon
2
Tue
Wed
Thu
3
4
5
Autism Resource Roundtable 9:30 am - noon
ABC Support Group 9:30 - 11am
Preschool Support Group 10am-12pm
Conference Rm 414
Fri
6
Sat
7 Faith Based Workshop
Multi-Purpose Rm 343
9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Multipurpose Rm. 343
Manna Church
Rhythm and Rhyme Sensory Story Time Hope Mills Library
3:30pm
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9
10
HFA Support Group 5:45pm
Autism Lunch Club (ALC) Support Group 11:30 am -
Conference Rm 414
Parent Education Program 6:30pm Multi-Purpose Rm 343
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12
13
14
Preschool Support Group 10am-12pm
Mi Casitas, Raeford Rd
Conference Rm 414
iPads for Autism 1 - 4pm Conference Rm. 414
Valentine’s Day
15
16
17
18
19
IEP Workshop 9:30 am - noon
ABC Support Group 9:30 - 11am
Preschool Support Group 10am-12pm
Conference Rm B
Conference Rm 414
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21
27
28
Special Outing
22
23
24 ASCC Board of Directors Meeting 11 am - 1pm
Multipurpose Rm. 343
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26 Preschool Support Group 10am-12pm
Multi-Purpose Rm 343
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ASCC Volunteers are Priceless! “Volunteers are paid in six figures... S-M-I-L-E-S.” ~Gayla LeMaire We are all S-M-I-L-E-S about our volunteers! Thank you all for supporting our organization with your time during the months of October, November, and December 2014. Your continued support helps us execute and sustain our programs and services! We are greatly indebted to you and appreciate you very much! Adam Jackson
Heidi Choice
Randy Choice
Anna Finch
Henry Boating Anfom
Ron Wylie
Aquisha Gross
Imani Rivera
Sam Gerald
Azali G. Pigniat
Imelda White
Sandra Surles
Brandy Mello
Jacqueline Wylie
Sandra Turner
Chris Leacock
John Allen
Shanetta Monk
Christopher Roberts
Kerri Erb
Sharonda Ferguson
Cynthia Billops
Laura Savage
Shirl Rising
Crystal Harrell
Lucy Bourque
Theresa Thomas
Doug Wright
Melissa Reed
Thomas Reynolds
Eric Williams
Misty Surles
Tony Mello
Gwendolyn Scott
Nabila Gomes
Vicki Britton
Autism Workshop To Focus on Strategies for Inclusion A training centered on strategies for supporting people with autism will be held Saturday, February 7 at Manna Church in Fayetteville. The workshop, “Faith Communities: Practical Strategies for Supporting People with Autism,” is a follow up to the Autism and Faith Communities workshop held in October 2014.
youth group activities; and tips for how parents and faith communities can work together to promote successful inclusion. The workshop will also include a question and answer session, and there will also be opportunities for attendees to connect with community resources and other special-needs ministries. The training is open to special needs ministry volunteers, faith community ministers and leaders, self advocates and families of children with special needs. For more information, contact Maureen Morrell at mmorrell@autismsociety-nc.org or by calling 919-865-5058.
Topics covered during the workshop include how autism affects social interactions, communication, learning and behavior; strategies to help autistic children participate in worship, classroom and
ASCC Volunteers Needed!!! The ASCC is in need of volunteers for the following upcoming events: · ·
9th Annual Golf Tournament 10th Vera Bradley Bingo
For more information please call 910-826-3004/3005 Thank you for your support!
Driving With Autism Continued from Page 1 Ironically enough, despite being willing to try it, I originally viewed the idea of learning how to drive as more of something my parents wanted me to do. It was also seemingly unappealing in that I knew it would take time away from other things I found far more enjoyable. Finally, I also didn’t really feel like I needed to learn how at the time due to how I already had my parents taking me to all the places I wanted and needed to go. However, after I actually started driving on my own, I discovered that having this skill allowed me to feel more independent and grown up. In fact, it made me feel sort of free to be doing it all on my own. Even though I still sometimes take trial runs with a parent when I have to drive to a new location, I still like the feeling of being able to follow my own schedule to places I need to go. Driving, or even learning how to do so, can be a very horrifying experience to undertake. However, it is especially nightmarish for those with autism, particularly since their lives can already be difficult through factors beyond their control. Fortunately, an autistic person can have a far less difficult time with the whole adventure if they have an easy going instructor, a pace of learning compatible with their own personal comfort preferences, and a healthy imagination. Austin Gillum is the son of former ASCC Board Member Dr. Debra Japzon Gillum.
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Thank You to ASCC Donors! “Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates loves.” ~ Lao Tzu We would like to thank all donors who have supported our organization with monetary donations during the months of October, November, and December 2014. Your continued support helps us sustain our programs and services to individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders and their families. Kohl’s Dept. Stores, Inc.
Clark & Lois Suttle
Jamie Harris Sossamon
Apple Crate Natural Market
Donald & Betty Chavis
Robin L. Tittley
Freedom Biker Church
Cecil & Geraldine Graham
Stephanie Reimers
John & Catherine Pollard
Juanita Bowen
Emily Bonomini
Hank & Anna Finch
Ronald & Flora West
Janet S. Parish
Valley Regional Imaging
Brian & Beth Hendrickson
Tiffany A. Dalmida
Dr. Debra Japzon Gillum & Family
Toni & Michael Swiderski
Lydia Sue Bass
TRP CPAs, PLLC
Fernando & Sandra Arrufat
Patty S. Campagna
Jerome T. Scott “The Insurance Guy”
Karl & April Kumm
Leeann Eason
Community Based Developmental Services
Furniture -R-Us
Bank of America Charitable Foundation
John & Clarissa Allen
Melissa Hendricks
Rebecca Wolbers
Monique Leacock
Gwen Scott
Michele Whalen
Angela Goodman
Robert Evans
Joanna Nunez
Kathy Cooper
Kimberly Johnson
Anette Schell
Adobe Group Home
Christy McLaurin
Blake Simms
David & Leslie Haight
Angela Bagley
Patrick McCarthy
Bob & Ann Lucero
Marilyn Winstead
Samantha Catrett
Henry & Nancy Thompson
Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Mello
Donald Kinsey
Elizabeth Swanson
Todd & Jennifer Lyden
Thomas & Leslie Ganus
Need Speech? Inc.
Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church
West & West Trucking
Melissa Reed
Rusty Furtick
James Easter
Redemption Church
Sheila West
David & Mildred Covington
Coastal Family Services, PLLC
In-Kind Donations
Emanuel & Lindsay Matthews
William Summers
The Pilgrim Gifts & Antiques
Pattie West
Grace Roman
Home Depot
Mark & Bonnie Davis
Mr. & Mrs. Tildon Downing
BJ’s Wholesale Club
Dr. Robert Shaw
Mr. & Mrs. George Dais
Dunkin’ Donuts (Raeford Rd. Location)
Kenneth & Brenda Robertson
Coastal Family Services, LLC
Market Fair 15
Sharon Mitchell
Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society
Stacey Sawyer
Adonias & Donella Lucero
Della Fowler Mol
Bottom Line Accounting
Helen C. Lupo
Mr. & Mrs. Autry Butler
Gloria & Jerry Otis Gary & Lisa Balance
Your Cause Paying Agent for Corporate Giving Program
Dr. David J. Harsant
Nan Lucas
Mr. & Mrs. William Harding
Gwen Scott
Steve & Cindy Phillips
Ashlee Campbell
William E. Pfau
Traci-Lei Sein
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WHICH WORKSHOP IS BEST FOR YOU??? Newly Diagnosed Learn about autism and discuss questions or concerns ·
Basic information about autism
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Treatment options
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Strategies for home
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Ways to advocate EVERY FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH (ODD CALENDAR MONTHS)
IEP Workshop Discuss strategies and tools that help create effective IEPs ·
Who needs an IEP?
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What is IDEA and what are my legal rights?
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How can I prepare for my IEP meeting?
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Who should come to my IEP meeting?
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What if my child needs more help? QUARTERLY
Autism Resource Roundtable Open Forum for Parents with Children Diagnosed with ASD ·
Does my child have the right IEP goals?
·
What should I do if I am having problems at my child’s school?
·
How can I get more help and support for my child?
EVERY FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH (EVEN CALENDAR MONTHS)
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The Echo
February 2015
Volume 13, Issue 6
351 Wagoner Drive, Suite 410 Fayetteville, NC 28303 Tel: 910-826-3004/3005 Fax: 910-868-5881 E-mail: autismcc@ccpfc.org www.autismcc.org
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Winner of the Autism Society of North Carolina affiliate of the Year Award—1996, 2002, & 2003
“Supporting Individuals Within The Autism Spectrum”
Membership & Donations
The Autism Society of Cumberland County is an affiliate of the Autism Society of North Carolina.
Please make checks payable to: Autism Society of Cumberland County 351 Wagoner Drive, Suite 410 Fayetteville, NC 28303
Mission Statement: The Autism Society of Cumberland County is committed to providing support and promoting opportunities which enhance the lives of individuals within the autism spectrum and their families.
Name: Parent/Caregiver Sibling
Telephone:
The Autism Society of Cumberland County strives to create a community where people within the autism spectrum and their families receive respect, services, and supports based on individual differences, needs, and preferences.
Email:
The Autism Society of Cumberland County does not take any position regarding studies of ASD, nor endorse any particular form of treatment, intervention, or therapy. This newsletter allows us to pass along current information in the field of ASD to our families and organization members.
Please remember the ASCC with your tax-deductible charitable contribution. Thank you!
Individual with ASD
Address:
Vision Statement:
Disclaimer:
Professional
A great way to help support our program is to become a member. As a member of the ASCC, you enjoy voting rights during membership meetings, you are eligible for election to the Board of Directors, and you receive priority for conference scholarships. Membership is effective for one year.
Annual Membership ($10.00) Donation $_________
FY 2014/2015 Board of Directors & Staff
Funded In Part By:
Board of Directors: Anna Finch, President Gwen Scott, Vice President Brandy Mello, Secretary Chris Leacock , Treasurer John Allen Cynthia Billops Melissa Reed Eric Williams
Staff: Jeannie Hodges, Director of Programs & Outreach Jennifer Lyden, Program & Outreach Assistant
Cumberland Community Foundation