AROUND THE JERSEY SHORE

Ocean County Library’s Online Autism Resources Center

TOMS RIVER – Individuals with autism and their families fi nd access to quality support systems through the Ocean County Library’s online Autism Resources Center.

Now, OCL is pleased to announce that the listings are larger and more diversified and offers free listings of responsible professional agencies, nonprofit groups and companies that address needs associated with the autism spectrum.

The expanded online menu features:

Resources – Autism-related organizations, social media groups, Parenting magazine’s “Best Autism Apps,” digital and print books, a remote-learning guide, augmentative and alternative communication devices, and a sensory cookbook.

Community Events – Links to Ocean County Special Needs Registry, Toms River Field of Dreams, Rutgers Center for Adult Autism Services, Children’s Specialized Hospital activities and programs for children and adults, Disability Rights New Jersey, NJCSOC Assistive

Technology Funds, and PerformCare summer camps.

OCL Videos – Recorded, archival presentations given during OCL’s annual Autism Resources Fairs and a virtual “tour” of OCL’s Sensory Spaces, viewable on the Library’s YouTube channel.

Sensory Space – Photos and descriptions of the components Sensory Spaces in OCL’s Toms River and Jackson branches, plus a calendar of related events.

This Is My Library – Social stories applicable to each OCL branch.

Where to Go and What to Do – Recreational, educational, entertainment, and dining venues throughout New Jersey that mindfully provide accommodations for individuals with autism and their families.

OCL staffers regularly update the information with additions of reputable, established organizations dedicated to supporting individuals with autism. See all the current information at theocean countylibrary.org/autism.

Ca us Island Nature Walks

TOMS RIVER – Be a part of a 40-year Ocean County tradition! Join a park naturalist and follow in the footsteps of such legendary local environmentalists as A. Morton and Betty Cooper, Dorothy Hale and Pete McClain. Be prepared to discover the fascinating and diverse wonders of the natural world.

No registration required. Walks are from 2 to 3 p.m. Open to all ages.

September 2 & 3 – Naturalist Choice

September 9 & 10 – Butterfly and Bog Garden Stroll

September 16 & 17 – Salt Marsh Safari

September 23 & 24 – Farewell to the Osprey

Volunteers Needed To Help At Blood Drives

NEW JERSEY – New Jersey Blood Services (NJBS), a division of New York Blood Center, which provides blood for local patients, is looking for a few good volunteers.

The blood drive volunteer is an integral member of our team whose tasks include assisting donors with registration and/ or at the refreshment area. No medical background necessary. Volunteers should be outgoing to provide friendly customer service, be able to perform tasks as needed and must provide proof of COVID Vaccination prior to volunteering. Must have transportation.

All training is provided including additional precautions for the safety of our team and blood donors. For additional information call or text Sharon Zetts, Manager, NJBS Volunteer Services at 732-850-8906, Monday to Thursday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

To apply on line as a blood drive volunteer, go to: nybc.org/support-us/volunteer-nybc/ volunteer-application.

United For Impact Wine Event

RED BANK – Save the date for the United For Impact Wine Event, October 5 from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Navesink Country Club, 50 Luff burrow Lane, Red Bank.

Enjoy exquisite wines paired with delicious food to benefit the critical work of United Way of Monmouth and Ocean Counties. More information to follow.

Free Senior Transportation

TOMS RIVER – Toms River Township is offering free transpiration for seniors to local stores, doctor’s appointments, to the Toms River Senior Center for activates and outreach. This service is avaible to Toms River Township residents only. To schedule a ride, call 732-341-1000