eNewsletter
Upcoming BCASC Events |
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Philadelphia Soul Tickets for Autism
Grant's Gladiators is once again selling discounted tickets on the 100 Level. Ticket prices are ONLY $13 each (53% off face value) to any of the NINE 2014 Home games for the 2012 & 2013 American Conference Champion Philadelphia Soul Arena Football team.
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Information from other Autism Groups |
 ReachMD XM Satellite Radio Show ReachMD is a healthcare communications and education network dedicated to helping busy healthcare professionals stay abreast of clinical research, treatment advances, expert opinions, and patient care strategies. Listeners can 'tune in' to programs on iHeart Radio, enjoy online streaming radio, download podcasts, participate in web-enabled segments on www.ReachMD.com, and access content through the MedicalRadio mobile app. "The Autism Spectrum" is hosted by Paul Rokuskie and features internationally recognized medical & mental health professionals in the field of autism, global researchers, educators, gov't officials, parents, advocates and individuals with Autism.
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AACES Service Learning Center
D�j� vu Thrift store, located at 2235 Veterans Highway in Levittown, is now a Service Learning Center for young adults with AS or PDD-NOS. Trainees work with AACES trained job coaches and have the opportunity to put into practice learned work and social skills necessary for future success in the workplace. Skills assessed and addressed include: attention to detail, spatial awareness, following directions, listening, physical stamina, organization, dealing with unexpected behaviors, managing feelings, independent thinking, distractibility, and multi-tasking. In addition, trainees will become familiar with time management, issues related to transportation, meal planning, dress, grooming, self awareness, working relationships and self advocacy. Throughout training, workplace strategies will be identified, and implemented, and can be used in future employment settings. All proceeds from our Service Learning Center go towards our AACES programs, so please consider contributing your used items to D�j� vu. The AACES Service Learning Center is funded through a grant provided by Foundations Community Partnership and Bucks County Department of Behavioral Health. If you have any questions please contact Devon Punchello, AACES Coordinator at 215-757-6916 ext. 222, or by email at [email protected].
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Parent Group Invitation
Are you the parent or caregiver of an adult (18 to 40 years old) who has been diagnosed with autism/autismspectrum disorder? Do you live in Philadelphia or the close-in suburbs? We're forming a parents/caregivers group to energize and support one another as our adult children on the spectrum navigate life after 18. Let's share ideas and solutions regarding:
Independence and emotional separation
Jobs
Independent housing
Social life
Love relationships
This is an informal group - not affiliated with any organization. It is just a group of people experiencing the highs and lows of life with an adult son or daughter on the spectrum, eager to learn more and share successful strategies.
Contact by e-mail [email protected] and express your interest in joining.
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Autism Channel
The Autism Channel, dedicated to those interested in autism spectrum disorders, has begun feeding streaming HD video. The channel features a wide range of shows such as autism research reports, early diagnosis, speech therapy, music therapy, specialized cooking and mainstream and alternative treatments. So far organizations that are participating are:
The Autism Society
The Chileda Institute
Autism Service Dogs of America
U.S. Asperger and Autism Association
Western University of Health Science
TERI Campus of Life |
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Bux-Mont Panthers Cheer & Dance
All boys and girls are welcomed to join the team. Weekly classes/instruction for children with special needs are at a reduced rate of $25 per month during summer & regular season. There is also a small, $15 registration and costume charge. Click here for program details.
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Hang Out With Friends Of Doylestown, PA
Helping Young Adults Access The Community Through Various Supervised Activities. We are looking for young adults (18-23) with Aspergers/High Functioning Autism who are interested in participating in a new program of various supervised activities typically enjoyed by young adults.
Participants would meet at a central location in Doylestown and then travel by van to various activities. A maximum of 10 participants for each activity. We hope to plan at least 4 activities per month, generally on the weekend. Activities would include bowling, sporting events (Sixers, Phillies, etc.), movies, ice skating. Outdoor activities such as hiking and canoeing, visits to museums and plays. Additional activities would be planned according to the interests of the group.
We hope to begin activities in the first quarter of 2012.
Participants would be accompanied by a social worker/teacher and an assistant who will also be providing transportation.
Please email Kathleen Czupich at [email protected] |
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Adults Ages 18-25 Needed for Brain Imaging Study
What are the goals of this research study?
Our brains manage to represent an enormous variety of things that we see. The goal of the study is to better understand how the brain encodes all this visual information, and how some people's brains (such as individuals with an autism spectrum disorder) might work differently to represent the same thing.
Who can be a part of this research study?
Adults between the ages of 18 and 25 may take part. We need individuals diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) as well as adults without ASD for comparison purposes.
What will we be asked to do?
Participants will need to make at least two visits to the Center for Autism Research at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Visits will be scheduled at the convenience of the participant. Depending on a participant's needs, most participants will complete the study in two to three visits.
Participants in this study will receive social, behavioral, intelligence (IQ), and other standardized testing. Eligible participants will have brain imaging (magnetic resonance imaging, MRI; and electroencephalography, EEG) while they perform visual tasks.
Individuals who take part will receive a comprehensive evaluation and feedback report.
What are the benefits of taking part in this research study?
There are no direct benefits of taking part in this study.
Are there any costs to take part in the study
There is no cost to participate. Participants will be paid for their time and reimbursed for their travel expenses.
I want to help! Who do I call?
If you are interested in learning more about participation, please respond by phone or email with your phone number and the best time to reach you, and one of the members of the study team will contact you.
The Study of Visual Perception and Neural Encoding at the Center for Autism Research at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia is looking for participants!
Study Contact: Lori Le, 267-426-1469, [email protected]
www.centerforautismresearch.com
Understanding Anxiety in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders
What are the goals of this research study?
As many as 84% of individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) also have symptoms of anxiety. These anxiety symptoms can be as difficult for these individuals and their families as the core symptoms of ASD. This research study will look at reported and physical symptoms of anxiety and try to discover biological explanations for them through genetic sampling and brain imaging. The knowledge gained from this study may help to develop new treatments for individuals with ASD and anxiety.
Who can be a part of this research study?
This research study needs individuals between the ages of 7 and 17. Children with ASDs are needed to take part, even if they do not have problems with anxiety. Typically developing children with and without anxiety problems are also needed to participate. Participants may not have metal in the body (for example, braces).
What will participants be asked to do?
Families will need to come to The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia in Philadelphia or in King of Prussia. Study visits will take places in 2-4 visits, depending on what is most convenient for the family taking part. Children taking part in the research study will receive social, behavioral, intelligence (IQ), and other developmental testing. Children will also have brain imaging and will be asked to give small samples of blood or saliva. Lastly, children will be asked to complete computer tasks while we record basic responses including eye gaze patterns, heart rate, perspiration rate, and breathing. Parents will be asked to answer questions over the phone, in person, and on paper.
What are the benefits of taking part in this research study? Is there a cost? Individuals who take part will receive detailed evaluations and reports. There is no cost to participate and insurance will not be billed. Families will be paid for their time and reimbursed for travel costs.
Study Contact: Chrissy DeLussey, 267-426-4906, [email protected]
www.centerforautismresearch.com
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AACES (Asperger's Awareness, Community Education, and Support): Junior Coffeehouse
The Junior Coffeehouse is for young people with Asperger's or PDD-NOS. You can join us weekly for group discussions, games, movies, puzzles, and snacks. It is a chance to meet new people and make new friends!
For ages: 16- 21 yrs, who have not graduated from High School
Time: Every third Thursday of the month, 5pm-7:45pm
Interview: You must interview before starting! Call Danielle, AACES staff member to set up an interview 215-757-3300.
The AACES Center Location and Hours: Suite 012 at the Oxford Valley Mall Near the fountain entrance to the mall
Questions? Contact: Family Service Association, Devon Punchello, MSW Coordinator of AACES, 215-757-6916 ext. 222 or [email protected]
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AACES (Asperger's Awareness, Community Education, and Support): Parent Involvement & Support
Parents and caregivers of transitional age youth and young adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder experience unique challenges, concerns and feelings as they help their child move toward independence.
Through educational programs and a monthly parent support group, our staff work with family members to answer questions and provide access to community resources. We offer parents the choice of attending support groups at either of our two locations: Langhorne and Doylestown, PA.
Interested in joining our Parent Support Group? Contact Devon Punchello, MSW at 215.757.6916, ext.222 or [email protected]
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Central Bucks YMCA Ability Programs
Ability Program at the CBFYMCA offers Adapted Aquatics, Fitness, Activities and Mainstreamed classes and lessons that provide lifelong health and activity options for children and adults with disABILITIES and special needs.
STARS After 2 is an after-school program created to accommodate the student with special needs who does not need babysitting, but rather than be left alone, they can come to a place with peers that offers social and fitness opportunities. The program now runs 5 days a week, Monday-Friday from 2:30 to 5:00 PM. For those who attend 5 days a week, transportation from school can be offered.
SEEKERS is our oldest recreational program here at the Central Bucks Family YMCA for adults (18+) with special needs. This popular program has been running for over 35 years and has more than 50 enrolled participants September through June. Their activities range from team games & bingo nights to holiday celebrations that include lots of dancing and food. In addition, our participants can choose to join a Boy Scout or Girl Scout troop.
If you are interested in finding out more about any of the above programs, please contact Associate Director, Ability Programs, Meghan Halberstadt at 215-348-8131 ext. 1136 or email at [email protected].
Please keep in mind the Central Bucks Family YMCA never turns away participants due to financial limitations. Here at the CBF YMCA we offer financial assistance and have been able to provide many families funding in order to participate in our program.
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AHA! Studio for Integrated Therapies
Individual and group therapy services created to support the entire family. Current programs include:
- Dancin'Play social skills groups (age 8-12)
- Dancin'Play Yoga for teens (ages 13-18)
- Dancin'Yoga (for parents)
- Mother's Of Special Kids (MOSK), a monthly support group to help Moms reclaim their personal identity.
Click here for more information.
Or call now to find out more: 267-261-3779
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Sibling Support Group, A place where Brothers & Sisters are Special too
Date: 3rd Saturday of every month
Time: 10:30am-12:00pm
Where: Ivyland Counseling Center, 1210 Old York Road, Suite 202, Warminster, PA 18974
To register for this SIBLING SUPPORT GROUP or for more information please contact: Rosalie Jacobs M.Ed, BCB at [email protected] or 215-444-9204, ext. 13 |
Prelude Project: Community Conservatory
Creative Arts therapy for people with special needs and disabilities
4459 W. Swamp Road � Doylestown, PA 18902
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Miracle League of Bucks County
Miracle League of Bucks County provides an opportunity for children with special needs to play the game of baseball. This organization is in the process of raising funds to build a baseball field in Northampton Township built especially for children with physical and developmental handicaps. It will provide a flat rubberized surface that looks just like a baseball field and provide access for wheelchairs and walkers. For more information go to www.miracleleaguenhpa.org
For More Information: www.MiracleLeagueNHPA.org
484-386-6115
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Spectrum Parents Group
The Growth Opportunity Center, Gloria Dei Church, 550 Welsh Rd., Huntingdon Valley, PA
An 8-week group therapy course for parents/caregivers of children with Autism/Asperger's/PDD NOS. Covered by insurance. Start date and meeting time contingent on enrollment. Call (215) 947-8654, ext. 390
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Pink Panthers Dance Teams
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Benefits Counseling Program
The Benefits Counseling Program (BCP) will help you understand the work rules and regulations and assist you in accessing the work incentives under SSI and SSDI programs.
Formally known as WIPA, our Benefits Counseling Program will continue to provide high quality counseling services to Social Security beneficiaries in Bucks, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties.
1414 N. Cameron Street, Suite C, Harrisburg, Pa 17103, 1-800-692-7443 x309, 717-236-0192 fax, [email protected] |
Upcoming events for other Autism Groups |
Social Skills Group
Individually tailored lessons conducted in a small staff to student ratio to increase communication, social interaction, cooperative play skills, direction following and more.
Activities include: Music and Movement, Games, Scrapbooking, Jewelry Making, Lego Building, Story, Comic Strip and Movie Creations, & more!
Tuesday evenings: 14-17 year olds: 7:00-8:00
Thursday evenings
3-5 Year Olds: 3:00-4:00 pm
6-9 year olds: 5:00-6:00 pm
10-13 year olds: 6:30-7:30 pm
Classes to begin when we have adequate enrollment.
Run by Erin Bertoli: Certified Special Education Teacher & Board Certified Behavior Analyst
Cost of classes might covered by insurance. (Not Keystone Mercy) Financial assistance may be available for private pay. Interested? Contact Erin Bertoli with questions: 609-947-3997 or [email protected]
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We are looking for young adults (18-24) with Aspergers/High Functioning Autism who are interested in participating in a new program of various facilitated activities typically enjoyed by young adults.
Participants meet at a central location in Doylestown and then travel by van to various activities. A maximum of 10 participants for each activity. At least 3 activities per month are planned on Saturdays. Activities include bowling, sporting events (Sixers, Phillies, etc.), movies, museums and plays, outdoor activities such as hiking and canoeing. Future activities are planned according to the interests of the group.
Previous activities in March and April include: Bowling, Museums, Crystal Cave, Sixer's, Trenton Thunder, Hiking at Ringing Rocks
Participants are accompanied by a facilitator and an assistant who also provides transportation. Please email Kathleen Czupich at [email protected]
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AACES Coffee House
Where: Family Service Association, Georgetown Commons, Suite 1, 708 Shady Retreat Road, Doylestown, PA 18902
When: Thursdays from 3:30 p.m. to 7:45 p.m.
Join other adults (age 18+) for a weekly socialization group for individuals on the Autism Spectrum (ie. Asperger's Syndrome). Take part in activities, conversations and educational groups focused on topics that matter to you. For more information, contact Devon Punchello at [email protected] or (215) 757-3300 x 351.
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Glee Club
Date: Every other Tuesday
Where: St. Vincent de Paul, 654 Hatboro Road, Richboro, PA 18954
When: 7:00pm-8:00pm
Please come out and join Autism Cares Foundation and Monaghan Music for our Glee Club Program! We sing and learn all kinds of songs from Katy Perry to the Beatles and MORE!!
May 13
May 27
June 10
We are please asking that parents/caretakers be present at all times to assist their child during the program. This is a free program for ages 6 to 25! If you have any questions, please contact [email protected]. Mary Pagel and Bill Monaghan (215) 559-CARE (2273)
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5th Annual Gala & Auction
Date: Friday May 2, 2014
Where: Hyatt at the Bellevue located in Downtown Philadelphia
The evening is sure to impress with very special guests and opportunities that you don't want to miss! If you are able to support our Gala & Auction by being an event sponsor, providing an item(s) for our live or silent auctions, by providing a donation at any level, or if you would like to attend: Please visit our website, Gala & Auction Information
Or contact Jasmine Ridgeway, [email protected]
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Huddle up for Autism
Date: May 3-4, 2014
The Philadelphia Eagles and their partners are ready for you to Huddle Up for Autism! Click here for a coupon from Sports Authority. We hope to see you this weekend!
This year, in an effort to expand the Huddle Up experience across the region, the Philadelphia Eagles and the Center for Autism Research (CAR) will help local businesses transform their stores into fun, "autism-friendly" environments on Saturday, May 3 and Sunday, May 4. The goal is to make the shopping experience easier for guests who are accompanied by family members and friends with ASD. This expansion of the "Huddle Up for Autism" experience will join the traditional event when it returns to Lincoln Financial Field in 2015 after stadium renovations are complete.
Participating stores include Bob's Discount Furniture (King of Prussia, PA; Cherry Hill, NJ; Wilmington, DE) and Sports Authority (Montgomeryville, PA; Exton, PA; Turnersville, NJ; Mt. Laurel, NJ), Play Cafe (Bryn Mawr, PA), and Nest (Philadelphia, PA). Each of those locations will have a CAR representative on-site should an issue arise. Additionally, staff members from all participating businesses will have been briefed on how to best accommodate families living with autism.
Some of these in-store updates will include having small toys and activities available in times of distress, having ear plugs accessible for children who may be hyper-sensitive to sound, lowering the volume of music, and providing access to quiet spaces for those who need them. Additionally, representatives from CAR will be on hand to answer questions and provide educational material on ASD for shoppers. Finally, some stores will have fun items like Eagles giveaways, Eagles cheerleaders, face painters, and more during select hours. To see the planned events and times for each location, please click the link below!
Click here for more information and to see participating locations.
Please spread the word to friends and family members! We hope to see you this weekend!
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Sensory Friendly Movie: The Amazing Spider-Man 2
Date: Sunday May 4, 2014
Where: UA Oxford Valley Movie Theater, Langhorne PA
When: 11:00am (doors open at 10:40am)
If you have any questions, please contact [email protected]
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Bounce U Night
Date: Monday May 5, 2014
Where: Bounce U Langhorne PA
When: 7:00-pm-8:00pm
**Sign-in starting at 6:50pm- no earlier please**
If you have any questions, please contact [email protected]
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4th Annual Prom "A Night in Paris"
Date: Friday May 9, 2014
Where: Council Rock High School South, Cafeteria, 2002 Rock Way, Holland, PA 18954
When: 6:30-pm-9:30pm
This is a free event for children 14-25 who are on the autism spectrum.
We are asking for dress jackets and ties for the men; dresses for the ladies! Please, no blue jeans.
Parents/caregivers must remain in attendance throughout the event.
If you have any questions, please contact [email protected]
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Distinguished Lecture Series Presents
"Social Skills in Autism Spectrum Disorder: Across Development & Context"
Date: Friday May 30, 2014
Where: Temple University Ambler Campus, 580 Meetinghouse Road, Ambler, PA 19002
When: 12:30-pm-3:30pm
Presented by: Jill Locke, PhD and Susan Williams White, PhD
Click here to reserve a seat
Please allow yourself 15 minutes to park and walk to the building.
Event Contact:
Julianne Fretz, Center for Autism Research (CAR) at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia
[email protected] or 267-426-3518
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ICare4Autism International Autism Conference
Date: June 30-July 2, 2014
Where: Hotel Pennsylvania, NYC
Click to register
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