June 15, 2016       Connecting you with the Minnesota autism community.
A Note from Jonah Weinberg, Executive Director
The recent, senseless tragedies we've experienced both at home and abroad are challenging for all of us. At these times the sources of fear can seem infinite, making even well-known routines difficult to face.
 
We need to acknowledge our fears, comfort each other, and find ways to help one another grow stronger so we can embrace life.
 
Human beings have an innate drive to live, even under the most challenging circumstances. This drive propels us to overcome our fears and anxieties so we can have wonderful experiences, like enjoying an ice cream cone on a hot day, spending time with someone we care about, experiencing the satisfaction solving a puzzle, or whatever that special thing is that brings you joy. 
 
Life challenges also allow us to have compassion for others - to understand anxieties, reach out to those who need an extra hand, and share trials and celebrations.
 
At the same time, it's important to acknowledge that the good things in life - joy, contentedness, calm - are achieved when we work for them. Life needs us to get out of bed. Life needs us to try.
 
AuSM is here so you don't have to try alone. We join you for social skills classes, support groups, Counseling and Consulting Services, community events, and much more. We offer supportive guidance through every life step, whenever you need us. 

AuSM Executive Director
Disability Healthcare Enrollment Event 
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families who want to learn more about Medical Assistance (MA) and/or want a Navigator's help applying for MA are invited to join The Arc Twin Cities for a disability healthcare enrollment event on Wednesday, June 22 from 4-8 p.m. Arc Navigators will be on site to answer questions and assist with initial healthcare applications for MA. Click here for more information and to get registered for this event.
AuSM Day with the Lynx July 20
The Minnesota Lynx and AuSM invite you to join us on Wednesday, July 20 at 12 p.m. as the Lynx host the Atlanta Dream. Visit the Target Center for an action packed afternoon with Lynx mascot, Prowl. Earplugs will be available at the Guest Services station in section 138 and a quiet room will be available for sensory breaks. A portion of each ticket sold through this offer will benefit AuSM. Click here for more information and to order your tickets today.
Give Twin Cities Challenge 
AuSM is pleased to be a part of the first annual Give Twin Cities Challenge, a fundraising competition organized by Minnesota Monthly magazine from May 17-June 30, 2016. AuSM encourages the Minnesota autism community to give in support of local families and individuals affected by autism. Donations made through AuSM's Give Twin Cities Crowdrise page will be totaled at the end of the challenge, and nonprofits raising the most dollars during the challenge period will be awarded prizes: 1st Place: $25,000; 2nd Place: $15,000; 3rd Place: $10,000
AuSM Golf Classic 2016
Reserve your space now to hit the links in support of AuSM's mission of enhancing the lives of individuals touched by autism in Minnesota. The 21st Annual AuSM Golf Classic will take place on Aug. 1 at the pristine Troy Burne Golf Club in Hudson, Wis. Join us for a great day of golf in support of our local autism community! Registration includes 18 holes of golf, complimentary cart, lunch, awards banquet, and opportunities to win great prizes. Save up to $100 if you register by June 30! Click here for more information, sponsorship opportunities, and to register.
Register today to learn from Professor Tony Attwood
AuSM is pleased to present Professor Tony Attwood for a full-day fall workshop event on Oct. 19: "An Aspie's Guide to Life's Challenges: Unlocking Tools for Resilience in a Complex World". Join AuSM for this rare opportunity to learn from world-renowned speaker and autism expert, Tony Attwood, who will share his insights and strategies for navigating emotions, adolescence, relationships, and employment. The fall workshop will take place at the Schulze Grand Atrium at the University of St. Thomas School of Law Minneapolis Campus. Register today to be a part of this unique event for parents, caregivers, educators, psychologists, therapists, direct support professionals, and individuals with autism. Click here for more information and to register.
AuSM Summer Camps
AuSM residential camps are full, but we have a few openings in Session 1 of Wahode day camp. Click here for information about scholarships and waivers. Registration for Wahode day camp will be open until 3 p.m. on Friday, June 17.

Staff-to-Camper Ratio: 1:2; Day camp
Session 1 (July 11-15)
Work at AuSM Summer Camps
Want to help with a summer activity that will be personally rewarding and support the Minnesota autism community? Consider working at an AuSM Camp for a week or more. Counselors are needed for Camps Wahode and Hand in Hand and Camp Discovery needs cabin support staff (cabin support staff must have previous experience working with youth with autism). 

Registered nurses also are needed for the Camp Hand in Hand weeks. For more information, contact Terri Borowick, AuSM Director of Camp Programs at camp@ausm.org, or click here.
Summer Social Skills - Classes Filling Quickly
Now that summer is nearly here, AuSM summer social skills classes are filling quickly! Register today for the AuSM Social Skills classes of your choice to ensure your spot in those classes. Click here for information about scholarships and waivers.


Predator & Prey: June 20-24, 2016

June 20-24, 2016


July 11-15

Crazy Creatures: July 18-22, 2016
 
July 25-29, 2016

July 19-22, 2016

July 25-29

AUGUST

Sessions 3 and 4: August 1-5, 2016

Zoo Crew and Design: August 8-12, 2016

Lowry Nature Center: July 19-22, 2016
Eastman Nature Center: August 16-19, 2016
AuSM Skillshops
Food Fight! Nutritional Strategies for Children with ASD and Their Families
August 30, 2016
Location: West Metro Learning Connections
Presenter: Anne Kelly, MD, MPH

Research has proven that children with ASD have numerous nutrient deficiencies and gastrointestinal disorders that contribute to poor health and behavioral symptoms. Sensory issues, food refusal, and peculiar cravings affect many children wtih ASD, making it difficult to introduce healthier foods. Receive information on the use of whole food powders to make nutrient-rich shakes that are affordable, dairy-free, soy-free, and gluten-free, and discuss strategies that will simplify the nutrition routine for the whole family.

September 20: Autism and Anxiety in Adults held at Merrick, Inc.
2016-2017 Complete AuSM Skillshops Schedule Announced Soon!
Therapy and Support
With more than 80 years of combined experience with individuals with autism, AuSM's team of highly trained and licensed therapists wants you to feel comfortable and knowledgeable as we undertake this journey together, striving for positive, individual-focused goals. 


AuSM sends out a monthly "Ask the Therapist" e-mail where AuSM's therapists answer questions submitted by the Minnesota autism community. Click here to read the "Ask the Therapist" archive. To submit a question, e-mail info@ausm.org.
Kickstands up for AuSM this spring/summer
Join AuSM and these fun motorcycle ride organizers at events planned in support of the Minnesota autism community.
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Information and Resources
Autism Community Events and Fundraisers
Autism Society of Minnesota | 651.647.1083 | info@ausm.org |  www.ausm.org

Established in 1971, the Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to education, advocacy and support designed to enhance the lives of those affected by autism from birth through retirement. AuSM does not sell or share the contact information of our members, volunteers, donors or supporters.

Autism Society of Minnesota, 2380 Wycliff St. #102, St. Paul, MN 55114
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