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April 2014
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Volume 4, Issue 2
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National Autism Awareness Month!!
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In honor of National Autism Awareness Month,
Brighter, Stronger Foundation dedicates this month's newsletter edition to increase Autism awareness throughout our communities.
Autism is a developmental disability that affects one's brain's functions.
The first signs of Autism usually appear before a child is three years old.
People with Autism often:
- Find social interaction difficult.
- Have problems with verbal and non-verbal communication.
- Demonstrate restrictive and repetitive behavior.
- Show limited set of interests and activities.
April 2nd is "Light It Up Blue" day!
On this day individuals, companies, and even national landmarks (such as the Empire State Building) wear or display the color blue.
Join us as Brighter, Stronger Foundation and all of America as we light it up BLUE on Wednesday, April 2nd!!
Also feel free to check out BSF's Facebook page as we spread Autism awareness throughout the month of April!
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Remembering Avonte Oquendo
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 On October 4th, 14 year old Avonte Oquendo was last seen running out of the opened doors of his high school (courtesy of surveillance footage). A city wide search soon took place with the hope of returning this young man with Autism to his parents. Days turned into weeks, and weeks into months with no success. On January 21st, Avonte's parents received news that that no parent should ever hear. Avonte's body had been found 9 miles from his Long Island High School in the East River.
Of course the question remains, what happened? How did this young man run out of his school unnoticed and end up in the East River? Who is to blame? As parents we trust that when we release our child to his or her school, that they will return to us at the end of the day. Unfortunately, this was not the case for Avonte's parents. Brighter, Stronger Foundation hopes that no other parent will have to endure what this young man's parents are experiencing.
See below for suggested safety tips that every parent, especially those with a special needs child should practice.
SAFETY TIPS:
1. SECURE YOUR HOME-Consider contacting a professional locksmith, security company or home improvement professional to promote safety and prevention in your home. You may find it is necessary to prevent your loved one from slipping away unnoticed by installing secure dead bolt locks that require keys on both sides, a home security alarm system, inexpensive battery-operated alarms on doors, placing hook and eye locks on all doors above your child's reach, fencing your yard, adhering printable STOP SIGNS to doors, windows and other exits, etc.
2. CONSIDER A TRACKING DEVICE- Check with local law enforcement for Project Lifesaver or LoJak SafetyNet services. These tracking devices are worn on the wrist or ankle and locate the individual through radio frequency. Various GPS tracking systems are also available.
3. CONSIDER AN ID BRACELET-Medical ID bracelets will include your name, telephone number and other important information. They may also state that your child has autism and is non-verbal if applicable. If your child will not wear a bracelet or necklace, consider a temporary tattoo with your contact information.
4. TEACH YOUR CHILD TO SWIM-Swimming lessons for children with special needs are available at many YMCA locations. The final lesson should be with clothes on. Remember: teaching your child how to swim does not mean your child is safe in water. If you own a pool, fence it and if neighbors have pools, let them know of these safety precautions and your child's tendency to wander. Remove all toys or items of interest from the pool when not in use.
5. ALERT YOUR NEIGHBORS-It is recommended that caregivers plan a brief visit with neighbors to introduce their loved or provide a photograph. Knowing your neighbors can help reduce the risks associated with wandering. See the caregiver tool kit below for resources to use to alert them.
6. ALERT FIRST RESPONDERS-Providing first responders with key information before an incident occurs may improve response. Informational handouts should include all pertinent information and be copied and carried with caregivers at all times. Circulate the handout to family, neighbors, friends and co-workers, as well as first responders. See the tool kits below for resources to use to alert them.
U.S Senator Charles Schumer proposed a new law in the name of the disabled teenager, which would fit children with Autism with tracking devices. He said "Avonte's Law" would make it easier for authorities to find children with disabilities who have gone missing. Under the proposed legislation, a state funded voluntary scheme would see children's clothes fitted with a small GPS system. In the mean time, we must all do our part to protect this vulnerable population. RIP Avonte.
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Therapeutic Integration Program: Congratulations Avery!!
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Pride is when a mother shares the story of her child's accomplishments. This is exactly what was felt as Ms. Wilder shared about her son winning medals at the Special Olympics. Avery, a youth in BSF's Autism and Related Services Program, traveled to White Tail Ski Resort in Pennsylvania on February 24th with the intent to participate in his first Statewide Winter Special Olympics. What took place was an added bonus!! Avery participated in the "Snow Shoe Run", a 25 meter race, for which he won both a Bronze and Silver Medal!!!
Since Avery's participation with BSF, his mother shared that she has witnessed first hand Avery's growth. Avery has gone from being a shy and withdrawn young man, to an interactive, medal winning guy. She attributes his growth to his Brighter, Stronger Foundation experience.
The staff and clients at Brighter, Stronger Foundation congratulates Avery on his honors!!
A win for our clients is a win for everyone!!
Check out the video of Avery winning his Silver medal!!
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Adult Day Program: A Journey to Self-Discovery
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To be able to live a satisfying and happy life, one must know who they are as a person. Your likes, dislikes, fears, dreams, etc. By knowing who you are, it puts you in a better position of being treated fairly, and increases your ability to create meaningful and positive relationships with others. Many individuals who experience "identity crisis" do so because they feel torn between different versions of themselves, not really sure who the real "me" is.
For the month of March, the group explored the question "Who am I?" through the use of an "Emotional Tornado" and an "Emotion Jar" activity. These activities provided a visual of the emotions that individuals experience on a daily basis.
The journey of self-discovery can be a very rewarding one.
To register and to make transportation arrangements, please call us at 410-485-7555
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Onsite Youth Group: Who Am I?
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The journey through childhood to adolescence is a period of finding out who you are as a person. Influences such as, environment, social economical status, mental health disorders, and culture can have a profound impact on how individuals view themselves.
It is vital that we encourage our youth to be who they are without shame.
The focus for the month of March was to encourage the youth to embrace their uniqueness.
The group played a revised version of an old game called "Spin the Bottle" in which they were able to share their likes (when the positive end of the bottle landed on them) and their dislikes (when the negative end of the bottle landed on them). In addition, the clients were given the opportunity to share their talents, such as drawing and dancing, with the group.
These activities provided a platform for individuals to be comfortable with sharing who they are to a group of their peers without fear of rejection.
Please see the BSF Calendar of Events section for upcoming dates for April!!
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Job Announcements!!
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As you can see, BSF is growing and we are looking for skilled and passionate individuals to join our team. Is that you?
Please see below for a list of available job positions.
Click on the link for more details.
All interested applicants should mail their resume to jobs@brighterstrongerfoundation.com.
Have a great day!!
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Upcoming Event: NAMI Walks Maryland
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It's That Time of The Year Again!!
NAMI Walks Maryland!!!
Please consider joining the BSF Team as we walk to support
Mental Health Awareness
Location: Baltimore, Inner Harbor, West Shore Park
Date: Saturday, May 31st
Time: 3pm-6pm
Cost: FREE
*Please note that if you wish to JUST join our team and NOT create your own fundraiser page, call the office and we will sign you up for our team!!
We at Brighter, Stronger Foundation and NAMI thank you for your support!!!!
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BSF's Calendar of Events!
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Click here for BSF's Monthly Program Calendar
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Family Fun Activities!!
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April 1st
Thrifty Tuesdays and Thursdays - Enjoy a discount admission of $8 from 1 pm - 4:30 pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays January 7 through April 10, 2014. Harbor Park Garage offers $7 Roof Top only parking on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:30 pm - 5 pm, through April 10, 2014. Please pick up a follow up validation at the Museum box office. Port Discovery Children's Museum, 1- 4:30 p.m., Tickets Reqd. 410-727-8120, www.portdiscovery.org.
Help, My Child Is Anxious! - Overview of anxiety disorders and how they develop will be discussed. Will address common difficulties seen in anxious children, current treatment options, and what parents can do to help their anxious child. BCPS Greenwood Campus, Bldg. E - Room 114, 6901 Charles St., Towson, 7- 9 p.m., Reserv Reqd. by 3/31/14 410-887-5443, www.bcps.org/offices/special_ed/parent-resources.html.
April 5th
Get Connected: Special Needs Resource Fair - hosted by St. Elizabeth School, brings together therapists, experts, consultants, products, and services that promote happy, healthy, and productive lives for those with special needs. St. Elizabeth School
801 Argonne Drive, Baltimore, 9am-1:30pm. Click here to register http://www.stelizabeth-school.org/parents_students_resources_st_elizabeth.html
April 7th
NAMI Support Group - A free support group to families and caregivers of those with mental illness. The group provides a caring atmosphere to share experiences and learn important coping skills. UM Baltimore Washington Medical Center, Dr. Constantine Padussis Conference Center on the third floor, Glen Burnie, 7- 9 p.m., 410-553-8070, www.mybwmc.org.
April 11th
Trellis Services Bull Roast to Benefit Pathfinders For Autism- 7:30pm at Martin's Hunt Valley Mansion on Reisterstown Rd. Ticket cost $50. To purchase tickets click: http://trellis-services.ticketleap.com/bullroast2014/
April 12th
Jazz For Kids - Observe Jazz Appreciation Month by taking a fun-filled musical journey with teaching artist Culture Kingdom Kids. Learn about different jazz genres through storytelling, dance, craft activities, and interactive music with a real jazz musician. Included with museum admission. Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture, 830 E. Pratt Street, Baltimore, noon- 1 p.m., Ages: 6- 10, Tickets Reqd. 443-263-1800, www.rflewismuseum.org.
Spring Break FUN! - School may be out for spring break, but your kids can still learn while they have FUN at Port Discovery! Enjoy special STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) programs all week long! April 12 - 21 Port Discovery Children's Museum, Baltimore, Tickets Reqd. 410-727-8120, www.portdiscovery.org.
April 13th
Japan Festival - A festival for families and kids of all ages! Come celebrate Baltimore's sister city friendship with Japan in a Matsuri street festival. Performances include the Misako ballet, music, martial arts, and tea ceremony. Crafts and fair games for all ages,along with Japanese foods and boutique vendors. Towson University Center for the Arts, Located at the corner of Osler and Cross Campus drives, 1- 5 p.m., Ages: 1- 70, Tickets Reqd. 410-704-2807, www.towson.edu/asianarts, www.tickets.tuboxoffice.com.
April 16th
Spring Break Family Art Activities - Take a break and explore the new season with some spring-inspired art. Stop by an ArtCart or make your own work of art in the studio to take home. The Walters Art Museum, Baltimore, 10 a.m.- 3 p.m., 410-547-9000, www.thewalters.org.
Free Zumbatonic Class - An exercise class for Mommy and Princess. A fun and healthy way to exercise. Water bottle and snack provided. KupCake Spa for Gurlz, Pikesville, 6:30- 7:30 p.m., Ages: 3- 13, Reserv Reqd. 410-484-1980, www.kupcakespaforgurlz.com.
April 18th
Target $2 Family Fun Night - Join us on the third Friday of each month! General admission is only two dollars per person from 4 pm - 8 pm at the door. Port Discovery Children's Museum, Baltimore, 4- 8 p.m., Tickets Reqd. 410-727-8120, www.portdiscovery.org.
Princess Spa Night Out - Parents, it's your time to go celebrate,take in a movie, or go have a relaxing dinner. Drop your Princess of for 3 1/2 hrs of spa fun! Your Princess will receive one spa service(mani, pedi, or chocolate facial), do a fun craft, watch a movie, dance, play the Wii and do karaoke. Dinner included. KupCake Spa for Gurlz, Pikesville, 5:30- 9 p.m., Ages: 5- 13, Reserv Reqd. Tickets Reqd. 410-484-1980, www.kupcakespaforgurlz.com.
April 19th
Flashlight Egg Hunt - Need more challenge in your egg hunt? Use your night vision and a flashlight to find hidden eggs along our trails. Expert-level hunt for ages 10 to adult starts at 8 p.m. You're never too old for games and candy! Ages 5 - 12: 6-7:30pm Ages 10 & up: 8-9 p.m. (super-hard hunt). Robert E. Lee Park, 1000 Lakeside Dr., Baltimore, 6- 9 p.m., Ages: 5 and up, Reserv Reqd. Tickets Reqd. 410-887-4156, www.roberteleepark.org.
Easter Egg Roll - Bring an Easter basket and grass, then meet the Easter Bunny, play games, win prizes, make crafts, see animals, enjoy pony and hay rides, and enter an egg roll (age specified times). Plus, a special Tot Spot area and food. Pre-registration suggested. Call to register. Rose Hill Manor Park, 1611 N. Market Street, Frederick, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m., 301-600-1650, www.rosehillmuseum.com.
Egg Hunt and Craft Weekend - Children in different age groups (ages 1 to 3 and 4 to 6) will have a chance to hunt for eggs throughout the day on both Saturday and Sunday. *Please bring your own Easter baskets and we'll provide the fun! Admission charge for farm applies, but no extra charge for the egg hunt or the crafts. Clark's Elioak Farm, Ellicott City, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m., Ages: 1- 99, Tickets Reqd. 410-730-4049, www.clarklandfarm.com.
April 23rd
The Auburn School Open House - Parents will get the opportunity to tour the facility and see the classes in action, as well as learn more about our unique Social Thinking and Learning program. Please RSVP to Lauren Anderson at 410-321-4799. 1710 Dulaney Valley Road, Lutherville, 10- 11:30 a.m., Reserv Reqd. by 4/22/14 410-321-4799, www.theauburnschool.org/baltimore.
April 26th
Healthy Kids Day 2014 - The event will feature fitness and sports class demos, health screenings, healthy snacks, family activities, arts and crafts, and games. Times and activities vary by location. Family Center Y's, Times vary, www.ymaryland.org.
ROAR for Autism - For Autism Awareness Month in April, Kennedy Krieger Institute will once again bring the community together for its annual fundraiser. After biking, running, or walking, participants will enjoy the Family Festival, featuring food, live music, face painting, balloon art, and enclosed playground. Oregon Ridge Nature Center, Cockeysville, Reserv Reqd. Tickets Reqd. www.kennedykrieger.org/overview/event/roar-autism-2014.
Celebrating STEM Education in Baltimore - The Ingenuity Project will recognize the accomplishments of the brightest Baltimore City students at Celebrating STEM Education in Baltimore, a reception featuring guest speaker, Secretary of the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Joshua Sharfstein, M.D. Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Museum, Baltimore, 5:30- 8 p.m., Ages: 10- 100, Tickets Reqd. www.ingenuityproject.org.
For more family fun events, click the link below
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We thank you for your time and please feel free to contact our office if you have any questions, comments, or concerns.
Have a positive and productive day!
The Staff of Brighter, Stronger Foundation
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