Autism Society of Indiana
For many people, the New Year brings with it a renewed sense of opportunity. It is a time when many people are setting new goals for personal growth. Setting goals is also a significant part of any good treatment program that is based on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).
The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
Begin the new year with a new career! The Arc of Indiana is seeking a senior director of engagement to join The Arc Advocacy Network team! Interested, please reply! Know someone who would be great for this position, please share!
ARI Newsletter
Last month, we announced our 2022 ARI Autism Research Grant recipients. We thank our volunteers and Scientific Advisory Panel members for their dedicated support throughout the review and approval process. We look forward to exciting findings in the year to come.
The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
Carol-Anne and Don Hossler have always worked to help their son, Johnathon, achieve. When they were told by his teachers that they could never expect him to be able to work they took it upon themselves to keep him engaged in his community and build job skills by crafting a volunteer job for him. Each week, Johnathon picked up canned goods from his neighbors and delivered them to Monroe Community Kitchen. The program came to be known as “Handin-Hand.”
My Autism Ally
This group is for caregivers of those on the autism spectrum such as parents, grandparents, adult siblings or foster parents. The Allen County Autism Support Group is the longest continuously running autism support group in Northeast Indiana and is open to anyone who wants help with local resources, or advice from other autism parents who have “been there and done that”. Regardless of age, diagnosis or functioning level of your loved one on the spectrum, this group can help.
The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
The Arc of Indiana and Self-Advocates of Indiana congratulates all of our 2022 Impact Award recipients. It was wonderful to celebrate good people doing good thinks to make a difference in the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
The Arc of Indiana & Self-Advocates of Indiana Virtual Conference & Impact Awards Celebration is just around the corner! Self-advocates, family members, and DSPs can attend at no cost, but registration is required. An email with your access links will be sent prior to the conference.
The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
Its getting closer! Register for our free virtual conference, taking place November 30, by Friday, November 18! While there is no cost to attend for self-advocates, family members, and DSPs, you do need to register and select the events you want to attend virtually. Zoom links will be sent to you closer to the conference date.
Autism Beacon
Lighthouse Autism Center is thrilled to announce that our building renovation at our South Bend center is now complete and ready for additional learners! The expansion of our clinic provides additional services to over 21 families and creates over 27 new jobs.
Autism Society of Indiana
“Autism is not a rubber stamp, blotting out one’s individual identity as if canceling a passport. Autistics, like the rest of the human race, deserve a culture where flourishing is possible.” Kate Gladstone, a member of the Autism Society of America’s Council of AutisticAdvisors, shares a personal account of systematic bullying and provides tips on how we can create a more accepting world for Autistic people.
My Autism Ally
Our morning caregiver support group is open to all caregivers- parents, grandparents, foster parents or siblings of individuals regardless of disability- aging, developmental, intellectual or physical. This group is a great opportunity for you to get emotional support, encouragement and relevant information from others who share a similar journey.
The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
Join us for our Virtual Conference & Impact Awards Celebration on November 30! Our speakers include Cathy Robinson, DDRS associate director, who will provide critical updates on the “state of the state” in IDD services; and Liz Weintraub, a nationally recognized self-advocate who serves as senior advocacy specialist at the Association of University Centers on Disability.
Autism Society Indiana
Check out whats going on at the Autism Society of Indiana this week in October! Upcoming support groups, National Hispanic Heritage Month, and more!
My Autism Alliance Newsletter
The 2022 Autism Acceptance Walk was a HUGE success. Because of your support we raised $40, 456.75! We are humbled by your generosity and are looking forward to putting those dollars to work in our community. Be sure to check out more photos on our website https://www.myautismally.org/autism-acceptance-walk. Mark your calendar for next year’s event. We’ll be back at the Allen County Fairgrounds on Sunday, September 10, 2023. The Indiana Autism Alliance will be co-sponsoring this event!
HANDS in Autism
Our small groups, community connections, and multi-day virtual interest groups are packed full of fun and insightful topics this fall! Individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, family members, caregivers, and those interested in learning more are invited to join for one or more sessions per week to learn about topics like Disability Employment Awareness Month, emotional self-regulation skills, self-care skills, and more!
The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
With the passage of Employment First legislation, the state of Indiana has prioritized the shift of services away from sheltered work to community integrated employment. Check out “Transitioning from Sheltered Work to Community Work,” one of the employment training videos available in The Arc of Indiana Academy.
Autism Society Indiana
Soaring for Autism is a unique experience for individuals of all ages with autism. We know that traveling can be difficult for some children and adults with autism. We also know that preparation is the key to helping make the travel experience easier. Participants with autism and their companion (parents, caregivers, friends, siblings) will experience the steps most people take when coming to the airport.
The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
We encourage you to read an important op-ed by The Arc of Indiana leader Kim Dodson on what’s at stake for people with disabilities at the Supreme Court this fall in the #Talevski case. The implications of this case reach into so many programs that people with disabilities rely on for health, wellbeing, and access to an independent life. Read: Treatment of patient at Indiana nursing home at center of U.S. Supreme Court Case.
HANDS in Autism
It is a common practice to give a young patient a sticker or balloon for a job well done at a doctor’s office. However, patients with autism spectrum disorder may also need to be reminded about the reward that is waiting for them at the end of the visit to serve as a motivation to stay on task and compliant. A reward schedule can be a great way to help a patient focus on the positive. You can give a token for each procedure or step, which helps structure and reward procedures. Common examples of a final reward include stickers, a toy, or a planned trip from the caregiver, depending on what the individual likes.
Autism Rocks and Rolls
Autism Rocks and Rolls Corporation was started by 20-year-old Sam Mitchell, in October of 2019. It began with a simple interest in media when he was a junior in high school and has led to him becoming an entrepreneur by creating his own NonProfit and podcast, Autism Rocks and Rolls Corporation. His nonprofit and advocacy offer public speaking, podcast coaching, podcast editing, sponsorships, ad space, merchandise, public speaking, educational supplements, guest appearances, and guest space on his podcast.
The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
It was an exciting four days, August 15-18, 2022 as The Arc of Indiana and Self-Advocates of Indiana launched a new leadership training program, made possible by the Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities and support from the National Leadership Consortium on Developmental Disabilities.
Autism Beacon August Newsletter
In this month’s issue, read about:
- Autism Resource Fair
- New Lighthouse coming to Decatur, IL
- Child Spotlight
- Staff Spotlight
- Resource of the Month
- Upcoming Community Events
Special Needs Living – August Issue
In this month’s issue, read about:
- Mindful and Modern ABA Therapies
- Meet the Special Needs Living Team
- Bike Riding for Kids
- Local Events
- Adaptability, Mobility, and Sense-Around
- Indoor Sensory Space
HANDS in Autism News and Updates
HANDS in Autism®, at Indiana University School of Medicine, IU Health, and Riley Children’s Health, is expanding services throughout Indiana and looking for community trainers interested in joining our team! Our trainers are essential in coaching teams, carrying out assessments and facilitating programming for adolescent and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, like autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
Join a progressive and energized interdisciplinary team focused on building upon the strengths of individuals in achieving the optimal level of inclusion and success within their communities.
The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
DDRS has scheduled several online sessions for individuals and families to learn about Medicaid Waiver redesign activities, what efforts have been made, and what ideas have been identified for changes over the next two years. These online meetings will have time for additional input about potential pilot projects that would help meet the needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In addition, DDRS staff will share highlights of what will be released this summer in The Path Forward – a summary document outlining priority areas for identified upcoming waiver changes.
The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
Indiana’s new Education Scholarship Account is now open for family and provider applications. Families need to apply by August 5th! The program allows eligible parents/guardians who have a child enrolled in special education services at a non-public school (and do not receive an Indiana Choice Scholarship) to establish an Education Scholarship Account (ESA) to be used for their child’s education expenses.
Local Community Cadre News
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to gain real-world experience educating youth with disabilities while gaining feedback and coaching to take back to your own classroom or setting! One of our most popular trainings of the year, Summer Intensive Training for School & Community Service Personnel, is right around the corner – and it’s not too late to register and get 25% OFF with the code HANDS25! Session II (5 consecutive days; online or onsite): July 18-22 Mon-Fri | 8am-5pm EST.
HANDS in Autism – Summer Programming Opportunities
With summer upon us, it is a time when many families and individuals are looking for ways to join or engage in new activities. Whether looking to structure time within a week, build new skills, learn about accessible resources, or just have a chance to connect with others, HANDS in Autism® has a range of individual and group programming options for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and their families/caregivers.
Autism Beacon – June Edition
ABA has long been the gold standard for autism therapy. Research shows that building motivation and rewarding success is effective in delivering superior outcomes for children. Lighthouse Autism Center is offering an innovative approach to ABA therapy called Lighthouse Fusion™. Lighthouse Fusion integrates ABA therapy and speech therapy into a one-of-a-kind clinical model. Designed by Lighthouse’s team of dually certified BCBA/SLPs, some of only a handful in the world, children benefit from a team of world-class clinicians collaborating on goal development and delivering therapy.
Autism Eye Newsletter
Our Star of the Month demonstrates how well it’s possible for visitor attractions to embrace being autism-friendly. In fact, earlier this month the International Centre for Life (referred to simply as Life by those who know it) won an international award for its innovative work with autistic communities. Out of more than 320 science centers and museums across Europe, it walked away with one of only two special awards at a ceremony in Heilbronn, Germany.
The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
The Duke Energy Foundation has awarded $25,000 to The Arc of Indiana Foundation to support the foundation’s Erskine Green Training Institute (EGTI). The grant is part of awards totaling over $330,000 to 16 organizations working to create a pipeline of skilled workers prepared to meet Indiana’s workforce needs.
Indiana Special Needs Magazine – June 2022
In this month’s issue, read about:
- Meet the Spychala Family: Karin and Her Daughter Helena
- Sensory Circuits: How to Create One at Home
- The ABC’s of IEP’s
- Non-Profit Spotlight: VIPS – Visually Impaired Preschool Services
Practical Pointers for Medical Professionals
Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) face daily challenges. Being aware of ASD characteristics and using simple strategies can significantly improve your interactions and increase compliance. Explore resources at this link!
The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
DDRS has contracted with The Arc of Indiana to provide a series of webinars for case managers and providers of home and community based Medicaid Waiver services under the Family Supports Waiver and Community Integration and Habilitation (CIH) Waiver. Case managers and providers are encouraged to register for each webinar. However, webinars will be recorded and available at The Arc of Indiana Academy for viewing at a later date.
Autism Society Indiana
Welcome to the Autism Acceptance Month! This month is dedicated to not only awareness, but acceptance, action, inclusion and celebration. Continue to stay connected and check out all the latest news at the Autism Society of Indiana. Our mission is to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. Let us walk alongside you this year because The Connection is YOU! If you have any questions or concerns please reply to the sender and/or send an email directly to mlove@inautism.org.
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Autism Eye Newsletter
It was back in June 2018 that Autism Eye first covered the campaign that Paula McGowan has led for health professionals to undergo compulsory training in autism and learning disabilities. It followed the death of her 18-year-old son, Oliver, after doctors dismissed the family’s warnings and gave him antipsychotic medication, despite medical records showing he had an intolerance to such drugs.
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Practical Pointers for Medical Professionals
Do your patients with ASD have trouble with toilet training? We created an infographic to help with the key ideas and strategies to help caregivers with toilet training. Online self-paced training on toilet training is coming out next month!
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Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program provides critical support for millions of people with disabilities and their families to be able to afford necessities like food and rent. But SSI has many rules that make it hard for people to save money and get out of poverty.
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ARI News for May 2022
It’s been a very busy time for all of us at ARI with the resumption of our in-person scientific think tank, live online webinars, the facilitation of an expert panel for families and ASD individuals experiencing trauma in Ukraine, and the coordination of virtual presentations by a contingent of U.S. experts for the annual Moscow autism conference.
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The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
Tuesday, May 3rd is Primary Election Day. Exercise your right to vote! Know your rights!
- You have the right to vote privately and independently.
- You have the right to vote, even if you have a guardian.
- You have the right to have assistance to vote.
- Assistance must be requested before you enter the voting booth.
- You may receive assistance from poll workers or a family member,
friend, or another person of your choosing. - You may not receive assistance from your employer or union representative.
- You have the right to an accessible polling location. All locations must have at least one accessible voting machine and the facility, including entrances and pathways, must be accessible.
Find your polling place, check your ballot, and more at IndianaVoters.com
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Lab-Grown Brain Experiment Reverses The Effects of Autism-Linked Gene
Scientists have uncovered changes in neurological structure that could underlie the autism spectrum disorder known as Pitt Hopkins syndrome, thanks to the help of lab-grown brains developed from human cells.
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The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
The federal public health emergency (PHE) has been extended to July 16, 2022. When the PHE ends, many of the policies put in place during the PHE will also end. During the PHE, states, including Indiana, have been prohibited from removing anyone from Medicaid programs (with limited exceptions). For example, states could not remove someone due to an increase in income or change in “categorical eligibility” (e.g. pregnancy, age, disability) that would ordinarily make them ineligible for Medicaid. This prohibition will end when the federal public health emergency ends.
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Special Needs Reforms | Care Home Big Payout
Our stars for April have smashed a world record. Friends Isaac Kenyon and Jordan Williams rowed 500km in tandem non-stop over 48 hours earlier this month to raise money for charity during World Autism Acceptance Week. The previous record was 36 hours.
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Brain Differences Tied to Autism Can Be Detected in the Womb
Brain scans of babies in the womb may reveal whether a child is at risk for developing autism later in life, early research suggests.
A small study of 39 fetuses found that, by 25 weeks of gestation, certain brain regions looked different in the unborn babies who went on to be diagnosed with autism compared with those who were not diagnosed with the condition.
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The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
Last week state and local leaders of The Arc gathered in Washington D.C. for the annual Disability Policy Seminar. Pictured left to right: Jeff Patton, The Arc of Wabash County; Hannah Carlock and Kim Dodson, The Arc of Indiana; and Stan Keepes, The Arc Southwest Indiana.
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Autism Acceptance Month
Welcome to the Autism Acceptance Month! This month is dedicated to not only awareness, but acceptance, action, inclusion and celebration. Continue to stay connected and check out all the latest news at the Autism Society of Indiana.
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IIACC News & Updates
Thank you to all the passionate stakeholders who attended the March IIACC meeting. We look forward to continuing collaboration for the benefit of individuals with ASD and communities statewide. Make sure to check over the resources and start signing up for our next quarterly meeting on June 2, 2022! Also, take a look back at March’s meeting for resources and meeting materials at https://indiananetwork.org/.
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The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
In addition to our advocacy efforts,The Arc of Indiana is committed to directly serving people with disabilities to lead fuller, more inclusive lives.The Arc’s Erskine Green Training Institute provides postsecondary vocational training that leads to employment. 76% of EGTI graduates, including Payton Kemper, are employed 18 months post-graduation. Payton works full time, with benefits, at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital.
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Indiana Autism Needs Assessment
IIACC is looking for participants from Indiana who are impacted by ASD, including, but not limited to, individuals with ASD over 18 years of age, their family members and caregivers, education personnel, medical professionals, justice and public safety personnel, community providers, and employers. Potential participants can participate in an online, anonymous survey. The needs assessment survey takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete. Additionally, if you want to take part in an interview or focus group, IIACC would love to get your insights! Schedule your interview!
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Autism Eye | Spring Newsletter
The new spring 2022 issue of Autism Eye Magazine is ready for you to read.
- In search of sensory solutions: how experts tackle sensory difficulties
- Exposed: councils bullying parents who ask for help
- Go outside: how open-air can boost learning and mental health
- Journey to a diagnosis: routes to an autism assessment, and why it’s so important to have one
- Fabulous holiday ideas
- Fighting on all fronts: families struggle to cope while slashed services haven’t recovered
- Could food be making your child anxious?
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The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
The 2022 session of the Indiana General Assembly ended in the early morning hours of March 9th. Following are the legislative wins for Hoosiers with disabilities.
Lemon Law
The general assembly unanimously approved legislation to expand the state’s motor vehicle protection act, also known as the Lemon Law, to include accessible vehicles and accessible features.
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Autism Study
Briefly suppressing an overactive signaling pathway in juvenile mice that have an autism-linked mutation blocks them from developing some autism-like traits later, according to a new study. The findings help refine the exact timing of this “critical period” for intervention, the researchers say and have implications for therapies in people.
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30 Days of Autism
30 Days of Autism events starts now! From luncheons to webinars to Family Night at a Pacer’s game – check out this calendar of fun-filled events for everyone.
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The Arc of Indiana | Report from the Statehouse
The 2022 session of the Indiana General Assembly wraps up at the end of the week. Important special education reforms are dead for this legislative session after the Indiana Senate voted down H.B. 1107. Important reforms do not always happen in one session – we will continue to fight the good fight. Click here to read WFYI’s report, ‘They should be embarrassed’: Advocates criticize Indiana Senate for 0-50 vote on special education bill.
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HANDS in Autism | Sensory Experiences
Some people with autism experience different sensations than you or I because of how their brains processes information from their senses. These senses include sight, sound, taste, touch, smell, temperature, and pain. Check out the HANDS in Autism® Sensory Experiences handout to learn more about ASD and to better these individuals with ASD’s sensory experiences and needs!
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The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
Last week’s Senate Education Committee hearing on H.B. 1107, which would provide balance to parents in due process hearings by shifting the burden of proof to schools, was a reminder of just how lonely the special education policy space can be at the Statehouse. Over the years The Arc of Indiana has found ways to collaborate with colleagues in the education field, including the Indiana Conference of Special Education Administrators (ICASE) and the Indiana State Teachers Association (ISTA), but at that hearing, it was made clear that when parents feel empowered to fight for change, reality sets in.
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“We Pay a Fortune to Hurt People” | Autism Eye Newsletter
Hundreds of millions are spent on services that harm people with autism and learning disabilities. That’s the view of Sir Robert Buckland, Member of Parliament for South Swindon and an autism father. Buckland’s adult daughter is autistic. He told the House of Commons on Thursday (20 January) that mental health hospitals are failing people with autism and learning disabilities.
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FDA cites hair-based autism diagnostic aid as ‘breakthrough’
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted ‘breakthrough device’ designation to a hair-based test designed to aid autism diagnosis. The acknowledgment shifts the test into a fast lane through the agency’s regulatory review process.
The test, called StrandDx, analyzes the levels of chemicals in a strand of a child’s hair to capture a snapshot of her ‘exposome’ — some of her cumulative environmental exposures and how she regulates certain essential nutrients. The measures suggest how a person’s physiology responds to her environment, which can predict her chances of having autism, says Manish Arora, Edith J. Baerwald Professor and vice chairman of environmental medicine and public health at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York City and co-founder of New York-based Linus Biotechnology, which is developing the test.
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POcKIT | Purdue Omnityping Kit for Individualized Testing
The purpose of this study is to partner with families to collect information about health and development from the comfort of their homes. Specifically, we are interested in exploring how genetic, biological, nutritional, and environmental information relates to health and development. All study activities are conducted remotely with virtual support from our research team.
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Indiana Family to Family
Breaking News!
About Special Kids (ASK) and Family Voices Indiana have merged together to create Indiana Family to Family.
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Autism Eye E-Newsletter Dec 2021
For families touched by autism, navigating Christmas can be stressful enough without seeing their children look on at fun activities they would find too overwhelming to take part in. So our Stars of the Month are a couple whose young son suffers from a rare genetic condition and who have created an all-inclusive, free-of-charge Santa’s grotto designed to bring the magic of Christmas to other children with special needs or a disability.
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The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
Beginning January 1, 2022, the following six case management agencies will be the sole providers of Medicaid Waiver case management services:
- Indiana Professional Management Group (IPMG)
- Unity of Indiana
- Inspire Case Management
- Connections Case Management
- The Columbus Organization
- CareStar of Indiana
Individuals and families who use a case management agency other than the six selected agencies must choose a new agency by December 14, 2021.
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Groundbreaking Experimental Compound Displays Effectiveness in Treating Symptoms of Autism and Alzheimer’s Disease
Experimental compound, which has received orphan drug and pediatric rare disease designations from the FDA, displays effectiveness in treating symptoms of Autism and Alzheimer’s disease.
- Researchers developed a novel model to assess the effect of this experimental drug on symptoms related to autism, intellectual disabilities, and Alzheimer’s disease, and found that a short protein segment called NAP remedies a broad spectrum of symptoms.
- The symptoms that were remedied using NAP: slow development, poor communication, and brains with a relatively small number of synapses, low electrical activity, and protein aggregate similar to those found in Alzheimer’s patients.
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Introducing The Arc of Indiana Academy
We are excited to announce the launch of The Arc of Indiana Academy, a new home to The Arc of Indiana Advocacy Training Program and Erskine Green Training Institute (EGTI) Workplace and Independent Living Support Subscription.
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ASK November 2021 E-News
We are excited to announce that About Special Kids and Family Voices Indiana are joining together to create a new organization to better serve families of children and youth with special healthcare needs and the professionals who serve these children in Indiana. ASK and FVI are two strong family-centered organizations who have functioned separately for many years. We have chosen to come together to strengthen our services, broaden our reach and maximize our funding. At the center is a commitment to better serve families and professionals through the power of shared experience and the value of professional partnerships.
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Notre Dame Center for Children and Families | SPARC Program
Could your family benefit from learning more about communication and conflict resolution?
Over the course of a four-week program, families in the SPARC project get information about conflict and how it can impact marital, parent-child, and sibling relationships, as well as information on how to resolve conflict and have more productive conversations as a couple and with their typically developing teams.
Families can participate from their own homes and earn up to $370 for completing the program. SPARC is currently accepting applications!
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Upcoming Events & Resources | HANDS in Autism
Transition to Adulthood, Employability, and Post-Secondary Inclusive Practices
If you are a transition, employment, or VR specialist and/or work with transition-age students with ASD/DD, our training is for you. During the three days of intensive training, you will learn about and implement strategies and supports with transition-age students to help them get ready for employment. The knowledge and skills you will gain can be immediately applied to your setting! By the way, you can take this training online!
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The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
New Budget Framework Would Provide Historic Investment in Disability Services System
From The Arc of the United States, Thursday, October 28 – “Today, President Biden announced the Build Back Better budget framework that would make significant investments in our nation, people with disabilities, their families, and the direct support workforce. This new deal includes $150 billion for Medicaid home and community-based services, or HCBS, which provide the support people with disabilities need to be a part of their community, and better pay for the workers that support them … We urge Congress to act quickly on this plan, add more funding for HCBS as negotiations continue, and fulfill the promise on paid leave. Change can’t come soon enough for millions of people with disabilities and their families.”
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The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
The Bureau of Developmental Disability Services (BDDS) has selected six case management agencies to provide Medicaid Waiver case management services for recipients of the Family Supports Waiver and Community Integration and Habilitation (CIH) Waiver beginning January 1, 2022. Individuals and families who do not use one of the six selected case management agencies need to choose a new agency by December 14, 2021.
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Easterseals Virtual Camp is Getting Ready for Halloween!
What better way to get into the spirit of the fall season than to join Easterseals Virtual Camp for spooky crafts?
From October 25th through 29th, campers can dive into all things hauntingly creative, just in time for Halloween, so be sure to register soon. Early registrants will have a chance to receive a free box of craft supplies delivered to their home before camp starts! This offer lasts until October 13th so be sure to sign up today!
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The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
The fall issue of our quarterly newsletter, The Arc News in Indiana, is at the printer, but you can read it now. Just click on the link for news on changes coming to Medicaid Waiver case management, Charting the LifeCourse, celebrating our 65th anniversary, Indiana’s new Education Scholarship Account program, a public policy wrap up, and updates from EGTI and The Arc Master Trust.
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Autism Eye
My Small World Toy Store
Hats off to the team at My Small World Toy Store in Bath, which boldly placed the sign pictured above outside in the street to list all the ways it tries to be autism-friendly.
The store explained: “As a team who hold this cause so very close to our hearts – you may already know some of our team are parents to young children with autism and some are even autistic themselves – we understand the difficulties families can face in busy shopping environments.
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The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
On the Road
Our travels continue throughout the state to thank members of the Indiana General Assembly who signed onto Concurrent Resolution 46, recognizing and honoring Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) for keeping Hoosiers with intellectual and developmental disabilities safe and healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently we joined staff, participants and area legislators at New Star in Northwest Indiana and at The Arc of Vigo County.
Thanks to Senator Karen Tallian and Representatives Mike Andrade, Pat Boy, Julie Olthoff and Hal Slager for your support of DSPs; and thanks to New Star President/CEO, Dan Strick for his advocacy during the legislative session and for hosting the event.
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Clinical Research in Autism
This e-newsletter provides obstetricians, pediatricians, and nurses with links to the latest research on ways to understand and to help children and adults on the autism spectrum. Please feel free to send us your comments and feedback email us.
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Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
Lt. Governor Crouch Joins in SAI July Issues Forum
Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch joined in Self-Advocates of Indiana’s July Issues Forum. Check out their great discussion on the 2021 legislative session, 1102 Task Force and advocating for disability rights. Watch Here
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Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
DSP Wage Increase & FS Waiver Budget Cap Increase Update
As part of its 2021 State Budget Bill, the Indiana Legislature included a 14% rate increase for direct support professionals through the efforts of partners such as The Arc of Indiana and INARF. The intent of these funds is to support the overall goal of increasing the statewide average DSP wage to $15 an hour. Therefore, the rate increase requires an authorized service provider to use at least 95% of the amount of the increase in the reimbursement rate to pay payroll tax liabilities and to increase the wages and benefits paid to eligible direct care staff.
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ASK July 2021 E-News – We Are Hiring!
Facing the Future Together Indiana’s Transition Conference
The conference will be facilitated by the Center on Community Living and Careers (CCLC) of the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community. During the conference, state and national speakers will present about benefits, future planning, transition assessments and IEP’s, jobs and career planning, postsecondary education, independent living, new assistive technology, and more.
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The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
The Arc of Indiana was established in 1956 by parents of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who joined together to build a better and more accepting world for their children. With over 30,000 members and 42 chapters in Indiana, and 140,000 members in over 700 chapters nationwide, The Arc is the largest national community-based organization advocating for and serving people with IDD and their families.
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Northeast Local Community Cadre News & Updates
Northeast LCC Strategy to Increase ASD Awareness
You can help educators and students both gain more awareness about autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Check out the HANDS in Autism® Information Card and Bookmark. The Northeast Local Community Cadre (LCC) is currently disseminating this resource across its region to reduce stigma and increase empathy for individuals with autism and related disorders.
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Hands in Autism | June 2021
Home Safety Month – Burns and Scalds
Summertime can be a great time for cookouts and outdoor fires! While roasting marshmallows may be a fun activities for many kids and families, it is also important to know how to prevent and treat burns and scalds. For tips and facts about burns and scalds and how to prevent them, check out the Safe Kids Worldwide website!
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Autism Eye | June 2021 Newsletter
OLIVER: DOCTOR FACES INVESTIGATION
Almost five years after the death of autistic teen Oliver McGowan, the General Medical Council (GMC) has announced an investigation into the doctor who prescribed an antipsychotic that an inquest ruled was a “significant factor” in his death.
Dr Monica Mohan prescribed Olanzapine to Oliver, 18, at Southmead Hospital in Bristol in 2016.
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The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
The Arc of Indiana communicates to a wide ranging audience through a variety of platforms. How are we doing? What can we do better? What should we be doing that we are not doing?
Please help us improve our communication efforts by completing our short 2021 Communications Survey. We welcome and appreciate your feedback!
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Children’s Mental Health Matters Month
May 2-May 8th is Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week! Check out the National Federation of Families website and join the conversation to raise awareness and end prejudice and discrimination around the topic of mental health. There are many ways to get engaged through events, activities, and tools throughout the week!
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The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
Join in a webinar on Thursday, June 3, 2:00 p.m. ET, to learn about federal legislation to grow and improve home and community based services.
Only decades ago, there were few options or supports for someone with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to live and participate in their community.
Though we’ve made great progress, our current systems are holding us back from what’s truly possible. People still face long waitlists for services, shortages and turnover of direct support workers, and a lack of affordable and accessible housing.
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ASK May 2021 E-News
It is with great pleasure that we wish a warm welcome to Keana Thompson. Keana will be joining us for seven months as an intern as she completes her degree in Social Work from Indiana Wesleyan University. Keana sends this message to you – our ASK friends and supporters:
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The Arc of Indiana E-Newsletter
At the end of the legislative session, State Representative Ed Clere authored a concurrent resolution honoring Direct Support Professions:
Whereas, more than 26,000 Hoosiers work in Indiana as Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), providing exemplary personal and critical support and services to thousands of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD);
Whereas, DSPs provide individualized supports, including navigating daily life, employment, transportation, finances, medical appointments, and hobbies in order to help people with I/DD learn or retain their independence, become involved in their local communities, and hopefully lead a high quality life 1with family and friends;
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ASK April 2021 E-News
After his remarkable 2017 Boston Marathon qualification, the 500 Festival appointed Andrew as their first ever Running Ambassador. Andrew’s goal is to build community through running. #NOlimits2Caring is Andrew’s newest Running Ambassador initiative. Each time Andrew races, a small nonprofit will benefit.
For the 2021 Carmel Marathon, Andrew chose ASK as the nonprofit to support. His efforts have resulted in bringing not only critical funds but also awareness to ASK and our mission. Andrew chose ASK in part, because it was the organization that first supported his father, Craig, twenty years ago in navigating the special education process when Andrew was entering Kindergarten.
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Autism and Sleep
Coronavirus has had an enormous impact on all Americans’ sleep habits, but COVID-19 has been especially hard on children with autism who already deal with sleep-related issues.
It’s an especially critical issue because a new 2020 CDC report analyzing 2016 school data shows that autism is on the rise. The biennial update reports that one in 54 children is diagnosed with autism by age eight, up almost 10% from 2014.
“The world of autism has changed considerably since we were founded in 2005 when the estimated prevalence was 1 in 166,” says Autism Speaks President and Chief Executive Officer Angela Geiger.
Living with autism has its challenges, but life is made considerably more challenging when one isn’t armed with the sleep the body needs to function properly.
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IIACC News & Updates
We would like to thank everyone that came to the March Indiana Interagency Autism Coordinating Council (IIACC) meeting! The IIACC, supported by FSSA, and facilitated by Hands in Autism® is the Council that assists in implementation and dissemination of innovative activities through facilitation, informing directions and increasing public understanding and awareness of the state’s collective priorities, activities, programs, policies, and research. We look forward to see you July 2nd 2021!
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Webinar: Improving Educational Outcomes
Individual differences in basic perceptual and cognitive functions have been shown to affect speech perception, language and literacy skills, as well as social and emotional development.
In turn, individual differences in language and literacy skills have been shown to be highly predictive of overall academic achievement.
Both genetic and environmental factors have been shown to contribute to individual differences in basic perceptual, cognitive and language abilities.
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The Guide to Paying for College for Students with Disabilities
Paying for college is a complicated process for any aspiring student. It’s a process that raises a ton of questions: What’s a Pell Grant? What’s a Perkins Loan? Do I have to pay anything back? For students with a disability, those questions are even more complicated.
The good news: A disability is not an impediment to a college education. There are plenty of resources for those who need help applying and paying for it.
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ASK February E-News
First Steps is partnering with an IU Occupational Therapy Doctoral Student and needs your help! They are seeking feedback to improve First Steps services to families. Families will be asked to attend one 60 to 90 minute online focus group in order to share your family’s experience in the First Steps Program.
The results will help design a training for First Step Providers that will lead to improved cultural awareness and family engagement and ultimately better outcomes for children served in early intervention.