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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 12, 2013 9:14:55 GMT -5
May 30-31, 2013 Nashville Airport Marriott The MegaConference is quickly approaching! The deadline to register online and to receive the MegaConference hotel room rate is Friday, May 10, 2013. After that all registrations will be walk-in the day of the conference. Keynote speakers this year are Lynne Seagle, Lisa Mills, Jennifer O’Toole and Fiona Hawks. For speaker information and program at a glance go to the website: www.tndisabilitymegaconference.org The MegaConference has received approval for the following CEUs: This program has been pre-approved by The Commission for Case Manager Certification to provide continuing education credit to CCM® board certified case managers. The course is approved for 10.5 CE contact hours. Activity code: M0000238 Approval Number: 20135352 Expiration Date: 4/10/14. To claim these CEs, log into your CE Center account at www.ccmcertification.org. The Tennessee Disability MegaConference 2013 has been approved for .9 CEUS (9 contact hours), by the Tennessee Physical Therapy Association Approval Number 4997 for Class I Continuing Competency Requirement. Participants will be provided with certificates of completion. The Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC) has approved the Tennessee Disability MegaConference 2013 for 9.00 clock hours, pre-approval number 10999688251. Other professionals seeking credits will receive a Certificate of Attendance. To receive CEUs, you must apply at the CEU table during the conference. For additional information on CEUs, please contact Elizabeth Bishop at 901-448-3127 or email ebishop@uthsc.edu.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 12, 2013 9:15:38 GMT -5
SILVER ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION PICNIC PLANNED at ETTAC June 14th from 4-7 PM followed by an accessible movie "Finding Nemo" at 7PM FREE event for ETTAC Clients and families. Featuring great food, live music, games, square dancing, and face painting. Mark your calendar--you won't want to miss all of the fun! Please RSVP by calling ETTAC at 865-219-0130 or by email. Many thanks to Home Depot South Knoxville for helping us with this event! Celebrating 25 years of service to people with disabilities! 1988-2013
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 12, 2013 9:16:03 GMT -5
15th Annual Mack French/Al Wilson Golf Tournament Would you like to promote your business to some of the finest folks in town? Our annual golf tournament is nearly full already with more than 130 business and community leaders led by the wonderful Al Wilson. Many of them are returning year after year because of the caliber of this event, held at Centennial Golf Course in Oak Ridge on Tuesday, August 20th. They love coming to play--meet Al and his former UT player friends, and they also brag about the businesses that make it happen so we can raise funds for more equipment for people with disabilities! This is a win-win for your business. Sponsorships begin for as little as $100. Contact us before July 1st and we will host you for lunch at the tournament as well. For details about sponsorship levels go to our golf page here.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 12, 2013 9:16:32 GMT -5
Summer Camp next month! June 12-14 Wednesday and Thursday 9 AM - 12PM Friday 1-4 PM Led by multi-talented teacher, musician, and composer, Jeff Comas. Children with and without disabilities will learn how to compose a symphony in paper, music basics, and will perform an original piece of music they create. FREE--a $20 suggested donation would be greatly appreciated. Space is limited. Call today to reserve your space. Ages 5 and up.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 12, 2013 9:18:31 GMT -5
116 Childress Street – Knoxville, TN 37920 (865) 219-0130 FAX (865) 219-0237 www.ettac.org – ettacmain@gmail.com Music Summer Camp at ETTAC The East Tennessee Technology Access Center’s HeartSong Center for Accessible Music and Art will host a three-day music camp from June 12th through June 14th for children with and without disabilities under the direction of local musician, teacher and performer Jeff Comas. Children will experiment with things that make sounds and will learn some music basics in a fun, interactive and accessible environment. Hours for the Music Fun Camp are 9:00 a.m. to noon on Wednesday and Thursday, and 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. on Friday. Families are invited to stay for the 25th anniversary celebration picnic, square dance and a movie Friday evening from 4:00 to 8:00. Both events will be held at ETTAC’s Knoxville office, 116 Childress Street. Directions and a map can be found at www.ettac.org under the Contact link. Suggested donation for the camp is $20 per child, with scholarships available as requested and needed. Please register for the camp by June 7th by calling (865) 219-0130.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 12, 2013 9:19:56 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 12, 2013 9:21:05 GMT -5
Vanderbilt Medical Center is conducting a series of focus groups as a part of their Community Health Needs Assessment. The groups will be conducted in Davidson, Williamson, Rutherford and Montgomery Counties. In Davidson County, there will be 2 focus groups. One group will be for individuals with a range of disabilities who have received care from an in or out-patient rehabilitation facility in the last few years. The second focus group will be for caregivers who have cared for those who have received services. The goal is to include participant feedback in the development of a plan that would positively impact how care is given in the future. Participants will be compensated with a $50 gift card to Kroger at the end of the group which will last a little over an hour. The schedule for the first two groups is below. If anyone has interest in participating, please email tiffany.israel@vanderbilt.edu and we will be in touch with specifics on parking and room number. For residents living in Williamson, Rutherford or Montgomery County groups will be scheduled during the week of May 13th. Please email tiffany.israel@vanderbilt.edu to express your interest. Where- Stallworth Hospital, 2201 Children’s Way Nashville, 37212 When- • Caregivers: Thursday, May 9th, at 6pm • Patients: Friday, May 10th, at 3 or 3:30pm Tiffany L. Israel, MSSW Translational Research Coordinator/Community Navigator Institute for Medicine and Public Health Vanderbilt University Medical Center 2525 West End Avenue Suite 800 Nashville, Tennessee 37203 tiffany.israel@vanderbilt.edu www.communityresearchpartners.net Like Community Research Partners on Facebook Phone: 615-875-5659 Fax: 615-936-8241
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 12, 2013 9:21:49 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 12, 2013 9:24:29 GMT -5
We thought that some of you might know of agencies or organizations interested in applying for funding to start up some Next Chapter Book Clubs or Jot It Down clubs in your home community. Please feel free to pass along to other organizations that might be interested in pursuing the Next Chapter Book Club model in Tennessee, and if the organization you have in mind is not already familiar with the NCBC model, please have them contact us if they’re interested in starting clubs in your community. Thank you! Deadline: May 23, 2013 Dollar General Literacy Foundation Accepting Applications for Youth Literacy Grants The Dollar General Literacy Foundation provides grants to qualifying nonprofit organizations in the forty states where Dollar General stores are located. The foundation's Youth Literacy Grants provide funding to schools, public libraries, and nonprofit organizations working to help students who are below grade level or experiencing difficulty reading. Grants are available to support organizations that provide literacy programs for new readers, below-grade-level readers, or readers with learning disabilities. Grant funding is provided to assist in implementing new or expanding existing literacy programs; purchasing new technology or equipment to support literacy initiatives; and/or purchasing books, materials, or software for literacy programs. Applicants must be a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, a K-12 private or public school, a college or university, or a public library. Organizations must be located and provide services within twenty miles of a Dollar General store. The maximum grant amount is $4,000. Visit the Dollar General Literacy Foundation Web site for complete program guidelines, an eligibility quiz, store locator, and application form. Contact: Link to Complete RFP Primary Subject: Education Geographic Funding Area: National Emma Shouse Director of Public Information Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities Davy Crockett Tower, First Floor (*note new address*) 500 James Robertson Pkwy Nashville, TN 37243 ph: 615-253-5368 fax: 615-532-6964 email: emma.shouse@tn.gov web: www.tn.gov/cdd
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 12, 2013 9:27:39 GMT -5
Vanderbilt Next Steps: On April 24, Vanderbilt Next Steps held its graduation celebration. Among the speakers was Crystal Finley, a Vanderbilt student who served for the past 3 years as peer mentor to students in the Next Steps program. I invite you to view her inspiring speech here and see why Crystal will be among the many emerging leaders in our field. She graduates this month with a degree in Special Education and will begin a Master’s program in the fall. Congratulations to the Vanderbilt Class of 2013! tn.gov/didd/newsroom/announcements/NextSteps.shtml
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 12, 2013 9:28:22 GMT -5
Family Support Program: Since its inception in 1992, the Family Support Program (FSP) has helped persons with severe and developmental disabilities and their families to remain in their homes and communities. This year, Governor Haslam’s budget allocated $7,383,600 fully to fund the program with recurring money for next year. The Family Support Program contacts families annually to obtain feedback regarding program satisfaction. One of the questions asks families to share their comments with legislators and Sue Lowery, parent of a person receiving FSP funds, recently expressed her support and appreciation of the program.
In July of 2011, Ms. Lowery’s son was able to realize his life-long dream of moving into a one-bedroom apartment. In addition, he also obtained a full-time job at Erlanger Medical System and no longer receives SSDI assistance because he wanted to work full-time and was willing to cut his income almost in half to get off assistance.
Ms. Lowery stated, “Without the supervision, the motivation and organizing and prompting of the wonderful support people he gets through Family Support, he would still be living at home, with no job, because we live in the county and there is no bus service. The most important part of his life is in place-he is independent! How can you ask for a better goal, a better outcome than that?”
She concluded, “So to all the legislators, I would like to say a big ‘thank you.’ I work full-time at my own job and none of my son’s independence would be possible without Family Support.”
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 12, 2013 9:29:46 GMT -5
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Problem Solving and Coping Skills Workshop tonight! There's more info below. Just a reminder that Alyce Benson, LCSW is doing the workshop. Starts at 6:30 at the CAC.
Do you know your child's rights? We get many calls from parents who have questions about IEPs and being a good advocate for their children. LifeLine is THE organization who has the expertise to educate parents on their rights. Many of us have gone through their training and we refer people to them every week. We're happy to announce LifeLine's upcoming workshop. See the event calendar below for details.
Friends Discovery Camp - Several openings available! This is an inclusive camp designed for children with autism at Creative Discovery Museum now in its 13th successful year. Dates/Age groups: Children aged 8 – 10; June 3 – 14 Children aged 11 - 12, July 22 – 29 Time: 8:30 – 1:30 Where: Creative Discovery Museum Cost: $200 for 2 week session; $100 for 1 week session (both prices include 1 year membership to CDM) To register call: Beth at 423-648-6040 or Nancy at 423- 648-6045 For more information call: Jayne at 423-648-6064 Or check out the CDM website and look for Friends Discovery Camp at the bottom of the page.
Social Skills Program - The Growing Place This program is put on by Coping Concepts at Eastgate Loop and runs from June 4 until July 23. It focuses on social skill development of children ages 6-12 by using structured activities and creative interactions from the Group Theraplay Model. For more information call Coping Concepts at 423-321-8266 or email Gabriel Trujillo at gabrieltrujillo@southern.edu or Jucinta Rome LCSW at copingconcepts@yahoo.com
Dad-and-momalogs - Submissions deadline coming up soon Just a reminder that we are accepting your submissions for this event where a parent can share their story on stage. We need submissions by May 31st because need to get an idea of how many will be presenting and we need to get a feel for the stories we'll have and length and such. Check out the Dad-and-Mom-ologues FB event for details on length of your 'monologue', how and where to submit, and so on. Or, contact Melissa Post if you're not on Facebook. Dads and moms, come tell your stories to the world!
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 12, 2013 9:30:53 GMT -5
AUTISM-RELATED EVENTS Autism Workshop Series When: Tuesday, May 7, 6:30 to 7:30pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Avenue Topic: Problem Solving and Coping Skills Speaker: Alyce Benson, LCSW This presentation is geared towards adolescents with high functioning autism, but also generalizes to young kids. Alyce Benson will discuss strategies for developing and improving problem-solving skills and coping skills. Improvements in these skills leads to better management of melt-downs or avoiding other troublesome behaviors. Movie Premier of "Stacy" When: Thursday, May 9th @ 7pm, Friday, May 10th, at 7pm. Where: Thursday: Coolidge Park Walker Pavilion, Friday: Signal Mtn Highschool Theather Screenings are free and open to the public. Stacey is a short documentary about student Stacey Rice, a senior at Signal Mountain High School, who struggles with autism. This short documentary examines who Stacy is, as well as various aspects of his life in dealing with his autistic disorder, including insight into his past, his present and possibilities for his future. The video also looks at how others view him and how he both survives and thrives in his world. Greater Chattanooga Aspies Semi-monthly Meeting When: May 9th, 6-7pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Avenue, suite 100 We've been growing membership! At this meeting we can discuss what we'd like to do during the summer. Please feel free to bring a dessert. Adults with Aspergers or high-functioning autism welcome! Mothers Moving Mountains - Autism Support Group When: May 11, 1-3pm Where: 6201 Lee Highway, behind Nutrition World. Speaker: Joan Clark, Speech Therapist with Speech, Language, and Reading Center. Topic: "Thank Heavens for Autistic Spectrum Disorders! For more information, please contact Lisa Dupree, M.Ed. —Mothers MovingMountains Facilitator, (423) 847-3730, autismhope4you@yahoo.com This support group meets the 2nd Saturday of every month. Parking is free, children are welcome! Sensory Film - Iron Man 3 When: May 11, 10am to noon. Where: UEC Theatre 14, 137 Pleasant Grove Rd, Cleveland (exit 20 junction on hwy 75) Cost: $5 per person. The Theater (UEC) says you are welcome to bring your own snacks or regular movie concessions will be available for purchase! The lights and sound will be at a tolerable level not too low and not too high. Since it will be just families with kids with ASD and siblings, talking and moving around is not frowned on! Correct link to Sensory Film Facebook Event for Iron Man III. I CAN Be a Super Friend! When: Tuesday, May 14th, 5:30 - 7:30pm Where: HCDE, boardroom, 3074 Hickory Valley Road, Chatt, TN 37421 Speaker: Kristy Steil, SLP/CCC, Stellar Therapy In this session, Kristy will discuss the social difficulties that young children with Autism often face when making friends. She will give some practical ideas for targeting social skills and specific strategies will be discussed. A variety of resources will be shared including social stories, learning apps, and informational internet sites. Videos will be presented of children with autism in an inclusion classroom that employs these strategies on a daily basis. Kristy Steil is a Speech-Language Pathologist with over fifteen years of experience with children in school and outpatient settings. Special Education Basic Rights Workshop When: Tuesday, May 14th, 2013 Where: 1400 McCallie Avenue, Suite 100 This workshop is designed for parents of children in special education or that might need special education. Come and gain a working knowledge of special education laws, including your role in the development of an appropriate education program (IEP) and how to be an effective partner with the school team in the process . RSVP to 423-622-4007 or registration@lifelinefamilies.org or via Facebook H.O.P.E When: Thursday, May 16th, noon to 1pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Ave, suite 100 Helping Other Parents Excel (H.O.P.E.) is for families who have members with autism spectrum disorders. We meet the first & third Thursdays of every month at noon. Our mission is to provide a place for people to share positive experiences and ideas and when we can, offer support and suggest solutions for some of the difficult times. Please feel free to brown bag your lunch and drinks and eat while we meet. ClubSib - Belly dancing/Henna tatoos When: Sat, May 18th, 11-2pm Where: Chattanooga Autism Center What: ClubSib is for K-6th grade kids who have siblings with ASD and other disabilities and would like a program of their own. It is a drop-off program and the kids will get to do activities and hang out. We're going to have a belly dance/henna tattoo party! Jillanna Babb, Owner of Moon Haven Studio is coming to help us have a blast! Wear comfy clothes you can dance in and we'll have snacks! 4th Annual "Get your Mow Down" lawnmower race When: Saturday, May 18th, 3pm to 5pm Where: 10516 Hwy 58, Ooltewah, TN 37363 Cost: $5 per person. Kids under 7 or kids with autism are free. The Scenic City Lawn Mower Racing Association puts on several races each year but it always reserves one as a fundraiser for the CAC. Last year they raised $720. Our goal is to get the word out so they get a big crowd turn out and watch professional racers race tricked out lawn-mowers up to 60 mph. It's a hoot! Gates open at 1pm. Bring a lawn chair! CAC Spirit night at Chick-fil-A When: Thursday, May 23, 4-9pm Where: Chick-fil-A at 1804 Gunbarrel Road, Chattanooga PRINT: Must bring copy of this spirit night flier! Chick-fil-A will not provide discounts for your purchases unless you bring a copy! We'll hae some sensory-friendly activities during part of the night, prize give-aways, and a chance to connect with other parents. Or, even if you have to eat and run or do drive through, come show your support. 10% of the profits Chick-fil-A makes that night will go to the CAC! PACT Meeting When: Friday, May 24th, noon Where: CAC: 1400 McCallie, Suite 100, Chattanooga PACT is the Parent/Advocate Collaboration Team. People are encouraged to attend and get caught up on CAC programs, hear about new programs being developed, and bring proposals for new programs of your own. These meetings are how most CAC programs get built and how people can volunteer to help them grow. Welcome Summer-Time, Pump-it-up Party When: May 30th, 5:30 to 7:30 Where: Pump-it-up! 7443 Commons Blvd, Chattanooga Cost: $2 per child (collected at event) Bring your children to bounce around and have fun. Meet new parents get connected. Kids need to wear socks. Parents need to fill out waiver forms there. See Summer-Time FB event for updates. Autism Workshop Series When: Tuesday, June 4, 6:30 to 7:30pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Avenue Topic: Sensory Integration Speaker: Mary Mullins, OT Lee University Autism Symposium When: Friday, June 21, 8am through dinner. Where: Lee University's Helen DeVos College of Education Geared toward parents, caregivers, medical professionals and educators of individuals with autism, the symposium provides attendees with new tools to manage the complexities of autism. For more information about the symposium visit autismsymposiumse.com or contact Karen Brown at 614-8192 or karenbrown@leeuniversity.edu Sensory Film - Monster's U When: June 29, 10am to noon. Where: UEC Theatre 14, 137 Pleasant Grove Rd, Cleveland (exit 20 junction on hwy 75) Cost: $5 per person. The Theater (UEC) says you are welcome to bring your own snacks or regular movie concessions will be available for purchase! The lights and sound will be at a tolerable level not too low and not too high. Since it will be just families with kids with ASD and siblings, talking and moving around is not frowned on! Correct link to Sensory Film Facebook Event for Monster's U.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 12, 2013 9:31:59 GMT -5
Chattanooga Autism Center (CAC) Tel: (423) 531-6961 Fax: (423) 521-8094 1400 McCallie Avenue, Suite 100, Chattanooga TN 37404
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 19, 2013 8:35:40 GMT -5
NASDDDS Grant: The department, along with the Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities (TNCDD), has been awarded a grant from the National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disability Services (NASDDDS) to become involved in a five state community of practice to learn more about best practices regarding supporting families. This Community of Practice hopes to identify and share its insights every step of the way and share with the broader disability community in order to get further feedback and to also provide valuable recommendations and innovations.
The work will begin at the end of May with an orientation call for all five states and will continue for the next four years. The department and the TNCDD have a rich history of being successful partners in such endeavors and we look forward to learning how to support better lives for all Tennesseans with intellectual disabilities. The other four states selected to participate in this Community of Practice are Washington, Washington, D.C., Connecticut, and Oklahoma.
Wanda Willis, Executive Director of the TNCDD stated, “The Council is very excited and grateful that Tennessee has been selected for the family support community of practice. We have a tremendous partner in the Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. We look forward to our work over the next four years to learn as much as we can about the most effective ways to support families.”
We will keep the DIDD community updated in this exciting endeavor as we learn more details.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 19, 2013 8:36:28 GMT -5
Employment Success Story: As we work towards accomplishing our employment initiatives, it is important to celebrate the achievements of persons who have been successful in attaining gainful employment in the community. Susie Bourque, Director of Policy and Planning for the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development, recently shared the story of Nancy with us, as told to her by a Disability Resource Coordinator. Nancy came into the Disability Employment Initiative (DEI) program in November 2012 through a presentation made on the DEI and Ticket to Work program at the Friendship House of Helen Ross McNabb, a local mental health provider. Nancy did not receive SSI or SSDI and got a small amount of financial support from her family. She expressed an interest in working and asked for help. After an initial meeting at the Career Center, Nancy came into the Resource Room of the Career Center every Monday to apply for jobs and find out about any hiring programs. She was then enrolled into the Workforce Investment Act (WIA) and DEI programs. Soon after, Nancy experienced a series of personal upsets resulting in her residing at an area rescue mission and losing custody of her son. At the end of December 2012, Nancy was informed about Walgreen’s Retail Employees with Disabilities Initiative (REDI) program. DEI subcontracted with the Cerebral Palsy Center to provide job coach training required by the REDI program. An Integrated Resource Team was developed to support Nancy in becoming successfully employed. This team consists of her case manager at Helen Ross McNabb, a Vocational Rehabilitation counselor, job coach, DRC and WIA staff, and a former employment counselor. On March 4, 2013, Nancy entered the four-week training program and quickly stood out to management. They were so impressed with her hard work and ability to catch on quickly that they began discussing employment before her second week of training had been completed. Nancy was officially hired and began her first evening of work on April 11. Her goals are to work hard, save money, get a two-bedroom apartment and reunite with her son.
I encourage those who also have inspiring employment stories to notify Amy Gonzalez, State Director of Employment and Day Services, at Amy.Gonzalez@tn.gov. We would like to highlight some of these in future editions.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 19, 2013 8:38:28 GMT -5
East Planning and Policy Council (EPPC): The EPPC has an unexpected vacant seat. We are looking for an individual who is an advocate for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The interest form is available here. tn.gov/didd/PPC/Interest Form for EPPC vacancy.docx Please submit it to Jennifer Pfeiffer at Jennifer.Pfeiffer@tn.gov if you are interested by June 14, 2013. The Council meets in Knoxville quarterly, with the next meeting set for July 11, 2013. Information about the Council is on our website under the link “DIDD Planning and Policy Councils” on the main page if you would like to learn more. I appreciate all those who are willing to volunteer their time.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 19, 2013 8:39:19 GMT -5
Statewide Planning & Policy Council (SPPC) Annual Report Update: Per the TCA, the Statewide Planning and Policy Council (SPPC), in conjunction with the Commissioner, reports annually to the Governor. The SPPC submitted their 2012 annual report to the Governor in December 2012 and also offered specific recommendations to DIDD. The department’s leadership has responded to those recommendations and you can find those responses here. tn.gov/didd/PPC/SPPC 2012 Annual Report w DIDD responses 05 13 13 FINAL.pdf
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 19, 2013 8:40:59 GMT -5
Middle Tennessee Residential Vacancies: Every two months, the Middle TN Regional Office (MTRO) Compliance Unit sends a Residential Vacancies grid to providers who have previously expressed an interest in submitting information about vacancies they have in their residential programs. Providers are asked to submit information about roommate vacancies they may have. All information received at MTRO is placed on the vacancies grid and sent to ISCs, the MTRO Intake Unit, Transitions, and interested providers. If your agency would like to participate or needs additional information, please contact Crissonya Phillips, MTRO Compliance Director at 615-231-5092 or Crissonya.Phillips@tn.gov.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 19, 2013 8:42:25 GMT -5
Governor Tom Corbett to Deliver Opening Keynote Address at the 44th Annual Autism Society National Conference The Autism Society is pleased to announce Governor Tom Corbett of Pennsylvania as our opening keynote speaker at the 44th Annual National Conference in Pittsburgh, PA from July 10th to the 13th, 2013. Governor Corbett’s address will focus on the significance of Pennsylvania’s autism service initiatives, including the challenges for the commonwealth’s government in meeting the needs of the autism community in times of difficult budget constraints. Prior to taking on his role in office, Governor Corbett pledged his support on behalf of the autism community. He stated his commitment to “help individuals with autism live as independently as possible” -- through valid and timely diagnosis, early intervention programs, appropriate education, community integration, ensuring safety, and strengthening employment opportunities for Pennsylvanians on the autism spectrum. To learn more about how to join Governor Tom Corbett at the Autism Society 44th National Conference in Pittsburgh, visit: www.autism-society.org/get-involved/conferenceTo read more on his pledge of support to the Pennsylvania autism community, click here. support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=j3uURaVOOglJKYu94iJhhQAs a result of Governor Corbett’s keynote address, the Autism Society is extending our Early Bird Conference Registration rate. Please take note of our Family Rate and complimentary registrations for individuals on the spectrum. For more information, please visit: www.autism-society.org/conference
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 19, 2013 8:43:22 GMT -5
Update on the Diagnosis Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) On Saturday, May 18, 2013, the updated Diagnosis Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) will be released. The DSM-5 is a document of the American Psychiatric Association. The DSM-5 Manual is used by many organizations, individuals and government to diagnosis a particular disorder, including autism. Read more... support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=LwFPMsg12OUosvo3olyOdQAutism Society Awards iPad to Lucky Member Thanks to a generous donation by The Puzzling Piece, the Autism Society was able to randomly select a member to win an iPad. Congratulations to Debbie from Maryland!!!! Be sure to check our Membership Page for more exciting Autism Society Member Benefits: www.autism-society.org/get-involved/become-a-member/.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 19, 2013 8:44:51 GMT -5
Research Clinical Research: Quiet Autism Toddlers may learn to Talk Most children with autism who have language delay at age 4 are able to speak later in childhood, according to a study published in the April issue of Pediatrics 1. Language impairment is one of the primary features of autism, and is often the first cause of concern for parents of children with the disorder. Read more... support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=Z6oSGRTFVg4E6beK0T67lAResources Individuals with ASD Graduating From High School and Transitioning into College Graduating from High School and going to college is an exciting time in a young adult's life. For helpful information about this time of transition, you may want to see our pamphlet, "Preparing to Experience College Living" from our "Living with Autism" series. All our materials are available free to download and print from our website after registering; there are many other titles on transitioning, etc. that may be helpful. Read more... support.autism-society.org/site/R?i=pX6S_TZbwYOekGstEnw-gg
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 19, 2013 8:46:10 GMT -5
CAC Spirit Day is May 23rd and the CAC receives money from Chick-Fil-A from anyone who brings this coupon to the store on Gunbarrel (or Hamilton Place Mall) between 4-9pm. We'd LOVE your help by passing them out to friends and families who eat at Chick-fil-A. There's no school that day so maybe people will want to celebrate the beginning of summer! cts.vresp.com/c/?ChattanoogaAutismCen/e845d9c7b8/a41e3feaa7/1d9f74a89bVolunteers needed: We're looking for some people who can commit to being at the CAC during the summer who can be greeters and answer the phones while clinicians are in therapy or doing assessments. Even a few hours, one day a week, could be helpful. Ideally we'd like to also find a volunteer coordinator who works with Dave Buck and helps track who is coming in when and ensuring doors are open and all that. Additionally, we'd love to find a volunteer who is a good writer with time to dedicate to the newsletter, articles for our website, and our calendar. If you have the time and desire, contact us at 423-531-6961 or email Dave.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 19, 2013 8:46:45 GMT -5
AUTISM-RELATED EVENTS H.O.P.E When: Thursday, May 16th, noon to 1pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Ave, suite 100 Helping Other Parents Excel (H.O.P.E.) is for families who have members with autism spectrum disorders. We meet the first & third Thursdays of every month at noon. Our mission is to provide a place for people to share positive experiences and ideas and when we can, offer support and suggest solutions for some of the difficult times. Please feel free to brown bag your lunch and drinks and eat while we meet. ClubSib - Belly dancing/Henna tatoos When: Sat, May 18th, 11-2pm Where: Chattanooga Autism Center What: ClubSib is for K-6th grade kids who have siblings with ASD and other disabilities and would like a program of their own. It is a drop-off program and the kids will get to do activities and hang out. We're going to have a belly dance/henna tattoo party! Jillanna Babb, Owner of Moon Haven Studio is coming to help us have a blast! Wear comfy clothes you can dance in and we'll have snacks! See Facebook Event for Club Sib 4th Annual "Get your Mow Down" lawnmower race When: Saturday, May 18th, 3pm to 5pm Where: 10516 Hwy 58, Ooltewah, TN 37363 Cost: $5 per person. Kids under 7 or kids with autism are free. The Scenic City Lawn Mower Racing Association puts on several races each year but it always reserves one as a fundraiser for the CAC. Last year they raised $720. Our goal is to get the word out so they get a big crowd turn out and watch professional racers race tricked out lawn-mowers up to 60 mph. It's a hoot! Gates open at 1pm. Bring a lawn chair! CAC Spirit night at Chick-fil-A When: Thursday, May 23, 4-9pm Where: Chick-fil-A at 1804 Gunbarrel Road, Chattanooga PRINT: Must bring copy of this spirit night flier! Chick-fil-A will not provide discounts for your purchases unless you bring a copy! We'll hae some sensory-friendly activities during part of the night, prize give-aways, and a chance to connect with other parents. Or, even if you have to eat and run or do drive through, come show your support. 10% of the profits Chick-fil-A makes that night will go to the CAC! PACT Meeting When: Friday, May 24th, noon Where: CAC: 1400 McCallie, Suite 100, Chattanooga PACT is the Parent/Advocate Collaboration Team. People are encouraged to attend and get caught up on CAC programs, hear about new programs being developed, and bring proposals for new programs of your own. These meetings are how most CAC programs get built and how people can volunteer to help them grow. GCA Lookouts Outing When, Sunday, May 26, 6pm Where: Lookout Stadium, 201 Power Alley, Chattanooga What: Greater Chattanooga Aspies will meet outside the main ticket booths and go to the game together. Bring a canned good or two to donate so you can get in the game for free. See the GCA FB event page for more details or to ask questions. Welcome Summer-Time, Pump-it-up Party When: May 30th, 5:30 to 7:30 Where: Pump-it-up! 7443 Commons Blvd, Chattanooga Cost: $2 per child (collected at event) Bring your children to bounce around and have fun. Meet new parents get connected. Kids need to wear socks. Parents need to fill out waiver forms there. See Summer-Time FB event for updates. Autism Workshop Series When: Tuesday, June 4, 6:30 to 7:30pm Where: CAC, 1400 McCallie Avenue Topic: Sensory Integration Speaker: Mary Mullins, OT Lee University Autism Symposium When: Friday, June 21, 8am through dinner. Where: Lee University's Helen DeVos College of Education Geared toward parents, caregivers, medical professionals and educators of individuals with autism, the symposium provides attendees with new tools to manage the complexities of autism. For more information about the symposium visit autismsymposiumse.com or contact Karen Brown at 614-8192 or karenbrown@leeuniversity.edu Sensory Film - Monster's U When: June 29, 10am to noon. Where: UEC Theatre 14, 137 Pleasant Grove Rd, Cleveland (exit 20 junction on hwy 75) Cost: $5 per person. The lights and sound will be at a tolerable level not too low and not too high. Since this showing will be families with kids with ASD and siblings, talking and moving around is not frowned on. :-) If your child has special dietary needs, UEC says is allowing you to bring in snack for that child. However, regular movie concessions will be available for purchase! Link to Sensory Film Facebook Event for Monster's U.
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 19, 2013 8:47:44 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 19, 2013 8:48:14 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 19, 2013 8:49:43 GMT -5
Next Steps at Vanderbilt Accepting Applications: Are you or do you know a student with an intellectual disability between the ages of 18 and 26 who would benefit from attending Next Steps at Vanderbilt? The application deadline for the 2-year college certification program on Vanderbilt's campus has been extended to May 31, 2013. What is the goal of the Next Steps at Vanderbilt Program? The goal of the program is to broaden the career options and opportunities for individuals with intellectual disabilities in inclusive, age-appropriate settings on a college campus, which lays a path for the students to have the outcomes we all value: a career, close relationships, and enjoyment. Who can attend Next Steps at Vanderbilt? Young adults seeking admission should be between 18 and 26 years old, have completed their high school studies, and have a strong desire to go to college to learn skills that will enable them to live more independently. They need to have families who support this goal. For more information on Next Steps at Vanderbilt, please visit: kc.vanderbilt.edu/site/nextstep/page.aspx?id=1344
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 19, 2013 8:50:48 GMT -5
You Are Invited Tennessee Disability Pathfinder and STAR Center would like to invite YOU to our next Community Education Series featuring “Meeting the Reading Needs of Today’s Student” Assessment, Mobile Technology & More What: The following presenters will share important information about reading assessment, intervention, technology and resources available to support individuals needing assistance with reading skills: · Will Beyer, LPE, ADHD/LD Clinic · Dr. Amy Dietrich · Dr. Renee Murley · Natalie Udovich, STAR Center · Megan Hart, Tennessee Disability Pathfinder / Vanderbilt Kennedy Center Where: STAR Center 1119 Old Humboldt Road Jackson, Tennessee When: Thursday, June 6, 2013 8:00 to 11:30 a.m. Cost: Free RSVP: Please click here to register kc.vanderbilt.edu/site/newsandevents/calendar/page.aspx?id=3932After registering, you will receive a confirmation email. Please see attached flyer for more details. If you have any questions, please contact Megan Hart at (615) 875-5082 or megan.hart@vanderbilt.edu OR Judy Duke at (731) 668-3888 or judy.duke@starcenter.tn.org
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 19, 2013 8:52:12 GMT -5
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Post by LimitedRecourse on May 19, 2013 8:57:27 GMT -5
Save the Date for StarNight 2013, featuring Wilson Phillips! Help Siskin Children's Institute support children with special needs and their families Don't miss StarNight 2013 - one of Chattanooga's most highly anticipated annual gala events! Join us for an evening with Grammy-nominated vocal trio Wilson Phillips as they grace the stage with unforgettable classics and pop hits! Carnie and Wendy Wilson, daughters of The Beach Boys’ founder Brian Wilson, and Chynna Phillips, daughter of The Mamas and The Papas’ John and Michelle Phillips, launched their own musical careers in 1990 as Wilson Phillips. Their self-titled debut album was an instant smash with the hit singles “Hold On,” “Impulsive,” and “Release Me,” driving worldwide sales past the ten million copies mark. Known for their beautiful harmonies and outstanding live performances, the group followed up in 1992 with the platinum Shadows And Light, which yielded three more pop hits. As 1992 came to a close, Wilson Phillips had more than lived up to their musical pedigree with five Grammy Award nominations, two American Music Award nominations and a Billboard Music Award win. After taking some time to pursue a series of solo recordings and television projects, in 2004 the group released California, an album of California-inspired cover songs. In 2010 the trio reunited with their original Wilson Phillips producer for their first-ever holiday album, Christmas in Harmony, which brought the group back together in full swing 20 years after their breakthrough album. Wilson Phillips’ new studio album, Dedicated, was released in 2012 and is a music lover’s dream - a full disc containing covers of legendary songs by The Beach Boys and The Mamas and the Papas. The added benefit of this gala event, other than outstanding entertainment? You'll be helping raise money for a worthy cause—the children and families served by Siskin Children's Institute. Please join us to celebrate StarNight and be a part of a tradition that has benefitted countless children and families during its 51 year history. Learn more about purchasing StarNight tickets or tables now. e2.ma/click/zsjrh/bucci/jgbgob 1101 Carter Street | Chattanooga, TN 37402 | 423-648-1700 | www.siskin.org
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