ACCE Happenings
Weekly inspirational quote
"When you have a dream, you've got to grab it and never let go."-Carol Burnett
Last Updated 11/14/23
Join our mail list to keep up to date on the latest happenings.
All happenings are included for informational purposes.
Registration is now open!
Pennsylvania Forum: #NextGenInclusion
Toward Increasing Inclusion in Schools
November 30th, 2023
9:30 am to 4:30 pm
Harrisburg Hilton
For: Pennsylvania Self-Advocates and Family Leaders
Join us Mondays and Wednesdays!
PA ABLE Programming
Join us for free webinars for individuals with disabilities, families and professionals to learn more about the PA ABLE Savings Program.
Learn about the PA ABLE Savings Program!
A PA ABLE Savings Program account gives individuals with qualified disabilities (Eligible Individuals), and their families and friends a tax-free way to save for a wide range of disability-related expenses while maintaining government benefits. The state and federal tax-free investment options are offered to encourage Eligible Individuals and their families to save private funds to support health, independence, and quality of life.
To help you learn about the important features and benefits of PA ABLE, the Pennsylvania Treasury Department is hosting free webinars.
Some of the topics that we will discuss include: eligibility requirements for opening a PA ABLE account, the federal and state tax benefits of PA ABLE, and how PA ABLE account interacts with current benefits.
Nov. 14, 2023 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Sib Shop Project
Proud to be me dance
Where: Online (Zoom)
When: Mondays 7 – 7:30pm and Saturdays 5:30 – 6:00 pm
This virtual dance class is for children of preschool to middle school age who have disabilities. The class is designed to assist with refining motor, communication, concentration, social skills and provide a positive environment to have fun.
Free training for Conflict Resolution for Families and Schools
Contact us to learn more about scheduling a conflict resolution skills session. These virtual trainings are free for schools and families. Learn more
Include Me
We love our work helping Pennsylvania School Districts to expand effective inclusive practices for educating students with significant disabilities in general education classrooms and the school community. Contact us if you are interested in bringing this free program to YOUR school district! Learn more
Self Advocates Power Events
We say self advocate a lot, but do you know what a self advocate is?
A self advocate is a person who speaks up for themselves and the things that are important to them!
Here at SAU1, all things are done to support the self advocacy of people with disabilities for positive impact in our communities and in people’s lives.
Do you or someone you know or love have a disability?
Join us at a power event! Learn about power events!
Free Sign Language Classes
Oklahoma School for the Deaf is offering free online ASL classes. If you have always wanted to learn ASL but cost has prevented you, this is a great opportunity.
ASL 1 and ASL 2 pre recorded self guided classes. Great resource for parents and teachers wanting to learn ASL.
Early Intervention Survey
The 2023 EI Family Survey is now open through June 30, 2023.
Please share with families of children receiving services in the infant toddler and 3-5 EI programs.
There are 20 questions that can be completed in 5-10 minutes online. The survey is available in English and Spanish
Hand in Hand Family Resource Center
A Sibling Support Program for the siblings (age 6 - 14) of individuals with disabilities.
Fun activities and snacks! What else do you need?
Variety Children's Charity
Waymart Church Sensory Rooms 1:1 Support
PA Developmental Disabilities Council: Disability Inclusive Curriculum
DISABILITY INCLUSIVE CRRICULUM - The Pennsylvania House & Senate, concurred, and included "providing for disability inclusive curriculum and establishing the Disability Inclusive Curriculum Pilot Program" in the PA Education code. We are very proud of the hard work of our Stigma project grantee Disability Equality in Education & everyone who worked to accomplish this! Learn about Disability Inclusive Curriculum.
Find my ride-Transportation Assistance
A free, lifetime pass - available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents of the United States that have been medically determined to have a permanent disability (does not have to be a 100% disability) - that provides admittance to more than 2,000 recreation sites managed by five Federal agencies.
At many sites the Access Pass provides the pass owner a discount on Expanded Amenity Fees (such as camping, swimming, boat launching, and guided tours).
$10 document processing fee
Visit USGS Store to learn more and apply
ART-ACCESS PA
Visit Art-Reach to learn more about this wonderful program and
how individuals with disabilities can get discounted tickets to 60+ museums, gardens, theaters, and cultural sites through the ACCESS program.
Have a child over 3 who is not potty-trained? You could get diapers through Medical Assistance.
The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services reports that if your child is over the age of 3 and is still not potty trained, you may be eligible to obtain free diapers through Medical Assistance.
Medicaid and Medicaid HMO’s will only cover the supplies if the child is older than 3 years of age and if a physician deems them medically necessary. You will be required to obtain a prescription, authorization, or a referral, in lieu of a prescription from your primary care physician. Contact your managed care organization for specific information.
LFT Meeting schedule and Brochure
SAFE is starting a Bi-Weekly Newsletter
Bi-weekly newsletters providing information on:
- SAFE Events and programs
- SAFE's What's new on the Spectrum
Hazleton Autism Family Support Hub: Adult Testing
Do you know an adult wondering if they, themselves have autism, but don't know where to go to be tested?
Check out this video detailing the experience!
Learn more about Hazleton Autism Family Supoort Hub.
Inclusive Community Advocates
Are you a part of a group that wants to be more aware and accepting of autism, but you don't know where to go for training, it's too expensive, or the offerings do not quite fit your needs? Check out our partnership within the ACCE between Goodwill Industries, Children's Service Center, and Misericordia University. They offer a free, customized training to fit your group or organization's needs. Virtual and in-person options available!
Email Ann Gillerlane to ask questions or schedule your training today!
Autism and Neurodiversity First Responder training program
The Mansfield University Autism Resource Center is pleased to work with the Mansfield University Municipal Police Academy to integrate training related to working with neurodiverse populations to enhance community relations and experiences.
Learn more about the Autism and Neurodiversity First Responder Training Program
Dragon Tales Reading and Art Program
Check Out All the Wonderful Happenings at The Y!
We Are Y is an inclusive community outreach program that provides individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities access to recreational activities that encourage staying active, building interpersonal relationships, self-sufficiency, and aid in developing cognitive abilities. Activities Rotate Weekly!
Free and open to Greater Scranton YMCA members and non-members ages 10 and up, who have developmental disabilities.
When: Every Wednesday, 5:30-6:30pm
Where: Greater Scranton YMCA - 706 N. Blakely Street, Dunmore, pa 18512
For more information, please contact Natalie at nwasilchak@greaterscrantonymca.org
Wayne County YMCA
The "A-Team" Wayne County YMCA seeks to provide opportunities on the Autism Spectrum to gather in a non-threatening environment.
Greater Carbondale YMCA
A Spectrum of Fun Autism Family Nights
Swimming, pizza, socialization, and understanding!
Please call 570-282-2210 for a schedule of dates & times - a $10 donation per family.
Where: Greater Carbondale YMCA - 82 N. Main St. Carbondale
Brighter Jouneys Going the Extra Mile
The University of Scranton has amazing programs. Want to learn more about them, check out our video!
Parent/Caregiver Interest Group
Come Join Us!
What is it?
A group where parents and caregivers can meet to share ideas, interests, and meet new people.
When do you meet?
We meet on Zoom every Thursday from 6:30-7:30PM Eastern time except holidays. Register
- personal growth
- social development
- self-advocacy skills
Free, grant-funded groups available virtually and in-person group (Hazleton)
10 to adult with autism and/or related soical or communication impairments
Call 570-861-8311 or email autismhub@e-csc.org
Learn about the TTRPG program
Watch a Video about our TTRPG Program
Check out the brochure!
- Select the image to see it full size and access links.
Integrated Studies is a full-time, college-based, 2-year program specifically designed for students between the ages of 18-26 and gives prospective students access to a full-time inclusive and supported program of study.
Greater Carbondale YMCA
Autism Swim Nights and Outings
- 82 N. Street Carbondale, PA 18407
- Call 570-282-2210 for details!
SAFE Piano Lessons
Piano Lessons! Lessons are available in the Wilkes-Barre Area
Members Only!
Call (570)822-7259
Turn to Us: SPECTRUM Sensory GYM
Check back soon for updates!
Parent/Caregiver Interest Group
Come Join Us!
What is it?
A group where parents and caregivers can meet to share ideas, interests, and meet new people.
When do you meet?
We meet on Zoom every Thursday from 6:30-7:30PM Eastern time except holidays. Register
Safe Care
Parent Support Group Make yourself a priority!
PA Parent and Family Alliance
We’ve got a lot coming up this month! Register for this weeks support groups and learn about what else we’ve got coming up at the link below.
Parent to Parent of Pennsylvania is a one-to-one match between peer support parent and a parent seeking individualized support from a parent with similar experiences. Connect parents who have children with similar disabilties within the community!
If you are interested in a match, or simply learning more, please contact your regional coordinator at the phone number or email listed below!
Nicole Lindsay
NE Regional Office
(570) 780-0109
SASSY Autism Support Group
Now in Collaboration with the Autism Collaborative Centers of Excellence and UPMC
SASSY Autism Support Group
- Focused discussion with montly topics
- All ages welcome
- Child care provided for RSVPs
- Light Refreshments
First Thursday of each Month
5-6
River Valley Regional YMCA
641 Walnut Street, Williamsport PA
RSVP Esther Brennan ebrennan@hopeability.org
570-772-2491
Peal Center Trainings
The Nuts and Bolts of Job Coaching
The Pennsylvania Department of Education, Bureau of Special Education is pleased to announce the following training opportunity.
This self-paced five-module online course provides participants with relevant information regarding the role of a Job Coach to support students in community-based work settings.
- Target Audience: Paraprofessionals, other support staff, teachers, transition coordinators, special education directors, or anyone interested in this topic.
- Registration Information Please register online by visiting the PaTTAN website at pattan.net/events.
- For registration questions, contact: Kristen Olszyk, kolszyk@pattanpgh.net, 800-446-5607 x6848
- For content related questions, contact: Kaylee Wynkoop, kwynkoop@pattanpgh.net, 800-446-5607 x6888
- Continuing Education Credit: Act 48 Clock Hours, Paraeducator Professional Development Hours/ Individuals participating in this course must successfully complete and submit all required coursework before the end date of this course to receive Act 48 Professional Education hours and Paraeducator Professional Development hours.
Location: Online
Lots of happenings at SAFE
Parent Support Group Meeting
Speaker Dr. Sandra Kirchner PhD, BCBA
Dr. Kirchner will be having an open discussion on autism and mental health, providing information and resources for our families and individuals. This area is often hard to discuss and navigate for families, so we're bringin the resources to you. This is a safe space for discussion of difficult to discuss topics.
November 15th 6pm
The Graham Academy
1 institute Lane Kingston, PA
No child care? No worries-your children will have activities and pizza in the gyn with qualified Graham Staff.
SAFE Autistic Artists @ The Graham
Teen Group 13-17
Fall Scenes
Using paint, pastels or colored pencils
Nov 21st @ 6:00-7:30pm
1 Institute Lane, Kingston PA
SAFE Teen Social Group 13-17
Calling adventurers! Let the quest begin.
Play th E Dungeons and Dragon with our Dragon Master Janessa
Players of all skill levels welcome
Meet and greet will include character building and social time with your host and fellow adventurers.
Limited spots
Want to learn more about SAFE check out their Newsletter.
PAU Happenings
Santa's Workshop
Gifts for family, teachers, aides, behavior techs, friends, and more!
Grab-n-Go options! Choose gifts available at extremely low prices. $5 to make decorations at all 5 craft stations or mix & match! Snacks & light refreshments. MAYBE we’ll see some elves!
Winter Wonderland
Enjoy this family friendly activity while experiencing acceptance, awareness, inclusion, & education. Tailored to families with a child on the Autism Spectrum, but open to all ages & abilities.
LOCATED AT Parenting Autism United 313 Wyoming Ave, Wyoming, PA 18644 REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED
ARC Medicaid
🦠Pandemic-related protections for Medicaid coverage have ended & states across the country are re-determining the eligibility of all persons enrolled in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP!
JOIN US on Tuesday, November 14th at 12:30PM for this FREE lunch & learn event!
This webinar will cover:
✔What the “unwinding” process to Medicaid & CHIP renewals was;
✔The current renewal process for Medicaid & CHIP coverage;
✔Overview of Medicare Open Enrollment and key actions for enrollees.
https://arcoflehighnorthampton.org/events/
Special Education Alliance
𝐈𝐭'𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐌𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐄𝐀 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐨𝐥 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐟𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐂𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐲 𝐃𝐮𝐜𝐡, 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐄𝐀𝐋 𝐂𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫. 𝐉𝐨𝐢𝐧 𝐮𝐬 𝐨𝐧 𝐙𝐨𝐨𝐦 𝐍𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟓𝐭𝐡 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐲'𝐬 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐧 “𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐀 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠 𝐈𝐄𝐏”.
Cindy is the Director of Individual Assistance at the PEAL Center. In addition to her work at the PEAL Center, Cindy is a 20-year member of the Local Task Force 3 (LTF3) for the Right to Education. Cindy is a former member of the PA Rehabilitation Council and a current member of the OVR- Pittsburgh District Office Citizen Advisory Council. She is a Commissioner on the PA Employment First Oversight Commission. She also serves as a peer monitor assisting the PA Department of Education/Bureau of Special Education in monitoring the Special Education Departments of School Districts in Pennsylvania. Additionally, she represents PEAL on the Office for Dispute Resolution Stakeholder Council. Cindy lives in Allegheny County with her husband Jim and their two sons. She has a B.S.B.A. in Economics from Robert Morris University.
Presentation Topics:
Identify the parts of the IEP and the importance of each one
List and define the key principles of IDEA
Discuss ways that families can provide meaningful input throughout the IEP process
Discuss how to prepare a "snapshot" of their child
Pennsylvania State Interagency Coordinating Council (SICC) invites families of children currently receiving Early Intervention (EI) services and parent co-chairs of the Local Interagency Coordinating Councils (LICC) to join the SICC Family Meet and Greet on Thursday, December 7th, 11:30am -12:15pm. This event takes place virtually through Zoom.
The SICC Meet and Greet is an opportunity to connect with other EI families, learn more about the purpose of the State Interagency Coordinating Council and how families can be involved. The SICC meeting will follow at 12:30 pm, and participation is highly welcomed and encouraged but not required.
Healthy Relationships
Virtual Events Schedule
🗓️We need YOUR help getting word out for our virtual events calendar for November!🗓️
Help get the word out by:
📣sharing this to your social feed, friends, and family.
❤️tagging someone in the comments that might like to attend
This month we are bringing you some of your favorite events, we have scheduled:
⚡ All About Jobs on Tues. Nov. 14, 10 - 11:30am & Thurs. Nov. 16, 1 - 2:30pm
⚡ All About Our Wellness on Tues. Nov. 28, 10 - 11:30am & Thurs. Nov. 30, 1 - 2:30pm
Stay up to date on all of our events and disability news is easy:
⭐Follow us on social media
⭐Subscribe to our newsletter at sau1.org/connect
⭐Subscribe to our calendar and have the events directly on your iCloud or Google Calendar? Go to sau1.me/calendar. If you would like us to add you please reach out to power@sau1.org.
How to talk to your Kids about Money
New Free Webinar from Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation PATF.
Developed for families of children with disabilities.
How to Talk to Your Children About Money
Date & Time:
November 15, 2023 06:00 PM in Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Webinar Registration - Zoom
Description:
Hear from parents who have children with disabilities about when or how to have money conversations with their children. PATF's "Family Companion" is a guide for parents, created by parents, that includes resources, practical tips, activities, and more to help families introduce financial topics to their children. This webinar will be recorded and emailed after the event to all who registered. If you have any questions or need assistance registering, please contact PATF at 484-675-0506 or communications@patf.us.
Registration is required.
ASL, CART, and Spanish interpretation will be provided for the webinar.
Virtual Family Leadership Institute Level 2
Virtual Family Leadership Institute Level 2: Serving on Groups Series
6:30 – 8:00 PM on Wednesday evenings
January 10th through February 14th, 2024
For Family Leaders who have already completed a PEAL Family Leadership Institute, or for those family members who have already taken a first step towards Advocacy Leadership, this Serving on Groups workshop Series is an important next step!
This series is designed to support and increase participation of families on decision-making groups.
Do you want to be more involved in a decision-making group but not sure where to begin?
Are you tired of feeling like the token parent representative instead of an active member of a decision-making group?
So many times, we are on committees or in meetings but don't know what the process is or how to fully participate. This workshop will introduce you to a resource to help you navigate decision-making groups.
LTF IU 19 Meeting
IEP Mini Series
Abilities 21
Join us for our annual Holiday party
Saturday, Dec 2nd 5:00 PM 100 Tigue St. Dunmore
Music provided by DJ MPower
Dinner provided by Holiday Inn
RSVP Kimberly 570-840-6961
$20 per person
Due Nov 20, 2023
Venmo: @khart-105
PayPal to Abilities21@yahoo.com
Sensory Hair Cuts
Come get spiffy for the Holidays!
CAM is partnering with LVHN for the next sensory haircuts at the Health and Wellness Center, just in time for the holidays!!!!
Stable Moments is a mentorship program that matches
- 1 community mentor, with
- 1 foster or adopted child and
- 1 horse for
- 1 hour per week for 10 months (out pilot program will run 6 months from Jan.-June 2024)
The goal is to develop life skills for healthy transitions into adulthood.
Each child is given a plan of care that is color coded for the life skill areas they are working on. Community mentors then choose activities based on those colors.
To track progress, mentors complete activity logs at the end of each session. We also collect pre and post test data for life skill improvement and complete progress summaries at the mid-point and end of session the year.
Check us out on Youtube
