ACCE Happenings
Inspirational quote
"She was unstoppable. Not because she did not have failures or doubts, but because she continued on despite them."-Beau Taplin
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All happenings are included for informational purposes.
Last updated 4/14/24
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.
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.
Go Baby Go
Free Program, No Diagnosis Required.
Questions Contact:
Dr. Stephanie DeNaples, MSOTR/L
stephanie.denaples@scranton.edu or gbguofs@gmail.com
The University of Scranton
Department of Occupational Therapy
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!
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
Special Education and End of the School Year Issues
It is hard to believe the 2023-2024 school year is almost over. Attend this FREE Zoom Webinar and learn more about special education services to help your student achieve meaningful educational progress throughout the entire year.
HOSTED BY: The Special Education Department of McAndrews, Mehalick, Connolly, Hulse and Ryan P.C. (MLO)
PRESENTERS: Jacqueline Lembeck, Esq. and Laura Attieh, Esq., MLO attorneys in The Special Education Department
TALKING POINTS:
- Understanding the evaluation process
- Top tips for developing an appropriate IEP
- Extended School Year (ESY) services and preventing “Summer Slide”
- Preparing now for transitions to new schools, new placements
- What to do if you cannot agree on the plan
Virtual Comment Period
Your comments count! 🙍🏻🙋🏽♀️🧕💁🏾🙋🏼🧕🏿 Attend the virtual 💻Public Comment session to be held on April 15, 2024, from 1-2 PM for the Federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Part C Application for the Infant Toddler Early Intervention Program. During this time, the Bureau of Early Intervention Services and Family Supports will be available to receive comments regarding the application.
Inclusivity Survey
Calling all individuals with disabilities in Pennsylvania! Have you taken our survey yet?
We want to know how you play a part in our community - tell us about your current activities and how you'd like to contribute in the future. Your experiences matter, and we're eager to hear your thoughts on making our community more inclusive.
Take our survey using the link below or email bev@integrateforgood.org to set up an interview. Please help us spread the word by sharing this flyer with your network and anyone you know in PA who might be interested! Take the survey today
Registration open for Includi-Con!
Includi-Con is a 3-day, virtual event designed to provide opportunities for school personnel and parents to build their inclusion skills. Life in schools and their respective communities has been difficult and more challenging than ever, as the impact of the pandemic for students, families and schools was fully understood and felt. We’ve put together a program and speakers that we believe can help all to remember our “why”, to forge positive pathways for students and ourselves, learn new strategies, and expand our circles of connection with others who embrace inclusive education. And we will also have some fun! Learn more and Register Today!
The JLNE have arranged a FAMILY bowling evening for Autism Acceptance Month. Through their fundraising they have been able to secure this at no cost to our families.
April 24th 5-6:30PM
Chacko's Family Bowling Center
195 North Wilkes-Barre BLVD, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
Sign up closes APRIL 17th
Register today and save your spot!
New ARC of NEPA Program
We are kicking off a new program at The Arc of NEPA- under the Gather for Change Initiative.
The mission is to form a welcoming group of families and caregivers to give them a sense of belonging and connection. We would like to find the topics that interest you and that you would like more information on, provide resources and the opportunity to share with each other.
We will have upcoming meeting options to kick off our group.
Tuesday April 23rd at 5 pm at The Carbondale Public Library 5 North Main St Carbondale PA
We are planning to continue every other month, so our next dates will be in June. We are looking for feedback on dates, times and locations.
All parents, families, caregivers are welcome to attend.
We will have a presentation "Powerful Parents", refreshments and basket giveaway to welcome everyone.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Please RSVP to me at rpolishan@thearcnepa.org
I want to be sure to get an accurate count of attendees to accommodate the space.
Feel free to share with anyone else you know that may be interested.
Disability Pride Day at the State Capitol
Join Us for an amazing day of advocacy in Harrisburg! We're excited for Disability Pride Day at the Capitol on May 1st. Check out the schedule of events!
9am-12pm: Check in and Capitol visits
12pm-1pm: Meet us at the front steps
1pm: Press Conference and Capitol Crawl (stay tuned for the line up of speakers)
We want to discuss these issues:
Accessible Affordable Integrated Housing
Accessible Transportation throughout the State
Direct Care Workers
An Accessible Front Entrance to the Capitol Building for all Pennsylvanians!
We're asking everyone to register for this historic day to receive materials and to be counted. OVER 60 PEOPLE HAVE REGISTERED SO FAR! Lots of time to still do so!
Find out more on our website: https://www.disabilitypridepa.org/disability-pride-day
Or go directly to our registration page here: https://forms.gle/esQysYoRzEgiExLC9
Thank you to our day's sponsors State Representative Joe Hohenstein, Highmark Wholecare, Disability Rights PA, PA Health & Wellness, Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, Amerihealth Caritas, Inglis, UPMC Health Plan. Thank you to Liberty Resources, the Roads to Freedom CIL, NCIL, and the CIL of Central PA for your expertise and support!
If you have questions please feel free to reach out to us at info@DisabilityPridePA.org or call Vicki at (267)788-5946 Monday-Thursday (10am-5pm).
First ever Autism fishing event held at Frances Slocum Park!
The event will be held May 4th from 4 until dark. Volunteers are from Misericordia University, and Back Mountain Police Association. Volunteers will be there to give support to individuals fishing while families can sit back, relax, and enjoy the moment.
*All fishing supplies are all supplied
If you read the last edition of ACCE Happenings, everything below has already been showcased.
Parenting Autism United
SAFE Newsletter
ASERT Newsletter
Sign up to receive the newsletter as soon as it is available.
Luzerne-Wyoming MHDS Newsletter
Pool Party with the A-Team at the YMCA!
Pool Party
Pizza, Drinks, and Loads of Fun!
Wilkes-Barre YMCA
A SAFE and A-Team collaboration
April 13th 2-4
College Scholarship Opportunity from SAFE
This scholarship is for individuals who are exiting high school and are at least 18 years old, or will turn 18 by September 1st of the application year
The applicant has the desire and intent to enroll or continue enrollment in a post-secondary class (this includes vocational, job skill-based programs) that will enhance their life through employment skills, independent living or life skills and/or continuing education.
Applicant will provide copies of high school diploma or GED, high school transcript if graduating in the spring of the application year, or proof of acceptance to or current enrollment in a post-secondary program.
Wednesdays This May: 5 p.m. Night Owl AAC Sessions!
Tech OWL - Technology for Our Whole Lives, a program of the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University, will present this free webinar series during National Speech-Language-Hearing Month. #SpeechLanguageHearingMonth
Register for any or all of the one-hour sessions.
Register For SAFE Golf Fundraiser Drive for Autism
Don't forget to register to play, sponsor or donate to the 15th Annual Drive For Autism Charity Golf Tournament. Proceeds benefit SAFE programs and events!
Save the Date Advocacy & Policy Conference
Mark your calendars now because registration will be opening soon for our annual Advocacy and Policy Conference on June 10-11 at the Hilton Harrisburg! You don’t want to miss this empowering and informative event! #APDay2024
Abilities 21 Skate Away
June 13th 6:00PM
Come join us for 2 private hours at Skate Away in Wilkes Barre
It will be closed to the general public during these hours
Giving our kids all the space and time they need to try it out. Parents are able to walk with your child. Also skate gates are available to rent for $5. They are a first come first serve item
Cost is $12 per person siblings are welcome
PayPal abilities21@yahoo.com
Venmo @KHart-105
Payment and headcount due by June 1st
Parent to Parent of Pennsylvania
Creating Connections: Active Listening for Peer Supporters
Attention all Peer Supporters! Registration is now OPEN for the FREE, virtual workshop, Creating Connections: Active listening for Peer Supporters.
Space is limited, so register soon!
Spring Dinner Dance
About the Order
As a Catholic organization the members of the Order coordinate their efforts and assistance programs with respect the respective Bishops under whose auspices such activities may fall – to accomplish the following for persons intellectually disabled, and to:
- Provide assistance to private schools chartered to serve the needs of persons intellectually disabled so that they may serve their students in need of both secular and religious special education and vocational training.
- Provide assistance to establish residences for persons with developmental disabilities, and to provide assistance to respite care facilities and programs for their parents, giving preference to private or public projects endorsed by Catholic Bishops.
- Provide assistance through the Order's scholarship program to educate undergraduate students studying to become special education teachers, and provide assistance to persons engaged in giving care and comfort to persons who are developmentally disabled.
- Provide human and/or financial resources to enhance the quality of life for persons intellectually and developmentally disabled by participating in programs and activities like Special Olympics; recreation, field day programs and summer camps; field trips, boat rides, zoo trips, circus trips, picnics, Christmas parties, dinner dances, etc.
Job Club Happening Soon @ The University of Scranton
Contact Rebecca Dalgin 570-941-7819
Brighter Journeys is Accepting Grant Applications!
Thanks to collaborations with other generous organizations we are looking for grant applications! We offer grants for fences, bikes, ramps, and more for special need individuals! Grant Application
Brighter Journeys Fundraiser
Louis Vuitton "Graceful PM"
(Value: $1760)
Venmo: Lisa Urbanski@brighter-journeys16
For more information or to use an alternative payment option, please contact BrJr @ 570-814-6606
Drawing to be held live on Facebook
Sunday, April 28, 2024
Raffle Must be 18 to purchase ticket.
Small Games of Chance License #2720
Camp Orchard Summer Program and Respite Information Available
NEW Hazleton Campus!
NEPA ARC Webinars
Three Part Mini-Series for Families
Parent to Parent of Pennsylvania
Nuturing Seeds to Grow Strong Families
Parent to Parent of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning invites you to join the Spring Parent Café Series titled, Nurturing Seeds to Grow Strong Families!
This virtual event is for PA families of children receiving Early Intervention Services and/or Home Visiting/Family Supports. Connect with other parents/ caregivers and share your parenting journey.
BSET: HUNE Bilingual Special Education Training Series
Free and Virtual advice on education 5 week series
Cuando/when
4/18/24: IEP
4/25/24: What rights do I have if I disagree?
For more information/ Para mas informacion: Carmen Roman (215)425-6203 croman@huneinc.org
Calling Student Artists
Seeking student artists to display their work during this year's National Autism Conference! A Gallery exhibition will recognize, promote, and reward all types of creativity produced throughout the year by students from classrooms supported by the PaTTAN Autism Initiative. Please complete the exhibition form available or submit your information
Italian Fest Benefit to benfit the JumpStart Cart
The JumpStart Cart is dedicated to supporting young adults with special needs transitioning from the academic setting to the workplace.
April 21st 2-4 PM
The Gramercy Ballroom and Resturant
155 South Main St. Pittston PA
For more information please call 570-233-7567 or email us at jumpstartcart@gmail.com
learn more about the TheJumpStartCart
Achieva: Understanding the Basics of SSI and SSDI
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), what are the differences between these two benefits that are available through the Social Security Administration? How does someone qualify for these benefits? What are the rules for income and assets when applying for SSDI and SSI?
Virtual webinar: April 23, 10:00AM-12:00PM
4th Annual Complex Medical Needs Expo
iCANBIKE Camp
Check out these opportunites with SAFE!
SAFE Swimming with Miscordia University
SAFE Inc with the generous grant from The AllOne Foundation under the ACCE have teamed up with the Misericordia Swim for lessons.
Register for the next 6 sessions 3/12, 3/26, 4/9, 4/16, and 4/23
6:00 and 6:30pm session available
+ a 30 minute rec swim
Location: Misericordia University Anderson Center Pool, 301 Lake St. Dallas, PA 18612
*Size for each session is limited to 10 individuals
Respite Available through a partnership with SAFE and Camp Orchard Hill
Saturday, May 11th 9-4
Our Saturday Respite Day program serves children and young adults with special needs with a focus on building skills and developing confidence through new experiences. Expect arts and crafts, bounce houses, dance parties, outdoor adventures and additional activities provided as a partnership with SAFE and Camp Orchard Hill.
- Grades K-12 or Age 21
- Lunch and snack provided
- Professional staff and RN Onsite
- Registration required through Camp Orchard Hill
PAU Photography Session
Studio Triya is teaming up with Brooke Perrego to raise money for PAU.
Sessions, costs, and additional details
Karoke Night with FUNctional Connections
Some new Karaoke dates to mark your calendars with! Thank you to everyone who attended last week, it’s always a pleasure! Our upcoming karaoke dates are:
🗓️ April 24th
🗓️ May 29th
As always, support staff and family members are welcome! We provide mocktails, music, games and a fun uplifting environment!
20 East Main st Nanticoke
Wise Program
Are you interested in learning about how work will affect your Social Security benefits? Social Security hosts free online Work Incentive Seminar Event (WISE) webinars. WISE webinars can help you and your family members learn about the Ticket to Work Program and other Social Security work incentives. They’re generally held on the 4th Wednesday of each month.
IEP Mini Series-
May 2nd Progress Monitoring
PA ABLE
Learn about the PA ABLE Savings Program!
PA ABLE Savings Program accounts give people with qualified disabilities and their families a tax-free way to save and pay for disability-related expenses while maintaining important benefits. PA ABLE accounts help people save private funds to support health, independence, and quality of life.
Webinar topics will include PA ABLE’s eligibility requirements, federal and state tax benefits, and interaction with means-tested benefits.
- PA ABLE and Social Security Disability Programs: Working Together to Help Individuals With Disabilities
_______________________________________
Abilities 21
Luau and Dance
Dig out those Hawaiian shirts and come dance the night away !
For ages 12 and over
ABILITIES21
Luau and Dance
Friday May 10,2024
6:00pm-9:00pm
200 Tigue Street, Dunmore
Food provided by Holiday Inn
Music by Ej the Dj
Please RSVP to Kimberly Hart by May 1, 2024
$23 per person
Venmo @KHart-105
PayPal to abilities21@yahoo.com
There is a room block for anyone interested in staying over. Rate is $79 plus tax per room. Must call hotel directly to reserve 570-866-2365
Vision for Equality is offering a Mini-Retreat for Caregivers of Children with ID/Autism (Birth-5) on June 28th, 10:00am – 2:00pm Rivers Casino, Philadelphia.
If you are a caregiver to someone with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, including autism, you are invited to join for a mini-retreat for time to connect with other caregivers and learn about simple, yet effective ways to recompress while connecting with other caregivers. Lunch and snacks will be served. There will be a Gratitude wall, Reflexology, Chair Yoga, Meditation, Journaling, Group Discussion, and more.
Register:
Thanks again to our amazing sponsor MyCIL we will be running the I Can Bike program again this summer.
Space is very limited. And those who signed up last year that were waitlisted have been contacted. They get first priority. After that following new registrations will be taken only those paid will have a spot confirmed. If you do not get in for this year, you will automatically be waitlisted for next
The program is a one week program we start with the orientation for parents only on Sunday. Camp for the children is Monday through Friday. They will have an assigned time for every day over those five days. And we end the week with an award ceremony Friday night at 5:30.