Autism Collaborative Centers of Excellence

ACCE Happenings banner ACCE Happenings mobile banner

ACCE Happenings

Weekly inspirational quote

"Start by starting."-Meryl Streep

Last Updated 3/20/2023

 

Join our mail list to keep up to date on the latest happenings.

All happenings are included for informational purposes.

Wyoming Valley Children’s Association – Blue and Gold Gala & Silent Auction

2023-save-the-date-ig.png

When: Friday, March 31st at 5:30pm

Where: The Woodlands, Wilkes-Barre

The Blue and Gold Gala will feature an open bar, a full menu and entertainment, and will include the presentation of The Making A Difference Award to Yvette Wentland, accepting the award on behalf of the Robert Y. Moffat Family Charitable Trust. Our widely popular Online Silent Auction will remain in a virtual format through an interactive website while featuring the prizes in person to consider. The auction will run from Wednesday, March 29th through Friday, March 31st and conclude the evening of our Gala. All proceeds will benefit WVCA programs!

Wyoming Valley Children’s Association(WVCA) has been offering quality education and therapeutic support services in Wyoming Valley since 1924. By serving all children, with and without developmental delays, WVCA creates an inclusive environment for children to discover, create and develop into curious learners and compassionate citizens. WVCA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

WVCA is also proud to be one of the five founding members of the ACCE Collaborative project!

Learn More


Job Club

job-club-2023-1280-361-px-700-350-px-1.png

Potential weekly modules will include skill development in a variety of employment related topics and activities including: setting employment goals, understanding the world of work, creating resumes, development of employment soft skills for success, practicing interview skills, understanding/starting the job-hunting process, etc.  All members will have the opportunity to develop a portfolio of work-related materials (interest inventory, work goal sheet, resume/strengths and skills profile, and mock interview practice and feedback).

 

Information and activities will be delivered through small group activities and mentoring provided by University of Scranton Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling graduate students and faculty.

 When – SPRING 2023 - Thursdays 6:00-7:30pm

(March 23rd, March 30th, April 13th, April 20th, April 27th, May 4th)

Where – The University of Scranton – McGurrin Hall 

Register Today!

Questions contact Dr. Rebecca Dalgin at Rebecca.dalgin@scranton.edu or 570 941-7819

 


Include Me

includeme-3.28.23.png

Our Include Me staff have this month’s Connection Club planned for March 21 & 28th! These skilled facilitators will have fun, accessible activities and games planned!  All kids are welcome in this safe, virtual space! Register


Health Matters: Supporting Children and Youth with Disabilities

health-matters-3.23.23.jpg

Lancaster-Free for families of children with disabilities/special healthcare needs with lunch included! We still have a few travel scholarships left. 

Learn about helping your child create friendships, understanding waivers, taking care of yourself, and finding community supports.

Join us in person or online on March 23, 2023 from 9am to 3pm.

Register


 Emergency Preparedness Summits

emergency-preparedness-march-2023.jpg


 ECHO Autism CHOP: While You Wait-Virtual Sessions

echo-chop-while-you-wait.png

While you wait is an evidence-based virtual community that allows families of children awaiting an autism evaluation or access to developmental services to learn from a multidisciplinary group of autism and developmental experts about what they can do while they wait for that next appointment.

Every 1st and 3rd Thursday 10:15-11:30 Jan-June 2023

What to expect

Each 75 minute session will include:

  • a presentation from subject matter experts about key topics and best practices for your child.
  • an interactive discussion about a clinical case study
  • A Q&A with the presenter and the opportunity to provide feedback
  • Access to relevant resources to continue your learning journey and support your child

Registration


 


Free Sign Language Classes

sign-lang-classes.jpg

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. 

Access the courses

ASL 1 and ASL 2 pre recorded self guided classes.  Great resource for parents and teachers wanting to learn ASL.


Early Intervention Survey

early-intervention-survey-6.23.23.jpg

 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

sibling-support-group.jpg

 

A Sibling Support Program for the siblings (age 6 - 14) of individuals with disabilities. 

Fun activities and snacks! What else do you need?

Register


Variety Children's Charity

variety.jpg


Waymart Church Sensory Rooms 1:1 Support

waymart-church-flyer.png


Resource Corner
These resources are provided for informational purposes  

  PA Developmental Disabilities Council: Disability Inclusive Curriculum

disability-inclusive-curriculum.jpg

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

About Programs

Apply for a program


ACCESS National Parks 

bird, wheat, accessibility symbol America the beautiful the national parks and federal recreation lands pass Access

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

 

Image description: News story headline reading “how to get $2 museum admission with your ACCESS or Art-Reach ACCESS Card”. Underneath the headline is an illustration of different colored hands reaching for a green-blue ACCESS Card. See less

 

 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

 

task-force-19-22-23-meetings.jpg

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 UniversityThey 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

graphic police car

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

Parenting Autism United
Storytime run by dragons, superheroes and monsters.
Engaging and vibrant readers host a book reading with a matching craft for your class, group, or location.
Crafts and art projects will be part of each Dragon Tales event.
Volunteers can always be helpful in readings, crafts, and setup/cleanup.
This program is designed for families with a child on the Autism Spectrum but is inclusive to help our community learn about awareness, acceptance, inclusion and education!

Check Out All the Wonderful Happenings at The Y! 

we are y 

The Greater Scranton YMCA 

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 

man jumping on white background  

Wayne County YMCA 

The "A-Team" Wayne County YMCA seeks to provide opportunities on the Autism Spectrum to gather in a non-threatening environment. 

blue and purple words on white background 

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 


Tabletop Role Playing Therapy Now Hiring!

pictures of dice

Therapeutic Tabletop Role Playing Group (TTRPG) is a therapeutic group that uses tabletop role playing games to help treat behavioral and mental health issues. Through interaction with other members of the group and the collaborative story, players can be exposed to a wide variety of situations that aid inexposure to, creation and rehearsal of strategies to manage situations.

Members of the Autism Collaborative Centers of Excellence (ACCE) team up with The Bodhana Group, a non-profit based in York, Pennsylvania, to implement TTRPG throughout the region. Qualified applicants will have either clinical or extensive experience working with individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

40 HOURS OF PAID TRAINING

  • ROLE PLAYING GAMES
  • CLINICAL APPROACHES
  • MODALITIES
  • FACILITATING FOR THERAPEUTIC BENEFIT
  • THERAPEUTIC PRACTICUM

Contact: autismhub@e-csc.org to learn more or check out our flyer


Brighter Jouneys Going the Extra Mile
Flyer Brighter Journeys Going the Extra Mile Program
Check out this amazing program to help families obtain items out of reach and not covered by insurance!

ACCE Executive Hub

The University of Scranton has amazing programs. Want to learn more about them, check out our video!


Parent/Caregiver Interest Group 

Come Join Us!

 couch night stand rug

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


Therapeutic Tabletop Role Playing Group (TTRPG) Join now!
updated-ttrpg-flyer-003.png
TTRPG uses role playing game as therapeutic and clinical practice to benefit
  • 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!

ttrpg-brochure-image.jpg


Geisinger ADMI Professional Training Program--ACT 48 Credits Now AVAILABLE
geisinger-ptp-flyer.jpg
To see information full size please select the image
University of Scranton Applied Behavior Analysis, MS
aba-ad-general.jpg
Take your education  to the next level. Apply Now!
  • Select the image to see it full size and access links.


Misericordia University: Integrated Studies Program for Students with Autism
Misericordia is offering a new, inclusive, post-secondary certificate program designed specifically for students with moderate Autism, with or without co-morbid disorders, and Intellectual Disability.

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

safe-piano-lessons.jpg

Piano Lessons! Lessons are available in the Wilkes-Barre Area

Members Only!

Call (570)822-7259


 

 

 Turn to Us: SPECTRUM Sensory GYM

turn-to-us-sensory-spectrum-gym.jpg
Our Gym is made possible by St. Luke's Miners Campus and AllOne Foundation
A sensory gym is a specialized designed space to help an individual with sensory issues learn to regulate their brain’s negative reactions to external stimuli by developing coping skills for these experiences.  The gym offers a variety of benefits: calming effects, stimulation, socialization, improved focus, motor skills development, cognitive development, and sensory development.

 

Bike Camp for Individuals with Disabilities Comes to Mildford PA July 10th

rider-and-volunteer-recruitment-flier-7.10.23.jpg

 

 


 

 Schedule Early Respite Saturdays for Spring!

respite-5.13.23.jpg


Brighter Journeys Egg Hunt

easter eggs

 


TTRPG at Misericordia University Autism Center!

people sitting at table dice

Register Today!

Questions contact: inclusivecommunityadvocates@gmail.com 


Misericordia University Best Buddies Program

best-buddies-logo.jpg

Learn more about the Best Buddies and some of the past leaders!

Interested in having you or a loved one join? Check out the sign up instructions.


Outreach Playgroups

playgroup.jpg


 

 Parent/Caregiver Interest Group 

Come Join Us!

 couch night stand rug

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

safecare.jpg  


Parent Support Group Make yourself a priority!

parent-support-group.jpg

 

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.

Register today!


 

parent-to-parent-of-pennsylvania logo

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

nlindsay@parenttoparent.org

Start the match process


 Support Group for Fathers of Autistic People is back!!!

fathers-asd-support-group-6.17.23.jpg

The AJ Drexel Autism Institute is excited to offer a support group for fathers of autistic people in partnership with Dr. Robert Naseef, clinical psychologist at Alternative Choices and Dr. Michael Hannon of Montclair State University and GETAC. The group will meet at 11am EST on Zoom starting on Saturday, March 18

Email AutismInstitute@drexel.edufor further information.


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


 

 ECHO Autism CHOP: While You Wait-Virtual Sessions

echo-chop-while-you-wait.png

While you wait is an evidence-based virtual community that allows families of children awaiting an autism evaluation or access to developmental services to learn from a multidisciplinary group of autism and developmental experts about what they can do while they wait for that next appointment.

Every 1st and 3rd Thursday 10:15-11:30 Jan-June 2023

What to expect

Each 75 minute session will include:

  • a presentation from subject matter experts about key topics and best practices for your child.
  • an interactive discussion about a clinical case study
  • A Q&A with the presenter and the opportunity to provide feedback
  • Access to relevant resources to continue your learning journey and support your child

Registration


 Exploring and Integrating Diverse Children's Literature in Our Classrooms

Professional Learning Community

pattan-training-5.10.23.jpg

Join Dr. Lakeisha Johnson as she kicks off our book study and provides insight from her perspective as a speech and language pathologist and a parent to the importance of using children’s literature where children can see themselves in the books they read!

6:30-7:30PM ET

  • April 12
  • May 10

Register Today!


 Caregiver Courses

 Flyer hand with heart


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


Arc of NEPA Training Calendar

arc-nepa-training.jpg

 

 

 


 

 

New Happenings 

 A lot of New Happenings with our SAFE Partner

SAFE @ the Graham

safe-@-the-graham-3.21.23.jpg

Let your artistic side show with instruction from Gina art instructor extraordinaire! First class starts March 21st at 6pm 1 Institute Lane, Kingston PA

Register


SAFE Waiver Training

safe-waivers-march-22-2023.jpg

County Services and Waivers

Where: 1 Institute Lane Kingston

When March 22nd 6PM

Amy Tomkoski, MS

Deputy Administrator Luzerne County MHDS

For a very important presentation on country services, the application process, and waivers. If you need childcare for the meeting, register 


SAFE Scholarships are OPEN for College!

safe-scholarship.jpg

 3 $1000 scholarships to award an individual with an Autism Spectrum Diagnosis. Scholarship program aims to help student achieve their dreams.

Apply today!


SAFE is starting a Bi-Weekly Newsletter

safe-newsletter.jpg

Bi-weekly newsletters providing information on:

  • SAFE Events and programs
  • SAFE's What's new on the Spectrum

Sign up


SAFE is looking for Board members

safe-board-members.jpg

S.A.F.E. Board Opportunity

SAFE, Inc currently has board openings. We are ideally looking for individuals who have experience in the following to enhance our board to continue SAFE programs but are NOT a requirement to serve on the board.

Experience in fundraising, marketing, volunteering, and/or grant writing is preferred, however, our main consideration is individuals who believe in the mission of SAFE and want to help SAFE continue providing programs and services to families and individuals with an autism spectrum diagnosis.

If you are interested in applying for one of the open board positions, please fill out this form and to mknipfer@autismsafe.org


SAFE Pizza and Game Night!

safe-game-night-4.2.2023.jpg

Let's Eat, Laugh and Play with Friends!

Adults with Autism Social Group

Sunday, April 2nd

Grottow Pizza 337 Wyoming Valley Mall RD, Wilkes-Barre

Games provided but feel free to bring your own.

RSVP Tara Priest-Rhodes adultautismsocialgroup@gmail.com 570-795-8100


Misericordia University at Events Happening too!

Autism Friendly Playtime!

autism-friendly-playtime-3.25.23.png

Come to Misericordia's Speech, Language, and Hearing Center for many fun activities, including an obstacle course, meeting our social robot Kebbi, and more!

Saturday, March 25th

Passan Hall 2nd Floor

120 Lake St, Dallas, PA

Register today!


Easter Eggstravaganza at Misericordia

easter-mu-4.2.23.png

Sunday, April 2nd from 12-3 at Misericordia University Insalaco Hall

There will be snacks, games, and crafts... and the Easter Bunny! For those who wish to see him.

Join us for a sensory friendly experience.

We welcome children with disabilities and their siblings

Questions: contact Christina via email christina.ann.reilley@gmail.com 

Register today!


Our partners at the YMCA have Healthy Kids Day coming up!

health-kids-day-4.15.23.jpg

Free and open to the public

YMCA Mericle Family Center 1122 Oak St. Pittston PA

10-2 April 15th


Challengers Basketball with PASS

challenger-baseball-flyer-2023-pike.jpg


Our partners at PAU have an Inaugral Community Day

pau-4.29.23.jpg


Being an Efficient


Self Advocate Presentation

self-advocate-3.22.23.jpg


Include ME Connection Club!

include-me-3.28.23.jpg

 

We'd like to welcome your young hero to the Include Me Connection Club! This inclusive, fun, virtual club is for Pennsylvania students in grades 3 - 5. The March theme is "We can be heroes!" Your child is welcome here!

 Sign up today!


ODP 2023 Autism Spectrum Disorder Virtual Seminar

odp-asd-lens-4.23.23.png

"Through the Lens of Autism 👀: Exploring Priority Areas and Building Support for Everyday Challenges."

In response to ODP's training needs survey, this seminar will provide a deeper look into various priority areas, including communication 💬, mental health 🧠, online safety 👩‍💻, and family systems that impact everyday life 🏡.

Join on one of the dates listed below:

Wednesday, April 12, 2023, from 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM

✅ Monday, April 24, 2023, from 11:30 AM – 3:30 PM

Register today!


Check out the Happening Soon for more about what is happening soon in the community such as WVCA, Job Club and more!

 

Wyoming Valley Children’s Association – Blue and Gold Gala & Silent Auction

2023-save-the-date-ig.png

 

When: Friday, March 31st at 5:30pm

Where: The Woodlands, Wilkes-Barre

The Blue and Gold Gala will feature an open bar, a full menu and entertainment, and will include the presentation of The Making A Difference Award to Yvette Wentland, accepting the award on behalf of the Robert Y. Moffat Family Charitable Trust. Our widely popular Online Silent Auction will remain in a virtual format through an interactive website while featuring the prizes in person to consider. The auction will run from Wednesday, March 29th through Friday, March 31st and conclude the evening of our Gala. All proceeds will benefit WVCA programs!

Wyoming Valley Children’s Association(WVCA) has been offering quality education and therapeutic support services in Wyoming Valley since 1924. By serving all children, with and without developmental delays, WVCA creates an inclusive environment for children to discover, create and develop into curious learners and compassionate citizens. WVCA is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

WVCA is also proud to be one of the five founding members of the ACCE Collaborative project!

Learn More


Check out the Respite and Socialization Tab for more information about Brighter Journeys, Pike Autism Support Services I can bike, and Camp Orchard Hill FREE Respite program!

Brighter Journeys Egg Hunt

easter eggs

 

 


Pennsylvania State Interagency Coordinating Council (SICC)

sicc-4.6.23.jpg

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 April 6th from 11:30am -12:15pm. This event takes place through Zoom. Please note the meet and greet is designed exclusively for families by families. 

Register today

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. When you register, the Zoom details for the Meet and greet invitation will be sent by Thursday March 30th to the email you chose to register with.

The SICC meeting will follow at 12:30 pm, and participation is highly welcomed and encouraged but not required.


Growing Your Strong Family Virtual Parent Cafes

parent-cafe-4.17.23.jpg

Families with children who are receiving Early Intervention (Infant Toddler or Preschool) and/or Family Support/Home Visiting Services are invited to Virtual Parent Café Spring Series, Growing your Strong Family.

This Parent Café series is hosted by Parent to Parent of PA and supported by the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL). Parent Cafes are a safe and supportive space for families to connect, share the joys and challenges of parenting and learn from each other.

The Parent Cafes will be held virtually, through Zoom, on:

Monday, March 27th, 6:00-8:00pm

Monday, April 17th, 9:00-11:00 am

Monday, May 15th, 6:00-8:00 pm.

Please register soon to join for one, two or all of the Cafes. Registration ends March 20th. Childcare reimbursement is available if required for you to join the Parent Cafés.

Please Note: These sessions are designed specifically for families. No professional development credits will be offered.

Register today


 

Includi-Con

includi-con-6.22.23.png