ACCE Happenings
Weekly inspirational quote
"Don't be afraid to be amazing."-Andy Offutt Irwin
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Last Updated December 2, 2022
Hello we have redesigned our page recently to help ease access to events in ACCE and in the community at large. All happenings are included for informational purposes.
Sensory Winter Wonderland
Sunday December 4th 12-3PM
Snacks, Games, Crafts and Santa for those who wish to see him.
We welcome children with autism and siblings!
NEPA Inclusive Smart Technology
Respite Care Parent's Day Out coming this fall!
For children and adults with special needs.
- Saturday, December 10th 9-4pM
Available to:
- 4 and up
- Lunch and snack provided
- Current PA Dept of Health Guidelines will be observed
- Professional Staff and RN Onsite
- Registeration and Health form required
Space is has really filled up! Register Today to secure your spot!
Support Group for Fathers of Autistic People is back!!!
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, December 10th
Email AutismInstitute@drexel.edufor further information.
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 will be discussed 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.
Register for Dec. 7 from 10 to 11 a.m.
Villanova University Disability Inclusion Conference
![[image description: White square with blue lower-right corner, Villanova Block-V logo shown in white within the blue corner. Blue text on the white square: Villanova University Disability Inclusion Conference. Building Disability Inclusion into Your Internship and Entry-Level Hire Experiences. Keynote Speaker: Caroline Casey, Founder of the Valuable 500 and President of the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness.]](images/disability-inclusion-conference.jpg)
Register Today. There is no charge for the conference.
Dec 6th
Include Me: Virtual Winter Book Study
Starting Dec. 6 – Winter Book Study for kids ages 5 – 8. We’ll be doing story tours with the theme - “Embracing Differences”. Sign up so we can send your child the books & activity box for this series! Learn all about the program
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.
Dates: Monday December 5th
Location: Online
Neurodiversity Employment Network
Autistic Experience in the Workplace- 2 Part Webinar Series
By Neurodiversity Employment Network: Philadelphia
About: Join us for a two-part webinar series focused around the autistic experience at work - as told by autistic professionals.
Webinar 2: Thursday, December 15 | 1pm-2pm EST
In the second webinar, Creating an Inclusive Workplace for Autistic Employees, panelists will similarly share their experiences in the workplace and provide insight for organizations who are looking to be more inclusive. This panelist includes professionals in higher education, human services, styling, and advocacy to ensure insights across a wide range of industries and business sizes. Attendees can expect to leave with 5 simple, actionable next steps for inclusive workplaces.
Deutsch Institute Monday Afternoon Connections
Word Game Wednesday
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
Art Sessions at Misericordia New time!
Thursdays, 6:30-7:30
Misericordia University Autism Center
50 Lake St. Dallas PA 18612
Fall Happenings at Parenting Autism United
For more details about these events and more check out their newsletter! Questions email parentingautismunited@gmail.com
Dec
3rd Santa's Workshop
4th Christmas Photos with The Grinch
10/11 Spectrum approved weekend
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
Adult Testing Available at CSC!
A short, helpful PSA about Adult Autism Evaluations at the Hub!
Have you had problems with:
- social interactions?
- employment?
- organizing daily activities?
- sensory sensitivities?
- obsessive interests?
The Hazleton Autism Family Support Hub now offers neurodevelopmental/Psychological testing for adults evaluating for:
- autism
- ADHD
- other neurodiversities.
Accepting a variety of insurances with appointments offered at our Hazleton Office:
20 North Laurel Street, Suite 2E, Hazleton, PA 18201
Call 570-861-8311 or e-mail autismhub@e-csc.org for more information.
For more information about our Hazleton Autism Family Support hub and Testing Clinic
Learn about our Hazleton Autism Family Support Hub!
The Hazleton Hub, also known as the Children's Service Cetner, seeks to support individuals of any age, and their families, at any stage of the diagnostic and treatment continuum. They offer an integrated model of parent peer support, referral, and screening to assist with access to diagnosis for children and adults as well as quality services in all areas of treatment and daily living. In collaboration with multiple ACCE partners, the Hub offers a therapeutic lending library for families and service providers, an Autism Educators Support Alliance, Art Night at the Hub community event, and autism testing for adults. The Hub also collaborates with Goodwill Industries of NEPA and Hope Enterprises to offer an Autism in the Early Childhood Classroom training program and Therapeutic Tabletop Role Playing Groups.
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
Tabletop Role Playing Therapy Now Hiring!
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
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.
Autism in the Early Childhood Classroom
- What is Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Sensory Processing and Self-Regulation in the classroom
- Incorporating Play-Based Communication and Social Skills
- Classroom Management and Positive Behavior Supports
- Visual Learning Supports and Other Strategies to Support learning
- Authentic Assessment and Data Collection
- Collaboration with Caregivers and Community Resources
- Optional Director Training and Technical Assistance Sessions
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
Misericordia University Swim Program!
**Located in the Anderson Center at Misericordia University**
- 30 Minute Instructional swim is free for members of S.A.F.E.
- 30 Minute Recreational swim is optional at an additional cost of $10 for each session you sign up for.
Sessions will be broken down into two groups based on ages:
- 6:00 pm - 6:30 pm ages 5-12 only
- 6:30 pm - 7:00 pm ages 13-18 only.
Questions or for more information contact: autism@misericordia.edu
Turn to Us: SPECTRUM Sensory GYM
Misericordia University Best Buddies Program
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
Light up the Spectrum: After School Program
- Ages 12 and up
- With and without special needs welcome!
Program Include:
- Socialization
- Group Activities
- Life Skills
- Arts and crafts and so much more
Space limited!
Call 570-667-6701 for details
Located 510 Route 6 and 209 Suite 102 Milford PA 18337
NEPA Inclusive Transitions Academy
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
Incredible Years Training Classes
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
Support Group for Fathers of Autistic People is back!!!
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, December 10th
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
Caregiver Courses
Arc of NEPA Training Calendar
Families CCAN Workshop
In this unique 5-session workshop series, young adults with disabilities have an opportunity to learn what it’s like to live on their own. Individuals learn with and from peer instructors who are already living in the community with supports.
What You Can Expect From The Peer-To-Peer Workshop:
- Peer Instructors: Peer instructors share their own experiences, learning and tools. Each week we focus on a different aspect of independent living such as meal planning, budgeting, sharing space with housemates, and much more.
- Virtual Visits: We virtually visit our peer instructors in their homes, where they showcase the skills and tools that they have developed to live their best lives.
- Interactive, Facilitated Sessions: Interactive and facilitated sessions include time for making connections, celebrating accomplishments, and socializing.
- Reinforced Learning: Small assignments between sessions reinforce learning and provide practice for establishing new skills for independence.
They do not accept waiver funding for this workshop. However, you do not need a waiver to participate. If the fee causes undue financial hardship, please contact them! Register March 1st sessions start
New Happenings
Make an ornament at Hazleton Autism Family Support Hub!
Santa's Workshop
Saturday, Dec 4th 12-4
All items $1-5
Gifts that have meaning. Custom made and supporting a good cause!
Just like when we were kids!
Miscellaneous gift items for purchase a really low prices. Kids can purchase for their familiy. Easy crafts to make ornaments.
If interested in craft days or nights please email parentingautismunited@gmail.com
We could use volunteers to assist in making our Christmas Workshop the best event this season!
Light snacks and refreshments available. The PAUsitively Unique Gift Shop and more will be open durin scheduled business hours until December 16th.
Great are available for family, teachers, friends, community service providers, therapists, co-workers.
Safe Adult Club Holiday Get Together
Friday, December 9th Grotto Wilkes-Barre Party Room
Pizza and soda for dinner :)
Msytery Gift Exchange (bring wrapped gift valued from $5-15)
Cookie decorating!
Please RSVP by contacting Tara at adultautismsocialgroup@gmail.com
SAFE Light the Night New Date!
Light the night for Autism at Sugarloaf.
Our Christmas present from our families to yours!! Come enjoy this family friendly event with a light display, a visit with Santa, enjoy a hot dog and a hot cup of cocoa. Santa will be available for families to take pictures with. Champ will be on site signing baseball cards from 5-8pm.
December 11th 5-8PM 18 Golf Course Road, Sugarloaf, PA 18249
RSVP No Later Than Thursday, December 8th
safeoffice@autism.org Any questions call 570-822-7259
Hanging with the Grinch!
Families can sign up to spend a little quality time with the vile green guy on Saturday Dec 17th.
Limited spaces available. Sign up
Come have some holiday fun, enjoy some light snacks, and grab some photos with the mean one himself.
Located at Parenting Autism United 313 Wyoming Ave, Wyoming PA 18644
Questions email parentingautismunited@gmail.com
Power of Parents
Parent/Caregiver Group
ECHO Autism CHOP: While You Wait-Virtual Sessions
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
CILCPA Wheels In Motion – Let’s Get Social
December 12 @ 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Recurring Event (2nd Monday of every month)
With all of the Social Isolation, we have all been experiencing we need to “get out” and meet people! Let’s connect on Zoom and chat!
PA Family Network Virtual Summit Long Term Planning and Housing Options
December 12-16 @ 9:30 am - 3:30 pm
Recurring Event
Join the virtual summit in your region to hear from local experts with resources focused on Long Term Planning and Housing Options. Summits will be held virtually from 9:30am- 3:30pm.
Monday, December 12- Northeast registration
Tuesday, December 13- Southeast registration
Wednesday, December 14- South Central Registration
Thursday, December 15- Central registration
Friday, December 16- West registration
Virtual Road Show-Technology to support independence
Please join the ODP Technology Task Force for an upcoming Virtual Road Show series “Technology to Support Independence in PA!” People from all backgrounds will be sharing their personal stories and experiences with exploring how technology can support and improve everyday lives. Each session will include scheduled presentations and plenty of time for group conversation, questions, and feedback. Please bring your own experiences to share, so we can learn from each other! Pre-registration is required.
Application linked to italicized titles
December 13, 2022, 1:00pm-2:00pm – Technology to Support and Enhance Communication
- Karen Velocci, President of SI-Services.com and Director of Programming and Technology at The Center at Hampton House — and First and Foremost, Mom to Stefan who is a 25-year-old living with Autism
- Lauren Enders and Rachael Smolen, AAC Specialists, Assistive Technology Team at Bucks County IU
January 18, 2023, 1:00pm-2:00pm – Person-Centered Planning with Technology
- Maria Baker and Lucas Schwanke, Supports Coordinators
- Rankin Christian Center (RCC), Mon Valley Supports Coordination (MVSC)
February 16, 2023, 1:00pm-2:00pm – Imagine, Discover, Explore, Try, and Get – A Pathway to Assistive Technology
- Kim Singleton, Senior Director of Assistive Technology Programs, TechOWL, Institute on Disabilities at Temple University
- Sandra McNally, Assistant Director of Assistive Technology Programs, TechOWL, Institute on Disabilities at Temple University
- Including Assistive Technology Users who will share their experiences!