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
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!
Job Club
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
Questions contact Dr. Rebecca Dalgin at Rebecca.dalgin@scranton.edu or 570 941-7819
Include Me
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
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.
Emergency Preparedness Summits
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
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
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
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.
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
Bike Camp for Individuals with Disabilities Comes to Mildford PA July 10th
Schedule Early Respite Saturdays for Spring!
Brighter Journeys Egg Hunt
TTRPG at Misericordia University Autism Center!
Questions contact: inclusivecommunityadvocates@gmail.com
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
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
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, 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
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
Exploring and Integrating Diverse Children's Literature in Our Classrooms
Professional Learning Community
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
Caregiver Courses
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
New Happenings
A lot of New Happenings with our SAFE Partner
SAFE @ the Graham
Let your artistic side show with instruction from Gina art instructor extraordinaire! First class starts March 21st at 6pm 1 Institute Lane, Kingston PA
SAFE Waiver Training
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!
3 $1000 scholarships to award an individual with an Autism Spectrum Diagnosis. Scholarship program aims to help student achieve their dreams.
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
SAFE is looking for Board members
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!
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!
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
Easter Eggstravaganza at Misericordia
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
Our partners at the YMCA have Healthy Kids Day coming up!
Free and open to the public
YMCA Mericle Family Center 1122 Oak St. Pittston PA
10-2 April 15th
Challengers Basketball with PASS
Our partners at PAU have an Inaugral Community Day
Being an Efficient
Self Advocate Presentation
Include ME Connection Club!
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!
ODP 2023 Autism Spectrum Disorder Virtual Seminar
"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
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
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!
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
Pennsylvania State Interagency Coordinating Council (SICC)
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.
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
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.
Includi-Con
