Puberty Workshop with Marci Hammel  THIS FRIDAY - April 12th 6:00 - 8:00 PM At Synergy Autism Center There are still openings for this Friday's workshop on puberty and sexuality issues as they relate to autism and special needs children. Marci gives a very open and honest presentation on these challenging issues and does so in a way that's both informative and easy to understand. She will give you the tools to discuss these issues with your family or your clients.
The cost for this workshop is $20, which can be paid upon arrival. Cash or checks accepted. No credit cards, please. To register please email us or call 503-432-8760.
|
|
Awareness vs. Acceptance
by Jonathan Chase
Autism Awareness Month is a popular topic of conversation in the self-advocacy community. Those of us on the autism spectrum often discuss the differences between autism "Awareness" and "Acceptance", with acceptance being preferred by many self advocates. Awareness is often peripheral. For example, I am aware of many things I read in the newspaper, but do I understand them? Do I carry those stories with me? No, they are things I know of, but there's no depth. Those are stories we may pass by without reading.
Acceptance is not just knowing that autistic people exist, it's welcoming us, understanding us, and putting out some effort to do so. It's the act of learning not just that we are out there, but what makes us different and how that makes us feel as individuals. Accepting that we are all individuals with unique perspective, stories, experiences, and there is a place for all of us in the world and in our local community. Autism isn't something that happens in "Special Ed" classrooms or group homes, it's also the child in the shopping cart next to you at the grocery store, or the person behind the counter (or in the manager's office upstairs).
We shouldn't need a special month just to accept and understand people who are different. We should celebrate our differences and the spectrum of people we meet every day. But this is an opportunity to put in a little extra effort. Go out this month and increase your awareness; read a book written by someone on the autism spectrum, or attend an event where you can interact with autistic children and adults. Ask questions, listen to their stories, and learn from them as people just like any other. Then accept that their perspective is equally valid, valuable, and important, just like anyone else you might meet in any other month.
|
Autism Society of Oregon Walk-a-thon  Sunday, April 21st 9:00 AM - 12:00 noon At Oaks Park
We are excited to be a part of this year's Walk-a-thon supporting the Autism Society of Oregon! There will be lots to do and see. Synergy will be inside the resource table area and demonstrating mentorship with games and activities. Please come by and say hello!
Jonathan will also be there performing as a magician. You don't want to miss that!
|
