The original version of this newsletter was sent with a broken link. Please see the updated section in this newsletter to complete the water safety survey for ASA. Thank you! | | |
I was struggling to come up with a topic for this month's musings. Searching the internet, I noticed that someone has designated September 1 as “No Rhyme Nor Reason Day.” That struck me as a pretty good way to describe my journey as an Autism parent.
There seemed to be “no rhyme nor reason” for my son, Kieran's, early loss of speech, for his very early ability to assemble things, for his aversion to soprano voices, or, ultimately, for his diagnosis of Autism. Why is it that he is Autistic and his siblings are not?
| | Just a random photo of Kieran and a friend on a bike ride. Think of it as a reminder to enjoy the coming fall weather! | | |
There seems to be no rhyme nor reason for sensory issues. Why is one person hypersensitive to sound while another seeks out loud noises?
To me, there is no rhyme nor reason for our world's failure to appreciate, or even to tolerate Autistic traits and needs. What does it matter if my child refuses to wear socks or eats the same lunch every day?
And, finally, the biggest “no rhyme nor reason” – why are appropriate services so hard to find and finance? Funding for those services often rests on the whims of politics (a real concern in Ohio as state funding of public schools is being reduced). We know that early, intensive intervention helps our folks develop the skills and tolerances to make their way in this world less bumpy. Yet we sit on waiting lists for waivers, therapists, and diagnostics. It is frustrating and, often, all we can do is band together and provide one another support as we wade through it all and a shoulder to cry on when it becomes too overwhelming.
Please know that, if you need that support or shoulder, ASO is here. We may not be able to solve the problem, but we will listen as you explore and experience it.
| | Kathi J. Machle, President | | |
The Autism Society of America is conducting a Water Safety Survey. They are seeking to improve water safety messages and make it easier for children with Autism to find and participate in swimming lessons. If you are the primary caregiver of an Autistic person under age 18, please take time to complete the survey.
Any questions may be addressed to molly.johnson2@ascension.org.
| | Autism Society Ohio is concerned about the effect that the proposed elimination of property taxes will have on the disability community. Currently, property taxes cover 75 -85% of the budgets of our county boards of developmental disabilities. Without this revenue, the statewide DD system will be impoverished. For more information, visit protectpublicservices.org. Talk to your legislators about why DD funding is essential in the life of your loved one. | ASO grants can help bring Autism-friendly programming and events to your neighborhood! If you would like to plan an Autism friendly event in your county, check out our grant program or contact your local affiliate. | | |
The Autism Society relies upon the tremendous work of our local organizations to help individuals and families throughout Ohio. If you don’t see your county listed below, please contact the Autism Society of Ohio so we can connect you with support and services in your area. For more information, call 614-495-7551 or
via email at info@autismohio.org
For information about events and support groups sponsored by other local Autism Society Affiliates, click HERE. The page identifies counties covered by a local affiliate and provides contact information.
| | Autism Society Central Ohio will offer an in-person Potty Training Seminar with Emily Carruthers, M.A. from Collaborative Learning Center. Participants will learn about identifying if their child is ready, reinforcement strategies, visual interventions, schedules, and the importance of consistency. Registration is required. | |
Autism Society Dayton has a new name: Autism Society-Greater Miami Valley. The name change better reflects the counties served by the organization:
Miami, Greene, Preble, Darke and Montgomery.
Learn more on their website autismsocietyofdayton.org.
| Autism Society Greater Akron will host its 5th Annual Step Into Autism Walk, Fundraiser, and Resource Fair on September 26 from 10 AM to noon at Tam O'Shanter Park in Canton, Ohio. Funds raised through sponsorships, donations, and team fundraising stay in our community to provide the connections and resources that empower everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. | | NOW is a great time to order ASO merch for yourself or give as a gift. Find your new favorite hat, T-shirt, and more on our website! | | |
Looking for a fun and impactful way to support those with Autism in your community or throughout the state? Consider hosting a third-party fundraising event! Whether you're an individual, business, or organization, there's something for everyone to get involved in. These events raise vital funds, spread awareness, promote inclusivity, and can significantly impact families living with Autism.
Let's make a difference together!
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Examples of third-party events:
- Sip and paint
- Car washes, craft shows, or bake sales
- Casual Fridays and holiday parties
- Grand openings and store promotions
- Art shows/art auctions
- Bike-a-thon, walk-a-thon, bowl-a-thon
- Golf tournaments
- Black-tie events
- 5k races and marathons
| | STATE AND NATIONAL ADVOCACY | | |
ASO urges you to learn about the Keeping All Students Safe Act (KASSA) which would make it illegal for any school receiving federal funds to seclude a child, physically restrain them unless there is imminent danger of injury to students or staff, or to utilize restraints that restrict breathing. Information and model communications to your legislators are found at votervoice.com
For information about new federal recommendations that may limit funding for ABA services, an issue to watch, visit disabilityscoop.com
Autism Society of America continues to monitor what is happening in Washington. For updates on national legislation, you can subscribe to The Capitol Connection.
ASO has continued its advocacy statewide. Please reach out to us with comments or concerns. Your voice is important.
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