"In my opinion, focusing on an individual's disability minimizes that person's humanity. I've always had more success in focusing on abilities and the world of possibilities. After all, isn't that what living is all about?"---Jerry Komar, Editor Autism News and Views
Before I begin, I want to take this opportunity to wish all a safe, happy and healthy New Year.
2011 Autism Research Achievements
Autism Speaks reported on the top 10 autism research achievements for 2011. These include major genetic discoveries to the importance of earlier autism screening. Take a few minutes and visit Autism Speaks to read this piece {Top 10 Autism Research Achievements of 2011 in their "Science" section}.
First Responders Helping Those With Autism
People with autism have longed posed a challenge for law enforcement and first responders nationwide. The good news is that police, firefighters and first responders around the country have been receiving more training in responding to individuals with autism. Many states now require autism-recognition instruction for their police officers. In addition, this training has been extended to firefighters and first responders.
The North Alabama Reserve Corps was awarded a $7000 grant to train more than 200 first responders to work better with those individuals with autism. Recently, Michigan State Troopers have also been trained. (Niles Daily Star)
If your local municipality does not provide this training to its law enforcement and first responder personnel, make a point to advocate they do so. Grants are available from organizations like AmeriCares. Also, contact your local social service and behavioral health care providers to see if they would be willing to set up a training program.
Autism Frostbite 5K
How about an event that's really cool---literally? A 5K race in Allison Park, PA, will benefit ABOARD (The Advisory Board and Related Disorders). The Autism Frostbite 5K will be held on Saturday, January 12, 2012. The race starts are 10 am at North Park Boathouse in Allison Park. For additional information call: 412-980-0085
2011 Autism Research Achievements
Autism Speaks reported on the top 10 autism research achievements for 2011. These include major genetic discoveries to the importance of earlier autism screening. Take a few minutes and visit Autism Speaks to read this piece {Top 10 Autism Research Achievements of 2011 in their "Science" section}.
First Responders Helping Those With Autism
The North Alabama Reserve Corps was awarded a $7000 grant to train more than 200 first responders to work better with those individuals with autism. Recently, Michigan State Troopers have also been trained. (Niles Daily Star)
If your local municipality does not provide this training to its law enforcement and first responder personnel, make a point to advocate they do so. Grants are available from organizations like AmeriCares. Also, contact your local social service and behavioral health care providers to see if they would be willing to set up a training program.
Autism Frostbite 5K
How about an event that's really cool---literally? A 5K race in Allison Park, PA, will benefit ABOARD (The Advisory Board and Related Disorders). The Autism Frostbite 5K will be held on Saturday, January 12, 2012. The race starts are 10 am at North Park Boathouse in Allison Park. For additional information call: 412-980-0085
