Parent Pipeline Newsletter Spring/Summer 2015
Transcription
Parent Pipeline Newsletter Spring/Summer 2015
Parent Pipeline THE NEWSLETTER THAT KEEPS PARENTS INFORMED S P RIN G/ S U M ME R 2 0 1 5 Work-Based Learning Catering The students of the Work-Based Learning Program assigned to the CLIU #21 offices have been busy this school year. They are responsible for weekly menu planning and shopping for the food. In addition, the students have an opportunity to prepare, serve, and clean up the breakfast cart and lunch. Another fun task our students do is plan for the craft by collaborating with our wood shop crew. Once the wood shop crew shapes and sands the wood, the store crew paints, assembles, and sells the wood crafts on the mobile cart. In addition to serving the staff weekly, the students have opportunities to broaden work skills with special programs, such as hosting Tech Wizards, monthly board meetings, and departmental meetings. These opportunities allow for students to be a part of a true work environment while practicing the soft and hard skills of the job. These young adults have shown tremendous growth in their social skills knowing they are held to high expectations and respected for the foods and crafts that they create. The ongoing support from the staff at each office enables the Work-Based Learning Program to teach the young adults of Carbon and Lehigh Counties the necessary skills needed to transition from school to work! Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit #21 4210 Independence Drive Schnecksville, PA 18078-2580 610-769-4111, 800-223-4821 www.cliu.org Tyler Appleman Parkland High School Anna Michael Parkland High School PAGE 2 Project SEARCH High School Transition Program Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit #21 4210 Independence Dr. Schnecksville, PA 18078-2580 Directions are available on our web site, www.cliu.org. PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE 3 March Special Education Conference 17th Annual Journey Through Special Education Conference March 28, 2015 (Register by March 16th) Park Inn by Radisson Harrisburg West 5401 Carlisle Pike, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050 Fees: Parent/FT Student-$35.00, Paraprofessional-$45.00, Professional-$60.00 Act 48, BACB CE, and Training Certificates Available 7:30-8:15 8:30-11:30 11:30-12:30 12:30-3:30 Registration/Continental Breakfast Keynote Address Lunch Provided Breakout Sessions (Choose from 3) KEYNOTE: BULLYING—YOU CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE Presented by Denny Barger, founder of Starfish, a program dedicated to positively impacting the community. Denny provides consultative services to schools and community groups on bullying and offers workplace team-building to help adults create a put-down free workplace. This presentation will define bullying, discuss how/when/why it occurs, and explore ways to improve the school environment. INSTRUCTIONAL STRATEGIES TO SUPPORT CLASSROOM LEARNING Presented by Willow Hozella, BCBA, Educational Consultant, PaTTAN. This session covers effective instruction through manipulation of the learning environment. Presentation will include classroom organization, establishing rules and routines, reinforcement strategies, errorless teaching, and error correction. Participants will learn ways to support positive behavior and engage students. HOW TO CHOOSE WHAT TO USE Presented by Geri Boyer, MA, CCC-SLP, Educational Consultant, Assistive Technology, Capital Area Intermediate Unit. Geri will focus on choosing appropriate assistive technology so that individuals can access their learning environments and communicate effectively. Background info will be provided on accessible instructional materials and universal design for learning. Following this foundation, the SETT framework (Student, Environment, Tasks, Tools), and PASS (Participation, Accessibility, Social Integration, Self-reliance/advocacy) protocol and feature matching will be discussed as useful assessment tools. Participants will also get a brief overview of the most current communication apps, devices, and reading/writing tools. UNDERSTANDING and CHANGING CHALLENGING BEHAVIORS IN CHILDREN Carolyn Bruey, Psy.D, BCBA Supervisor, Autism Solutions and Lancaster-Lebanon Intermediate Unit School Psychologists. Dr. Bruey serves as the administrative liaison to twenty IU 13 social workers. She also oversees the ADOS Assessment Team and provides psychological services to children and adults on the autism spectrum. Using an ABA approach, participants will be taught ways to determine why the challenging behavior is occurring and learn effective, evidence-based interventions. TO REGISTER Please send check to: Cindy Adams The Arc of Cumberland & Perry Counties 71 Ashland Avenue Carlisle, PA 17013 To download a brochure, please visit www.CPARC.org. PARENT PIPELINE The Arc of Cumberland & Perry Counties SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE 4 Local Task Force The Right to Education Consent Agreement guarantees a free public program of education and training to school-age students with special needs. The State Task Force and twenty-nine Local Task Forces were established to ensure that the intent and spirit of the consent agreement is followed. The Local Right to Education Task Force is consumer driven, comprised of parents, educators, agency representatives, and other persons concerned with educational services for students with disabilities. Local Right to Education Task Force Meetings are held at the Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit #21’s Transportation Building in Walnutport or the Central Office in Schnecksville. Meetings begin at 10:00 am. All parents and interested persons are welcome to bring questions and concerns to the meetings. Call 610769-4111 or 800-223-4821 for more information. Mark your calendars for the annual Spring Workshop on April 8, 2015, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. Local Right to Education Task Force Carbon and Lehigh Counties Meeting Dates for 2015 March 19, 2015 - CLIU #21 Transportation Building, Walnutport May 21, 2015 - CLIU #21 Central Office, Schnecksville The following is help for families and advocates of children with special needs for special education regulations and the complaint system: The Special Education Consult Line - 1-800-879-2301 - A service of the PA Department of Education, Bureau of Special Education, Division of Compliance The Education Law Center - 215-238-6970 or www.elc.pa.org Local Autism Task Force Meetings are held every third Thursday of the month at the Lehigh County Government Center, 17th Street, Allentown, PA 18101 at 6:00 pm. These meetings try to focus on issues that affect all who are touched by autism. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Patricia Theodore at patriciatheodore@lehighcounty.org. PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE Ben Yorgey Foundation The Ben Yorgey Foundation is pleased to announce the Ben Event which has been scheduled for Saturday, July 18, and Sunday, July 19, 2015, at Macungie Memorial Park. The planned events will serve as the Foundation’s primary fundraising opportunity in 2015. Events include many free carnival activities for families, live performances, and a Special Olympics swim meet. Ben died on May 7, 2009, at the age of 24, from anoxic brain injury caused by a seizure. This event is designed to honor his legacy and sow the seeds for the Ben Yorgey Foundation, which will provide scholarships for students with special needs in Carbon and Lehigh County schools. To nominate a student, contact your school district and ask about the application form or visit the website at www.heyiknowyou.org. Volunteers Needed The Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit #21 is in need for volunteers to act as Surrogate Parents for students who do not have a guardian available to act on their behalf. Volunteers typically will attend IEP or ER meetings, and act in place of a parent or guardian in making school-related decisions. This is a service that the CLIU #21 provides for students who attend any of the 14 districts within the Carbon and Lehigh Counties. If you have time during the day, and want to help meet the needs of a child in your area, please call or email Maia Geiger or Amy Snyder. They would be glad to answer any questions you have. Maia Geiger 610-769-4111 ext. 1268, geigerm@cliu.org Lehigh County Surrogate Parent Coordinator Amy Snyder 610-769-4111, ext. 1915, snydera@cliu.org Carbon County Surrogate Parent Coordinator PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 5 PAGE 6 Miracle League of the Lehigh Valley Baseball Team: Everyone deserves a chance to play baseball, and we make sure that statement is a reality! Cheer Team: Join our Co - Ed, Inclusive Cheer Team Do both! All are welcome. Are you not interested in baseball or cheerleading, but would like to participate in our various activities. Fill out our event Registration Form at miracleleaguelv.org. Player Registration Registration Fee: $40 per family per year Season starts May 2015, Get Started days are May 9th and 10th (Additional info will be sent when registered) Scholarships are available FREE OF CHARGE CHILDREN 8-16 A program of Lutheran Home Care and Hospice, Camp Evergreen is a children's bereavement camp designed for children ages 8-16 who have experienced the death of a loved one. Through arts and crafts, physical activity, games, song and discussion, campers will learn new, healthy ways to cope with the strong feelings that often emerge after a significant loss. Campers will be in a safe place among professionals and trained volunteers who will provide companionship and guidance. Fill out our Player Registration Form at miracleleaguelv.org. Call for more information: 610-769-2096 Registration deadline for campers is June 26, 2015 Please call 1-888-882-4530 for more information, to register, or to volunteer. PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE Come for the Miracle League Game, Stay for the IronPigs Game!!! Miracle League Night Coca-Cola Park April 25th, 2015 5:00 pm to ?? I am pleased to announce that the IronPigs are once again providing an opportunity for Miracle League Baseball to happen on their field. This year is going to be slightly different than years past – in a good way! Both Miracle League of the Lehigh Valley and Miracle League Northampton County athletes will be part of the fun. It’s going to be a night to celebrate the gift of Miracle League Baseball. The Miracle League exhibition game will feature 24 players from MLLV and 24 players from MLNorCo. This game will start at 5:00 pm and the IronPigs will start at 6:35 pm. During the IronPigs game, there will also be a jersey auction to bid on the uniforms of all the IronPigs players and managers. The IronPigs are then donating all the proceeds back to MLLV and MLNorCo. Between both Miracle Leagues we have 500 tickets in the PPL Picnic Patio section of Coca-Cola Park. These tickets come with free food and drink during the IronPigs game. Tickets will be sold for $12. The IronPigs players (and mascots?) will be visiting our section before their game, so make sure to get there early! Due to the limited number of tickets we have for the event, we are going to ask that families request no more than three tickets. This will allow over 80 families to participate. If you have additional friends or relatives that also want to come to the game, they can purchase tickets through the IronPigs, but I can't guarantee that there will be availability in the PPL Patio. The MLLV players for the exhibition game will be randomly selected from the athletes that can attend on April 25th. There will be a preference given to those athletes who have not had the opportunity to participate in years past. It's unfortunate that not everyone can participate on the field, but supporting those that are out there is fun too! This Event is Sponsored by: Visit the following website to signup. http://www.signupgenius.com/go/2ofof4472eabfci-miracle Please contact me with any questions. Have a great day, Kyle O’Neill Office: 610-769-2096 Cell: 484-707-5746 PARENT PIPELINE Thank you for your donations to our Miracle League Night! SPRING/SUMMER 2015 7 PAGE 8 Twenty-Second Annual Carbon Lehigh Special Needs Children’s Foundation Golf Tournament The 22nd CLSNCF Golf Tournament presented by Carbon Lehigh Special Needs Children’s Foundation and the fourteen public school districts of Carbon and Lehigh Counties, in cooperation with the Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit #21, is scheduled for Tuesday, June 16, 2015, at The Olde Homestead Golf Club, 6598 Route 309, New Tripoli, PA. Proceeds from the tournament support special needs children in recreational and educational activities. PARENT PIPELINE If you are interested in more information, please visit our website at www.cliu.org, or call George Husack or Barbara Montanari at 800-223-4821 or 610-769-4111, or email us at husackg@cliu.org, or montanarib@cliu.org. We are particularly interested in potential sponsors and have different levels of sponsorship available to suit any business. SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE Upcoming Spring Dance - Teen Spring Fling It is almost time for another spring dance, sponsored by the CLIU #21 Social Workers and the Carbon Lehigh Special Needs Children’s Foundation. It’s guaranteed to be a fun night of dancing, music, prizes, and conversation. The theme this spring will be … The dance will be held at the CLIU #21 Main Office in Schnecksville and will take place on Friday, March 27, from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. Flyers have been distributed to the classroom teachers and additional information was sent home. The dance is open to middle and high school students in the CLIU #21 Life Skills and MDS programs. We look forward to seeing you there for a night of fun. PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 9 PAGE 10 TOPSoccer What Is TOPSoccer? The Outreach Program for Soccer - TOPSoccer - is a community-based training and team placement program for young athletes with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, or Cerebral Palsy. The program provides meaningful learning, development, and physical participation opportunities to young athletes through the game of soccer. The Lehigh Valley TOPSoccer Club was founded by the parent of a child with special needs who felt that the existing soccer programs in the Lehigh Valley did not even come close to meeting the needs of aspiring players with special needs. What Are the Key Elements of the Program? Fun! Fun! Fun! Parent involvement Community support (monetary and non-monetary) Volunteers willing to work with children Oodles of patience “Buddy” system: some players paired with a buddy Placement of players primarily by ability, not age Emphasize ability, not disability Involve players and provide meaningful experience Dependability of coaches Who Can Enroll? TOPSoccer is open to all children in the Lehigh Valley (Lehigh, Northampton, and Carbon Counties) with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, or Cerebral Palsy. When Is It? TOPSoccer will run in the spring from April to mid-June and in the fall from September to mid-November following regular soccer season schedules. When and Where Is TOPSoccer Played? We play on Saturday afternoon from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the Lehigh County Soccer fields in South Whitehall Township (youth fields 1, 2, and 3). How Do I Register My Child? Please print the registration form from the website at http://www.lvtopsoccer.org and follow instructions to register. Spring registration starts from January 1 Fall registration starts from June 1 Cost is $20 per child Lehigh Valley TOPSoccer Club Program Founder/Coordinator C.B. Ananthan 610-391-1812 administrator@lvtopsoccer.org http://www.lvtopsoccer.org Mail Registration Form to: 1350 Buck Trail Road Allentown, PA 18104 How Can I Help? The TOPSoccer program exists for athletes to achieve, develop, and compete according to their abilities. We need volunteers to make this a reality for these children. PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE TOPSoccer Registration Form page 1 PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 11 PAGE 12 TOPSoccer Registration Form page 2 PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE TOPSoccer Registration Form page 3 PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 13 PAGE 14 Eastern PA Youth Soccer Association, Inc. Participant Registration Form PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE 2014-15 Carbon Lehigh Transition Coordinating Council All presentations are held from 9:00 am – 1:30 pm Thursday, April 9, 2015: (Central Office, Schnecksville, Rooms F/G) Susan Tachau, Executive Director and Tracy Beck, Operations Director from the PA Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF) will speak on both a low-interest loan and mini-loan programs. PATF serves Pennsylvania residents who have a disability and older Pennsylvanians who need assistive technology. They also serve people of all income levels. Other presentations are in the works…. Dates to be determined based on the agency’s availability. Stay tuned. Look for updates on the CLIU #21 website under Transition Resources, Carbon Lehigh Transition Coordinating Council, http://www.cliu.org//site/Default.aspx?PageID=352. Germantown Grove Club Annual Fishing Derby The Germantown Grove Club and the Jim Thorpe American Legion Post 304 will host their annual fishing derby for children with special needs on May 14th and 15th. Special needs classes in Carbon County are invited to attend this annual event. It was all started in 1954 as an American Legion function by Germantown resident, Phil Rodgers, and others. The students are given the opportunity to experience the thrill of the sport by getting to catch fish from the section of the stream that is maintained and stocked with fish by the Germantown Grove Club. In addition to being able to catch some fish, every student is treated to food and refreshments. Parent Night Sponsored by Project SEARCH Parent Night Thursday, March 26th, from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit #21 4210 Independence Drive, Schnecksville, PA 18078 Please RSVP to Barbara Montanari at 610-769-4111 ext. 1058 or montanarib@cliu.org PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 15 PAGE 16 Dear Community Partner, This April, over 3,000 individuals and their families will participate in the Lehigh Valley Walk Now for Autism Speaks to raise critical awareness and funds for autism research. The walk will take place on Saturday, April 18, 2015 at Dorney Park, and it is so much more than a walk—it is a family fun day, and one of the best highlights of the day includes our Community Resource Fair. We are inviting your organization to host a booth and to share your programs and services. We encourage Resource Fair participants to form walk teams. Many service providers have told us that forming a walk team has helped to strengthen bonds with their colleagues and clients. If you'd like information about how to form a fundraising walk team, please let me know. At Autism Speaks, our goal is to change the future for all who struggle with autism spectrum disorders. We are dedicated to funding global biomedical research into the causes, prevention, treatments, and cure autism; to raising public awareness about autism and its effects on individuals, families, and society; and to bringing hope to all who deal with the hardships of this disorder. We are committed to raising the funds necessary to support these goals. Our walk is a wonderful vehicle through which we can do all these things, and with your participation, we'll be an even stronger support system for families impacted by autism. Please send the registration form on page 18 to: Autism Speaks – Lehigh Valley 216 Haddon Ave, Suite 403 Westmont, NJ 08108 Or melissa.zavorski@autismspeaks.org Once your form and payment are received, we will send you confirmation and event details. The registration deadline will be Friday, April 3rd. Feel free to contact me for more information. Thank you in advance for your support! Warmest regards, Melissa Zavorski Walk Director 856-858-5400 melissa.zavorski@autismspeaks.org www.autismspeaks.org SAVE THE DATE! Walk Now for Autism Speaks is April 18, 2015 at Dorney Park Allentown, PA Register for the walk at www.walknowforautismspeaks.org PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE 17 Please join Autism Speaks as a Resource Fair Vendor at the Lehigh Valley Walk Now for Autism Speaks on April 18, 2015 at Dorney Park! In 2015 Autism Speaks will host over 95 Walk Now for Autism Speaks events around the country. Thousands of families and individuals will participate in this unique awareness Walk and Autism Community Resource Fair benefiting Autism Speaks. Service providers and event sponsors will have the opportunity to provide over 5,000 participants information about autism services and organizations in their area. The Resource Fair will also feature fun activities for children of all ages. Registration cost for each booth: For-Profit: $150 if registering 4 weeks prior to event* Nonprofit: $100 if registering 4 weeks prior to event* *Add $25 if registering past early deadline (four weeks prior to event date). Rates may vary and are subject to change at any time. What you get with your booth: Table space in Resource Fair area One (1) 8-foot table and one chair Access to a target audience What your organization will need to provide: Appropriate signage for your booth Appropriate staffing One child-friendly activity such as a carnival-type game, coloring or arts and crafts project Schedule for Resource Fair Participants (times subject to change): Vendor load-in starts at 7:30 am. Walker Registration and the Resource Fair will open at 9:30 am. The walk will have a staggered start between 10:30 am - 11:30 am. Resource Fair Closes at 12:00 pm. NOTE: Resource Fair participants must have all necessary materials and supplies at booth location no later than 9:00 am on Walk day. We advise vendors to plan to arrive early to avoid traffic problems We also invite your organization to form a walk team or recruit additional volunteers for the day's activities. This will greatly increase your organization's visibility during the walk. Contact Autism Speaks for a Walker Registration Form and additional information, or register online at www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/ lehighvalley. Please complete the Registration Form on next page and email to Melissa Zavorski at melissa.zavorski@autismspeaks.org Autism Speaks is a registered 501(c)3 organization. Tax ID number 20-2329938. Donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by the law. PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE 18 PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE Carbon Lehigh Special Needs Children’s Foundation 2015 Summer Camp Gifting Program The Carbon Lehigh Special Needs Children’s Foundation offers a “Gifting” of dollars to help families and students with special needs to pay for day and residential summer camp programs. This program is made possible from participation of many educators and business partners in an annual Golf Tournament and donations of various community leaders as well as businesses. Students can apply if they are: Students who are completing Kindergarten through 12th grade or to age 21. Students who receive services through an IEP in school. Students who attend a public school in Carbon or Lehigh Counties. Students who have a summer camp they want to attend during Summer 2015. Completed applications will be reviewed by the Foundation Gifting Committee. Only complete applications will be accepted that meet student criteria. Gifts will not exceed $300 per student and will only pay a percentage of the registration fee. Student applications will be chosen by a lottery. Students awarded summer camp gifts will be notified in writing as to the amount of the “gift.” Gift amounts will be sent from the Foundation Gifting Program to the camp directly to support registrations and camp fees. We encourage and appreciate any pictures and letters from students about their camping experience. Develop a lifetime of memories! Explore the outdoors! Discover talents and skills! Travel beyond your limits! If you have any questions, contact Deb Popson at 610-769-4111 ext. 1613 or popsond@cliu.org. Complete the application on the following page and return by May 1, 2015. Our Mission is to enhance educational and recreational opportunities for children with special needs enrolled in the public schools of Carbon and Lehigh Counties. PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 19 PAGE 20 2015 2015 2014-2015. Deadline for application is May 1, 2015 PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE 21 Friday, March 13, 2015 More information on the following page PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE 22 Second Annual Mental Health Supports for Youth/Young Adults of Transition Age Wednesday, April 29, 2015 (continued from previous page) Mr. Jordan Burnham from Minding your Minds from the Philadelphia area will be our first presenter. Jordan is a public speaker who discusses the mental health issues and disorders that affect so many of us. He is a survivor of a suicide attempt during his senior year in high school and shares his powerful story of fighting depression and finding recovery. http://mindingyourmind.org/ After Jordan's presentation, the students will then be broken into groups of three. Each student will have the opportunity to participate in ALL three activities: 1. Vendors: Meet and Greet (each student is required to ask at least two questions to the vendors) 2. Learn about Phone Apps to assist with executive functioning skills 3. Follow your DREAMS: Mapping your Future Our final presenter is Marianne Angelillo. She wrote a book called Sharing My Stones. The book chronicles her son's young life and the family's journey through grief and bringing light to the dangers of drinking and driving. Angelillo's son, Matthew, was a junior in high school and a promising athlete who had plans of joining the U.S. Air Force. But one night after celebrating and drinking with friends, he made the decision to get into the car as a passenger with friends who had been drinking. That decision cost him his life and Angelillo has made it her mission to bring awareness to the serious consequences of drinking and driving, hoping that Matthew's story will touch many and help ignite a conversation between parents and their children about the dangers of teen drinking. http://www.ithacajournal.com/story/news/loca1/2014/09/16/mother -writes-death-son/15721657/ PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE Michael Hudak, Sensei - 3rd Dan 2475 Willow Park Rd. Bethlehem PA 18020 Phone: 484-707-6488 Hours: 4:30 pm - 5:30 pm Monday and Thursday** At Silent Storm Karate, we specialize in teaching Deaf and Hard of Hearing students traditional Okinawan Shorin Ryu Karate forms, Self Defense, and Kabudo (weapons). • • • • • Adults and Children (ages 7+) Welcome FREE trial class NO Contracts $50 enrollment fee* $80 / Month per student Discounted family rate *ONE time enrollment fee for uniform, paperwork, and ID card. **As we are a new School, these hours are current but subject to change if necessary based on the availability of students/parents. Contact Sensei Mike Hudak for more details and with any questions. Cash / Check / major credit cards accepted PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 23 PAGE 24 CLIU Annie Sullivan Nomination Form 2015. PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE 25 HEART All Carbon Families with special needs children are welcome to join HEART - Helping Everyone Access (Community) Resources Together. Our first group will meet on March 12, 2015, at the Jim Thorpe Administration Building from 9:00 am to 10:00 am. Larissa Kimmel from MH/DS will present on accessing services. We hope to see you there. Any questions, please contact Angelique Baran at 610-769-4111 x1775. 9:00 am - 10:30 am PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE 26 Intellectual Disabilities Awareness Month March is Intellectual Disabilities Awareness Month! You are cordially invited to join us for the Ninth Annual Celebration Awards Luncheon March 26, 2015 11:30 am -1:30 pm The Best Western Lehigh Valley Hotel and Conference Center 300 Gateway Drive (Routes 512 and 22) Bethlehem, PA 18017 Master of Ceremonies - Bill Zimpher, Radio Personality Keynote Address - Amy Beck, Executive Director of Lehigh Valley Center for Independent Living CHOOSE FROM 2 DELICIOUS LUNCHEON ENTREES: Baked Chicken with Rosemary Jus Pasta Primavera with veggies tossed in olive oil, diced tomatoes, and garlic Please indicate the food choice for each attendee in your group. ALL MEALS INCLUDE: SALAD, BREAD, DESSERT, TEA, COFFEE Cost: $16 per person RSVP by March 17 Hotel is wheelchair accessible Hosted by the Intellectual Disability Awareness Steering Committee of Lehigh and Northampton Counties. PLEASE CLIP and MAIL THIS FORM. USE ONE FORM FOR EACH PERSON ATTENDING. Name: _____________________________________________________________________________ Street /City/Zip and Email Address: ________________________________________________________ House and/or Cell Phone: _______________________________________________________________ Menu Choice: Chicken_______ Pasta _______ Please indicate if you use a wheel chair or have special dietary needs: ________________________________ If possible, please seat me with: ___________________________________________________________ Enclosed is a check payable to The Arc for a total of: _________________ ($16.00 per person) Please return this form by March 17, 2015 to: Bob Madden, The Arc of Lehigh and Northampton 2289 Avenue A, Bethlehem PA 18017 Note: Each table seats 8. Seating is assigned. It may not be possible to honor all seating requests. Please contact Bob Madden with questions or requests for special accommodations during the meal or during the award presentation itself. Bob may be reached at bmadden@arcoflehighnorthampton.org or call 610-849-8076, ext. 17. PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE 27 Celebration 2015 Celebration Awards March 26, 2015 Best Western Hotel and Conference Center Rt. 512, Bethlehem, PA 18017 This event provides a great opportunity to recognize the successes of individuals with developmental disabilities. Throughout the year, individuals with developmental disabilities accomplish amazing things! This is our chance to recognize and honor their achievements! At the Celebration 2015 luncheon, awards are given to individuals who demonstrated success in one of these areas: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) Educational Achievement Employment Achievement Exemplary Citizenship Personal Achievement Transition Achievement Vocational Achievement Individual awards for achievements are given to a person from Lehigh County and Northampton County. Award Descriptions Educational Achievement - Someone in an educational setting who has made great educational progress over the past year, is motivated to learn, is a positive influence on others. Employment Achievement - Someone who is successfully employed in a job in the community or who has had a job in the community over the past year. Exemplary Citizenship - Someone who has made contributions to the family, school, and community, specifically with actions which put others first. Someone who has moved beyond significant hardships or difficulties to enhance the lives of others. Personal Achievement - Someone who has made great strides in reaching personal goals and who has enriched his/her own capabilities and thereby opened the door for others to achieve as well. Transition Achievement - Someone who has acquired a new skill or participated in activities that will enable him/her to attain a job or greater independence in life after school. Someone who is an inspiration to other students and teachers. Vocational Achievement - Someone who has made great progress over the past year, has acquired a new skill, attained a new position/promotion, has good attendance, and has a positive attitude about work (includes sheltered employment). PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE 28 Local Spring Conferences Free Youth Mental Health First Aid Training An interactive course to empower you to identify, understand, and respond to youth in mental health crisis. Lehigh County Government Center Public Hearing Room 17 S. 17th Street, Allentown PA March 26th and 27th 8:00 am to 12:30 pm To register: Call 610-782-3376 or email: integratedservices@lehighcounty.org You are far more likely to encounter someone experiencing a mental health crisis than someone having a heart attack! Mental Health First Aid teaches you about common warning signs and risk factors for mental health problems and provides a five-step action plan and resources for helping someone in crisis. Youth Mental Health First Aid is designed to teach parents, family members, teachers, school staff, peers, faith communities, health and human service workers, and other caring citizens how to help an adolescent (ages 12-18) who is experiencing a mental health or addictions challenge. This course has information that everyone can use! FREE but you must register. Annual Spring Special Education Conference Hosted by The Right to Education Local Task Force April 8, 2015 Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit #21 4210 Independence Drive, Schnecksville PA 10:00 am -1:30 pm Lunch Provided This year we will have two thought-provoking presentations. As always, these presentations are free. A representative from the Impact Project will discuss the concept of balanced and restorative justice and the benefit of using community justice panels to work with first-time juvenile offenders. A representative from the Center for Humanistic Change will provide heroin and opioid prevention education. This event is open to families and educators in both Lehigh and Northampton Counties. Please RSVP to Ramona at 610-849-8076, ext. 25 or meidig@arcoflehighnorthampton.org. Email registrations preferred. PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE 29 Save These Dates for April 17th Annual Through Their Eyes Conference April 17, 2015 East Stroudsburg University Presenter(s) TBA This free event is held each year at ESU, generally from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm with a continental breakfast provided. Attendees will hear from people with disabilities who share their accomplishments, advice, and insights. Come and be inspired! To learn more, or to be put on the mailing list once brochures are ready, please call 570-422-3893 or send an email to DCavaiuolo@po-box.esu.edu. Second Annual 3.21 Run for Down Syndrome Sponsored by the Eastern PA Down Syndrome Center April 18, 2015 8:00 am - 10:30 am Lehigh Parkway, Allentown PA The 3.21 mile distance symbolizes the 3 copies of the 21st chromosome that causes Down Syndrome. 100% of the proceeds will stay local and benefit the Eastern PA Down Syndrome Center. Registration Fees: $20.00 Until March 8, 2015 $25.00 March 8 - April 16, 2015 $30.00 Day of Race Prizes will be awarded for top 3 in overall, age group, and individuals with Down Syndrome. Questions? Contact Wendy Carney at wcarney15@gmail.com. Easton’s Angels Disability Awareness Fun Walk and 5k April 19, 2015 EAHS Cross Country Track, Easton PA Proceeds benefit Miracle League of Northampton County and Northampton County Special Olympics. Preregistration $15 with a shirt or $10 without a t-shirt. Please RSVP by April 3 for a t-shirt. Checks are Payable to Easton Angels. Medals and gift cards to top man and woman overall. Event features tricky trays, raffles, a DJ, and prerace visit by Iron Pigs mascots. For more info, email Brigid Messa at messab@eastonsd.org. Registration is 8:00 am - 9:30 am. Walk/Run starts at 9:30 am. The walk is non-competitive and open to all ages. Come out and supports 2 worthwhile causes! Third Annual Sprout Film Festival Saturday, April 25, 2015 at Muhlenberg College Time and Disability-related Films TBD Hosted by The Arc of Lehigh and Northampton Counties For further info, please contact Bruce Seidel at 610-849-8076, ext. 14 or bseidel@arcoflehighnorthampton.org PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE 30 Trips, Travel, and Things to Do Special Recreation Services, Inc. P.O. Box 1031, Stroudsburg, PA 18360 Debbie Smith, Director, has over 12 years of experience serving as a recreation director for people with disabilities. She runs a wide variety of monthly events all throughout the year for individuals in Northampton, Carbon, Pike, and Monroe Counties. To receive the monthly calendar of events, policies, and fees, please contact Debbie at 610-751-7692 or send her an email at specialrecreationservices@gmail.com. Special Vacations 3502 Scotts Lane, Box D-16, Philadelphia, PA 19129 Special Vacations was formed over 20 years ago by Pat McFarlane, a woman with a master's degree in special education and over 30 years of travel experience. Pat is also fluent in sign language. Her agency slogan is "For each traveler to experience his or her vacation to the fullest.” Trips range from the local countryside to travel abroad. For a complete list of travel opportunities, please visit www.special vacations.net. The Guided Tour, Inc. 7900 Old York Road, Suite 111-B, Elkins Park, PA 19027 The Guided Tour has been helping people with disabilities to "grow through travel" since 1972. Staff to traveler ratio is 1 to 3. Summer vacations are available at the Jersey Shore in a beautiful home just one block from the beach. Adult resort camp experiences are available four times a year in the Poconos. Besides local opportunities, there are many national and international trips available. For further info, please visit www.guidedtour.com. Via Basketball Clinic for Children with Special Needs March 22, 2015 at NCC (Register by March 16) May 3, 2015 at Moravian College (Register by April 27) Clinics run 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm. Athletes must be at least eight years old. Participants receive a free basketball at the March clinic. Host is LV Basketball Hall of Fame Member Traci Cyr. For more info or to register, please call 610-317-8000, ext. 459 or email A.Colucci@ViaNet.org. Clinics are free, but you must register. Hope Friendship Dances of Hope Lutheran Church 4131 Lehigh Drive, Cherryville, PA Upcoming dances are March 16 and April 20 from 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm. Fee is $5.00 Last dance is May 18. This dance starts at 6:00 pm and includes a pizza party. For more info, please contact Judy Dieter at 610-769-9170 or dietervj@aol.com. PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE 31 Horseback Riding Equi-librium Nazareth, PA Offers therapeutic riding and horsemanship. Registration deadline is March 6 for the 10-week session that starts the week of March 23. With a professional staff and trusted team of horses, this beautiful facility offers several different riding and carriage driving programs to help individuals with special needs reach their highest potential through horse -related activities. Camp "FUN" is an inclusive summer camp that focuses on horsemanship fundamentals. For more info, please visit www.equi-librium.org or call 610-365-2266. Camp is run M-F from 9:00 am - 12:00 pm. The following weeks have been designated by age range: June 22-26 for ages 4-7 July 27-31 for ages 13-17 July 13-17 for ages 8-12 August 17-21 for ages 18 and up Horses 4 Hope Equestrian Center Mt. Bethel, PA This nonprofit organization gives kids a chance to ride and to learn all about the fascinating world of horses. The center works with beginners as well as experienced riders. Classes also available for special needs. Facility is licensed as a therapeutic riding center. Please visit www.horsees-4-hope.org Iron Gate Farm Bangor, PA Classes in jumping and dressage. Principles of dressage applied to al disciplines. Equine assisted therapy offered on a private basis, starting at age 2. Instructor's attention is given to one rider at a time. An "IEP on Horseback" is created based on the child's needs and goals. Therapeutic riding students take the reigns and learn how to ride. Opportunities to ride with typically developing peers. FSS funding accepted. Iron Gate is available for summer camp and birthday parties. For more info, please contact Jody Scott at 610-762-8295 or equirage@epix.net. Manito Equestrian Center Allentown, PA Year-round equestrian facility located on scenic 60-acre preserved horse farm in South Whitehall Township. All levels of riding, including therapeutic riding offered in 30 minute sessions. Program director is an RN and is PATHcertified as an advanced riding instructor. Free evaluations are conducted to determine the suitability of equine activities for children and adults. For more info, please contact Lisa at 610-433-3707 or visit www.manitocenter.com. Promised Land Equestrian Center Klecknersville, PA Christian outreach and equine-assisted activities for children and adults with special needs. From Rt. 22, take Rt. 512 North through town of Bath. Location is Beersville Road in Klecknersville. Please contact Debra Hutchinson at 610-837-3642 for further information. PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE 32 Spring and Summer Activities Camp Eagle Springs Overnight - Pine Grove, PA Each summer starting in June, overnight camping session are available to adults 18 and over with a wide range of support needs. Activities include crafts, music, dance, sports, drama, swimming, and fishing. In addition, there is a small farm where vacationers may interact with a variety of animals and go horseback riding. The vacationer to staff ratios vary from 1:1 to 4:1. Program activities are adapted to fit the abilities of each vacationer to assure chances for successful involvement. Call 570-345-8705 or visit www.eaglespringsprograms.com for fees and details. Camp Innahbah Challenge Program Overnight - Spring City, PA This is a Christian camp located in Chester County. Challenge camp is designed for individuals with intellectual disabilities age 12 and over who are ambulatory and independent in all self-care skills. Camp sessions are divided by camper's age. Sessions are six nights and run throughout the summer. Call 610-436-6111 or visit their web site: www.innabah.org for more information. Camp Jaycee Day and Overnight - Effort, PA Camp Jaycee is a collaborative effort between the New Jersey Jaycees and The Arc of New Jersey, with a mission of providing quality camp experiences to children and adults with developmental disabilities. In operation since 1975, NJ Camp Jaycee offers full week residential camping from June through August for individuals aged 7 to 70. The day camp runs from July through August for campers with developmental disabilities from ages 7 to 21. Call 732-2462525, ext. 44 or visit their website: wvvw.campjaycee.org. Camp Lee Mar Overnight - Lackawaxen, PA Private residential special needs camp for children and adults with mild to moderate learning and developmental challenges. Program is seven weeks. Structured environment with strong emphasis on guidance and individual attention. Campers enjoy traditional camp activities plus academics, speech and language therapy, music and art, and sensory-motor activities. Call 215-658-1708 or visit their Website at www.leemar.com. PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE 33 Spring and Summer Activities Camp Sequoia Overnight - Pottstown, PA Innovative overnight camp for boys and girls ages 8-19 who need help facilitating friendships and developing social skills. Many campers are diagnosed with a Non-Verbal Learning Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder, or ADD/ ADHD. Camp Sequoia offers a six-week full season program, two separate three-week sessions, and a one-week session for new campers. Please call 610-771-0111, visit their web site at www.camp-sequoia.com or email office@camp-sequoia.com. Camp Speers-Eljabar YMCA Overnight - Dingmans Ferry, PA ACCES (All Children Can Experience Speers) is an inclusion program that enables campers with developmental disabilities to participate in traditional residential camping activities with typically developing peers. Sessions are divided by camper's grade level. A typical ACCES camper: Has a mild to moderate intellectual disability, is between 8 and 19 years old, can independently, or with verbal cues, feed, bathe, and toilet, is able to function successfully within a 1:3 staff to camper ratio, is able to adjust to changes in routine and/or environment with relative ease, and has the ability to effectively communicate needs (verbally or with a communication device). Call 570-828-2329 or visit www.campspeersymca.org. Click sleep away camps, then campers with special needs under the "Programs" to register or for more information. Summit Camp Overnight - in Honesdale, PA Therapeutic residential program geared for individuals with Asperger's, learning disabilities, ADHD, and emotional problems. Two-week and three-week sessions available. Please call toll-free at 1-800-323-9908 or visit www.summitcamp.com. Easter Seals Various sites depending on activity Six-week day camp is Camp Lily. Overnight camp is Growing Green, located in the Poconos. Also offers programs for teens and young adults to promote transition and job skills. Two Saturday respite programs run September through May. Fit Club for teens meets Thursday evenings in Bethlehem from 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm. Evening recreation runs September through May. For more info, call Lisa Musselman at 610-289-0114, ext. 212. Via Teen Summer Experience Various sites For ages 12-21. Focus is on developing social skills and peer networks that lead to success in young adult life. Program includes job shadowing and career exploration. Teens will visit local employers, colleges, and business schools. Volunteer opportunities at seven locations. Also plenty of time for summer fun with sports, picnic, and other community activities. Open house will be held on June 8 from 6:30 pm - 8 pm at 336 W. Spruce Street, Bethlehem. For more info, please contact Meghan Larkin at M.Larkin@ViaNet.org or 610-317-8000 x483. PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE 34 Health-Related News PA Health Choices Managed Care Physical Health Plan Special Needs Unit Contact Info for Lehigh and Northampton Counties Please note that these numbers are for the Special Needs Units of the plans below. It is often these departments within the managed care plan that can work with you to resolve issues and get results: Name of Managed Care Plan Unison/MedPlus AmeriHealth Caritas PA Gateway Aetna Better Health UPMC for You Special Needs Unit # 1-877-844-8844 1-888-991-7200 1-800-392-1146 215-282-3589 1-877-521-7433 Dr. Boo is Back in the Lehigh Valley Dr. Boosara Ratanawongsa, affectionately known as Dr. Boo, is back to serve the Lehigh Valley and surrounding areas at her new practice, Pediatric Neurology of the Lehigh Valley. The site is 1517 Pond Road in Allentown, PA. The practice is located on the 2nd floor in the Children's Health Care building. All major medical plans are accepted. The practice diagnoses and treats developmental delays, learning difficulties, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, headaches, seizure disorders, tics, and Tourette Syndrome. For more info, please visit www.doctorboo.com. PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE National Survey for Siblings of Individuals with Disabilities, their Support Needs, and their Families The Institute on Disabilities at Temple University is working together with the Sibling Leadership Network to study the support needs of individuals with disabilities. This project is funded by the Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council. We invite you to complete the survey and to encourage others to participate as well. The following are invited to contribute to the survey and share their unique perspectives: Siblings of people with disabilities People with disabilities themselves Parents of people with disabilities Professionals who work with people with disabilities and their families This is an online survey. Don't have much time? It will take less than 30 minutes to complete. The survey is also available in Spanish. The link to the survey is: http://bit.ly/SiblingSurvey Questions? Please contact Meghan Burke at 217-300-1226 or meghanbm@illinois.edu The ARC LIBRARY The Arc's Library has Books for Young Siblings Everybody is Different My Brother, Michael Siblings of Children with Autism Please contact Ramona Neidig at 610-849-8076, ext. 25 to borrow a library book. PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 35 PAGE 36 PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 PAGE PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 37 PAGE 38 PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 Classroom Happenings PARENT PIPELINE PAGE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 39 PAGE Classroom Happenings To find out how we Help Children Learn, visit our website at www.cliu.org. PARENT PIPELINE SPRING/SUMMER 2015 40