The Echo….Keeping you informed!

IN THIS ISSUE

ASCC Programs & Events Find information on upcoming programs and events in

the enclosed program and calendar pages.

See Page 2/3

Fall Volunteer & Donor Support

– Thank you!

See Pages 4-5

ASCC Camp Sunshine 2015 Information on the status of Camp Sunshine applica-

tions and the next steps in the application process.

See Page 2

Faith Based Workshop Learn more about an upcoming Autism Workshop

geared toward helping the faith community support

families of special needs children.

See Page 4

February 2015 Volume 13, Issue 6

ASCC Parent Education PresentationASCC Parent Education Presentation Monday – February 9, 2015 at 6:30 pm

Social Security Benefits: An Introduction to SSI/SSDI

Presented by : Presented by : Brenda Brown, Public Affairs Specialist (see pg. 2)

This presentation will provide an overview of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and

how these programs apply to children with disabilities before and after age 18. The speaker will present an overview of her agency’s

services, with time allowed for audience questions. Learn about eligibility requirements, when and how to apply for services, how work

affects benefits, etc.

L earning to drive can be a nerve-racking

experience for anyone. However, for

those with autism, the experience can

be doubly anxiety inducing. Fortunately, as an au-

tistic boy who has gone through the experience, I

can state firsthand that this experience doesn’t

necessarily have to be so difficult. I know for a fact

that if done right, learning to drive can be an enjoy-

able activity for autistic young adults like myself yet

also considerably easier to handle at the same

time.

One of the best ways for an autistic person to

have an easier time at learning how to drive, at

least from my own personal experience, involves

using imagination to make it more fun. With imagi-

nation, autistic people can pretend that they are

doing something slightly different yet related while

paying attention to the real world at the same time.

This technique is especially helpful if the imagi-

nary activity is somehow related to the person’s

own personal subject of interest. For example, if

such a personal interest is in any way involved with

dragons, then the autistic person can imagine that

he or she is riding a dragon. Likewise, if an autistic

teenager’s personal interest is Star Wars, then he

or she can imagine piloting a space ship or, in

particular, the one that Luke Skywalker piloted

when he destroyed the first Death Star. However,

with this strategy, autistic people do need to be

careful not to get so focused on their imaginative

fantasies so as to lose focus on the real world

around them while driving.

Another helpful strategy that I used was to learn

how to drive at a pace more comfortable for me.

For example, unlike most neurotypical teenagers

who jump at the chance to learn at the earliest

legal age, I waited until I was 18 years old. This

helped in that it took place at a time where I didn’t

feel like I had too many other activities keeping me

busy. I also felt truly ready to learn how to drive and

mature enough to handle the responsibility. In

addition, I not only participated in a class with other

teenagers, but I also took weekly private lessons

outside the class for about six months. Finally, it

also helps to have an instructor that allows the

autistic person to feel at ease. Instructors like

these, as opposed to those who are more like drill

sergeants, are more helpful in helping autistic

people relax.

However, even with these strategies, I still found

plenty of hurdles to deal with over the course of my

training. In particular, one element that I seemed to

never succeed at on the first try was parallel park-

ing. In fact, over the course of my learning to drive,

this difficulty once led to me getting so frustrated

that I ended up accidentally smashing part of the

bumper of my mother’s car while making another

attempt to pull up to the curb in front of my house.

The whole experience was both humiliating and

supremely upsetting; and I also learned just how

bad an idea it was to drive while emotionally com-

promised.

Continued on p. 4, See Driving With Autism

Driving with Autism: A Harrowing Experience Made Not So Hard

By Austin Gillum

In the event the program is cancelled due to inclement weather, the ASCC will send out notification by email.

ASCC Programs-Opportunities for Parents and Children

Parent Education

Program

Please join us on

Monday, February 9, 2015,

6:30 pm at the

Partnership for Children

Resource Center

351 Wagoner Drive,

Multipurpose Room 343

for a presentation titled

“Social Security Benefits:

An Introduction to SSI/SSDI”

by

Brenda Brown

Public Affairs Specialist

Free respite care will be available on

site through Community Based

Developmental Services. Please

contact Cynthia Billops at 488-5820

or 488-4584 to reserve your space

at least 24 hours in advance.

ASCC Support Groups

Support Groups provide an

opportunity to share, learn, and

connect. Parents, caregivers,

guardians, and professionals are

welcome to participate in all of our

support groups. Please check the

calendar on page three for meeting

dates/times/locations.

The HFA/Asperger’s Support Group

meets every second Monday of the

month, Sep—Nov, Jan—May,

immediately preceding the Parent

Education Program. This group

meets in Room 414 of the PFC

Resource Center. Focus: Families of

children, adolescents, and adults

diagnosed with HFA or Asperger’s.

Childcare will not be provided.

The Autism Lunch Club (ALC) Sup-

port Group meets every second

Tuesday of the month at various

Fayetteville restaurants. Focus:

Families of adolescents and adults

with ASD. Childcare will not be pro-

vided.

The Autism Breakfast Club (ABC)

Support Group meets every first

and third Wednesday of the month

at the PFC Resource Center, Room

414. Focus: Families of children with

ASD up to age 12. Childcare will be

provided.

The Preschool Support Group (The

High Fives) meets weekly on

Thursdays at the PFC Resource

Center, Room 343. Focus: Families

of young children with ASD ages 1-5

years. Childcare will be provided.

Workshops

Please call the ASCC office at (910)

826-3004/3005 to register for all

workshops.

The After the Diagnosis Workshop is

led by Amy Perry, ASNC Parent Advo-

cate, and is held every first Tuesday

of the month from 9:30 am—12:00

pm. (odd calendar months)

Autism Resource Roundtable is led

by Amy Perry, ASNC Autism Resource

Specialist, and is held every first

Tuesday of the month from 9:30 am-

12:00 pm. (even calendar months)

The Individualized Education Plan

Workshop, led by Amy Perry, pro-

vides an opportunity for parents and

providers to learn all about IEPs. It

will be offered quarterly.

Please Note: In the event a program or meeting is cancelled due to in-clement weather, the ASCC will send

out notification by email.

The Echo I Issue 6 , February 2015 2

ASCC Families and Friends,

Registration for Camp Sunshine is now closed. Thank

you for submitting your child’s application to attend

Camp Sunshine. We are currently reviewing all camp

applications and will notify families of their acceptance

or placement no later than Friday, March 6, 2015.

Staff applications will be disseminated via Cumberland

County Schools and per request later this month.

Camp Sunshine offers many volunteer opportunities. If

you are interested in making a difference in this year’s

camp, please contact the ASCC office at (910) 826-

3005.

The 2015 Autism Socie-

ty of North Carolina An-

n u a l C o n f e r e n c e ,

“Autism : Lifelong Learn-

ing , “ will be held March

27-28 at the Hilton

University Place Hotel in

Charlotte.

This year’s conference will feature nationally and interna-

tionally recognized speakers, Drs. Robert and Lynn Koegel

and Dr. Geri Dawson. Throughout the two-day conference,

self-advocates, families affected by autism, and profes-

sionals in the autism field will have the opportunity to net-

work, learn more about available resources, meet with a

variety of businesses that support the autism community,

shop the ASNC bookstore, and earn continuing education

units (CEUs).

The ASCC is excited to be able to offer scholarships for

parents to attend this conference. Scholarship applica-

tions were due in January and parents who were chosen

will be notified no later than February 2, 2015.

For more information, please visit: www.autismsociety-nc.org

2015 ASNC2015 ASNC2015 ASNC

Annual ConferenceAnnual ConferenceAnnual Conference

The Echo I Issue 6, February 2015 3

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

1 2

3

Autism Resource Roundtable 9:30 am - noon Multipurpose Rm. 343

Rhythm and Rhyme Sensory Story Time - Hope Mills Library 3:30pm

4

ABC Support Group 9:30 - 11am Conference Rm 414

5

Preschool Support Group 10am-12pm Multi-Purpose Rm 343

6 7

Faith Based Faith Based Faith Based WorkshopWorkshopWorkshop 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Manna Church

8 9

HFA Support Group 5:45pm Conference Rm 414

Parent Education Program 6:30pm Multi-Purpose Rm 343

10

Autism Lunch Club (ALC) Support Group 11:30 am - Mi Casitas, Raeford Rd

iPads for Autism 1 - 4pm Conference Rm. 414

11 12

Preschool Support Group 10am-12pm Conference Rm 414

13 14

Valentine’s Day

15 16

17

IEP Workshop 9:30 am - noon Conference Rm B

18

ABC Support Group 9:30 - 11am Conference Rm 414

19

Preschool Support Group 10am-12pm Special Outing

20 21

22 23 24

ASCC Board of Directors Meeting 11 am - 1pm Multipurpose Rm. 343

25 26

Preschool Support Group 10am-12pm Multi-Purpose Rm 343

27 28

February 2015February 2015

The Echo I Issue 6, February 2015 4

“Volunteers are paid in six figures... S-M-I-L-E-S.” ~Gayla LeMaire

We are all S-M-I-L-E-S about our volunteers! Thank you all for supporting our organization with your time during the months of October, November,

and December 2014. Your continued support helps us execute and sustain our programs and services! We are greatly indebted to you and

appreciate you very much!

ASCC Volunteers are Priceless!

Adam Jackson

Anna Finch

Aquisha Gross

Azali G. Pigniat

Brandy Mello

Chris Leacock

Christopher Roberts

Cynthia Billops

Crystal Harrell

Doug Wright

Eric Williams

Gwendolyn Scott

Heidi Choice

Henry Boating Anfom

Imani Rivera

Imelda White

Jacqueline Wylie

John Allen

Kerri Erb

Laura Savage

Lucy Bourque

Melissa Reed

Misty Surles

Nabila Gomes

Randy Choice

Ron Wylie

Sam Gerald

Sandra Surles

Sandra Turner

Shanetta Monk

Sharonda Ferguson

Shirl Rising

Theresa Thomas

Thomas Reynolds

Tony Mello

Vicki Britton

ASCC Volunteers Needed!!!ASCC Volunteers Needed!!!

The ASCC is in need of volunteers for the following

upcoming events:

· 9th Annual Golf Tournament

· 10th Vera Bradley Bingo

For more information please call 910-826-3004/3005

Thank you for your support!

Continued from Page 1

Ironically enough, despite being willing to

try it, I originally viewed the idea of learning

how to drive as more of something my par-

ents wanted me to do. It was also seemingly

unappealing in that I knew it would take time

away from other things I found far more enjoy-

able. Finally, I also didn’t really feel like I

needed to learn how at the time due to how I

already had my parents taking me to all the

places I wanted and needed to go. However,

after I actually started driving on my own, I

discovered that having this skill allowed me to

feel more independent and grown up. In fact,

it made me feel sort of free to be doing it all

on my own. Even though I still sometimes

take trial runs with a parent when I have to

drive to a new location, I still like the feeling of

being able to follow my own schedule to plac-

es I need to go.

Driving, or even learning how to do so, can

be a very horrifying experience to undertake.

However, it is especially nightmarish for those

with autism, particularly since their lives can

already be difficult through factors beyond

their control. Fortunately, an autistic person

can have a far less difficult time with the

whole adventure if they have an easy going

instructor, a pace of learning compatible with

their own personal comfort preferences, and

a healthy imagination.

Austin Gillum is the son of former ASCC Board

Member Dr. Debra Japzon Gillum.

Driving With Autism

Autism Workshop To Focus on Strategies for Inclusion A training centered on strategies

for supporting people with au-

tism will be held Saturday, Feb-

ruary 7 at Manna Church in

Fayetteville. The workshop,

“Faith Communities: Practical

Strategies for Supporting People with Autism,” is a

follow up to the Autism and Faith Communities

workshop held in October 2014.

Topics covered during the workshop include how

autism affects social interactions, communication,

learning and behavior; strategies to help autistic

children participate in worship, classroom and

youth group activities; and tips for how parents and

faith communities can work together to promote

successful inclusion. The workshop will also include

a question and answer session, and there will also

be opportunities for attendees to connect with com-

munity resources and other special-needs minis-

tries.

The training is open to special needs ministry volun-

teers, faith community ministers and leaders, self

advocates and families of children with special

needs. For more information, contact Maureen

Morrell at mmorrell@autismsociety-nc.org or by

calling 919-865-5058.

The Echo I Issue 6, February 2015 5

“Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates loves.” ~ Lao Tzu

We would like to thank all donors who have supported our organization with monetary donations during the months of October, November, and

December 2014. Your continued support helps us sustain our programs and services to individuals diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders

and their families.

Thank You to ASCC Donors!

Kohl’s Dept. Stores, Inc.

Apple Crate Natural Market

Freedom Biker Church

John & Catherine Pollard

Hank & Anna Finch

Valley Regional Imaging

Dr. Debra Japzon Gillum & Family

TRP CPAs, PLLC

Jerome T. Scott “The Insurance Guy”

Community Based Developmental Services

John & Clarissa Allen

Monique Leacock

Angela Goodman

Kathy Cooper

Adobe Group Home

David & Leslie Haight

Bob & Ann Lucero

Henry & Nancy Thompson

Elizabeth Swanson

Thomas & Leslie Ganus

West & West Trucking

James Easter

David & Mildred Covington

Emanuel & Lindsay Matthews

Pattie West

Mark & Bonnie Davis

Dr. Robert Shaw

Kenneth & Brenda Robertson

Sharon Mitchell

Adonias & Donella Lucero

Helen C. Lupo

Gloria & Jerry Otis

Gary & Lisa Balance

Dr. David J. Harsant

Mr. & Mrs. William Harding

Steve & Cindy Phillips

William E. Pfau

Clark & Lois Suttle

Donald & Betty Chavis

Cecil & Geraldine Graham

Juanita Bowen

Ronald & Flora West

Brian & Beth Hendrickson

Toni & Michael Swiderski

Fernando & Sandra Arrufat

Karl & April Kumm

Furniture -R-Us

Melissa Hendricks

Gwen Scott

Robert Evans

Kimberly Johnson

Christy McLaurin

Angela Bagley

Marilyn Winstead

Mr. & Mrs. Anthony Mello

Todd & Jennifer Lyden

Need Speech? Inc.

Melissa Reed

Redemption Church

Coastal Family Services, PLLC

William Summers

Grace Roman

Mr. & Mrs. Tildon Downing

Mr. & Mrs. George Dais

Coastal Family Services, LLC

Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society

Della Fowler Mol

Mr. & Mrs. Autry Butler

Your Cause Paying Agent for Corporate Giving

Program

Nan Lucas

Gwen Scott

Ashlee Campbell

Traci-Lei Sein

Jamie Harris Sossamon

Robin L. Tittley

Stephanie Reimers

Emily Bonomini

Janet S. Parish

Tiffany A. Dalmida

Lydia Sue Bass

Patty S. Campagna

Leeann Eason

Bank of America Charitable Foundation

Rebecca Wolbers

Michele Whalen

Joanna Nunez

Anette Schell

Blake Simms

Patrick McCarthy

Samantha Catrett

Donald Kinsey

Sts. Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Church

Rusty Furtick

Sheila West

In-Kind Donations

The Pilgrim Gifts & Antiques

Home Depot

BJ’s Wholesale Club

Dunkin’ Donuts (Raeford Rd. Location)

Market Fair 15

Stacey Sawyer

Bottom Line Accounting

The Echo I Issue 6, February 2015 6

IEP Workshop

Discuss strategies and tools that help create effective IEPs

· Who needs an IEP?

· What is IDEA and what are my legal rights?

· How can I prepare for my IEP meeting?

· Who should come to my IEP meeting?

· What if my child needs more help?

QUARTERLY

Newly Diagnosed

Learn about autism and discuss questions or concerns

· Basic information about autism

· Treatment options

· Strategies for home

· Ways to advocate

EVERY FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH (ODD CALENDAR MONTHS)

Autism Resource Roundtable

Open Forum for Parents with Children Diagnosed with ASD

· Does my child have the right IEP goals?

· What should I do if I am having problems at my child’s school?

· How can I get more help and support for my child?

EVERY FIRST TUESDAY OF THE MONTH (EVEN CALENDAR MONTHS)

WHICH WORKSHOP IS BEST FOR YOU???

The Echo I Issue 6, February 2015 7

351 Wagoner Drive, Suite 410

Fayetteville, NC 28303

Tel: 910-826-3004/3005

Fax: 910-868-5881

E-mail: autismcc@ccpfc.org

www.autismcc.org

“Supporting Individuals Within The Autism Spectrum”

Winner of the Autism Society of

North Carolina affiliate of the Year

Award—1996, 2002, & 2003

Membership & Donations The Autism Society of Cumberland

County is an affiliate of the Autism

Society of North Carolina.

Mission Statement:

The Autism Society of Cumberland

County is committed to providing

support and promoting opportunities

which enhance the lives of individu-

als within the autism spectrum and

their families.

Vision Statement:

The Autism Society of Cumberland

County strives to create a community

where people within the autism

spectrum and their families receive

respect, services, and supports

based on individual differences,

needs, and preferences.

Disclaimer:

The Autism Society of Cumberland

County does not take any position

regarding studies of ASD, nor en-

dorse any particular form of treat-

ment, intervention, or therapy. This

newsletter allows us to pass along

current information in the field of

ASD to our families and organization

members.

Please make checks payable to:

Autism Society of Cumberland County

351 Wagoner Drive, Suite 410

Fayetteville, NC 28303

Name:

Parent/Caregiver Professional

Sibling Individual with ASD

Address:

Telephone:

Email:

A great way to help support our program is to

become a member. As a member of the ASCC, you

enjoy voting rights during membership meetings,

you are eligible for election to the Board of

Directors, and you receive priority for conference

scholarships. Membership is effective for one year.

Please remember the ASCC with your tax-deductible

charitable contribution. Thank you!

Annual Membership ($10.00)

Donation $_________

Join us on Facebook

Cumberland Community Foundation

February 2015 The Echo Volume 13, Issue 6

FY 2014/2015 Board of Directors & Staff Funded In Part By:

Like us on Pinterest

Board of Directors:

Anna Finch, President

Gwen Scott, Vice President

Brandy Mello, Secretary

Chris Leacock , Treasurer

John Allen

Cynthia Billops

Melissa Reed

Eric Williams

Staff:

Jeannie Hodges, Director of Programs & Outreach

Jennifer Lyden, Program & Outreach Assistant