DFKDC wants to be on the forefront of change and equality empowerment. This is a commitment we make to our families through our mission and programming. With a diverse population that includes 36% African American, 8% Asian American, and 1% Middle Eastern—it is pivotal for DFKDC to advocate for their families and promote disability awareness. The annual Equality Summit will focus on one important topic that our society is facing each year and bring together thought leaders, speakers, and our own DFKDC participants to share their experiences, learn from each other, and most importantly – discuss how we can support change. DFKDC’s commitment is to select youth with disabilities (our participants) during each yearly summit and work with them to create the following year’s equality summit.
Over August 29th weekend, we will be organizing 3 FREE one-hour virtual panels that we invite our DFKDC families and volunteers, youth with disabilities, families of all backgrounds, and all individuals across the nation to join. We are excited to have the support of experts from different fields to educate us on ways we can teach, advocate, and promote equality within our communities and world. You can register for 1, 2, or all 3 sessions. If you have any questions, please email Glenda at gfu@dreamsforkids.org
Compensatory Education Issues During, Before, and After the Pandemic
September 1, 2020 –
The fourth seminar of this series entitled “Compensatory Education Issues During, Before, and After the Pandemic: Effective Advocacy and Avoiding Missteps” will be presented by Nancy Potter, Esq. and John Goldsborough, Esq. Tune in to learn about determining compensatory education and the factors families are weighing during the pandemic. Join Attorney Potter and Attorney Goldsborough as they discuss the practical implications of law and policy.
To watch this presentation live, sign up for the electronic newsletter called the MLO Minute at mcandrewslawoffices@gmail.com.
Contact Name : McAndrews, Mehalick, Connolly, Hulse and Ryan P.C.
I'm Dr. Carol Baltazar. I'm a wife, mom of 3 kids and an Internal Medicine Physician. My oldest son has ASD. On the Autism Mom MD Podcast you can look forward to episodes where I'll have guests who will share their different expertise and rich experiences. The guests will range from people who are experts in their field to parents, siblings, caregivers and autistic individuals. Hopefully this will have a positive impact for individuals who feel like they are facing challenges on their own. And on this journey we'll pave the way for empowerment, growth and inclusion of autistic individuals so
everyone can live out their best life possible.
New episodes will be released bimonthly on Wednesdays.
Join Dreams For Kids DC x Adaptive Yoga Live and special guest artist Moya (from Dreams For Kids LA) for a creative session of Mandala Drawing. Come experience the fun, expressive, cathartic, and mindful process of drawing mandalas!
Please join us for a Virtual Music & Movement event with DMF Early Childhood Music Program Specialist, David Bedard. Hosted on Zoom, attendees, ages 3 to 7 , will sing, drum and dance along together during this free, one-hour event.
If you would like to attend, please complete the information below. Attendees will receive a Zoom invitation via email one-hour prior to the event - simply log in to start moving and grooving. Virtual doors open at 4:20PM Eastern.
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
September 3, 2020 –
In this group, you will have the chance to speak with others who understand and share your experiences with issues related to being in a neurodiverse couple. Discussions are focused on learning tools and coping strategies for particular issues that arise because of the neurological differences between partners.
Join us for a Scavenger Hunt! Thursday, September 3rd at 7:00pm.
Gather your entire family and be ready to earn points for the items you can find from our list of 25. Earn points for each item you are able to retrieve, with the opportunity to collect BONUS points as well. Tally your points and the winning team will receive PFA Swag!
Together Apart Online Support - Let's Make Connections! - For Autistic Adults (18+)
September 3, 2020 –
Join us for an opportunity to connect and engage with others, share your concerns and hear how others are managing during this difficult time. You are not alone!
Social Skills with Lego, Science Experiments, Online Games, Yoga and more.
This online meetup with Neurotypical kids as role models with help your siblings to play with them, helps them learn social skills, prompts them to use language, and is involved in different aspects of their siblings program.
Group leader Grace Myhill, MSW, focuses small group discussions on coping strategies for the unique issues that arise because of the neurological differences between each partner in a neurodiverse couple.
We have established a self- advocacy group that welcomes not only the individuals with disabilities that we serve but others as well. The group is called Voices of U.S. (Unified Speakers).
All Voices of U.S meetings are held on the second Wednesday of every month from 6:00pm-8:00pm at the Mid-Atlantic Main Office (2109 Laurel Bush Road, Bel Air MD, 21015).
Each meeting is a social event where people can discuss whatever recent success they have had, current events and hold fundraisers.
All attendees receive food and drink at every meeting.
Volunteers are welcomed!
Feel free to ask any questions.
Parnell Barmer
Day Options Director, Mid-Atlantic Human Service Corporation
2109 Laurel Bush Road, Bel Air, Maryland, 21015
Cell- 443-468-9815
Contact Name : --
Contact Email : --
Location: Mid-Atlantic Human Service Corporation Main Office 2109 Laurel Bush Road Bel Air, Maryland 21015
Join Pathfinders for Autism for another 18 and over event. This time we will be hosting a free yoga class with Bridget Strama from Child's Heart Yoga. All attendees will be automatically entered in our raffle to win a great prize!
Addressing Trauma for Middle School Students with Disabilities
September 10, 2020 –
With school closures and shutdowns, COVID-19 added additional anxiety and stress, a reality felt most acutely by students with disabilities with intersectional needs. The COVID reality is that schools must become even more trauma informed by prioritizing socio emotional wellness. A primary challenge is supporting our students, particularly middle school students with disabilities who may also be English learners, Black students or other students of color, low income, and/or present other identities. These learners’ experiences and challenges are at the heart of the COVID pandemic as they navigate multiple life and learning transitions. Panelists will discuss key issues in serving them effectively.
Panelists:
- Cindy Cipoletti, Executive Director, Learning Disabilities Association of America
- Sam Drazin, Executive Director, Changing Perspectives
- Bennison Ntsakey, Director of Academics, Brooklyn LAB Charter Schools
Contact Name : Learning Disabilities Association of America
This Thursday, September 10th, will be our 4th virtual Friends of CARD Support group. The meeting will be held via Zoom from 6-7 pm. If you would like to attend, or think you may be interested/available, please email to get the zoom link for this week.
Christie Rogers, a speech-language pathologist at CARD and mother of an adult with autism, will be speaking about her journey, and will provide tips for self-care.
Every Saturday from
September 12th – October 17th
Register by August 28th
Online interactive social skills group designed to help you
identify, build, and foster healthy relationships. Develop the
skills necessary to form meaningful and healthy relationships
through lessons, activities, and role play scenarios.
Join Pathfinders for Autism for another 18 and over movie night. This time we will be enjoying Batman (1989) starting Michael Keaton and Jack Nicholson. Attendance is free but registration is required.
This event is for ALL ages and abilities. No previous musical experience is required. Join in this group rhythm making activity to ENERGIZE your mind and body, Relieve STRESS, and have FUN!
Also invite your family, friends, students, clients, etc.
Use your household/homemade supplies to play with (box, bucket, container, table top, shakers, etc.) if you don’t have a drum.
Group rhythm making a a great way to work on self-esteem/confidence, impulse/self-control/self-regulation, social participation, teamwork, taking turns, following directions and sensory-motor skills.
I'm Dr. Carol Baltazar. I'm a wife, mom of 3 kids and an Internal Medicine Physician. My oldest son has ASD. On the Autism Mom MD Podcast you can look forward to episodes where I'll have guests who will share their different expertise and rich experiences. The guests will range from people who are experts in their field to parents, siblings, caregivers and autistic individuals. Hopefully this will have a positive impact for individuals who feel like they are facing challenges on their own. And on this journey we'll pave the way for empowerment, growth and inclusion of autistic individuals so
everyone can live out their best life possible.
New episodes will be released bimonthly on Wednesdays.
Seizure Alert Dogs and Devices: What You Need to Know
September 16, 2020 –
Have you wondered if a seizure alert dog would work for you and your family? You’ve seen the new seizure alert devices, but don’t know which one would be the best fit for you. This presentation will provide the facts into seizure dogs and the process for getting a dog; an overview of the various seizure alert devices available and how to determine which one is right for you; and first-hand experiences from seizure dog owners and device users.
Speakers:
Nathan Crone, MD, Professor of Neurology; Director, Cognitive Neurophysiology Lab; Co-Director, Epilepsy Fellowship, The Johns Hopkins Epilepsy Center, Division of Epilepsy and Clinical Neurophysiology, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Please join us for our Virtual Dance Party. Hosted on Zoom, attendees, ages 16 and up, will enjoy dancing along to their favorite party songs, spun by DJ Juliana during this free, one-hour event. Don’t forget your dancing shoes!
If you would like to attend, please complete the information below. Attendees will receive a Zoom invitation via email one-hour prior to the event - simply log in to start moving and grooving. Virtual doors open at 6:45PM Eastern so drop by early to listen to music and chat with other guests via the Zoom chat box.
In this group, you will have the chance to speak with others who communicate and see the world like you do about the challenges that arise in neurodiverse relationships. Not only are coping strategies and tools presented, they are practiced in the meetings to help group members improve their relationship skills.
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
September 17, 2020 –
In this group, you will have the chance to speak with others who understand and share your experiences with issues related to being in a neurodiverse couple. Discussions are focused on learning tools and coping strategies for particular issues that arise because of the neurological differences between partners.
Kinera Cares-Tweens & Teen Virtual Social Hour is a monthly program, completely free, for tweens and tweens ages 11 years to 17 years, and is geared for those individuals who have disabilities and special health care needs. Each month we offer fun activities, crafts and games. Some examples of activities include: Comedy Hour, Show-n-Tell, Disney Trivia, Nature Paint Night, and Fun with Poems & Limericks. Siblings that fall into the same age range are welcome to participate, regardless of having a disability/special need, as this program is inclusive. Our Social Hour occurs monthly, the third Thursday of each month, from 7pm-8pm (EST). If you are interested in having your tween/teen join the meeting, please email Julie Vallecillo, Parent Navigator at Kinera, for the parental/caregiver consent form (required): julie@kinera.org.
Contact Name : Julie Vallecillo, Parent Navigator
Contact Email : julie@kinera.org
Location: Kinera Foundation 115 Sallitt Dr., Suite C Stevensville, Maryland 21666
Every Saturday from
September 12th – October 17th
Register by August 28th
Online interactive social skills group designed to help you
identify, build, and foster healthy relationships. Develop the
skills necessary to form meaningful and healthy relationships
through lessons, activities, and role play scenarios.
Participants are invited to meet online in September for our virtual SNA event via Zoom! As usual, there will be arts and crafts, dance, an optional Bible lesson, music, and MORE!
As an additional bonus, HU will be providing ACTIVITY BAGS to supplement the full SNA experience (1 per family). Please respond by September 4th and mark YES on your RSVP if you wish to pick up an Activity Bag (on 9/12 from 10- Noon) at:
Prince of Peace Church
11900 Darnestown Rd
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
This event and activity bag will be FREE to participants.
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
September 20, 2020 –
In this group, you will have the chance to speak with others who understand and share your experiences with issues related to being in a neurodiverse couple. Discussions are focused on learning tools and coping strategies for particular issues that arise because of the neurological differences between partners.
Spouse Group for Neurotypical Partners in a Neurodiverse Relationship
September 20, 2020 –
Group leader Grace Myhill, MSW, focuses small group discussions on coping strategies for the unique issues that arise because of the neurological differences between each partner in a neurodiverse couple.
Planning for your upcoming IEP with help from the PRC staff. We will go over what you should do to have a successful meeting and help you get your papers organized.
To register for this workshop, please email the PRC staff at prc@ccps.org.
Contact Name : Cecil County Public Schools’ Parent Resource Center For Special Education
We are excited to plan for the return of the ATS Virtual Family Support Groups. We know that with the start of the 2020-2021 school year, there have been a lot of unknowns, and to be honest quite a bit of stress amongst our families (truly, all of us)! For that reason, we'd like to bring back our groups by offering something fun. We will be hosting a VIRTUAL GAME NIGHT for parents and caregivers on Monday, September 21st at 7PM EST!
We proudly welcome ATS's Anne Fults, BCBA and Chase Hinnant, RBT as our game night co-hosts! We're excited to bring you what we hope will be a fun and relaxing hour away from all that is on your mind. For a Google Meet invitation and game night instructions, please send your RSVP to chughes@achievingtrueself.com.
Howard County Autism Society Latino Family Support Group
September 21, 2020 –
La Sociedad de Autismo del Condado de Howard lo invita aasistir a un grupo para familias de habla hispana que tienen un niño con autismo. Para más información y para inscribirse, contacte a: MarianelaEstrada emailnella22@gmail.com;973-223-1024
HCAS’s new Family Navigator, Stacy Hurley, and Melissa Rosenberg, HCAS’s Executive Director, will share strategies for virtual learning and services that are available to support your child(ren) this school year. Conducted in Spanish, this family support group meets most months. For additional information, contact Marianela Estrada at emailnella22@gmail.com or 973 223-1024.
Meeting number: 126 999 8754
Password: S5sZRPSpp28 (75797777 from phones and videosystems)
Test your trivia knowledge against old and new friends. Each week will feature a different trivia theme. This series is for individuals ages 16 and older with a developmental disability or autism.Registration is required to receive login information, please visit https://buff.ly/2DKS6bW. This program was made possible through a generous grant from The Horizon Foundation and is sponsored by Howard County Department of Recreation & Parks Therapeutic Recreation and Howard County Autism Society.
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
September 22, 2020 –
In this group, you will have the chance to speak with others who understand and share your experiences with issues related to being in a neurodiverse couple. Discussions are focused on learning tools and coping strategies for particular issues that arise because of the neurological differences between partners.
Are you interested in what ARI's Assistive Technology Program could offer you or your loved one with a disability? If so, don't miss this primer on our very own assistive technology program, which includes grants for personal AT items, ramp loans, Maryland Accessible Telecommunications Program evaluations, information and referral.
From low tech AT to high tech AT, there are many resources available to families.
Got questions? This week's host, AT Program Manager Betsy Hein, will be happy to help you!
Register at https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUtdOuoqT0qGdWuxNDaxPW7W_CsDahPmVCB
Sponsored by Accessible Resources for Independence
Free
Contact Name : Accessible Resources for Independence
Virtual Event
Looking to connect with new and old faces? Join us for Get Social! a program where facilitated conversation and group games promote social engagement. This series is for individuals ages 16 and older with a developmental disability or autism. Registration is required to receive login information, please visit
https://buff.ly/3arFrX2 This program was made possible through a generous grant from The Horizon Foundation and is sponsored by Howard County Department of Recreation & Parks Therapeutic Recreation and Howard County Autism Society.
Contact Name : Howard County Department of Recreation &Parks Therapeutic Recreation and Howard County Autism Society.
FOUR-PART FALL FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP FROM HOWARD COUNTY AUTISM SOCIETY
September 23, 2020 –
FOUR-PART FALL FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP FROM HOWARD COUNTYAUTISM SOCIETY
Wednesdays, 7:00-8:30pm
Virtual Events
September 23 - A Community of support
Meet our Family Navigator, Stacy Hurley, and learn about the new Mentor Program. Brainstorm topics and speakers for spring sessions. Play games for prizes.
October 21 - What is YOUR social capital and how can you better utilize it?
Learn how to expand, maintain and mobilize your network of support.
November 18 - Self-care for the caregiver and the family member with autism
Discuss compassion fatigue and how to employ the five love languages.
December 16 - Help your child or family member with autism thrive!
Explore strategies to improve communication, maintain schedules and consistency, engage and build on interests, and reinforce positive behaviors.
All sessions are facilitated by Stacy Hurley, Licensed Certified Social Worker form the Howard County Autism Society. Families with children of all ages with autism are welcome!
Registration is required to receive the WebEx login for this monthly event; the login will be the same for all four sessions. Register at https://app.donorview.com/g135k
EXPECTATIONS MATTER ~ MY LIFE, MY PLAN, MY CHOICE!!
September 24, 2020 –
Person-Centered Planning Training for people with developmental disabilities and family members living in Maryland Person Centered Planning describes who you are and what you want out of life! The Maryland Developmental Disabilities Administration uses Person Centered Planning to help people plan their lives and decide support and services. ALL people with ALL support needs are invited to learn. To register for September 24, 2020 visit https://forms.gle/q2yhktQM62FCgT1b6 Learn more at https://tinyurl.com/ycdzhsw8 Sponsored by Shared Support Maryland, Inc.
Learn, Advocate and Vote Protect the Rights of Those With Disabilities
September 25, 2020 –
The Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities and People On the Go Maryland invite you to a special lecture on the importance of your vote this November. Panelists will share information on voting at the state and federal levels, and will discuss issues affecting those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as the Institute’s perspective on relevant topics.
Presenter information:
Ben Jackson is a staff attorney at Disability Rights Maryland, the state’s designated Protection & Advocacy agency.
Emily Arneson is director of government relations at Kennedy Krieger Institute.
Mat Rice is the public policy specialist at People On the Go Maryland, a statewide self advocacy group for adults with
intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Rylin Rodgers is director of public policy at the Association of University Centers on Disabilities.
Every Saturday from
September 12th – October 17th
Register by August 28th
Online interactive social skills group designed to help you
identify, build, and foster healthy relationships. Develop the
skills necessary to form meaningful and healthy relationships
through lessons, activities, and role play scenarios.
We strive to ensure that each and every one of our guests have the best possible experience when they visit Summers Farm. With that in mind, we are pleased to offer Sensory Friendly Hours exclusively for guests on the autism spectrum or with other sensory sensitivities. During this time, we welcome these families to enjoy the farm in a sensory modified setting with no music, fewer crowds, and less waiting in line.
Some details to keep in mind:
-Regular weekend admission rates apply.
-Guests joining us for the Sensory Friendly Hours are welcome to stay and continue to enjoy the farm after we open to the public at 10am.
-Apple Blasters and Corn Cribs will not be available.
-If a member of your family has special dietary restrictions, you may bring your own drinks and snacks.
Please note that we are NOT open to the general public until 10am on these days. We ask that you respect these families and allow them this time to enjoy the farm on their own.
Contact Name : Summers Farm
Contact Email : --
Location: Summer\'s Farm 5620 Butterfly Lane Frederick, MD
PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY HEALTH and HUMAN SERVICES Behavioral Health, Back to School and COVID-19
September 28, 2020 –
In recognition of National Suicide Prevention and Drug Recovery Month, the Prince George’s County Health and Human Services Team, virtual Mental Health mini-webinars schedule:
September 28th 2:00pm:
Children and Youth Advocates Panel Zoom Information:
Session will feature a group of expert panelists, currently involved with emergency service provision, support services for children with differing abilities, parent and guardian supports and family education resources. Parents, guardians, and students are encouraged to attend, as these sessions will address the confluence of tensions arising with online schooling, parents becoming teachers and the social challenges we currently face.
Transition: A Bridge to Your Future - Post-Secondary Virtual Transition Expo
October 1, 2020 –
The Post-Secondary Virtual Transition Expo will connect students and their families to sources that help build successful lives after high school. Students with IEP's and 504 plans, parents, and teachers are all invited.
VIdeo Group for Spouses/Partners of Adults with Asperger's
October 1, 2020 –
In this group, you will have the chance to speak with others who understand and share your experiences with issues related to being in a neurodiverse couple. Discussions are focused on learning tools and coping strategies for particular issues that arise because of the neurological differences between partners.
Self-Direction and the Good Life: Many Lives, Many Choices!
October 1, 2020 –
The Self-Directed Advocacy Network of Maryland is proud that choice and control of services have enriched the lives of people with developmental disabilities, and we are so glad to share the beauty of self-direction with others.
Our virtual video launch party guests will include Ande Kolp, Executive Director of Arc Maryland; Delegate Karen Lewis Young and Senator Susan Lee of the Maryland General Assembly; Casey DeLuca of Applied Self-Direction; NaToya Mitchell, Maryland's Statewide Coordinator of Self-Direction; Tracy Davis, FMS Director at The Arc Central Chesapeake Region; and SDAN volunteers.
After-party guests will include our director, Rob McQuay, and participants and family members who are featured in the video. They will be available to answer your questions and share more details about their experiences in self-direction.
See the link to our trailer below to preview the video. Hope to see you on October 1!
Every Saturday from
September 12th – October 17th
Register by August 28th
Online interactive social skills group designed to help you
identify, build, and foster healthy relationships. Develop the
skills necessary to form meaningful and healthy relationships
through lessons, activities, and role play scenarios.
DFKDC Equality Summit
Autism Mom MD Podcast