News and Happenings - July 6, 2022



*They're HERE! Step Into Autism* Summit County photos are here!** Thank you Chadwick Photography for helping us capture the day! Check out the 2022 Summit County Post Walk Program for provider resources, photos, and final team results! *Missed the Summit County Step Into Autism* Walk? No worries, we're doing it again in Stark County on August 13!** The Stark County Step Into Autism Walk, Resource Fair, and Family Fun Day is less than 6 weeks away! Register, raise funds to support ASGA local community programs and resources, and come celebrate with us!
ASGA PROGRAMS
Does Your Child Need a Legal Guardian or Power of Attorney?This Thursday, July 7 \| 7:00 PM \| Zoom When a child turns 18, parental authority ends. Parents must decide if their child needs a decision-making authority or will they make financial, medical, and social decisions on their own. Andy Brennan talks about Guardianship and Alternative Options to help you make an informed decision. REGISTER TODAY Ride the Rails with ASGA! Sunday, August 21 \| 12:00-4:00 PM \| Medina Park Back by popular demand! Train lovers of all ages can enjoy a unique train riding experience with the Northeastern Ohio Live Steamers at the Lester Rail Trail in Medina. Have lunch and make train-related crafts! Space is limited - reserve your time slot today! READ MORE & REGISTER
A MESSAGE FROM GOLFER BILLY MAYFAIR
We welcome pro-golfer Billy Mayfair to Akron for the Bridgestone Senior Players Championship of the PGA Tour! Billy announced in 2021 that he is on the Autism spectrum and spreads messages of focusing on Abilities to achieve your dreams. He sent us this message we wanted to share with you! Good luck this week, Billy! We’ll be rooting for you!
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Step Into Autism Walk Stark County\| August 13 \| McKinley Museum Volunteers still needed for this new walk! Sign up today!
SUPPORT GROUPS
Informal support groups provide time for discussion and information sharing for anyone impacted by autism. SUMMIT COUNTY: Meets Friday, July 15 from 7-8 PM Stow Panera, Kent Road LEARN MOREPORTAGE COUNTY: Meets Tues, July 26 from 10-11 AM Reed Memorial Library LEARN MORE Facebook Support Group for parents and caregivers JOIN HERE!
MAKING INFORMED DECISIONS
We know protecting your loved one with a disability is one of your highest priorities. We also know it’s not always easy to decide what is best. That is why ASGA is providing information to help you make informed decisions. WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW About the COVID-19 Vaccine and Your Rights Under the ADA DOWNLOAD THE FACT SHEET for answers to the following: Can my employer, school, or private business require vaccination? Does the ADA allow me not to have to follow a vaccination mandate? What is a reasonable accommodation? Does HIPPA allow me not to share my vaccination status? How can I document and/or share my vaccination status? New Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidance has talked about the risk of vaccinated folks who are immunocompromised? What does this mean and how do I know if my disability puts me in that group? Some public health officials have talked about vaccine booster for people at high-risk? How will I know if I am in this group? How will I be able to get a booster as soon as they make the decision? The CDC has updated guidance on preventative measures, such as masking and social distancing, but my state/local community/school are not following this guidance. Does IDEA, 504, ADA protect my access to school and work in safety?
ADVOCACY
Congratulations advocates everywhere! Parents in Ohio no longer have to give their children up to receive the care they need. Last week the Ohio Resilience through Integrated Systems and Excellence (OhioRISE) program launched a new Ohio Medicaid specialized managed care behavioral health program for young people with the most complex needs. LEARN MORE
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Fathers of People with Developmental Disabilities Forum & Survey Ohio fathers who have a child with developmental disabilities, of any age, are asked to take a brief survey and join in one of two virtual Fathers Forums. Opportunity to win one of two $50 gift cards. Deadline July 10 Supporting the Mental Health Needs of Adults with Disabilities The Building Bridges project, offered through The Ohio State University Nisonger Center, is gathering information and stories to help address the training needs related to mental health treatment for adults with intellectual and other developmental disabilities. Learn More Akron Children's Hospital Health and Wellness Day \| July 23 Free Health and wellness screenings, school supplies and hygiene items, interactive activities, and games for children and anyone else. Must preregister to secure your spot. Learn More and Register Milestones Autism Conference On-Demand Until August 15 Missed the conference - watch anytime, anywhere. View full list of sessions HERE. \| Register HERE Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness 101 \| July 14 - Aug 18 Free online course for Ohioans in a loving or supportive relationship with a person with a developmental disability. Learn More and Register Tackling Disparities in Transitioning to Adulthood \| July 21 Conversation centering around voices of families of color, who face unique challenges with transition. Hear triumphs and lessons learned from panel of families. Learn More and Register
SUPPORT LOCAL FUNDRAISING!
Whether you are donating to ASGA through Step Into Autism or another way, ask your company if they have a match program or can start one! Be sure to ask your friends and family as well!

About the Autism Society of Greater Akron The Autism Society of Greater Akron's (ASGA) mission is to create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully. ASGA serves Summit, Medina, Portage, Wayne, and Stark county communities. ASGA is also a proud member of the Ohio Family Network (OFN), connecting people with disabilities and their families to local information and resources within their communities. We believe OFN provides opportunities to share ideas, find solutions to common challenges and inspire and strengthen each other.
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