ADVOCATES, LET’S GO!
Home and Community-Based Services Two months ago, President Biden announced his American Jobs Plan that includes $400 billion to 1.) expand Medicaid home and community-based services (HCBS) for people with disabilities; and 2.) increase wages and benefits for direct support professionals (DSP). Senator Casey (PA) and Rep. Dingell (MI) and staff of relevant committees are working hard to put legislative language together to implement this plan. The Autism Society and our affiliates have been meeting with legislators to encourage their support for this important provision in the Jobs Plan. In addition, the Autism Society and the Autism Society of Greater Akron have signed on to a CCD letter providing recommendations for the legislation being developed to comply with the provision for HCBS in the Jobs Plan. It is unclear at this time if the bill will be able to garner bipartisan support needed for passage in the Senate. Contact your members of Congress by entering your home address HERE and urge them to support the additional funding separately needed to address the long waiting lists for services and support for people with autism. (See also Time Magazine just published about this issue). For more information on this and other policy issues of interest to the disability community, see the Autism Society’s latest Ignite for Autism newsletter. MEET THE WARNER FAMILY “In 1999, my twin boys were diagnosed with autism. It took us a long time to figure out how to re-enter the world. All my successes in sports and business did little to prepare me for the unique challenges of parenting autistic children.” READ MORE - Curt Warner, Autism Society Board Member |
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ASGA'S SUMMER PROGRAMS | ||
RIDE THE RAILS WITH ASGA! We’re back! Join us for our first in-person event where train lovers of all ages can enjoy a unique train riding experience with the Northeast Ohio Live Steamers at the Lester Rail Trail in Medina. Have lunch and make train related crafts too! Space is limited.
GRANDPARENTS: Strengthening Your Grandchild’s Gifts July 26 | 7 – 8:30 PM | Zoom Showing interest in your grandchild's talents and hobbies can build relationships based on abilities, not disabilities. Be a part of that discussion with facilitator, Joceyln Eskenazi and other grandparents. REGISTER HERE YARD SIGNS FOR SALE - SUPPORT AUTISM ACCEPTANCE by purchasing a yard sign for only $10! EMAIL US for more information or to arrange a pickup! VIEW DESIGN HERE
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We are looking for some fun, one of a kind, or practical items for our Double Down silent auction! If you own a business, are a direct sales representative, or just have an item or experience that you would like to donate, please email Leslie Bloom to make arrangements. Proceeds from Double Down help ASGA continue to provide the year-round services and programs that so many families rely on. Want to help in a different way? Join the planning committee or sign up to volunteer at the event! If you are interested in learning more, please contact Leslie Bloom. |
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UTILITY ASSISTANCE - Eligible Ohioans can receive assistance with electric utility bills, central air conditioning repairs, and air conditioning unit and/or fan purchases through the HEAP Summer Crisis Program. COLLEGE FOR LIVING PROGRAM - Fall activities for individuals with developmental disabilities. |
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About the Autism Society of Greater Akron The Autism Society of Greater Akron (ASGA) is one of more than 80 affiliates nationwide that are part of the Autism Society of America, the nation’s largest and oldest grassroots autism organization. ASGA serves Summit, Stark, Wayne, Portage, and Medina counties. ASGA works locally to achieve its mission to improve the lives of all affected by autism. 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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