In Person Workshop

Wednesday, March 19
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Akron Main Library, Meeting Room 2AB

The Autism Society of Greater Akron invites parents, caregivers, and individuals with Autism to a special event focused on enhancing safety in the community.

One of the most pressing concerns for families of individuals with Autism is wandering. Studies show that nearly 50% of children with Autism engage in wandering behavior, which significantly increases the risk of injury or even drowning (CDC, 2024). This event will offer practical strategies to prevent wandering and highlight the importance of water safety, with a special focus on the tragic statistic that children with Autism are 160x more likely to drown compared to neurotypical peers.

WHAT TO EXPECT

This session will cover critical topics including wandering and water safety, providing participants with vital tools to protect their individual with Autism.

Attendees will receive a door alarm (one per family) to help prevent wandering incidents, along with a comprehensive safety resource packet containing an emergency communication board and a safety window decal for your home. These resources are designed to assist families in ensuring their individual’s safety, both at home and in the community.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

This event is intended for parents, caregivers, and individuals with Autism, especially those concerned about wandering and water safety. It’s relevant for anyone looking for practical safety strategies and tools to address wandering behavior and enhance safety in the community.

DO I HAVE TO REGISTER?

Registration is required.

QUESTIONS

If you have questions or need additional assistance, contact Theresa Maier, ASGA Support Specialist via email here or by phone at 330-940-1441 ext 1.

Meet the Speaker

Kelly Clark
Community Training Specialist

Kelly Clark is the Community Training Specialist at ASGA. Kelly oversees the Autism Friendly Communities program and the DOJ Kevin and Avonte grant in training police officers about Autism. For 20 years, Kelly’s background was in education and curriculum. She has a BA in Integrated Social Studies Education and two MAs in Administration and Curriculum and Instruction.

Kelly currently resides in Stow with her children: Andrew and Aria. Her personal and professional lives intersected when her daughter was diagnosed with Autism in 2023. Kelly’s passion is making the community more accepting of our loved ones with Autism to improve their experiences. When not at work, Kelly enjoys spending time with her family and her partner Rob, reading, watching movies/shows (especially Harry Potter, Star Wars, and Game of Thrones), and playing the piano.

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