The Novi case is among others in recent years (that have come to our attention) resulting from a lack of sufficient training and preventative measures to keep children with autism safe while at school. The link to the Novi case is here, when it first broke http://www.clickondetroit.com/news/defenders/defenders-alleged-sex-crime-at-local-school_20151201233813518. The hearing took place in October, 2016 in Federal Court, in Flint.
Category: News
Over 300 people gather for 3rd annual Navigating Autism Today Conference
Autism Alliance of Michigan welcomed over 300 parents, caregivers and providers to Schoolcraft’s VisTaTech Center in Livonia last Thursday for a day of education, learning and networking with community services providers, educators, other parents and, of course, AAoM professional staff.
Breaking Down Restraint and Seclusion
This month’s newsletter covers the newly enacted Seclusion and Restraint bills that were passed at the end of 2016. AAoM is so proud to have supported and advocated for this important legislation from the beginning. We hear from families and teachers on a regular basis who need more support and training for a child with challenging behaviors, who are subject to practices of seclusion and restraint that should be reserved for emergent situations.
Autism Alliance of Michigan Navigates Employment with Ford
Autism Alliance of Michigan and Ford were featured on NBC Nightly News for their new initiative Ford Inclusive Works. Take a look at one of our success stories from the pilot program. Ford plans to expand this program to include 24 more individuals on the spectrum in 2017.
University of Michigan Fraternities and Sororities Raise over $200,000 over 3 Years for Michigan Families Living With Autism
Thirty-two University of Michigan fraternities and sororities came together last weekend to raise funds to support the Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM).
Happy Holidays Autism Community!
As another year passes, we know that many parents are consumed with overwhelming concerns about their child’s well-being once they are gone. Financial planning becomes critical and information about MiAble and Special Needs Trusts can be empowering in this regard. We hope the information in this issue is valuable to you and the families you serve.
Holiday Tips From An Autism Parent
While sometimes the mixture of autism and the holidays can produce stale fruit bread (instead of spiced eggnog), it doesn’t make the holiday season any less special. Christmas, for our family, is honestly one of the best times for the year, but it doesn’t come easy. It requires planning, a positive attitude and the willingness to be flexible.
Important Legislation Regarding Restraint and Seclusion is Heading to a Vote
The Restraint and Seclusion Legislation has passed Committee in the State House and will now be voted on in the Michigan House of Representatives. Afterwards, the legislation will need to go through the same voting process in the Senate. Your voice can be heard loud and clear by contacting your State Representatives and State Senators. To find out who your Reps are, use this handy tool and consider giving them a call or writing to ask for their vote in support of HBs 5409-5418 and SBs 835-838.
AAoM & DWMHA Hold Two Free Trainings
Once again AAoM is happy to partner with DWMHA to offer training for community families and providers, working together to help keep individuals with autism safe, and prevent crises. Please join us!
Temple Quotes to Move You
Over 700 Michiganders enjoyed a fired up lecture from Temple Grandin today in Lansing at the New Horizon’s Autism and Asperger Syndrome Conference. Temple Grandin is a world-renowned woman on the spectrum who is a professor, engineer, author, and sometimes controversial speaker. If you haven’t had the opportunity to hear her speak, read her books, or see her biography, here are some of her ‘gems’ from today:
Sensory Friendly Holiday events
Holidays can be stressful and overwhelming for Special Needs families, individuals with different sensory processing abilities can become easily overstimulated given larger crowds, lights, music, and the temptation of toys. Retail and organizations across our state are becoming increasingly aware of the struggles facing families, as a result more Sensory Friendly activities and events are available.
Who’s In Your Corner?
Autism is a fight. It’s a lifetime of twelve rounds on repeat. With each set of rounds, a different opponent emerges. You’re gonna get knocked down, you’re gonna get bruised, and you’re gonna want to throw in the towel. Battling alone, failure is almost certain. This is why it’s essential to have a strong team in your corner.
Elisabeth Berry, Young Professionals Board Chair, to be Recognized as Distinguished Volunteer
ASSOCIATION OF FUNDRAISING PROFESSIONALS (AFP) GREATER DETROIT CHAPTER TO RECOGNIZE ELISABETH BERRY AS DISTINGUISHED VOLUNTEER AT 25TH ANNUAL NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY DINNER
5 Tips for a Successful Autism-Friendly Halloween
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The Michigan ABLE Act
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Michigan Department of Education Survey will Collect Input for Meeting Federal Grant Obligations
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AAoM had a Great Time with Elmo and Friends
For the third year in a row, AAoM had the privilege of working with Olympia Entertainment and Vee Corporation to host an autism-friendly performance of Sesame Street Live: Let’s Dance
10 Things To Know About The ABLE ACT
By Michael Morris, executive director of the National Disability Institute | May. 27, 2015 https://www.nami.org/Blogs/NAMI-Blog/May-2015/10-Things-You-Must-Know-about-the-ABLE-Act The Michigan ABLE Act Lt. Gov. Brian Calley signed the Michigan ABLE Act, establishing a
Summer Safety Tips
School will soon be out for summer, which means your child’s daily routine will likely change. As the autism safety specialist at The Autism Alliance of Michigan, Scott Schuelke wants every
Success story from South Haven Mi
Recently , in December 2014, South Haven Police Department received a call about an 11 yr old boy with autism, who was reported as out of control and had walked
From Crain’s Detroit Business
As the father of a 31-year-old autistic son, Pat Kemp’s new role as executive director of a new effort housed at Oakland University to help adults with autism find employment
AAoM & Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority
AAoM has been partnering with Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority (MMRMA) over the past two years to supporting autism awareness and training for law enforcement officials and municipal employees. Their