The Autism Advantage

To his father, Lars seemed less defined by deficits than by his unusual skills. And those skills, like intense focus and careful execution, were exactly the ones that Sonne, who was the technical director at a spinoff of TDC, Denmark’s largest telecommunications company, often looked for in his own employees. Sonne did not consider himself an entrepreneurial type, but watching Lars — and hearing similar stories from parents he met volunteering with an autism organization — he slowly conceived a business plan: many companies struggle to find workers who can perform specific, often tedious tasks, like data entry or software testing; some autistic people would be exceptionally good at those tasks. So in 2003, Sonne quit his job, mortgaged the family’s home, took a two-day accounting course and started a company called Specialisterne, Danish for “the specialists,” on the theory that, given the right environment, an autistic adult could not just hold down a job but also be the best person for it.

http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/02/magazine/the-autism-advantage.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&ref=general&src=me&

APAC 2013

http://www.apac13.org.au/

Asia Pacific Autism Conference, 8-10 August 2013

Survey for people with autism about the conference:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/APAC13

Speakers:
http://www.apac13.org.au/speakers

Register your interest:
https://webserver.aomevents.com/ei/getdemo.ei?id=199&s=_5GW0XS1Y1

Call for Abstracts:
http://www.apac13.org.au/call-for-abstracts

First look: Liz Carr as Clarissa Mullery in Silent Witness

Disabled actress and comedian Liz Carr is to become a regular fixture on our TV screens in the popular BBC One science-based crime drama. Damon Rose caught up with her to find out more about the new character she'll be playing.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/ouch/2012/10/first_look_liz_carr_as_clariss.html

Canberra businesses / social enterprises

Jackmail
http://www.jacksonwest.org/jackmail

Ronnie's Succulent Snails
http://www.ronniessucculentsnails.com.au/


wigglygigglybyj
http://wigglygigglybyj.wordpress.com/

any others?

Autism Links

Famous Autistic People

http://www.myaspergerschild.com/2008/09/famous-autistic-people.html 


Defining Autistic Lives

http://www.raggededgemagazine.com/reviews/ckmontrubin0605.html


TMS Study Explores “Brain Plasticity”, Adaptation in Adults with Autism

http://catalyst.harvard.edu/pdf/hccrc/CRC_Newsletter_Issue_4.pdf


Morgan's Journey: My 16 year old son's journey through the criminal justice system, while living with Asperger's Syndrome

http://meredith-morgansstory.blogspot.com.au/

Know Before You Go

Know Before You Go is a new resource developed by Nican packed with information - presented in an easy to read, step-by-step way - which helps providers and people with disability alike to increase skills, confidence and discover their passions. 

The project includes tools for people with disabilities and providers.  For people with disabilities it includes support to: 

·         Become inspired

·         Build confidence

·         Stay fit & healthy

·         Make friends

·         Overcome fear

·         Overcome the inner critic

·         Develop assertiveness

·         Using mind mapping as a tool

·         Plan for the future or simply ask – what will I do today?   

For providers the kit provides support to:

·         Undertake a self-audit, with tips, tools, checklists and examples  

·         Develop an action plan including a shell action plan with project owners, timeframes, deliverables and commitments 

·         Develop a checklist for inclusive events covering issues ranging from accessible parking to inclusive communications
http://www.nican.com.au/node/15103

London Paralympic website

http://www.london2012.com/paralympics/

schedule of events
http://www.london2012.com/paralympics/schedule-and-results/

Reminder - Room To Move: Inclusive Community Dance Series Starts Sat July 28

***The Radiance Dance Project* in partnership with *the Belconnen Arts Centre*(BAC) presents****

*****Room To Move** Inclusive Community Dance*****

***About the Series*****

****Monthly inclusive (open to people living with and without disability) community dance and movement sessions with a focus on improvisational movement led by a variety of skilled and experienced facilitators. These sessions aim to create a positive learning environment rich with the creative possibilities each valued participant brings with them. Experience the freedom and joy of improvisation in a welcoming and supportive environment. ****

****Open to all adults including people living with disabilities. No previous dance/ movement experience required. All skill levels welcome. Come to as many or as few sessions as you wish.

*****About The Radiance Dance Project*****

****Room To Move is made possible by a donation from The Radiance Dance Project (RDP), administrated and delivered in partnership with the Belconnen Arts Centre. The founder of RDP, Morgan Jai-Morincome, is the inclusive movement practices mentor for the series.****

The Radiance Dance Project (RDP) (2005-2012) was a 40 week-long inclusive community arts project(using the mediums of dance & theatre) founded and facilitated by Morgan Jai-Morincome and co-facilitated by Min Mae.
RDP provided a creative and collaborative space for up to thirty adult women each year living with a diverse range of physical, cognitive and sensory abilities.****

The project previously received grants from Disability ACT, The Department of Education and Training & ArtsACT and were winners (2007) & finalists (2008) of the ACT Adult Learners Week Outstanding Program Award. Morgan has presented the work of the project at local, national and international conferences as well as being the subject of research and publication in the Journal of Adult Learning Australia (A/Prof Lisa Ehrich QUT, 2010) and The International Journal of the Arts in Society, Morgan Jai-Morincome & A/Prof Carolyn Broadbent, ACU, 2010).****

*Workshop Dates 2012

*****Saturdays 2.30-4.30pm (last Saturday of each month)****
July 28, August 25, September 29, October 27 and November 24****

*****Contribution*****

****$10/participant per workshop session (support workers/ carers free)****

*****Location*****

****Belconnen Arts Centre (Dance Studio)
118 Emu Bank, Belconnen, ACT ****

*****Session 1 **Saturday July 28th 2.30-4.30pm*****

*Dance Jam*****

Join dancer, artist and cultural facilitator Min Mae in an experimental dance workshop based on progressive, playful and collaborative inclusive movement practices inspired and informed by her years of work with neurally, physically and socially diverse participants in workshops and performance.****

*Bio*****

Min Mae is a dancer,award winning artist, community arts worker and performer with a background in community development. She has produced and collaborated on various dance and theatre projects in the ACT and NSW. She credits her seven years as co-facilitator of The Radiance Dance Project with her growth as an artist and a human being. Min currently facilitates inclusive dance at Canberra Dance Theatre.****

*****Information & Bookings*****

****Telephone: 02 6173 3300****

Email: info@belconnenartscentre.com.au****

http://www.belconnenartscentre.com.au****

David series of books - amazon

Reading specialists, special education teachers and librarians agree that there are no other titles like this available. "How David Met Sarah," the first in a series of five books written for intellectually or developmentally disabled individuals, uses vocabulary appropriate for a third-grade reading level.

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=ntt_athr_dp_sr_1?_encoding=UTF8&search-alias=digital-text&field-author=Anne%20Kelleher

Mobile Hairdresser - discounts for HCC holders

Missy's Magic Styles - Mobile Hairdresser
I have been in the hairdressing industry for 20 years. Have decided to go out on my own due to the demand of mobile hairdresses in ACT. I am also a mum and understand that some times after hours can be the best time. Happy also to travel out side of the A.C.T.

I Specialise in: -

* Weddings - Packages avaliable
* Cutting - 3 or more cuts booked at same time get a discount
* People with Disabilities or Special needs - Discounted prices (Card holders)
* Hair ups / Formals
* Special Events / Photo Shoots
* Colour Specialist

I give seniors big discounts, knowing how hard times can be.

By Appointment only. Melissa 0477 668 360

Health and Wellbeing activities for children, young people and adults with an Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Health and Wellbeing activities for children, young people and adults with an Autism Spectrum Disorder.

HEALTH AND WELLBEING ACTIVITIES

Opportunities in Term 2 to be part of fun and healthy activities for yourself, or your family member with Asperger's.

o   For Pre-school age to early primary

o   Jitterbugs Gymfun - Disability friendly. A gymnastics programme. Coaching tumbling, music, drama & dance. Venue: Aquatots Swim Centre, Gold Creek Country Club, Curran Drive, Nicholls Time: various days -2-4 yrs mornings, 5-8 yrs afternoons. Contact: Julie MB:  0400403785 or Email: jitter.bug@bigpond.com Free week trial

•         For Primary & teens school aged children 

o    Skills and Fitness for Kids - (primary)  iMight assist co-ordination, balance and problem-solving. Venue: Sports Hall, CIT,  Bruce Campus

Time: 4.00-4.45pm Starts: Monday, 7th May (6 weeks) Cost: $5 per session

o   Akido  Non-confrontational martial art which might assist focus, agility, coordination and confidence. Venue: Deakin Scout Hall, LaTrobe Park, Cnr Gawler & Melbourne Sts. Time: Fridays, 3.45-4.30pm, Starts: 11th May Cost: $160 per term.

•         Adults and carers                                                                                                                           

o   Yoga - Assists to reduce anxiety and stress through the practice of Yoga. Venue: Bendigo Room, Autism Asperger ACT, Chifley Time: 6.00 - 7.00pm, Wednesdays Starts: 2 May - 30 May Cost: $7 per session

 o   Mentored gym - experience benefits in fitness and wellbeing through a structured program. Venue: YMCA, Chifley Health & Wellbeing Centre, McLauren St, Chifley  Time: 1.00 - 2.00pm Starts: Wednesday 2nd May Cost: $5 per session

o   Capoerira -Disability friendly.  An African-Brazilian art form that combines elements of martial arts, music, gymnastics and dance. Venue: Belconnen Community Centre/ Sports Hall Time: 2.00-3.00pm Starts: Friday 1th May (5 weeks) Free week trial Contact: Disability Team : 02 62 640232

For further information and registration NOW: Email: janj@autismaspergeract.com.au

Or phone: 02 6176 0514 (Thursday/ Fridays )or MB: 0439 378 426

Inclusive Learning Technologies Conference 2012

From Jannette:

I mentioned this conference at a support group today and was surprised so few people knew about Spectronics - especially those with a need for communication devices - so I though I'd share. I attended this conference in 2010, and was amazed at the technology available to help our kids, and different approaches to teaching that were being discussed. I highly recommend it to anyone who can manage to get there - even if it means applying for funding.

https://www.facebook.com/ILT2012.Conference

 The ILT2012 Conference focuses on inclusive learning technologies to support struggling students and those with disabilities – in the classroom and beyond!

ACT spectacle subsidy scheme

http://www.assistance.act.gov.au/child/health_and_dental/spectacle_subsidy_scheme

The Spectacles Subsidy Scheme provides eligible ACT residents with one subsidised pair of either trifocal or bifocal spectacles or two separate pairs of single vision spectacles (one each for distance and near sight) from the one prescription in any 24-month period.
Each client is expected to pay a $22 subsidy towards the cost of the spectacles or contact lenses.

Disabled couple thrilled they’ll be able to keep their baby

WONDERFUL news for this couple!!!
but..... WHY did they have to prove they were fit to care for their baby? and why was it assumed they couldn't because of their disabilities????

http://www.thestar.com/news/article/1173602--disabled-couple-thrilled-they-ll-be-able-to-keep-their-baby

The proud parents of a 3-week-old baby boy learned Friday that they won’t lose their child to the Peel Children’s Aid Society after all.
“Yay!” Maricyl Palisoc, 34, yelled as she carried 9-pound William into her assisted living apartment unit in Mississauga with her fiancé, Charlie Wilton, 28. Both parents have cerebral palsy.
They had feared they would lose the baby, but a family conference meeting was held Friday with Peel CAS and the parents showed that they can address the safety and well-being of their child.
They have a personal care worker with them 24 hours a day and grandparents willing to help.
It’s been an emotional three weeks after their son was born by C-section at Mount Sinai Hospital.

Links for Life Program

Gungahlin Regional Community Service currently has vacancies for the Links for Life Program on Wednesdays. Links for Life is a skill development program for young people (18-25years) with disability. The program runs from 9.30am until 2.15pm. Pick up and drop offs are available.

For further information please contact:
Ayse Kocak
Program Manager
HACC & Disability Programs
Gungahlin Regional Community Service
Ph: 6242 6077
Fax: 6242 9750
Mob: 0488123211

Qantas Carer Concession

http://www.nican.com.au/about/qantas-carer-concession

Nican administers the Qantas Carer Concession Card on behalf of Qantas.
The Qantas Carer Concession Card is issued to people with a disAbility and high level support needs who require the full-time assistance of a carer whilst they are on the plane. A person is eligible if they need to have one-on-one support when seated on the plane for assistance with meals/drinks, transferring to the bathroom, orientation, communicating with the flight staff etc. A person would not be eligible if they only need assistance boarding the plane, or when they arrive at their destination.

The Scarlet Road

http://www.scarletroad.com.au/trailer/

Scarlet Road follows the extraordinary work of Australian sex worker, Rachel Wotton. Impassioned about freedom of sexual expression and the rights of sex workers, she specializes in a long over-looked clientele – people with disability.

2012 Football-Connect Registration

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2012 Football-Connect Registration Where: ACT Hawker Football Centre Walhallow St Hawker 2614 Australia Driving Directions When: Saturday May 5, 2012 at 9:00 AM   Dear Karen, In 2011 Capital Football in partnership with Weston Creek Soccer Club (South Canberra) and Belconnen United/Belnorth Football Club (North Canberra) launched a Football league specifically catering for athletes of All Abilities. Participants were allocated a club close to where they live, received their own club shirt, attended weekly training sessions and participated in football matches weekly throughout the season with their own team at the Hawker Football Centre. 2011 season in review   2012 Season Information and Dates   Season 2012 promises to be even bigger and better with the Pre-Season Come and Try period set for May and the season launch scheduled for June. The Kanga Cup (Australia's Biggest Football Tournament) has also introduced a disability division in 2012 giving Football-Connect teams an opportunity to test themselves against teams from around Australia in the July school holidays. Football Connect individual player registrations are accepted online on an ongoing basis throughout the season. Just click on the link below to register for free. If you are interested in entering a whole team please let us know and we will register your team all at once. Register Now! I can't make it Please do not hesitate to contact us if have any questions about Football-Connect or how to register. Sincerely, The Football Connect Team Capital Football coaching@capitalfootball.com.au 6175 7116 Developed with assistance from the ACT Government under Disability ACT

Links to learning- Adult Literacy Program

'Links to Learning- Adult Literacy Program'
Links to Learning is a volunteer tutoring program available to all
adults living in the Canberra region who would like to develop their
literacy skills.
Students can enroll anytime; the literacy tutoring is designed for each
individual's needs.
Students and tutors meet weekly for a one hour session at either one of
the ACT Public libraries, Southside Community Services and only under
exceptional circumstances, a student's home.
The tutoring days and times are arranged between the student and tutor
to whatever times best suit both parties.
The cost of the literacy tuition is free.
The 'Links to Learning: adult literacy program' is funded by an ACT
Government Adult Community Education grant.
If you have any questions please contact me either via phone or email,
my office hours are Tuesdays to Thursdays 9:30- 4:30.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Lisa Navarro- Bustos / Coordinator
'Links to Learning - Adult Literacy Program'
63 Boolimba Crescent, Narrabundah, ACT 2604
Tel: 02 6126 4717 Fax: 02 6295 7944
Web: www.sscs.org.au
Email: lisa.navarro-bustos@sscs.org.au

Young disabled stay silent over hate crimes

Young disabled people are failing to report hate crimes to the police because they fear they will not be taken seriously.

Nearly two in three young disabled people say they have been victims of disability hate crimes, such as being verbally or physically abused or suffering threatening behaviour, a survey by the Muscular Dystrophy Campaign found. The research, by the campaign's Trailblazers, a 400-strong group of disabled 18-to-30-year-olds, raises concerns that nationally hundreds of attacks on disabled people are going unreported.
Only four out of 10 victims of disability hate crimes reported the incident to the authorities, the survey found.

 http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/young-disabled-stay-silent-over-hate-crimes-7282146.html?fb_action_ids=354124064620403%2C10151320969685707%2C2844484953092%2C548776117485%2C2843213041295&fb_action_types=news.reads&fb_source=other_multiline#access_token=AAADWQ6323IoBAHiehGyMuPsWeMl5seZBPFN9my25EMke6PMy8iZCby0KI8osx3Yz9Sq71NgVoHH03kwKtnPRE85BAfdXJL7O6Lkh89v0GT4JTiWkyi&expires_in=6321