Support Group - Evening - Autism Society WNY and Fantastic Friends of WNY
2019-01-22 18:00 - 19:30 UTC | Fantastic Friends of WNY Center, 1284 French Road, Cheektowaga, New York, 14227, United States
Fantastic Friends of WNY and the Autism Society Western New York have joined together to provide a new evening support group for parents/caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities. Come network with other parents and learn more about what is available in the Western New York area.
Meeting held at the Fantastic Friends of WNY Center on French Road in Depew
RSVP fantasticfriendswny@gmail.com
Phone: 716-608-6234.

Bullying and Promoting Well-Being for Students with Disabilities
2019-01-23 18:00 - 20:00 UTC | Parents Network of WNY, 1000 Main Street, Buffalo, New York, 14202
You will learn about different types of bullying — to recognize the warning signs — and how to add supports into the IEP
Reserve your spot by email: info!parentnetworkwny.org or call 716-332-4170
Please let us know if you need assistance with. childcare when you register, as we can provide a stipend.
on line registration www.parentnetworkwny.org/events

Niagara County Autism Family Support
2019-02-04 18:30 - 20:00 UTC | Empower Children’s Academy, 9812 Lockport Road, Niagara Falls, NY, 14304
First Monday of almost every month
Facilitated meeting where parents and caregivers of all ages can meet , share experiences, ask questions and receive support
Reservations not necessary unless you need child care
If child care needed, reserve at least one week in advance at www.parentnetworkwny.org or call 716-332-4170 or email info@parentnetworkwny.org
Each child must be registered.
If you have transportation or other issues, that would limit your attendance, please contact us.

Daytime Support Group Meeting - Autism Society WNY and Fantastic Friends of WNY
2019-02-12 11:30 - 13:00 UTC | Fantastic Friends of WNY Center, 1284 French Road, Cheektowaga, New York, 14227, United States
New Daytime Support Group for parents/caregivers of children and adults with disabilities including Autism. Hosted by Fantastic Friends of WNY and the Autism Society of WNY .
Come meet and talk, share and learn from other parents of children and adults with disabilities .
Learn more about Fantastic Friends of WNY programs which provide unique recreation opportunities for individuals of all ages with developmental disabilities.
There will also be handouts on Autism Resources in the WNY area and info on upcoming events in the WNY area. Please RSVP so we can plan ahead.
RSVP fantasticfriendswny@gmail.com
Phone: 716-608-6234.
Hope to see you there on Tuesday !

Family & Caregiver Group For Parents Of Teenagers With Autism Spectrum Disorders
2019-02-14 18:00 - 19:30 UTC | Wegman’s Cafe, Back Conference Room, 601 Amherst Street, Buffalo, New York, 14207
This is a support group for parents & caregivers of teenagers with Autism Spectrum Disorders. All are welcome to attend, but reservations are appreciated. A group for Teens with Asperger’s will be available at the same time with prior registration. Please contact 716-332-4175 or support@parentnetworkwny.org for more information. This event will be moderated by Tonia Weichmann-Transition Coordinator, Parent Network of WNY and Jana Mertz, MBA-Program Coordinator, Autism Center-Oishei Children’s Hospital. NO COST

Family & Caregiver Group-DDAWNY for Parents of Children with Developmental Disabilities
2019-02-19 17:30 - 19:00 UTC | Aspire Building, 7 Community Drive, Cheektowaga, NY, 14225, United States
Provide a welcoming environment for parents, family members and other caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support. Child Care is Available. In order to provide for your child’s individual needs reservations for childcare are required by the Friday prior to the meeting. Registration forms are required for all new children and are available at www.parentnetworkwny.org or call (716) 332-4175. Free To Attend-All Are Welcome But Reservations Are Appreciated. Light dinner will be served.

Evening Support Group Autism Society WNY and Fantastic Friends of WNY
2019-02-26 06:00 - 19:30 UTC

Students with Disabilities and Dealing with Suspension
2019-02-26 19:30 - 21:30 UTC | C. Dee Wright Community Center, 11 Church St, Akron, NY, 14001, United States
Learn:
General school discipline issues
Disciplining students with disabilities
Manifestation Determination Review (MDR)
Effective advocacy and communication
Review of school code of conduct.
. Reserve by email info@parentnetwork.org or call 716-332-4170
Let us know if you need assistance with childcare or transportation when you register.

Niagara County Support Group
2019-03-04 18:30 - 20:30 UTC | Empower Children’s Academy, 9812 Lockport Road, Niagara Falls, NY, 14304

Daytime Support Group - Autism Society WNY and Fantastic Friends of WNY
2019-03-12 11:30 - 13:00 UTC | Fantastic Friends of WNY Center, 1284 French Road, Cheektowaga, New York, 14227, United States
New Daytime Support Group for parents/caregivers of children and adults with disabilities including Autism hosted by Fantastic Friends of WNY and Autism Society WNY. . Come talk, share, pick up books and information and learn from with other parents of children and adults with disabilities .
Learn more about Fantastic Friends of WNY programs which provide unique recreation opportunities for individuals of all ages with developmental disabilities.
Pick up the following books and informational lists/flyers :

Autism Spectrum Disorders: The Complete Guide to Understanding Autism by Chantal Scicile Kira
Sesame Street booklet on the character Julia talking about autism
Some Helpful Resources in WNY – 9 page list developed by 4 local moms
Flyers on local events in the WNY area

Light Refreshments will be served.
Fantastic Friends location in Depew – see address below
RSVP fantasticfriendswny@gmail.com
Phone: 716-608-6234.
Hope to see you Tuesday !
Kathy, Debbie and Jeanne

Theatre of Youth -Sensory Friendly Performance - The Jungle Book
2019-03-24 10:00 UTC | Theatre of Youth, Buffalo, New York
Live Theatre performance in a sensory friendly environment. Children can sit where they are most comfortable and move around as they need, all while enjoying the magic of live theatre.
All performances start promptly at 10 am . $5 for tickets, general seating. Noise muffling headsets and a calming space are available
To purchase tickets, please contact the TOY box office &16-884-4400 ext. 304 or boxoffice@theatreofyouth.org
OR go to: www.theatreofyouth.org (access code 1N68) .
Watch for Jungle Book March 24, 2019 and Dragons Love Tacos May 19, 2019 .

ASWNY and Fantastic Friends Evening Support Group - Speaker on Special Needs Trusts,ABLE accounts and more
2019-03-26 18:00 - 19:30 UTC
Evening Support Group
Tuesday March 26, 2019
6:00pm to 7:30 pm

Presentation by James Fox, Certified Financial Planner, Chartered Special Needs Consultant Following topics and more:

Special Needs Trusts
NYS ABLE Accounts – Disabled can grow savings without taxes . Also lessens impact on needs testing for Medicaid and SSI
Keeping my loved one in their current home when I pass

Sponsored by Autism Society WNY and
Fantastic Friends of WNY

Location: Fantastic Friends of WNY Center
1284 French Road
Depew NY

You can RSVP by calling and leaving a message at 716-608-6234 or email fantasticfriendswny@gmail.com Also, check out our Facebook pages.

Autism Society Western New York and Fantastic Friends have joined together to provide a new evening support group for parents/caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Niagara County Autism Support Group
2019-04-01 18:30 - 20:30, 2019-05-06 18:30 - 20:30 UTC | Empower Children’s Academy, 9812 Lockport Road, Niagara Falls, NY, 14304

ASD: Sexuality and Safety Across the Lifespan - with Dr. Lori Jeanne Peloquin - Autism Society Western New York and Autism Services Inc. Workshop
2019-04-06 08:45 - 12:45 UTC | Banchetti by RIzzo, 550 North French Road, Amherst, New York
Dr. Lori Leanne Peloquin is a Clinical Psychologist who works in the Rochester area with children, teens and young adults with Anxiety, Regulatory, Sensory Processing, Developmental and Autism Spectrum Disorders. She has given workshops on Sexuality and Autism, Autism and Anxiety, and How to Tell your Child about Having ASD. Her writings from The Autism-Asperger Digest magazine on the DIR/Floortime Model were chosen to be included in a book The Best of Autism Asperger Digest Magazine: Outstanding Selections From Over 4 Years of issues. She mentors other professionals in Mental Health, Occupational, Music and Speech Language Therapies. She was also recognized as Outstanding Psychologist of the Year by the Genesee Valley Psychological Association.
Please note change in location
Banchetti by Rizzo
550 North French Road
Amherst, NY
You will learn about

Importance of addressing sexuality issues long before puberty and adolescence.

Emotional and physical aspects of sexuality and relationships for individuals on the spectrum

How to talk about what is public vs. private

How to address safety and legal issues including internet dangers , pornography and dealing with law enforcement

Rights of individuals to be sexual beings

Prevalence of gender and sexual identity issues in in ASD

How to develop a sexuality curriculum for individuals with ASD

How to deal with the inappropriate public display and aggressive pursuit of person of interest

How to avoid possible abuse

More information and a link to online registration is below in white box under Website:
http://friendsofasi.org/asi-events/spring-2019-workshop/

$13 each Individual with ASD/Parent/Caregiver

$29 Professional /Student

$39 SLP /Audiologis/OT/COTA/PT/PTA with CEUs

How you can register for this workshop:

TO REGISTER ON LINE Click on Website in white box below for direct link . Also links to more information and brochure. Registration closes Thursday April 4 at NOON

TO REGISTER BY MAIL: Send registration form and check to : Autism Society WNY , 19 Limestone Drive, Suite 1, Williamsville NY 14221 (must be received by Friday April 5 )

WALK IN REGISTRATION: Add $10 to above costs

See you on April 6

Autism Society WNY and Fantastic Friends WNY Support Group: Finding Effective Solutions to Compensate for Sensory Processing Deficits
2019-04-16 10:30 - 12:00 UTC | Fantastic Friends of WNY Center, 1284 French Road, Cheektowaga, New York, 14227, United States
Deb Kroetsch, an adult with HF Autism will present on Finding Solutions to Compensate for Sensory Processing Deficits. Deb has developed a number of adaptations to cope with the confusing world around her. Learn more about the low tech but extensive changes she has made to her apartment and her life so that she can function in the overwhelming world individuals with autism live in. Deb is a fascinating person to talk with and can help us all understand a little more about about the challenges our children face.
Pick up the following books and informational lists/flyers :

Autism Spectrum Disorders: The Complete Guide to Understanding Autism by Chantal Scicile Kira
Sesame Street booklet on the character Julia with Autism
Some Helpful Resources in WNY – 9 page list developed by 4 local moms
Flyers on local events in the WNY area

Fantastic Friends location in Depew – see address below
RSVP fantasticfriendswny@gmail.com
Phone: 716-608-6234.
Hope to see you Tuesday !
Kathy, Debbie and Jeanne

How to Protect My Child's Future Guardianship, Wills & Trusts
2019-04-23 19:30 - 21:30 UTC | C. Dee Wright Community Center, 11 Church St, Akron, NY, 14001, United States
This is a free workshop recommended for families of students with disabilities. You will learn who needs a guardian, when to start the process, the importance of a Will and how to protect future services.

Autism Society WNY and Fantastic Friends WNY Support Group - Maximizing Services through Insurance and other Funding. 6:30pm - 8pm
2019-04-30 18:30 - 20:00 UTC | Fantastic Friends of WNY Center, 1284 French Road, Cheektowaga, New York, 14227, United States
Evening Support Group
Funding Options for Services
Tuesday April 30, 2019
6:30pm to 8:00 pm

Presentation by
Autism Learning Partners
Kathryn Janiicke, BCBA
Kelsey Wolak, BCBA

How to access funding options (including insurance) for both children and adults

1:1 in home services
Social Skills Groups
School programs
Community Services
Clinic Services

Sponsored by Autism Society WNY and
Fantastic Friends of WNY

Location: Fantastic Friends of WNY Center
1284 French Road
Depew NY

You can RSVP by calling and leaving a message at 716-608-6234 or email fantasticfriendswny@gmail.com Also, check out our Facebook pages.

Autism Society Western New York and Fantastic Friends have joined together to provide a new evening support group for parents/caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Autism Society WNY and Fantastic Friends WNY Support Group - Daytime 10:30am - Noon
2019-05-14 10:30 - 12:00 UTC | Fantastic Friends of WNY Center, 1284 French Road, Cheektowaga, New York, 14227, United States
Hi
Come meet, talk and share with other moms and dads who have children with disabilities. Watch for additional details
Pick up the following books and informational lists/flyers :

Autism Spectrum Disorders: The Complete Guide to Understanding Autism by Chantal Scicile Kira
Free copies of three Sesame Street booklets on the character Julia who has Autism .
Some Helpful Resources in WNY – 9 page list developed by 4 local moms
Flyers on local events in the WNY area

Fantastic Friends location in Depew – see address below
RSVP fantasticfriendswny@gmail.com
Phone: 716-608-6234.
Hope to see you Tuesday !
Kathy, Debbie and Jeanne

Theatre of Youth - Sensory Friendly Performance - Dragons Love Tacos
2019-05-19 10:00 UTC | Theatre of Youth, Buffalo, New York

Autism Society WNY and Fantastic Friends of WNY Evening Support Group 6:30pm -8:00pm. Accessible Academics - Providing Academic, Social-Emotional, Life Skills and Job Supports for College & Post Secondary Training
2019-05-28 18:30 - 20:00 UTC | Fantastic Friends of WNY Center, 1284 French Road, Cheektowaga, New York, 14227, United States
Accessible Academics – Providing Academic, Social-Emotional, Life Skills and Job Supports for College and Post Secondary Training inc. BOCES.

Learn more about the supports this non-profit provides
Including Academic Supports, Life Skills Supports, Job Skill Supports and Social- Emotional Supports
How School Supports your child is used to change post secondary
Supports can be funded with Self Directed Services (OPWDD qualified) or Private Pay

Also: Pick up the following books and informational lists/flyers :

Some Helpful Resources in WNY – 9 page list developed by 4 local moms
Flyers on local events in the WNY area
Information on Fantastic Friends Programs

Fantastic Friends location in Depew – see address below
RSVP fantasticfriendswnyjk@gmail.com
Phone: 716-608-6234. Leave a message
Hope to see you Tuesday !
Kathy, Debbie and Jeanne

Special Needs Planning/ Life Care Planning Tuesday September 10 6:30 pm - 8pm Support Group
2019-09-10 18:30 - 20:00 UTC | Fantastic Friends of WNY Center, 1284 French Road, Cheektowaga, New York, 14227, United States
One of the most important issues on every parent/caregiver’s mind is what will happen to my loved one when I am gone or can no longer care for them.
A representative from Mass Mutual will be discussing developing a Life Care Plan to help ensure the type of care and quality of life for your loved one with special needs for today and tomorow. This is an important evening . Bring your questions. Learn more about how to articulate your vision for your child.

Learn more about:

What is a Life Care Plan

Stages in Life Care Planning process

Steps needed to create a Life Care Plan for your loved one

Available tools and resources to help develop your personal agenda for your child.
How to identify needs that will always be present
Comprehensive steps needed to accomplish your plan

Autism Society WNY and Fantastic Friends of WNY Tuesday Evening Support Group
Tuesday September 10, 2019
6:30 pm – 8:00pm
Fantastic Friends of WNY Center
1284 French Road
Depew, NY
Light Refreshments will be served.
RSVP fantasticfriendswny@gmail.com
Phone: 716-608-6234.
Questions: 716-633-2275
Hope to see you Tuesday September 10 !
Kathy, Debbie and Jeanne

Using Nutrition to Improve Language, Learning & Mood in ASD: What every parent & therapist should know. Saturday Morning October 5, 2019 . Speaker: Kelly Dorfman, Licensed Clinical Nutritionist
2019-10-05 08:45 - 12:45 UTC | Classics V Banquet and Conference Center, 2425 Niagara Falls Boulevard, Amherst, NY, 14228, United States
Kelly Dorman, M.S., LND is a licensed clinical nutritionist with a masters degree in nutrition/biology and over 30 years experience. She specializes in targeted nutrition therapy to address complex medical problems in children . As a professional member of the Autism Think Tank New Jersey, she collaborates with a panel of physicians to help families address issues unique in AUTISM in individuals of ALL AGES that have baffled their regular providers. She lectures internationally and has been featured on numerous television programs and in periodicals.
Cost: $14 each for individual with ASD, parent or family member
$39 each for Speech-Language Pathologist, Audiologist, OT, COTA, PT, PTA with CEU
$29 each Other Professional (No CEU)
CLICK ON WEBSITE link below for copy of BROCHURE and ON LINE registration details . Mail in registration also available.
Practical workshop will explore:

Why those on the spectrum are picky eaters and what to do about it
How to close the gap between what someone can or will eat, and nutrients needed tfor optimal development and mood
How special diets work and how to know if they are right for your child/family
Unique challenges of our modern day food supply
Therapeutic nutrients that promote speech and motor planning skills
Specific nutrients that support the motor planning of learning and executive function
How diet affects mood and nutritional strategies to stabilize affect and behavior
How nutritional intervention can address constipation, low muscle tone and tiredness
Why nutrition intervention at any age can improve function and quality of life.

CONFERENCE by Autism Society Western New York and Autism Services
Co-sponsored by the Speech Language Hearing Association of WNY and
Associated Physical and Occupational Therapists PLLC
Scholarships based on financial need tor Individuals with ASD and parents.

Special Needs Planning/ Life Care Plan - Tuesday daytime 10:00am to 11:30am Support Group.
2019-10-08 10:00 - 11:30 UTC
One of the most important issues on every parent/caregiver’s mind is what will happen to my loved one when I am gone or can no longer care for them.
A representative from Mass Mutual will be discussing developing a Life Care Plan to help ensure the type of care and quality of life for your loved one with special needs for today and tomorow. This is an important evening . Bring your questions. Learn more about how to articulate your vision for your child.

Learn more about:

What is a Life Care Plan

Stages in Life Care Planning process

Steps needed to create a Life Care Plan for your loved one

Available tools and resources to help develop your personal agenda for your child.
How to identify needs that will always be present
Comprehensive steps needed to accomplish your plan

Autism Society WNY and Fantastic Friends of WNY Tuesday Daytime Support Group
Tuesday October 8, 2019
10am – 11:30am
Fantastic Friends of WNY Center
1284 French Road
Depew, NY
Light Refreshments will be served.
RSVP fantasticfriendswny@gmail.com
Phone: 716-608-6234.
Questions: 716-633-2275
Hope to see you Tuesday September 10 !
Kathy, Debbie and Jeanne

Family & Caregiver Support Group for Parents of Teenagers with Autism Spectrum Disorders
2020-01-09 18:00 - 19:30 UTC | Dash’s Market, 1770 Hertel Ave., Buffalo, NY, 14216, United States
Provides a welcoming environment for parents and other caregivers of teenagers with autism spectrum disorders to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support. All are welcome to attend but group is geared towards parents of teenagers who may be transitioning to higher education, employment and/or independent living.
A group for Teens with Asperger’s will be available at the same time with prior registration.
A light dinner will be served.
Moderated by:

Tonia Weichmann – Transition Coordinator, Parent Network of WNY
Jana Mertz, MBA – Program Coordinator,
The Children’s Guild Foundation Autism Center Oishei Children’s Hospital

Please contact 716-332-4170 or email info@parentnetworkwny.org for more information
RSVP TO ATTEND
FREE TO ATTEND – ALL ARE WELCOME
BUT RESERVATIONS ARE APPRECIATED
If you are interested in attending but have transportation or other barriers that would limit your participation, please let us know.

Sensory-Friendly Sunday at The Strong National Museum of Play
2020-01-12 09:00 - 12:00 UTC | The Strong National Museum of Play, One Manhattan Square, Rochester, NY, 14607
Enjoy The Strong before it opens to the public at an exclusive event designed for children with special sensory, developmental, or physical needs. Explore the museum in a comfortable and accepting environment that features fewer guests, light and sound reduction, extra visual safety signage, and designated quiet areas that include sensory friendly toys. Enjoy a free visit to the relaxing Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden before noon. Plus, delight in story readings with the Unicorn Princess at 10 and 11 a.m.
$16 for non-members; $11 for members. Space is limited to 250 guests. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Registration required. Tickets are not refundable and not eligible for any other discounts. Complimentary passes and member guest passes may not be used for this event. Tickets will not be sold at the door. Museum Social Stories are available to help you and your child familiarize yourselves with the museum and its exhibits before you visit. Social stories can also be found on The Strong’s mobile guide available through the Apple Store or Google Play.
Sensory-Friendly Sundays at The Strong are supported in part by the B. Thomas Golisano Foundation.
*Registrants may choose to stay after the museum opens at noon to the public.

Game Night- "Happy New Year"
2020-01-13 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Lancaster Youth Bureau, 200 Oxford Ave., Lancaster, NY, 14086, United States
Exclusively for children with Asperger’s, PDD-NOS or on the Autism Spectrum
Bring your family and friend over for a fun time at the Lancaster Youth Bureau!
Includes: video games, board games, snacks and new friends that you can meet! You can bring your own games and snacks (peanut-free, please) to share too!
Parent participation is necessary and important for this program.

Network with other parents about common interests and concerns.
Be involved in encouraging social interaction of your child with their peers.
Share resources and opportunities for you child with other parents.

Contact: Lynne at thirtytoesntired@aol.com, Danielle at dpitirri@lancasterschool.org, or Lancaster Youth Bureau 716-683-4444

Care Coordination Drop-In Sessions-Where you can discuss your Care Coordination questions and concerns
2020-01-20 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Various Locations
Person Centered Services offers customized care coordination delivered through a dedicated network of providers and resources. Our Care Coordinators put all support services into one place, with an approach that is all-encompassing.

Person Centered Services is dedicated to providing every individual with the tailored support he or she deserves – for life. This includes:

Comprehensive care – creating a ‘Life Plan’
Care coordination and health promotion – monitoring all health-related services, safety needs and more
Copy of Comprehensive transitional care – coordinating activities related to life circumstances
Referrals of individuals to community and social support services
Individual and family support – referrals of family to community services and promoting informed choices
Use of sophisticated health information technology

HAVE QUESTIONS? JOIN US FOR DROP-IN SESSIONS!
LOCATIONS

Albion
243 S. Main Street, Suite 179
Albion, NY 14411

Olean*
338 N. 15 Street
Olean, NY 14760

Batavia
26 Harvester Ave., Suite 407
Batavia, NY 14020

Silver Creek
262 Central Ave.
Silver Creek, NY 14136

Buffalo
88 Botsford Place
Buffalo, NY 14216

Wellsville*
36 Madison Street
Wellsville, NY 14895

Jamestown
255 Fluvanna Ave., Suite 400
Jamestown, NY 14701

West Seneca
1090A Union Road, Suite 260
West Seneca, NY 14224

*These locations are moving soon! Check with your care coordinator and on PersonCenteredServices.com to confirm addresses.

FAMILY & CAREGIVER GROUP – DDAWNY FOR PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES
2020-01-21 17:30 - 18:45 UTC | Aspire Building, 7 Community Drive, Cheektowaga, NY, 14225, United States
Provides a welcoming environment for parents, family members and other caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities to meet, share experiences, ask questions and receive support.
COST
FREE to attend, all are welcome
*Light dinner will be served
RSVP TO ATTEND
716-332-4170 or info@parentnetworkwny.org
Child Care is Available. In order to provide for your child’s individual needs reservations for childcare are required by the Friday prior to the meeting. Registration forms are required for all new children and are available at www.parentnetworkwny.org or call (716) 332-4170.

Transitions Opportunities Fair
2020-01-27 16:00 - 20:00 UTC | Banchetti by RIzzo, 550 North French Road, Amherst, New York
What is next for you after high school graduation? Trade school, college, or career?
TRANSITIONS OPPORTUNITIES FAIR

Find the resources to launch your education or employment
Meet other graduates
Get the “411” on what is next for you.
Raffle every hour from 4-8 p.m.
It’s the future and it is calling your name! You got this and we are here to help you!

PARTICIPATING VENDORS
Aspire of WNY, ACCES-VR, ARC Erie County, Autism Services, Inc., Baker Victory Services, Inc., Cantalician Center…and more!!
QUESTIONS: Call 716-492-8656 or email bboese@accessibleacademics.org
*This event was made possible through a generous grant from The Peter and Elizabeth Tower Foundation.
