Autism Society Western New York

The Collaborative Community Mission Independence Connection - Cooking Northtowns
2023-01-28 11:00 - 12:30 (America/New_York) | Terra House, 25 Buffalo St., Akron, NY, 14001, United States
The Collaborative Community Mission
Independence Connection – Cooking Northtowns
Join The Collaborative Community Mission for a new Independence Connection. This cooking class will be geared to help individuals with disabilities gain various skills within a kitchen to be able to be more independent & task oriented.
Class will include specific recipes selected by instructors Andrea & Niki, breakdown of prep work, kitchen safety & procedures, completion of cooking designated recipes and then time to eat at the end of each class. Class will also include information regarding healthy eating and health/wellness related materials.
Class registrant required to have support staff/guardian present if individual needs 1:1 supports. Please let us know if you need assistance with this. This class will have a $10 per registrant fee to help cover costs for the supplies. Class fee can be paid via Venmo at @Collaborative-Community, via PayPal @ collabcomm.mission@gmail.com or via cash the day of. Please make note on Venmo/Paypal payments the class name and date.
Location – Terra House, 25 Buffalo Street, Akron NY 14001 716.418.6836
Point of contact for program: Niki LaMonte-DeGolier / 818.625.0486 / ccmvicepres@gmail.com
Minimum 4 registrants, maximum 12
Ages 10 – 19
Once a month – day and time will vary each month, running for 1 1/2 hours.
REGISTER

The Collaborative Community Mission January Yoga/Language Connection
2023-01-27 17:00 - 17:30 | BTC Fitness Center, 5324 Rogers Road, Hamburg, NY, 14075, United States
Collaborative Community Connection (CCM)Yoga and Language Connection
Join for their FREE CCM Yoga Connection and CCM Language Connection class at BTC Fitness Center in Hamburg, NY, on January 27 at 5:00 PM. Students will be listening and participating in a winter themed book and activity followed by yoga poses for a fun and interactive combo class!
All ages are welcome, spaces are limited.
REGISTER: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c0d49acae2ea1fbc43-january#/

Parent to Parent of NYS FATHERS GROUP via Zoom
2023-01-26 19:00 - 20:30, 2023-01-12 19:00 - 20:30
Statewide Virtual Meeting: Bi-weekly on Thursdays, starting at 7 p.m.
Parent to Parent of NYS Fathers Group to meet online via Zoom and discuss the role of dads in navigating their childrens’ special needs.
Come join Chris Brewster for an informal meeting to share information, resources, and support. Parents of children and adults are welcome.
REGISTER: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEtcOivqD8vGdEpO5DltxXk9Ds9xNFODCuV

Section 504, Students with Disabilities in Public & Private Schools - webinar
2023-01-26 12:00 - 14:00
Please join Nancy Marmet, Education Advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Section 504, Students with Disabilities in Public & Private Schools.
This training will introduce you to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This training is designed to provide you with an understanding of the law, how it applies to educational programs and to students with disabilities. Children who qualify under this law receive services and/ or accommodations in the public-school system without being classified under IDEA/IDEIA and their school district’s Committee on Special Education.
If you are a Parent, Grandparent, Family Members, or just interested in this topic, then this training is for you!
If you have questions, please call Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/5615904500415193691

REAL Transition Partners: Understanding Alternatives to Guardianship - Online Event
2023-01-26 11:00 - 12:30
This event is for Families, Youth/Young adults with disabilities & Adult System representatives.
They will:

Briefly discuss what guardianship is and is not.

Give an overview of alternatives to guardianship, including supported decision-making (SDM), for transition-age youth with intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD).

Hear from the Center for Youth Voice, Youth Choice youth ambassadors, self advocates, and families.

Learn about the work being done by Center for Youth Voice, Youth Choice and its partners to support youth across eight states to collaboratively advance SDM and other alternatives to guardianship.

Link to register in English:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/real-transition-partners-understanding-alternatives-to-guardianship-registration-487819038877Link to register in Spanish:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ententiendo-las-alternativas-de-la-custodia-legal-tickets-492610690837
Questions? Contact Dawn Monaco – dmonaco@spanadvocacy.org

A Beginners Guide to Understanding the Special Education Process - webinar
2023-01-25 18:00 - 19:30
Please join Namita Modasra, Education Advocate for this presentation.
This workshop will describe the purpose of special education, introduction to special education process, and services available to children ages birth to 21. This training is for parents, grandparents, guardians, and professionals who are new to the special education process or have limited knowledge. The goal of the training is for attendees to learn the basics of the special education system.
If you have questions, contact: Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUqdeGspj4vHN1MLfqYlSSSiNyEp3d5pzk6

The Collaborative Community Mission & David’s Refuge New Year, New Goals - Virtual Happy Hour
2023-01-25 07:30 - 21:30
Wednesday January 25th
CCM Virtual Happy Hour – Zoom
7:30pm – 9:30pm
Join us along with David’s Refuge for our quarterly virtual happy hour. New Year, New Goals.
Come take a minute, catch your breath and make some connections in our community.
Care packages will be mailed to the first 15 people registered so sign up quick!
Zoom link will be emailed upon registration.
REGISTER: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080d4ba5a922abf58-newyear1

Reinforcement, Bribery, or Negotiation – the Tools that can Make or Break Your Behavior Plans - Webinar
2023-01-24 19:00 - 20:15
Reinforcement, Bribery, or Negotiation – the Tools that can Make or Break Your Behavior Plans
Speaker: Sasha Long, M.A., BCBA, Founder & President of The Autism Helper

Register Here

Session Description:
A key component to all behavior management strategies is the effective use of reinforcement. In this webinar, participants will learn how to correctly utilize reinforcement. We breakdown how making simple changes to the way you are approaching challenging behaviors can make a huge impact in teaching positive, prosocial, communicative behaviors. Participants will walk away with a clear understanding of the difference between reinforcement and bribery as well as the knowledge of how to ensure their behavior plans are set up correctly.
Session Objectives:
Participants will be able to:

define and discriminate between bribery and reinforcement.

identify common missteps of reinforcement and how to remedy those situations.

apply concepts of reinforcement to effectively increase positive behaviors.

Speaker Bio:
Ms. Long is the founder and president of The Autism Helper, Inc. She is a board-certified behavior analyst and former special education teacher. Sasha works as a consultant, writer, and behavior analyst. She created The Autism Helper Blog, as a way to share easy to use and ready to implement strategies and ideas. Sasha also travels internationally as a speaker and consultant providing individualized training and feedback to parents, educators, therapists and administrators in the world of autism. She is an adjunct professor in the school of Applied Behavior Analysis at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Sasha received her undergraduate degree in Special Education from Miami University and has a Masters Degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology.
Certificate of Attendance:
A general certificate of attendance will be issued to all attendees.
Continuing Education Information:
RCASD at SUNY Old Westbury is an approved provider for the following continuing education credits:Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) CEUs - This webinar is eligible for 1.5 BACB CEUs with a $15 processing fee.
Continuing Teacher and Leader Education Credits (CTLEs) - This webinar is eligible for 1.25 CTLE hours with a $10 processing fee.
No other CEUs are offered for this conference.

Free Transition Services Virtual Expo - Western Region (Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, Wyoming)
2023-01-24 18:00 - 20:00
WESTERN REGION (Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, Wyoming)
Person Centered Services is hosting a Free Transition Services Virtual Expo for families of transition aged youth, ages 14-21. The expo will be held on January 24th from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM. This FREE event will be held via Zoom.
Their goal is to improve outcomes for students with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families, as they approach adulthood. Through collaboration, education, and networking, we will help individuals and families reach their full potential! Meet and interact with local providers who offer services supporting successful transition to adulthood for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities!
REGISTER

Parent's Guide to Special Education via Zoom - Two Part Training Workshop
2023-01-24 18:00 - 20:00
Part 1: Online videos & activities. Complete at least 1 day prior to Live Zoom Session.
Part 2: Tuesday, January 24 from 6 – 8 pm. Live Zoom Session.
Learn about the Special Education Process and the Individualized Education Program!

Gain understanding about procedures, NYS regulations, and strategies to promote a parent’s understanding and participation in an Individualized Education Program (IEP) meeting.
This course is required to receive a Parent Member Certificate to support a parent of a child with a disability in an IEP meeting.

CTLE credits available.
Register online at www.ParentNetworkWNY.org/events. Instructions will be sent via email on how to access and complete the Part 1 online videos and activities.
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/parents-guide-to-special-education/
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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NEW- Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) What You Need to Know - webinar
2023-01-23 18:00 - 20:00
Have you heard of (LRE) or the Least Restrictive Environment? Many parents are unaware of what is means. (LRE) stands for Least Restrictive Environment and is part of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It refers to the placement that your child is in. Least Restrictive Environment is an important part of your child’s IEP.
Come join us for this new presentation and learn what the laws says about LRE.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1972400043339460700

The Collaborative Community Mission Fine Motor Group (Southtowns)
2023-01-23 17:15 - 17:45 | Lakeshore Library, 4857 Lakeshore Rd., Hamburg, NY, 14075, United States
Join the Collaborative Community Mission (CCM) on January 23, from 5:15-5:45 pm for their first fine motor group. This group will take place at Lakeshore Library (4857 Lakeshore Road, Hamburg). Your child will be completing a winter themed craft, utilizing their fine motor skills, and other fine motor activities will be included. This is a FREE event. Ages 3-8. Spaces are limited.
REGISTER

Preparing to Transition from High School to the Adult World after Graduation - webinar
2023-01-23 12:00 - 13:30
Please join Tina Beauparlant, Parent to Parent of NYS, Regional Manager/ Education Specialist for this wonderful webinar. This training gives parents, grandparents and guardians, an understanding of high school transition.
Transition from high school to young adulthood is a critical stage for all teenagers; for students with disabilities this stage requires extra planning and goal setting. Factors to consider include post-secondary education, the development of career and vocational skills, as well as the ability to live independently. The first step in planning for a successful transition is developing the student’s transition plan. A transition plan is required for students enrolled in special education who have an Individualized Education Program (IEP). We will define and describe transition planning and how it can be utilized to maximize your child’s future.
If you have questions, contact: Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3356609315963360089

CCM Sensory Friendly Craft Even at Sweet Charlottes
2023-01-22 13:30 - 15:00 | Sweet Charlottes, 10255 Main Street, Suite 9, Clarence, 14031, United States
CCM Sensory Connection – Northtowns Sweet Charlottes
1:30pm to 3:00pm
This is an inclusive event for all abilities, come have a sensory experience, and then you are welcome to play at Sweet Charlotte’s where the event is being held.
REGISTER: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/5080d4ba5a922abf58-ccmsensory3

Healthy Relationships: A Workshop for Parents and Guardians (In Person Event)
2023-01-21 10:00 - 12:00 | Parent Network of Western New York, 1021 Broadway, Buffalo, NY, 14212, United States
This can be even more complicated when our loved ones have a disability. As parents and guardians, we often worry whether talking about it gives permission and whether they can be safe from harm when they are in relationships.
This workshop will help you become more comfortable discussing this sexuality & healthy relationships by covering what topics to cover when and the most effective ways to talk about this sensitive topic.
“Adapted from Elevatus Training”
Goals:

Examine barriers to talking about sexuality.
Gain knowledge about sexuality and developmental disabilities.
Acquire and practice skills in communicating about sexuality with our young and grown children.

IN PERSON EVENT located at Parent Network of WNY, 1021 Broadway St., Buffalo, NY 14212

REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/parental-rights-during-a-cps-investigation-399-733-823/

Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Call: 716-332-4170
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Sibling Needs Across the Lifespan - webinar
2023-01-19 19:00 - 20:30
‘When Siblings are supported, the whole family is supported’.
Special education teacher and advocate Lindsay Hyland discuss the challenges, joys, and impact of having a sibling with special needs. The workshop is to help families learn what it is like to be a sibling of someone with a disability.
If you have questions, please contact Valerie Colavecchio – Vcolavecchio@ptopnys.org.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2105753210378927120

Williamsville Agency Fair
2023-01-19 18:00 - 20:00 | Williamsville North High School, 1595 Hopkins Road, Williamsville, 14221, United States
A great opportunity to learn more about activities, programs and events available for young adults with disabilities both while in school and after high school.
You will be able to speak to agencies and organizations about:

Recreational programs
Respite
Housing
Dayhab without walls
Pre-Voc
College programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities

LOCATION: Williamsville North High School (2nd Floor Library),1595 Hopkins Road, Williamsville, NY 14221
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! REGISTER: https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/williamsvilleagencyfair/
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
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Assistive Technology for Students with Disabilities 101 - webinar
2023-01-19 18:00 - 19:30
Please join Namita Modasra, Education Advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents Assistive Technology for Students with Disabilities 101.
This training will teach parents, grandparents, guardians about appropriate Assistive Technology (AT) devices and services how they allow students with disabilities to participate in and benefit from the general education curriculum and to meet Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals. For every student with an IEP, federal and state regulations require that the team consider the student’s need for assistive technology devices and services.
If you have questions, please contact Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAoceGhrDMqEt3Ckqjw-4Zw4d2zlnkG8nLj

Professional Development – Creating Inclusive Learning Environments in Schools via Zoom
2023-01-18 13:30 - 15:30
Teaching Professionals! This course is for you!
Inclusive learning environments are ones in which students feel that their contributions and perspectives are equally valued and respected.
Learn about inclusive teaching strategies to ensure that students with a wide range of backgrounds, characteristics, and expectations have productive learning experiences in your class.
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/parental-rights-during-a-cps-investigation-399-733/
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
call: 716.332.4170
Download Flyer

Parents and Caregivers: The Importance of Self-Care - webinar
2023-01-18 13:00 - 14:00
Amanda Tami, LPC, BCBA discusses the importance of self-care for adult caregivers supporting people with special needs, including autism. Free webinar at 1 p.m. Eastern time (US), Wednesday, January 18, 2023.
The Speaker: Amanda Tami, MA, BCBA, LBA, LPC, holds a master’s degree in counseling psychology and has completed a recertification program in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). In addition to being a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Amanda is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She has experience working with both children and adults, including those who have autism spectrum and other pervasive developmental disorders, ADD/ADHD, anxiety issues, and trauma, both as a BCBA and as a counselor. She has additional specialized training as a counselor in EMDR therapy and its applications to children.
REGISTER: https://www.autism.org/self-care/

A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD - webinar
2023-01-18 10:00 - 11:30
Please join Parent to Parent of NYS, Julia Luppino, Regional Coordinator, as she presents on A Guide for Families to Understanding Supports & Services Administered by OPWDD.
The purpose of this training is to introduce families to the language of service delivery systems and to define and clarify information about services and supports. Participants will gain an increased awareness and understanding of eligibility criteria and the eligibility determination process. The training includes an overview of Home and Community Based Services Waiver, and Family Support Services.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/[REDACTED]

Clarence Learn to Swim Adaptive Program Winter 2023 Lesson Registrations Open January 17 at 7:00 p.m.
2023-01-17 19:00 | Clarence Middle School, 10150 Greiner Road, Clarence, NY, 14031, United States
Clarence Learn to Swim Adaptive Program located at Clarence Middle School is for children with a classified disability or significant medical condition. Adaptive Level 1 (typical age of swimmers is 4-10) for swimmers who are just becoming comfortable with the water. These children are NOT able to swim independently and require 1:1 adult support in the water. Adaptive Level 2 (typical age of swimmers is 12-25) is for swimmers who are able to float, tread water, and maintain balance in the water independently. Swimmers may have an interest in competing in the Special Olympics Aquatic Division. Cost and online registration at www.clarencelearntoswim.com
WINTER 2023 LESSON REGISTRATIONS WILL OPEN JANUARY 17TH AT 7:00PM.
We are happy to announce that we have more than enough coaches, lifeguards, and assistance to be able to hold all of our classes, including our Adaptive programs!
Lessons begin January 30th and end March 30th. No classes for mid-winter break, Feb 18th-25th.
Winter 2023 Clarence Learn to Swim Registration Opens Online Monday January 17TH AT 7:00PM
No Classes: February 18th-25th (Mid Winter Break)
NO MAKE-UP DAYS Available at this time
Adaptive: Please verify locations!
Level: Adaptive Level 1 (30min)
Days: Tuesdays (Begins: Jan 31st)
Time: 5:30PM, 6:00PM, & 6:30PM
Fee: $120 (8 scheduled classes)
Location: Clarence MIDDLE School
Level: Adaptive Level 1 (30min)
Days: Thursdays (Begins: Feb 2nd)
Time: 5:30PM, 6:00PM, & 6:30PM
Fee: $120 (8 scheduled classes)
Location: Clarence MIDDLE School
Level: Adaptive 2: Competitive (45 mins)
Days: Tuesdays (Begins: Jan 31st)
Time: 7:15–8PM
Fee: $124 (8 scheduled classes)
Location: Clarence MIDDLE School
Level: Adaptive 2: Competitive (45mins)
Days: Thursdays (Begins Feb 2nd:)
Time: 7:15–8PM
Fee: $124 (8 scheduled classes)
Location: Clarence MIDDLE Schoo

Rebecca AK Wicher
Director/Head Coach
cltsdirector@gmail.com
716-906-7875

Communicating with the CPSE / CSE through Letter Writing - Webinar
2023-01-17 18:00 - 19:30
Please join Nancy Marmet, Education Advocate, Parent to Parent of NYS, as she presents a webinar on Communicating with the CPSE/CSE through Letter Writing.
Letter writing can be a very effective method of communication and advocacy for parents of children with disabilities. This training assists parents, guardians, grandparents how to clearly and effectively express concerns, ideas or suggestions to the professionals involved in their child’s special education program.
If you have questions, contact: Tina Beauparlant Phone: (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/rt/4370081959842351959

Chautauqua County Family & Caregiver Support Group via Zoom (Third Tuesday of the Month at 12:00 p.m.)
2023-01-17 12:00 - 13:00
Receive Support – Connect with Others – Express Yourself
Free Support for parents, family members and caregivers of children with special needs
MEET THE HOSTS
Marcia Restivo, 23 years experience working with special needs families and Laurie Reynolds, parent of child with special need.
REGISTER ONCE FOR MONTHLY EMAIL REMINDERS AND ZOOM MEETING LINKS!
https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/chautauqua-county-family-caregiver-support-group-2/
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org

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What Families And Caregivers Need To Know About the New York State Alternative Assessments (NYSAA) via Zoom
2023-01-13 16:00 - 17:30
Participants will learn:

The criteria for NYSAA eligibility

The type of assessments used to measure a NYSAA student’s performance and how often

How a NYSAA determination affects graduation options and plans for life after high-school

REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/parental-rights-during-a-cps-investigation-399/
email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
call: 716.332.4170
Download flyer

Residential Placement Online Discussion Group- Parents who have a child or adult in a Residential placement via Zoom
2023-01-12 19:00 - 20:00
Are you considering a residential school or program for your son/daughter and just don’t know how you will ever be able to make this decision? Do you feel guilty for even thinking about it? Do you have a family member in a residential program and are struggling to make peace with this decision?
Parent to Parent is excited to host a Parent Discussion Group facilitated by Mariela Adams, for families with children and adults of all ages that have children in residential school or are considering a residential placement for their loved one.
Come join us for an hour of support and conversation about this important topic.
REGISTER: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZItcOCgqjkiE93EvzhK2aXOn96j5KDcPGBy

How to Prepare for a Successful CSE Meeting - webinar
2023-01-12 10:00 - 11:30
Please join Nancy Marmet, Education Advocate, as she presents this wonderful presentation on How to Prepare for a Successful CSE Meeting.
This training is to help parents, who approach IEP meetings with fear and dread. If this is you attended this training and we have some suggestions to help you feel more at ease and participate as a full member of the team that plans your child’s special education program.
If you are a Parent, Grandparent, Family Member, or guardian, then this training is for you!
If you have questions, please contact: Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1766196532710599765

CANCELED Transition To Adulthood For Families via Zoom
2023-01-11 18:00 - 20:00
Is your high schooler with disabilities getting ready to transition to adulthood?
Learn how to:

assess the teen’s strengths, interests and needs
establish measurable goals for the future
identify appropriate transition services and coordinated activities
work with the Committee on Special Education (CSE) to get your teenager ready for adulthood

CTLE Credits Available
*Certificate of completion available upon request*
REGISTER TODAY! FREE EVENT! https://parentnetworkwny.org/events/transition-to-adulthood-for-families/
Call: 716-332-4170 | Email: info@parentnetworkwny.org
Download Flyer

Education Records Organizer - webinar
2023-01-11 18:00 - 19:00
Please join Barb Hoffman, Regional Coodrinator, for this wonderful presentation.
This workshop is where parents, guardians and advocates of children who receive 504, CPSE and CSE special education services take their educational records and organize them into a record-keeping binder. This workshop will assist in being more organized in planning a child’s education, and in the CPSE/CSE process.
Please contact with any questions: Tina Beauparlant (518) 381-4350.
REGISTER: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3710458546343290460
