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Advocate

ASD
AUTISM SOCIETY OF OAKLAND COUNTY P.O. BOX 70207, ROCHESTER HILLS, MI 48307
A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E A S O C T O R E C O G N I Z E O U R D O N O R S , V O L U N T E E R S A N D A D V O C AT E S

of Oakland County
SPRING 2012

ASOC LAUNCHES

ASOC

New Website!

MISSION STATEMENT
To advocate and support meaningful participation in all aspects of life for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families.

he Autism Society of Oakland County has a brand new website for 2012 and beyond! Our new site features a fresh look, new content areas, additional links and expanded resources. ASOC announced the new site through an email blast to our membership, on January 31, 2012.

er content on our site and a platform that would allow us to do that quickly and with far less cost. ASOC selected a platform that allows for easy authoring and adds social media functionality enabling our membership to have a voice on the site. New Web Address The new site is located at www.autismsocietyoaklandcounty.org an address that now features the chapters full name. Be sure to enter it into your bookmarks and add it to your safe senders email list. New Web Administrator ASOC Corresponding Secretary Barbara Brennan has been appointed web administrator for the new site. Barbaras experience in digital technology and computing makes her a natural for this new role. She played a lead role in designing and authoring the new site. Her responsibilities include management of online membership, site updating and overall monitoring. Join the Community! The new website also includes an Online Community where individuals with ASD and
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IN THIS ISSUE
Everybody Needs a Job! Message from the President ..............2 A Look Back: The Wonderful Programs of 2011 ..............................3 Team Autism ......................................3 16h Annual Golf Outing ..................4-5 ASOC Put Employability Principles to Work ..........................6-7 Spotlight on Dylan Yates ................6-7 Getting My Own Address ................8-9 Hanging Out Together ........................8 Belightful Yoga ..................................9 Bowling League for Teens ..................9 Dont Worry, But Dont Wait! ............10 Donations ........................................10 Membership ....................................11 Contribution Form ..............Back Cover AUTISM SOCIETY OF OAKLAND COUNTY (248) 393-3131
Send us your email address at our new email address: asoc@gmail.com

Time for a Change The ASOC Board began exploring new technology and platforms in the summer of 2011. The chapters website needed a major facelift, and with all the new technology available, it was time for a change. The old site was costly to maintain. It was built on old technology, and it required us to engage a programmer any time we wanted an update, shares President Lisa Kowalski. We wanted fresh-

We are pleased to announce the launch of our new website and online community! Check us out at www.autismsocietyoaklandcounty.org.

ASD Advocate Spring 2012 1

Presidents Message

Everybody Needs a Job!


A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

here are over 6,000 students with autism spectrum disorders in the greater Metro Detroit area, with almost 2,000 living in Oakland County. Hundreds are becoming adults every year now. Look at the 2010 data chart, located to the right, for Oakland County data. Parents, schools and public agencies need to raise children with the expectation that ALL of them will have a job someday. Using positive behavior support strategies and a lot of love, young families need to collaborate continuously with the schools, medical

community, agencies, recreation programs and care staffs to consistently teach communication, use sensory integration strategies, build social skills and use structured learning interventions 24 hours/ 7 days a week. The Autism Society Oakland Countys next collaborative effort will be improving employability outcomes. Taxpayers need kids with ASD to get scientifically proven interventions early to promote the most adult independence and participation in the workforce. Many of these interventions will only be available to a

family through medical insurances and nonprofit subsidized funding. Through your continued support, many children

with ASD will become adult employees in the future. Lisa Kowalski, ASOC President.

how Can you BenefIt froM hIrIng a perSon wIth a DISaBILIty?

Do you want to:


Save Money Lower turnover & training Costs Increase Company Morale Increase workplace Diversity Be a Community Leader

Tax CrediTs!
The Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) is a federal credit available to private for-profit employers who hire from specific target groups that have difficulty securing employment. EligiblE Work groups ssi recipients Food stamp recipients, ages 18 to 39 New hire must work at least 120 hours to qualify for a 25% credit and at least 400 hours to qualify for a 40% credit in the first year of employment.

Let uS Show you how!!


At MORC, we are committed to working with businesses like yours that have an interest in being progressive. With all the new initiatives in the workplace, employees are being told what the goal is but with very little help on how to get there. For more information, call Cindy at 586.484.6153
MORC is a non-profit organization that has been providing wide ranging services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities to help them achieve life, freedom and independence in the community.

For most target groups, the WOTC allows a $2,400 maximum credit.
2 ASD Advocate ASOC

Programs

A Look Back:
THE WONDERFUL PROGRAMS OF 2011
decades, some children with autism have relied on bulky text-tospeech machines in schools and homes to help them communicate. This software offers comparable features as those older machines on an iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch at a fraction of the cost. Now children attending FAR will have these communication tools on site which will enhance all of their programming. Art with Heart In 2011, Paint a Miracle received a grant from the ASOC to purchase printmaking equipment. Paint a Miracle is an art studio in Rochester Michigan that is uniquely designed for people who are living with disabilities and other challenges. It has an atmosphere of hope, growth and encouragement. People of all ability levels from the greater Detroit metropolitan area will be able to use the printmaking equipment to creexcellent reputation for providing positive support and meaningful hands-on programming to individuals with ASD who have significant needs. The ASOC provided a grant for an expansion project that will increase their capacity. Whether learning daily living skills, working in the greenhouse, harvesting crops, feeding farm animals, selling fresh eggs or cooking in the kitchen, there is something for everyone. Learn more about what they offer at: http://www.duttonfarm.org/

Feel the Beat FAR Conservatory was awarded a grant from the ASOC to purchase a Remo World Music Drumming Set. Drum therapy uses rhythm to enhance psychological and physical wellbeing, relaxation, social relationships, sensory awareness, physical dexterity. A drum circle encourages an understanding of true teamwork. Lessons learned in the drum circle can be directly applied to daily living. http://www.farconservatory.org/

ate art that is easily reproduced. Some artists will be able to sell their reproduced creations, which supports the ASOC initiatives of improving employability opportunities. Sign up at: http://www.paintamiracle.org/ Our Friends on the Farm Dutton Farm is developing an

TEAM AUTISM MAKES GREAT STRIDES IN THE 2011 DETROIT FREE PRESS MARATHON
hrough extreme effort, the 110 runners raised about $12,000. The increase in part was due to a fundraising guide the organizers created to help runners work their personal networks. This brings the overall total to nearly $75,000 since 2006. Congratulations team organizers Rajesh Bihani, Nina Bihani, Stephanie Mansfield, and Ann Patronik and all the Team Autism runners! Families and individuals with autism really benefit from this scholarship fund that allows those in need to access direct services and therapies through the Judson Center.

Let's Talk The ASOC provided a grant to FAR Conservatory to purchase Proloquo2Go software for the two iPads that FAR had previously received in collaboration with a third organization. For

ASD Advocate Spring 2012 3

Golf Outing

Annual Golf Outing Moves to Fox Hills


alnut Creek Country Club went under construction just before the September 12, 2011 golf outing. That made the ASOC scramble to find another location. Thanks to Co-Chairpersons, Mike Hayes and Steve Bubnes, and Honorary Chairperson Bob Abernethy, the Fox Hills Golf and Banquet Center in Plymouth was secured.

Steve Bubnes was able to contact all the registered golfers notifying them of the change. Incredible job! The weather cooperated with another beautiful September day. Even with the struggling economy, we were able to field 200 golfers for not only golf but lunch and dinner in Fox Hills roomy club house. The ASOC thanks the event Charter Sponsors: Angelo Iafrate, Commercial Contracting Corporation, Knights of Columbus Council #4188 Clawson, Miller Canfield and Walbridge, along with each of the other 70 corporations and organizations who contributed to the successful

event. In many cases, companies contributed the time of their employees and their offices and facilities for planning and management of the event. Thanks to the many people who donated or participated in the Silent Auction. The ASOC is exceptionally grateful for the committed volunteers on the golf outing committee for the planning and sales of the event. Thanks goes out to all golfers, donors and volunteers for their continued support of children, adults and families affected on a daily basis by autism spectrum disorders. Article submitted by Sally McInnes, ASOC Director.

Above Left: Aaron Kowalski, an 18 year old student with ASD, volunteers at the outing. Left: The Silent Auction was sponsored by the Knights of Columbus #4188 and included wonderful donations from many generous supporters. Above: Members of the ASOC Board of Directors: Linda Brown, Sally McInnes, Lisa Kowalski, Barbara Brennan, Marie Anne Horne (ASOC bookkeeper) and Tamra Pickthorn.

4 ASD Advocate ASOC

Golf Outing
Thank You for Your Donations
DINNER SPONSORS Ben Hur Industrail Constructors Cinetic Automation Knights of Columbus Council #4188 Clawson Next Generation Services Group LUNCH SPONSORS Knights of Columbus Council #4188 Clawson SNACK AND BEVERAGE SPONSORS Knights of Columbus Council #4188 Clawson Triangle Electric COCKTAIL HOUR SPONSOR Lamont Brown Advisors SILENT AUCTION SPONSOR Knights of Columbus Council #4188 Clawson CLOSEST TO THE PIN SPONSOR Knights of Columbus Council #4188 Clawson LONGEST DRIVE SPONSORS Knights of Columbus Council #4188 Clawson Cinetic Automation

DONATIONS Knights of Columbus Council #4188 Clawson Ray Debold Tom Holzer Ford Ford Land for generously hosting our monthly committee meetings. CHARTER SPONSORS Angelo Iafrate Construction Company Commercial Contracting Group CCG Knights of Columbus Council #4188 Clawson Miller Canfield Walbridge SILVER SPONSORS KUKA Flexible Production Utica Enterprises, Incorporated

BRONZE SPONSORS Alberici Constructors Incorporated Angelo Iafrate Construction Company Aristeo Construction Barton Malow Comau De-Cal Incorporated DeMaria Building Company Devon Facility Management Ferrous Processing & Trading Company Ghafari Associates Heller Machine Tools International Industrial Contracting MAG IAS Maritz Incorporated Midwest Steel Incorporated Motor City Electric Company PCE Monarch Schreiber Roofing Site Development Incorporated Stenco Construction Company Tocco and Associates Tri-Tec / Gala Valianat Machine & Tool Incorporated Venton

BUSINESS CARD RAFFLE SPONSOR Roncelli, Inc TEE SPONSORS CEC Controls Company Carol Balagur, Ameriprise Financial Comau Hayes Lemmerz International International Industrial Contracting Knights of Columbus Council #4188 Clawson KUKA Flexible Production LOC Federal Credit Union Novi Family Dental, Dr. Tessa Priehs Sinder Veterinary Services Suburban Collection Showchase

SPECIAL THANKS TO . . . Co-Chairpersons: Craig Brown, Steve Bubnes, Michael Hayes Honorary Chairpersons: Robert Abernethy, Kelvin Squires, Paul F. Temple Committee Members: Steve Bubnes, Joe Dilorio, Wade Herzig, Jackie Jackson, Ron Koshewitz, Lisa Kowalski, Claire Lockhart, Larry Lottinville, Diane Risko, Mark Strait, Kari Theisen Day-of-the Event Volunteers: Carol Balagur, Barb Brennan, Linda Brown, Ray Debold, Pete Howard, Aaron Kowalski, Joe Kowalski, Bill McInnes, Tamra Pickthorn, Cathy Schmidt, Ryan Sellers, Sherry Velasco

ASD Advocate Spring 2012 5

Opportunities

ASOC Puts Employability Principles to Work

s highlighted throughout this years newsletter, ASOC plowed new ground in 2011 to support employability outcomes for individuals with ASD, including training, crosscommunity collaboration, and advocacy. But one of the activities we are most proud of is our own efforts to put the concept of employability outcomes to work by employing businesses who employ people with ASD and showcasing

micro-industries in our biggest event of the year our annual Golf Outing and fundraiser in September. Event Suppliers Employing Individuals with ASD With an event this size, there are so many pieces that come together to fulfill it, said Lisa Kowalski, ASOC President and golf committee member. We actively sought out businesses that employ people on the spectrum or school programs,

in order to promote their wonderful products and services. During the event dinner, more than 200 golfers place settings featured a handmade gourmet chocolate-dipped pretzel. Each was decoratively wrapped and tagged with a message by the manufacturer, The Yum Yum Tree, a Walled Lake Schools Transition Program business. The ASOC purchased 250 of these wonderful delights from this special education program.

Melynda Penny, the teacher responsible for these students, wrote, "We are happy that your outing was such a great success and appreciated being a part of it. My new students enjoyed the experience of creating the chocolate caramel pretzels. Now they understand the entire process from manufacturing, to packaging the product and then getting it ready for delivery." (To order delicious treats from The Yum Yum Tree, contact Melynda at (248) 956-5045.)

THE CREATIVE MICRO-INDUSTRY OF DYLAN YATES

FEBRUARY 2012
W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 ______________________ S M T

JANUARY 2012
S 1 8 15 22 29 M 2 9 16 23 30 T W T F 3 4 5 6 10 11 12 13 17 18 19 20 24 25 26 27 31 S 7 14 21 28 S 1 8 15 22 29

APRIL 2012
M T W T F S 2 3 4 5 6 7 9 10 11 12 13 14 16 17 18 19 20 21 23 24 25 26 27 28 30

Dylan Yates is a senior with Autism Spectrum Disorder at Royal Oak High School where he is enrolled in the special education program. He has a knack for creating visual art by drawing, sculpting and designing on the computer. Dylan created this calendar in the Illustrator program where he is able to bring his enthusiasm for holidays and dinosaurs together: a natural fit for Dylan! You can contact Dylan at DylanYatesArt@gmail.com.

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MARCH 2012
S 4 11 18 25 T F S 1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 19 20 21 22 23 24 26 27 28 29 30 31 M T W

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6 ASD Advocate ASA/OCC

Opportunities
Micro-Industry on Display ASOC also sponsored a microindustry expo during the event, featuring the work of several burgeoning businesses of industrious individuals with ASD. The expo provided an opportunity to showcase the work and talents of many individuals on the spectrum starting small businesses. Each exhibitioner had a personal display table in the central hall of the event. The featured products were diverse and offered a broad range of handcrafted items for sale to the golfers, including: Artisan soaps Needlework, pillows & throws Handcrafted wooden bird houses Paintings & artwork Handmade greeting cards & notes DJ Services 2012 calendars with custom graphic design The Board partnered with Macomb Oakland Regional Center (MORC) to create the expo. MORC employability staffers Dorothy Maclean and Cindi Burdi were instrumental in identifying exhibitors specifically with ASD. Dorothy helps people with disabilities create their own micro-businesses, and Cindi is a job developer who works with businesses to hire people with disabilities. Both were onsite for the event, assisting exhibitors during the expo and answering event attendees questions about employability throughout the day and evening. The expo was our event theme in action, said Kowalski.

Several MicroBusinesses sold their wonderful products during lunch at the outing. Each business is owned by a person with a disability.

It provided exposure to both the golfers and the microindustries. A micro industry is just one of the ways that people with ASD can be paid for their work. The golfers also had the opportunity to learn more reasons to consider employing people with ASD, including tax credits, lower turnover rates, and quality work. Every year,

hundreds of students with ASD reach adulthood in Michigan. Many people with ASD only need part-time work. As a community, if we look for and support their strengths and talents, we will enjoy a valuable workforce of the future. Article submitted by Tamra Pickthorn, ASOC Recording Secretary.

MAY 2012
T 1 6 7 8 13 14 15 20 21 22 27 28 29 S M W 2 9 16 23 30 T F S 3 4 5 10 11 12 17 18 19 24 25 26 31 S M

AUGUST 2012
W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 ______________________ T S 4 11 18 25 M

NOVEMBER 2012
T F S 1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 12 13 14 15 16 17 19 20 21 22 23 24 26 27 28 29 30 T W

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JULY 2012
S 1 8 15 22 29 M 2 9 16 23 30 T 3 10 17 24 31 W T F S 4 5 6 7 11 12 13 14 18 19 20 21 25 26 27 28 S 7 14 21 28

OCTOBER 2012
M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 15 16 17 18 19 20 22 23 24 25 26 27 29 30 31

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JUNE 2012
F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 ______________________ S M T W T S

SEPTEMBER 2012
S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 30 24 25 26 27 28 29 ______________________ M T W T F S M

DECEMBER 2012
S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 30 31 25 26 27 28 29 ______________________ T W T F

ASD Advocate Spring 2012 7

Community

Getting My Own Address


A S O C S E E D S A N OT H E R S U C C E S S F U L P R O G R A M
GMOA is a program for people with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Developmental Disabilities

ecognizing the need to assist families with the difficult task of planning future housing for their adult children with autism spectrum disorders, ASOC awarded a large grant to local non-profit, Community Housing Network, Inc. (CHN). The result was Getting My Own Address for People with

Autism Spectrum Disorders and other Developmental Disorders (GMOA), a comprehensive, step-by-step guide, including worksheets and resources. The grant also funded the development of Overview Workshop materials and staff time to give Overview presentations to parents in four parts of Oakland County. Successful Launch of a Much-Needed Resource The GMOA Program was launched by CHN in September 2011 with great success and interest. In an effort to share the same information with families and professionals (teachers, transition

HANGING OUT TOGETHER


he Friendship Club Socials include 25-50 teens and young adults within the autism spectrum, including individuals with Asperger syndrome & Pervasive Development Disorders. Come and enjoy an exceptional selection of video games, perform in the Talent Show, and play ping pong, basketball, floor hockey and board games. There is a DJ that plays all the latest hits for those who enjoy dancing.

Get together for fun, food and friendship at St. Anastasia Activity Center in Troy, Michigan. The group meets about every six weeks on Saturdays from 7pm to 11pm. The $5 per person/ $15 per family fee includes snacks, pizza, salad and pop. A parent or support staff should plan to stay during the event. Siblings 12 years or older are welcome to join the fun. For dates and location information go to www.autismsocietyoaklandcounty.org

coordinators, and supports coordinators), CHNs initial presentations were to Oakland County Transition Association (OCTA), and Supports Coordinators at Macomb Oakland Regional Center (MORC) and Community Living Services (CLS). Over 150 parents from Oakland County and surrounding counties attended presentations given at Rochester Public Schools, Huron Valley Schools, Lamphere Center, and West Bloomfield Schools. MORC hosted another Overview presentation for families from Macomb and Oakland Counties, with more than half the audience from Macomb County. In an effort to make the GMOA guide available to interested families and professionals throughout Michigan and the United States, the GMOA guide is available to be downloaded for FREE from the CHN website at www.communityhousingnetwork.org/GMOA. Many families as well as professionals have chosen to purchase a copy of the guide in a binder. In fact, 180 guides have been sold to date. In addition, over 300 parents and professionals from all over Michigan have signed up for an on-going email alert list on the GMOA Program to

8 ASD Advocate ASOC

Community
receive information on the two Oakland County housing support groups and new presentation dates. Reach Extends Throughout Michigan and the Nation In an effort to get this resource out to more families, CHN has also shared the GMOA guide across the state and with key national organizations. It was introduced to professionals working with young adults with ASD and other developmental disabilities across Michigan at the April 2011 joint conference for Statewide Autism Resources & Training (START) and Michigan Transition Outcomes Project (MI-TOP). START was so excited by this resource that it has downloaded the GMOA guide and made it available to all of its trainers. Recently, the guide was shared as a resource at the Academy of Special Needs Planners conference, a national organization of lawyers working with families on issues unique to individuals with disabilities, including future housing planning. How You Can Learn More Future presentations on housing using GMOA include the last three workshops in a series for Family to Family Alliance in Ann Arbor, Cadillac, and Detroit. The first presentation was given in Owosso in

Get Your Own Copy! Download the Getting My Own Address resource guide free from Community Housing Network: www.communityhousingnetwork.org/GMOA

October 2011. Presentation dates and locations are posted on the CHN website at www.communityhousingnetwork.org/GMOAworkshops. The GMOA Support Group currently meets two times a month from 6:00 pm 8:00 pm, the second Thursday of each month at Apollo Center, 2029 N. Milford Road, Highland, MI 48357, and the third Tuesday of each month at the offices of CHN, 570 Kirts Blvd., Suite 231, Troy, MI.

The GMOA program has touched in excess of 1,500 people to date and has received abundant praise from families and professionals. A movement has begun to develop independent housing for people with autism spectrum disorders and peace of mind for their families thanks to ASOC and its Sponsors! Article submitted by Linda Brown, ASOC Vice President.

BELIGHTFUL YOGA
he ASOC teamed with Belightful Yoga to offer family yoga classes at a significantly reduced rate. The ASOC is excited about this grant because it offers parents, siblings or caregivers the chance to participate and enjoy the benefits of yoga too. These yoga classes will promote focus and relaxation, improve balance and strength and help people stay fit in a fun atmosphere. With the person's support also in the class, we hope that they will practice together at home as well. This is a great activity for families to enjoy together.

BOWLING LEAGUE FOR TEENS

UCARES just started a Bowling League for teens and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders. It is supported by the ASOC. The league will run four 9-week sessions throughout the year. For more information go to www.oakland.edu/oucares or call 248-370-2424

Article submitted by Lisa Kowalski, ASOC President.

The OUCares Strikers are ready to hit the lanes and enjoy each other's company.

ASD Advocate Spring 2012 9

Donations

ASOC Launches New Website


Continued from front page

their families can connect, talk and support each other. Our vision for the Online Community is to extend our support for families into a virtual community, through dialog and sharing online, says Kowalski. The Online Community is built on a secure social media platform, to provide a safe place for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and their families to connect, share stories, support each other and build lasting friendships. If people are familiar with Facebook, YouTube and Twitter, this part of our new site will feel familiar, says Brennan. The new features allow people to share and connect in many of the same ways. Membership in the community is absolutely free. To join, interested parties 13 years or older should complete a membership request form and accept the ASOC Community Guidelines. Our members and web administrator will

monitor content and postings to ensure appropriateness of content. Online community members have access to all of the following features and content: Discussion Forum where people can hold conversations by posting messages, links and content Featured Events including our highlighted ASOC events and other related community happenings Groups for discussion and sharing on key topics; current groups include Newly Diagnosed, School,

Transitional and Adult Invite to send out a message inviting others to join the community Photos allows community members to post photos Profile Page personal profile page for individual members To learn more, see our Community Page and join us! Article submitted by Tamra Pickthorn, ASOC Recording Secretary.

AUTISM: EARLY SCREENING

he American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children and grandchildren should be screened for autism at ages 18 months and 24 months. Early Intervention is the key to significantly improving a childs progress and their future. The Centers for Disease Controls Learn the Signs Act Early web page has excellent developmental milestone information, first steps for concerned families and awareness information. Go to: http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/concerned.html. Article submitted by Lisa Kowalski, ASOC President.

The ASOC Thanks You for Your Donations


In Memory of Deborah Cassatt
Mark, Bobbie, Julie, Michael, Lauren, Ashley & Melissa Borkin Tom Cover Alexis Crau Leslye & Larry D'Ascenzo Beverly Finkel Jerimiah Flood Pamela Freed Anita Goldberg Carol Greenfield Dr. David & Sandra Kirsch Joel Kirsch Warren, Barb, Dan & Laura Levin Mr. & Mrs. Charles Mong Rhonna & Bill Nelson Norup International School Staff Linda & Marc Ruben Joan Sorbilli Mr. & Mrs. Richard Sprankle Lee & Diane Travelbee Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Wolfston

In Memory of Charla Andresen


Nancy & Don Soderholm

Donations through Charity Motors


John McCormick

In Memory of Emma Burry


Anne Bourdeau

Donations to Chapter
Karen Barnowski Bijaya Hans Marjorie & Maxwell Jospey Foundation Sunetra Nandgaonkar Donna Yates, DBA Paypal Art Ric McNally American Express Charitable Fund and Employee Giving Program Bower HR/ExpertCare Management Services Dean Sellers Ford KGlobal Impact/Pitney Bowes Employees & Involvement Fund Hewlett-Packard Foundation and Employee Giving Program Ken Barnowski PLLC Knights of Columbus, Council Number 13319

In Memory of Margaret Debold


Deborah Darnley-Fisch

In Memory of John L. Sherby


Katherine Bourdeau

In Honor of Kristian Andresen


Nancy & Don Soderholm

In Honor of Lynda Sullivan


Maureen & Rich Wisckol

10 ASD Advocate ASOC

GET INVOLVED LOCALLY!


Name(s): ___________________________________________________________________________________________ Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________________ City: ____________________________________________________________State: ______ Zip___________________ Phone: ( _______ ) ________________________________________________ County ___________________________ E-Mail: ____________________________________________________________________________________________

Oakland County Chapter Dues: Individual (1 vote).........$15.00 = _________ Family (2 votes).............$25.00 = _________ Note: Membership in the ASOC requires concurrent membership with the Autism Society of America. Autism Society of America Dues: Household.............................................................................$40 = _________ Champion..............................................................................$75 = _________ Professional.........................................................................$150 = _________ International Household Member ......................................$50 = _________ Lifetime Member.............................................................$1,500 = _________ Donation to the ASOC .................................................................... = _________
(Contributions to the ASOC are qualified charitable donations.)

Total enclosed = _________ Please make checks payable to the ASOC and mail to Ken Barnowski, Treasurer, P.O. Box 70207, Rochester Hills, MI 48307. Membership dues and donations are also accepted online at www.autismsocietyoaklandcounty.org

With the help of caring individuals like you, we can achieve our mission of improving the lives of all affected by autism. Thousands of individuals, families, professionals and agencies are already part of the Autism Society. Together, we can become not only a resource for the autism community, but also an agent of change to help people get the services and supports they need throughout their lifetime. THANK YOU!!!

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN VOLUNTEERING:


q Please check here and mail this form to: Marie Anne Horne, ASOC, P.O. Box 70207, Rochester Hills, MI 48307. Marie Anne will contact you and ask about your available time commitment and how you would like to become involved. You may also inquire through the chapter phone line at (248) 393-3131 or Email the chapter at asocmi@gmail.com.

EXECUTIVE BOARD
PRESIDENT: Lisa Kowalski VICE PRESIDENT/PRESIDENT ELECT: Linda Brown TREASURER: Ken Barnowski CORRESPONDING SECRETARY: Barbara Brennan RECORDING SECRETARY: Tamra Pickthorn DIRECTORS: Sue Hodess Sally McInnes Cathy Schmidt Sue Welcome IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT: Barbara Baker

If you are interested in making a tax deductible donation to ASOC, a 501(c)(3) organization: You may download a contribution form or donate online at www.autismsocietyoaklandcounty.org

DEAR READERS
Please help us keep your address and membership status current. Use the form above to join ASOC, renew your dues or to notify us that you have moved, or visit us on the web at www.autismsocietyoaklandcounty.org. Call Sally McInnes: (248) 349-4539 if you have any questions concerning membership and dues. Thank You!
ASD Advocate Spring 2012 11

PHONE: (248) 393-3131


ASOC Board members are parent volunteers. Please leave a message, including your question. An ASOC volunteer will return your call as promptly as possible.

AUTISM SOCIETY OF OAKLAND COUNTY


P.O. Box 70207 Rochester Hills, MI 48307

NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE

PAID
P.O. Box 70207 Rochester Hills, MI 48307
TROY, MI PERMIT NO. 36

CONTRIBUTION FORM
Please print clearly. Donor Name: ________________________________________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________________ City: _________________________________State: ______________ Zip Code: __________ Daytime Phone: ( _____ ) _______________________________________________________ In Memory of: _______________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ Name of Honoree: ____________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________________ Occasion: ___________________________________________________________________ Notification to be sent to: ______________________________________________________ Mail this form to: ASOC c/o Ken Barnowski, Treasurer P.O. Box 70207, Rochester Hills, MI 48307

NEWSLETTER COMMITTEE
Tamra Pickthorn - Editor Contributors: Lisa Kowalski Linda Brown Sally McInnes Marie Anne Horne
GRAPHIC DESIGN Sunny Design (586) 871-7288

THE AUTISM SOCIETY OF OAKLAND COUNTY (248) 393-3131 WWW.AUTISMSOCIETY OAKLANDCOUNTY.ORG Mailing Address P.O. Box 70207 Rochester Hills, MI 48307

All information provided or published in the ASOC newsletter is for informational purposes only. ASOC assumes no responsibility for the use made of any information published or provided by ASOC. Under the ASOC Options policy you are responsible for the choice of any treatment, therapy or service provider. Specific services should be provided only at the direction and under the supervision of an individuals doctor, care giver or medical professional. Reference to any treatment, program or therapy option is not an endorsement by the ASOC. Such references are not intended to be comprehensive statements of available options, programs, services or providers. You should investigate alternatives to find options that are the most appropriate for a specific individual.

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