Easterseals’ Post

The Autism CARES Act Renewal! 📰 🌟 The recent renewal of the Autism CARES Act by federal lawmakers secures more than $1.95 billion in funding to support autism-related initiatives over the next five years. This extension allows for continued research, professional training, and services for individuals with autism. The law now also emphasizes inclusivity by supporting research on individuals with co-occurring conditions, and enhancing NIH's Centers of Excellence for autism research. This initiative is a powerful step forward that aligns closely with our mission to support individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. As highlighted in the recent article, the Act’s emphasis on addressing the needs of both children and adults with autism is especially significant. We are excited to see how this renewed initiative will enhance the lives of the individuals we serve! If you're seeking resources for those with developmental or intellectual disabilities, or are interested in our programs, please visit our website at https://bit.ly/3Z8zKsw. 📸 : Disability Scoop https://bit.ly/40lyfY5

In order to close the communication barriers between Autistic individuals and first responder professionals, the Autism Society created a “train-the-trainer" approach through its First Responder Program. https://smpl.is/959r7

How to Participate in Autism Awareness Month Autism Awareness Month is an opportunity to learn more about autism and how to support individuals on the autism spectrum. Here are some ways to participate in Autism Awareness Month: Events and Activities There are several events and activities that you can participate in during Autism Awareness Month. Many organisations host events such as walks, runs, and fundraisers to raise awareness and funds for autism research and support. You can also participate in local events such as autism-friendly movie screenings, sensory-friendly museum exhibits, and other activities that promote inclusion and understanding. Social Media and Advocacy Social media is a powerful tool for raising awareness and promoting advocacy for autism. You can use social media platforms to share information about autism, share personal stories, and connect with others in the autism community. You can also use social media to advocate for policies and programs that support individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Advocacy can take many forms, such as writing letters to elected officials, participating in rallies and protests, and supporting organisations that advocate for autism research and support. By advocating for individuals on the autism spectrum, you can help promote greater understanding and inclusion in your community and beyond. Overall, participating in Autism Awareness Month is a great way to learn more about autism and how to support individuals on the spectrum. Whether you attend events, use social media to raise awareness, or advocate for policy changes, your efforts can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by autism. #share #AutismAwareness #AutismAcceptance #AutismSupport #Neurodiversity #InclusionMatters #AutismAwarenessMonth #LightItUpBlue #SupportAutism #CommunityInclusion #AdvocacyForAutism #AutismEducation #AutismAcceptanceMatters #InclusionForAll #DisabilityAdvocacy #AutismStories #AutismAdvocate #AutismCommunity

🗣️ Urgent: Help Reauthorize and Expand the Autism CARES Act At Vista Autism Services, we are proud to advocate for individuals with autism and their families, but we can't do it alone. The Autism CARES Act, which has provided vital funding for autism services and research since 2006, is set to expire at the end of September. It’s critical that this legislation is not only reauthorized but also expanded to address the needs of individuals with profound autism. The Autism CARES Act is more than just legislation—it directly impacts the lives of individuals with autism by ensuring they receive the care and support they need. It also fuels the creation of jobs in roles that are essential to the future of autism care in the United States. By expanding this act, we can continue to build a stronger workforce dedicated to improving lives, from direct care professionals to researchers and educators. We need your help to make this happen. Contact your local representatives and advocate for the reauthorization and expansion of the Autism CARES Act. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of individuals with autism and in the future of autism care. 👉 Take action here: https://ow.ly/AUuu50SYI5P Every voice matters. Let’s work together to ensure that individuals with autism, and the dedicated professionals who support them, continue to have the resources they need. #AutismCARES #AutismAdvocacy #VistaAutismServices #ProfoundAutism #MakeADifference #CareersInAutism

✨ A Historic Step for the Autism Community! ✨ The Autism CARES Act of 2024 has officially passed through Congress and is now headed to the President’s desk for signature—a monumental win for the autism community and the tireless advocates at Autism Speaks. This legislation, dedicated solely to the autism spectrum, ensures continued investments in research, education, healthcare, and support services for millions of autistic individuals and their families. 💡 With $2 billion authorized over the next five years, this reauthorization expands its impact by addressing critical gaps in autism care. New provisions include: ✅ Enhanced focus on autism and aging. ✅ Workforce development for developmental-behavioral pediatricians. ✅ Mental health and communication supports for non-speaking individuals. ✅ Increased accountability for research funding through annual budget plans. This act builds on two decades of progress, transforming autism understanding and services. From early diagnoses to personalized care, and from better-trained professionals to inclusive community resources, the Autism CARES Act is shaping a brighter future. A heartfelt THANK YOU to the congressional champions, Autism Speaks, and every advocate who worked tirelessly to make this happen. Your efforts are an inspiration! Now, as we await President’s signature, let’s celebrate this forward-looking approach to building an inclusive, supportive world for the 1 in 36 children and 1 in 45 adults with autism in the U.S. 🌟 What aspect of this groundbreaking legislation excites you the most? Let’s keep the conversation going about how we can create more opportunities and support systems for the autism community. #AutismCARESAct #AutismSpeaks #InclusionMatters #AdvocacyInAction #Leadership #AutismCommunity

Did you know that Transgender and nonbinary people are up to six times more likely to also have autism. (https://lnkd.in/eyTtPVCW). I am looking forward to learning more about the intersection between Autism and gender identity.

JUST PASSED: The New & Improved Autism CARES Act of 2024 🎉 Thanks to the US House votes, the new laws will expand on the previous bills to: ✨ create a more inclusive research ✨ establish a network for individuals with communication needs ✨ research autism and aging  ✨ determine ways to increase developmental-behavioral pediatricians (more access to evaluations & services) ✨ increase federal spending on autism programs Next Step 👉The Senate! Get more information on this new bill ⤵️ https://lnkd.in/e-TF7A6M

The Autism CARES Act will expire on September 30, putting the future of this bill at risk as the deadline looms. 🏛️ The Autism CARES Act, which stands for Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education, and Support, originated in 2006 and was last updated/passed in 2019. The bill puts roughly $2 billion toward research and support for adults and children with Autism. We urge the Senate and House to act swiftly to renew the legislation before the September 30th deadline, ensuring that those with diverse abilities continue to receive the support that they deserve. Disability Scoop recently covered this quickly developing situation: https://loom.ly/5Uz2Ylc

Raising awareness Our Foundation aims to increase public awareness and understanding of autism. By educating the general public about autism, these organizations hope to reduce stigmatization and promote acceptance of individuals with autism. #raisingawareness #awareness #AwarenessMatters #publicawareness #PublicAwarenessMessage #ReduceStigma #acceptance

Accessing Autism Support in Ontario - Do you want to learn more about government services for individuals with autism, and how to navigate them? To register, please visit https://bit.ly/3RKQFwL or call (905)-946-8898 ext.3 Information: Date: Tuesday, July 16th, 2024 Time: 7 PM – 8 PM Language: English Location: Zoom Fees: No Cost Workshop Content: - Explanation of government departments & other organizations that work with individuals with autism, families, & caregivers - Overview of autism support programs across the lifespan, including the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) & the Passport program for adults with a developmental disability - Insight into other social assistance & benefits to which you may be entitled What to Expect: - Improve your access to government programs & funding for youth & adults with autism - Enhance your knowledge of available services, including what supports they provide, eligibility requirements, & how to apply - Feel empowered to exercise your rights to inclusion & participation in society