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"Let It Go" from Disney's Frozen - Autism Version

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The song, originally sung by Broadway star Idina Menzel, was so popular it sprouted different versions.

February 05, 2014

Disney’s “Frozen” was a huge hit in theaters and the lead track from the movie, “Let It Go” became a hit on the music charts. The song, originally sung by Broadway star Idina Menzel, was so popular it sprouted different versions on Youtube. Two little girls made headlines with their rendition and Disney even put out an official international version of the song sung in 25 different languages. Now, there is an "Autism Version" by a young Canadian girl named Sarah. Watch it below.

 

 

 


Miss Montanas Alexis Wineman and Sheridan Pope Talk Autism Awareness!

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We caught up with Miss Montana 2012 Alexis Wineman and 2013 Sheridan Pope to discuss how they got involved with the autism community.

February 07, 2014

Autism awareness is spreading throughout The Miss America Pageant! This week we talked to Alexis Wineman, an individual on the spectrum who was Miss Montana 2012 and Sheridan Pope, Miss Montana 2013 who has a sister on the autism spectrum; about their personal connections to autism and what they are doing today!

How has life changed for you since the Miss America Pageant?

 

Sheridan: My life has really turned upside down. It’s truly been the best, most eye-opening experience. Meeting so many women across the country has been so inspiring to me. It really has given me an open door to start discussions about autism and disabilities. I’ve gained a ton of communication skills along this journey. With my crown I understand there are a lot of people that will look up to me, so I try to live my life in the most positive way I can. (Granted, I’m still the biggest goofball at times!)

 

 

Alexis: Well, I don’t get to wear a crown anymore. I miss being Miss Montana, but I don’t at the same time. It’s hard to explain. Miss Montana was very hard for me to do. It wasn’t something I would have normally done. But now that I’ve done that, I think I can do anything I want! Before, I doubted I could do things like go to college. Now that I’ve done Miss Montana, I know I can be what I want to be.

 

So Alexis, tell us how you met Sheridan. Did you give her any advice going into the pageant as the reigning Miss Montana?

We didn’t know each other until Miss Montana week. She was hilarious, sweet and one of the most adorable women I’ve ever met. The main advice I gave her was to keep her head on straight. It’s going to be a very stressful year. I also made sure she knew to contact me if she had any questions. I also told her to have fun and enjoy it!  

How was it to be crowned by Alexis Wineman? Did you know of her story beforehand?

Yes, I actually competed in Miss Montana's Oustanding Teen program in 2008 and I faced Alexis’s twin sister Amanda. That’s when I got to know a little bit about her back-story. It was a sincere honor to be crowned by her.

So Sheridan, how did you decide on your platform, “Possibilities for Disabilities: Inclusion Education"?

Growing up, I saw a lot of problems in the educational system. Granted, I grew up 15 years ago just starting school in a rural small town. My sister has autism and she had experienced a lot of difficulties in school. We’d both ride the special needs school bus. All the special needs aids would wear gloves because they thought they might catch her autism. It was nuts. I was in 1st or 2nd grade when this happened. People were not understanding of my sister. They weren’t understanding of her autism and I wanted to do right by my sister and help make everyone feel like they were included in the schools, disability or not.  

Alexis, we just heard you got accepted into college! That’s amazing! How has the transition been for you so far?

College has been great. I’m currently attending Huntingdon College in Montgomery, Alabama. It’s kind of a funny story. It’s a full tuition scholarship. My twin sister Amanda goes here. She got the same scholarship. When she did the Distinguished Young Women program, she insisted that I do the same. I LOVE college. Classes are difficult but not too bad. I am doing surprisingly well living in the dorms and meeting people has been super easy so far.

 

 

Sheridan, there’s so much talk about the impact siblings can have in our community. Are there any words of advice you would give to a sibling of someone on the spectrum?

This is a great question. I think one of the things I would share with other siblings is that Alexis Wineman gives inspiration to so many as an individual on the spectrum. Following Alexis allows me to give a sense into autism from my experiences with my older sister. You know, sometimes it’s tough being a sibling. Growing up, with things like medical bills and tough behaviors, it limits doing things like family trips and vacations. Back then, we also didn’t have therapies like ABA. My favorite thing I like to tell people is to be proud of who they are and who their family is. You will go on to use these experiences to make you a better person and to mold yourself.  Mainly, be proud of who you are and always be accepting.

Alexis, you’ve accomplished so much. Are there any words of advice you have for individuals with autism that want to advocate for themselves?

I’ve noticed that people who support autism do it in many different ways. One of the big things I can say is don’t freak out when someone disagrees with you. This is very important for self-advocates. Just ignore what those people say and try to be the best you. We all can do things. My parents were the only ones who told me that I could go out there and do something growing up. Now with the pageant, all of America knows I can. It’s been one of the most incredible experiences of my life. 

What do you have coming up next?

Alexis: Next week I’m going back to Montana. I’ll be working with the Thrive program up there. They have asked me to speak at their conference so I’m excited about that. There will be more things to come, so stay tuned to my Facebook Fan Page for more information!

Sheridan:  Mainly, continuing my school tour as Miss Montana. I try to make things different every time I go. I really try to make it conversational so each school I go to ends up being a unique experience. Also, I am going to a Justin Timberlake concert next week! I loved NSYNC as a kid so I know that’s going to be fun!  

You can learn more about Alexis here. Sheridan also has a blog “Possibilities By Pope” which you can reach out to her at here

Alpha Xi Delta Fraternity Raises More Than $2 Million for Autism Speaks

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Alpha Xi Delta chapters and alumnae associations have participated in numerous awareness and fundraising initiatives across the country

February 10, 2014

INDIANAPOLIS, IND. (February 10, 2014)– Alpha Xi Delta Fraternity is excited to announce we have raised more than $2,000,000 for our philanthropic partner, Autism Speaks. Alpha Xi Delta partnered with Autism Speaks in 2009 to help raise funds and awareness for those affected by autism spectrum disorders. Since then, Alpha Xi Delta chapters and alumnae associations have participated in numerous awareness and fundraising initiatives in their local communities and at our host institutions across the country.

“We are so excited to surpass this fundraising milestone. As we prepare to celebrate our fifth anniversary with Autism Speaks and Autism Awareness month in April, we are proud of each Sister who has given of her time, talent and treasure to raise awareness and funds for our philanthropic partner,” said Elysia Gallivan, Alpha Xi Delta’s National Executive Director. “The number of children being diagnosed with autism is still growing, and Alpha Xi Delta will continue to support Autism Speaks to help improve the lives of those families touched by autism. We are thankful to Autism Speaks for giving us the opportunity to help find the missing piece of the autism puzzle.&rdquo

Alpha Xi Delta Sisters have shown support for Autism Speaks by:

  • Participating in Walk Now for Autism Speaks events in their local communities by fundraising, serving on local planning committees and volunteering on-site
  • Hosting AmaXIng Challenge fundraising events at both host institutions and in local communities
  • Partnering with local and professional sports teams to host Autism Awareness Night events
  • Volunteering at Autism Speaks’ Dover 400 NASCAR event
  • Representing Alpha Xi Delta and Autism Speaks on the Today Show for World Autism Awareness Day
  • Participating in the Light It Up Blue initiative on college campuses and in local communities
  • Hosting small-scale fundraisers such as bake sales, “Xiti” nights and cookouts
  • Tabling on campuses and in local communities to distribute information on autism spectrum disorders and raise critical funds for autism prevention, treatment and a possible cure.

About Alpha Xi Delta
Founded in 1893 at Lombard College, now Knox College, in Galesburg Illinois, Alpha Xi Delta inspires women to realize their potential by providing opportunities for Sisterhood, leadership knowledge and service. The national women’s fraternity has more than 150,000 initiated members and chapters on 121 college campuses. For more information on Alpha Xi Delta Fraternity, visit www.alphaxidelta.org.

About Autism
Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders – autism spectrum disorders – caused by a combination of genes and environmental influences. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by communication difficulties, social and behavioral challenges, as well as repetitive behaviors. An estimated one in 88 children in the U.S. is on the autism spectrum – a 78 percent increase in six years that is only partly explained by improved diagnosis.

About Autism Speaks
Autism Speaks is the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. It is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents of a child with autism. Mr. Wright is the former vice chairman of General Electric and chief executive officer of NBC and NBC Universal. Since its inception, Autism Speaks has committed nearly $200 million to research and developing innovative resources for families. Each year Walk Now for Autism Speaks events are held in more than 100 cities across North America. On the global front, Autism Speaks has established partnerships in more than 40 countries on five continents to foster international research, services and awareness. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit AutismSpeaks.org.

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Media Contact: Lauren Fisher, Communications Coordinator
lfisher@alphaxidelta.org
317.872.3500 ext. 133

Watch Theater Students with Autism Overcome Nerves and Inspire

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The Spectrum School is the first special education theater program to take part in the Junior Theater Festival.

February 11, 2014

New York City’s P94M: The Spectrum School is the first special education theater program to take part in the Junior Theater Festival, thanks to the generosity of the festival’s founders, Freddie & Myrna Gershon. The group of 10 students and their chaperones traveled to Atlanta for the weekend-long festival on January 18, 2014. The school’s theater program is 7 years old and recently got a major boost from Arts Connection, a New York organization that brings professional artists together with school programs. They connected The Spectrum School's theater program with composer/lyricist Scott Evan Davis. 

As you can see in the video above, the students overcame some nerves in rehearsal and went on to leave their Junior Theater Festival audience as well as the Broadway pros in awe with songs from "Aladdin Jr."

Panerai to be Presenting Sponsor of Light It Up Blue Aspen Gala

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February 11, 2014

Aspen, CO – February 2014 – Last month, Italian watchmaker Officine Panerai announced its U.S. retail expansion by unveiling its largest boutique in North America to date in Aspen, CO. The Aspen location is Panerai’s 10th U.S. boutique, and its 63rd worldwide, and displays the high-end sports watch brand’s recent global architectural design concept that showcases the finest elements of Italian style and engineering, as well as highlights the company’s nautical history. Located in the heart of Aspen’s renowned high-end shopping district, Panerai’s new 1,255 square foot boutique is located in a two-storied landmark building with sweeping views of Aspen Mountain and features an expansive sales area, library and VIP lounge for customers to experience the Panerai brand.  

To celebrate the official opening, Panerai will participate as a Presenting Sponsor of the Light It Up Blue AspenGala in support of Autism Speaks and Extreme Sports Camp on Sunday, February 16th which will be held at The Hotel Jerome in the ski resort town. For the gala’s live auction, Panerai will donate an Aspen Special Edition Luminor Marina 44mm (PAM 00467), #1 of the limited edition series, in brushed steel. This highly-coveted Special Edition timepiece bears a unique engraving on the case back depicting the Rocky Mountains and Aspen Mountain, and will be presented to the highest bidder by Panerai North American President Rafael Alvarez at a private event at the Panerai Boutique the following evening. 

Autism Speaks Announces Swimming and Water Safety Scholarship Program

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New grant program provides funding for scholarships for swimming and water safety lessons for individuals with autism

February 12, 2014

NEW YORK, NY (February 12, 2014)– Autism Speaks, the world's leading autism science and advocacy organization, today announced the establishment of the Autism Speaks Scholarship Fund for Swimming and Water Safety. The new grant program provides funding for eligible local service providers to offer scholarships for swimming and water safety lessons to individuals with autism.

A 2012 study by the Interactive Autism Network, funded in-part by Autism Speaks, reported that 49 percent of people with autism are prone to wandering. Some individuals with autism also may not fully understand danger, and can become attracted to distant objects and bodies of water. This poses a significant threat to the safety and well-being of those with autism who are prone to wandering. In fact, according to the National Autism Association, from 2009 through 2011 accidental drowning accounted for 91% of the total U.S. deaths reported in children with autism ages 14 and younger subsequent to wandering incidents.

Autism Speaks is committed to preventing such tragedies from occurring by making water safety a top priority. Organizations that provide qualified swimming and water safety lessons specifically for individuals with autism are encouraged to apply for scholarship funding.  Applications will be accepted on a continual basis, and up to $2,500 in scholarship funds will be awarded to organizations on a quarterly basis.

“The ability of individuals with autism to swim and to understand the importance of water safety is a major factor in efforts to prevent the heartbreaking drowning incidents that are far too common in our community,” said Lisa Goring, executive vice president of Family Services at Autism Speaks. “Everyone in the autism community should have access to these critical services. By removing a significant financial barrier for families, the Autism Speaks Scholarship Fund for Swimming and Water Safety will allow more people with autism to acquire these skills and will better ensure their safety as a result.”

Autism Speaks encourages families to contact local organizations providing swimming lessons and ask them to submit an application. Programs should have a successful history of supporting individuals with autism and providing services to financially disadvantaged children and adults on the autism spectrum. Autism Speaks provides additional tools and resources through the Autism Safety Project on its website, autismspeaks.org.  

About Autism
Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders – autism spectrum disorders – caused by a combination of genes and environmental influences. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by communication difficulties, social and behavioral challenges, as well as repetitive behaviors. An estimated 1 in 88 children in the U.S. is on the autism spectrum – a 78 percent increase in six years that is only partly explained by improved diagnosis.

About Autism Speaks
Autism Speaks is the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. It is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents of a child with autism. Mr. Wright is the former vice chairman of General Electric and chief executive officer of NBC and NBC Universal. Since its inception, Autism Speaks has committed nearly $200 million to research and developing innovative resources for families. Each year Walk Now for Autism Speaks events are held in more than 100 cities across North America. On the global front, Autism Speaks has established partnerships in more than 40 countries on five continents to foster international research, services and awareness. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit AutismSpeaks.org.

Liz Feld Talks Child Safety on The Katie Show

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Autism Speaks President Liz Feld joined Katie Couric today to discuss wandering and school safety

February 12, 2014

NEW YORK, NY  (January 12, 2014) -- Autism Speaks President Liz Feld joined Katie Couric today for an important segment on autism wandering and school safety in light of the tragic death of Avonte Oquendo. Watch the segment below. 

Avonte Oquendo's mother Vanessa Fontaine and her lawyer David Perecman were also guests on The Katie Show. They discussed a planned lawsuit against the City of New York for $25 Million. Watch the full interview below.

Trash Man's Act of Kindness for Boy with Autism

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5-year-old Daniel's favorite time of the week is when the garbage truck visits. On this trash day something special happened.

February 12, 2014

Autism Speaks received an email from Robin Newberger about a very special gift her 5-year-old son Daniel recieved from their trash collector, Manuel. The video Robin filmed of the event titled "The Gift" is going viral and Manuel's good deed is going to be recognized by his employer, E.J. Harrison & Sons. Below is the Facebook message Robin posted with the video.

"One man, one moment, touching the life of an autistic child. Our hearts are overflowing. There are already many who have watched this video who don't know us. Our son, Daniel, is 5. He has autism. What started out as a fear has turned into a fascination. I showed him a YouTube video of a garbage truck a couple of years ago and he's been obsessed ever since. Like many children on the autism spectrum, this has become a ritual for him. He loves the predictable movement of the hoist and is excited by the entire spectacle. He waits all week for Monday morning pickup. He knows exactly which cans are being picked up each week, and Sundays are special for him when he takes the cans out with his dad. Our recycle man, known only to us as Manuel, is his favorite. He always has a big smile for Daniel, who is faithfully waiting for him every Monday. To him, trash pickup is like a symphony. He synchronizes his hand movements with the truck. We have so many 'Trash Day' videos, but this one is like no other."


Autism Speaks to Provide Funding for “Big Red Safety Boxes" for Families of Individuals with Autism

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$50,000 in funding awarded to the National Autism Association to provide Big Red Safety Boxes for individuals at risk of wandering.

February 14, 2014

NEW YORK, N.Y. (February 14, 2014)– Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization, today announced that it has awarded $50,000 in funding to the National Autism Association (NAA) to provide 1500 Big Red Safety Boxes to families of individuals with autism who are at risk of wandering.

The Big Red Safety Box is a valuable tool for caregivers of children and adults on the autism spectrum. A 2012 study by the Interactive Autism Network, funded in-part by Autism Speaks, reported that 49 percent of people with autism are prone to wandering. Some individuals with autism also may not fully understand danger, and can become attracted to distant objects and bodies of water. This poses a significant threat to the safety and well-being of those with autism who are prone to wandering.

The Big Red Safety Box is designed to educate and raise awareness to assist in preventing and responding to wandering-related incidents in the autism community. The Be REDy booklet, included with the box, contains essential educational resources to support families of individuals at risk of wandering, such as a Caregiver Checklist, a Family Wandering Emergency Plan, a Student Profile Form and a sample IEP letter that can be used to implement prevention and response protocols in schools.

The Big Red Safety Box also contains various safety products, including two GE Door Alarms, a personalized RoadID shoe tag and five laminated adhesive stop sign visual prompts for doors and windows. Big Red Safety Boxes are provided free-of-charge. While supplies last, they can be requested at NAA’s website.

The Big Red Safety Box program was created and launched by NAA in 2011. The number of requests from families was overwhelming after the launch, with NAA distributing its entire initial inventory of 2,000 kits in just six days. Since then, the organization has distributed an additional 5,500 boxes to families in the autism community. Big Red Safety Boxes are packaged and shipped by a company employing adults with autism and other developmental disabilities.

“Resources like the Big Red Safety Box are critical to helping families learn more about the dangers of wandering, as well as strategies to put in place to prevent the frightening situations that arise from these individuals’ tendency to wander,” said Lisa Goring, Autism Speaks vice president of Family Services. “We are proud to partner with the National Autism Association to fund more of these valuable tools for families with loved ones at risk of wandering across the country.”

“Wandering-related injuries and deaths happen with startling frequency in the Autism community,” said Wendy Fournier, NAA President. “With a multi-layered approach to prevention and coordinated response, the Big Red Safety Box program is designed to save lives. We are extremely grateful to Autism Speaks for generously donating to this vitally important program for families.”

Autism Speaks and the National Autism Association are both involved with the AWAARE Collaboration, a working group of six national non-profit autism organizations whose mission is to reduce autism-related wandering incidents and deaths. For more information, visit awaare.org.

About Autism

Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders – autism spectrum disorders – caused by a combination of genes and environmental influences. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by communication difficulties, social and behavioral challenges, as well as repetitive behaviors. An estimated one in 88 children in the U.S. is on the autism spectrum – a 78 percent increase in six years that is only partly explained by improved diagnosis.

About Autism Speaks

Autism Speaks is the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. It is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents of a child with autism. Mr. Wright is the former vice chairman of General Electric and chief executive officer of NBC and NBC Universal. Since its inception, Autism Speaks has committed nearly $200 million to research and developing innovative resources for families. Each year Walk Now for Autism Speaks events are held in more than 100 cities across North America. On the global front, Autism Speaks has established partnerships in more than 40 countries on five continents to foster international research, services and awareness. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit AutismSpeaks.org.

Boston Univ. Ice Hockey Teams to Spread Autism Awareness

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Both of the Boston University Ice Hockey Teams have games this Saturday, February 15, 2014 at Boston University’s Agganis Arena.

February 14, 2014

Autism Speaks and Boston University have teamed up once again for Autism Awareness!  Both of the Boston University Ice Hockey Teams have games this Saturday, February 15, 2014 at Boston University’s Agganis Arena, which will be lit blue in honor of the games!  

The women’s ice hockey team is coming off its best season in program history, as BU was an NCAA finalist and won its second straight Hockey East title in 2012-13.  In 2013-14, the Terriers will look to advance to their fifth straight NCAA tournament and third Frozen Four in four seasons.  The BU Women take on Providence at 3:00pm!

With five NCAA Division I national titles (tied for the most among Eastern schools) and 29 Beanpot championships, Boston University has long established itself as one of the top collegiate hockey programs in the country.  Catch the game on NESN as they play New Hampshire at 7:00pm!

Reflecting on his experience volunteering with Autism Speaks, Garrett Noonan, BU Terrier Senior, said, “I think I’ll always mis the hockey in college, but I think when you’re at BU and you’re a part of Autism Speaks, you know how much it is a part of our team and I think I’ll definitely miss it… no matter where my hockey career goes, I’ll always be a part of Autism Speaks."

Watch the BU Men's Ice Hockey proudly team up with Autism Speaks to promote autism awareness at the 2013 Walk Now for Autism Speaks event at Suffolk Downs in Boston, Mass., below.

North Bay Walk Now for Autism Speaks Kickoff

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Families learned about the walk and Autism Speaks.

February 15, 2014

The North Bay Walk Now for Autism Speaks kickoff was a lovely event held on Saturday February 15th at Sally's Tomatoes in Rohnert Park, CA. Families learned about the walk and Autism Speaks. A HUGE thank you to our Alpha Xi Delta volunteers, committee members, walk chairs and participants for making this a successful event! Fun was had by all!! Hope to see you all at the walk on April 12th!

New Jersey Takes Polar Plunge for Autism

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Hundreds of New Jersey residents flocked to Sea Isle to take a polar plunge into the freezing waters off its shore.

February 16, 2014

Hundreds of New Jersey residents flocked to Sea Isle to take a polar plunge into the freezing waters off its shore. The Sea Isle City Tourism Commission hosts the event every year to reaise funds for autism. Watch the My Fox Philly video above to see it in action. 

Our very own Michael Rosanoff, Associate Director of Public Health Research and Scientific Review, was there!

 

Aspen Kicks Off 2014 Light It Up Blue

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It was an all-star lineup for the third annual Light It up Blue Aspen gala to raise awareness and funds for autism.

February 17, 2014

The third annual Light It up Blue Aspen gala raised awareness and funds for autism on Sunday.  Local band Brother’s Keeper rocked the house with speical guest John Popper of Blues Traveler. Special celebrity guests Jacqueline Laurita of the Real Housewives of New Jersey who has a young son recently diagnosed with autism. Other special guests include Ari Greenburg and Andrea Lee Greenburg. Ari Greenburg is a partner at WME, a talent and literary agency based in Beverly Hills, New York, Nashville and London. The event was held at the Hotel Jerome with proceeds benefiting local nonprofit Extreme Sports Camp for Autism celebrating its 10th year and Autism Speaks. The are 44 days left until Light It Up Blue in April!

Ari Greenburg and Andrea Lee Greenburg.

 
Steve Rosenburg, Sallie Bernard, Autism Speaks President Liz Feld, Corry Robinson and Eric Moody.
 
Lorri Unumb, Dan Unumb and Barnett Davis.
 
Watch Autism Speaks President Liz Feld talk about the Extreme Sports Camp organization - their motto is "An athletic experience for Autism."

Trash Man's Surprise Gift for Boy with Autism Goes Viral

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The video titled "The Gift" has since gone viral and has over 1 Million views on Youtube!

February 19, 2014

It all started when Autism Speaks received an email from Robin Newberger last week about a very special gift her 5-year-old son Daniel recieved from their Ojai, Calif., trash collector, Manuel Sanchez. The video titled "The Gift" has since gone viral and has over 1 Million views on our Autism Speaks Youtube channel. Robin even created a Facebook Page called, "The Gift." 

Although it is not that clear in the video, Manuel gave Daniel a toy garbage truck he paid for with his own money. Manuel did not know that Daniel had autism - He only knew that Daniel ritually waited outside every Monday for the garbage truck to come. As a result of the video and good deed, Manuel's company Harrison Industries is recognizing him for a job well done. 

"That little boy is so special, and he will steal anybody's heart as soon as you see him," Manuel told his employer. "I didn't know what he has but there's something very special about him."

The story has now spread to nearly every major news outlet in the country and around the world. Watch KTLA-TV's interview with Daniel's family below.

Crosby, Stills & Nash, John Mayer, Don Felder & Others Stars Team for 2nd Light Up the Blues Concert

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Concert To Benefit Autism Speaks On April 5th at the Historic Theatre at Ace Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles

Concert to benefit Autism Speaks on April 5th at the Historic Theatre at Ace Hotel in downtown Los Angeles

February 20, 2014

Hosted By Kristen and Stephen Stills, the Evening Celebrates Autism Awareness Month

LOS ANGELES, CA ( February 19, 2014) Crosby, Stills & Nash (CSN), John Mayer, Don Felder, Brandi Carlile, Chris Stills and many special guests will return to Los Angeles on April 5 at The Theatre at Ace Hotel for the 2nd Light Up The Blues Concert—An Evening of Music to Benefit Autism Speaks, the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. Also performing are special guests—rapper Watsky, indie artist Xolie Morra,Rio “Soulschocka” Wyles, Adam Mandela Walden, and Neal Katz.  The benefit concert will begin at 7:30 PM.   Tickets go on sale this Saturday, February 22 at 10 AM PT through all Ticketmaster outlets, and online at: http://www.ticketmaster.com/event/09004C4EAABFAF7A

“We cannot wait to once again Light Up The Blues. Thanks to the efforts of Kristen and Stephen Stills, the extraordinary lineup of artists will both inspire and entertain the entire audience,” said Autism Speaks PresidentLiz Feld.  “We are grateful to all of the performers for lending their voices to our mission.”  

The April 5 event spotlights Light It Up Blue, Autism Speaks’ annual global awareness and fundraising campaign celebrated by the international Autism community during World Autism Awareness Day and throughout Autism Awareness Month in April. Proceeds from the Light Up The Blues Concert will go towards Autism Speaks’ research and advocacy efforts for families and individuals impacted by the disorder.

“We are so thrilled to be doing this again. Last year’s Light Up The Blues benefit was such an incredible event, life changing for all involved. We are so grateful to be able to bring such a special night of music to the Autism community and to support Autism Speaks,” said Kristen & Stephen Stills. Light Up The Blues will celebrate the many gifts of autistic individuals, while supporting Autism Speaks in their mission to raise awareness and continue to enact their successful advocacy on behalf of all those who navigate through the journey of Autism.

“We value our partnership with the Stills family on this amazing event that not only has great music, but also highlights the incredible talents of individuals on the spectrum, and lets them shine bright for a wonderful evening, ” said Matt Asner, Executive Director of Southern California for Autism Speaks. 

About Autism Speaks
Autism Speaks is the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization. It is dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. Autism Speaks was founded in February 2005, by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents of a child with autism. Mr. Wright is the former vice chairman of General Electric and chief executive officer of NBC and NBC Universal. Since its inception, Autism Speaks has committed more than $195 million to research and developing innovative resources for families. Each year Walk Now for Autism Speaks events are held in more than 100 cities across North America. On the global front, Autism Speaks has established partnerships and related activities in more than 40 countries on five continents to foster international research, services and awareness. To learn more about Autism Speaks, please visit AutismSpeaks.org.

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Contact: Michael Jensen or Ryan Romenesko at 626-585-9575, mj@jensencom.com or ryan@jensencom.com


Adult with Autism Covers Major League Baseball Team’s Spring Training

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Malcom, an adult with autism with aspirations of being a Sportscaster got to interview the Miami Marlins at their Spring Training!

February 21, 2014

This article was written by Autism Speaks Staffer Melissa Barton, Senior Director of Field Development Palm Beach. Below, Melissa shares the story of Malcom Harris-Gowdie, one of our iPad recipients and a native of the West Palm Beach area. Malcom got the opportunity of a lifetime to interview several members of the Major League Baseball team the Miami Marlins.

When Malcom first got in touch with us in 2012, he immediately told us of his dream to become a sportscaster. In order to help him reach his dream, this winter, we connected Malcom to Matt Lincoln of WPEC- CBS 12 in West Palm Beach. Matt graciously took Malcom under his wing and set up the interviews for his debut today at the Miami Marlins spring training camp. The Marlins were exceptional with Malcom, inviting him to their April 4th Autism Awareness game in Miami. This will be Malcom’s first MLB game! Marlins star Gianacarlo Stanton even gave Malcom his personal bat complete with his signature!

Since he was a child, Malcom has had a photographic memory and recalls nearly every detail of every baseball game he’s watched. Malcom can immediately give you facts about not only Major League baseball players, but also about sports announcers as well. Malcom’s gift was discovered at 13 years old when he was surrounded by his family watching a sports game. He began commentating on the game very clearly and giving details his parents were not aware he knew. By the time he got to high school, Malcom was a Fort Pierce Central Sportscaster Morning Sports Announcer! He also does sportscasting for the Special Olympics.

Here are some of the major leaguers Malcom interviewed including...

Miami Marlins Giancarlo Stanton

Miami Marlins Mike Dunn

Miami Marlins Steve Cishek

and Miami Marlins Jeff Baker!

 

WNBC Features Autism Speaks Water Safety Scholarship Fund

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Lisa Goring discusses Autism Speaks' new Swimming and Water Safety Scholarship Fund on WNBC News

February 25, 2014

NEW YORK (February 25, 2014) - Lisa Goring, executive vice president of Family Services at Autism Speaks, spoke with News 4 New York Monday night to discuss Autism Speaks' new Swimming and Water Safety Scholarship Program.

The Autism Speaks Swimming and Water Safety Scholarship Fund selects eligible organizations and programs to identify qualified financially disadvantaged individuals with autism and offer scholarship funds for swimming and water safety lessons.

You can learn more about the program here. For more information about the program please contact Serena Selkin at sselkin@autismspeaks.org.

Autism Speaks Weighs In On MA Adult Housing Bill

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National housing survey presented to joint legislative committee

February 25, 2014

BOSTON (February 25, 2014) -- Autism Speaks joined with other autism advocates at a joint legislative hearing today in support a bill designed to address the shortage of affordable housing for individuals with intellectual disabilities, including autism.

Leslie Long [left], Autism Speaks' director of adult services, presented the Joint Committee on Housing with a survey report completed late last year by Autism Speaks that documented the existing shortages in adult housing and support services already faced by the autism community. The Executive Summary to the Autism Speaks National Housing & Residential Supports Survey was released last November.

"At Autism Speaks, we know all too well that there is a national shortage of housing and residential supports for adults with autism, and that this problem will only get worse as approximately 500,000 teens with autism, many of whom are living with aging caregivers, enter adulthood over the coming decade," Long told the committee.

She spoke in support of HB.3364, sponsored by Rep. Jason Lewis, which would take a four-pronged approach to addressing the adult housing shortage in Massachusetts:

  1. Increase and stabilize funding for Individual Development Accounts by creating a tax credit
  2. Create a tax-advantaged savings mechanism for families to cover housing expenses for a family member with a disability
  3. Increase housing production for individuals with developmental disabilities by prioritizing funding through the Housing Innovations Fund for projects serving clients who do not qualify under the Community Based Housing or Facilities Consolidation Funds
  4. Allow each bedroom to count as one unit of affordable housing in group homes where services are funded through MassHealth or other agencies, as opposed to only those where services are funded through DDS or DMH

Long’s testimony focused directly on the Autism Speaks survey results, which were based on over 10,000 responses from across the country. The survey found:

  • Most families and individuals with autism lack information on housing development and support services 
  • When asked to rank their top concerns, nearly half cited paying for housing and 40% cited paying for the necessary support services 
  • Only three in ten families expressed confidence they would be able to help finance housing for the individual with autism
  • Among those families, nearly half said they could afford to pay no more than $500 per month; 85% said they could contribute no more than $1,000 monthly 
  • Just one in four families report saving money for future housing and residential support services 
  • Only 6% of individuals with autism were on a waiting list for a rental or housing voucher; only 24% were on a waiting list for support services 
  • Only 11% of individuals with autism are employed and able to contribute financially in any way 
  • More than a third of all families lack outside help to support their loved one with autism and were in need of assistance 

“The national housing survey demonstrates the depth of the crisis faced by individuals with autism and their families," Long told the committeee. "States must find creative ways to provide housing and supports. We applaud Representative Lewis for introducing HB.3364 and commend Massachusetts for considering new ways of meeting the needs of the autism community.”

Prior to testifying, Long appeared with other Massachusetts autism advocates on an NPR Cape and Islands radio show, where she explained the importance of local efforts such as HB.3364.

“What it comes down to is what we’re seeing in Massachusetts with this bill," Long said. "Things have to happen on a state level, on a local level, because it’s all in the details. State and local advocates and families really know what’s happening in their communities and what is needed.

"They know whether tax credits are needed, where more development is needed, the need for more money in the Medicaid system, etc.," she continued. "So we are trying on a national level to help lift these voices so people know what is going on on the ground.”

Co-Founder Bob Wright Appears on Bloomberg Radio's "Taking Stock"

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Autism Speaks Co-Founder and former chairman of NBC Universal Bob Wright discusses autism on Bloomberg Radio's, "Taking Stock"

February 28, 2014

Autism Speaks Co-Founder and former Chairman of NBC Universal Bob Wright went on Bloomberg Radio’s “Taking Stock” yesterday to discuss Autism Speaks, the Autism Speaks Aut10K program, and the upcoming Autism Investment Conference, among other topics with Pimm Fox and Carol Massar.

In addition, Mr. Wright provided insight on current business news topics including the valuations of technology and media companies.

You can hear the interview on the Taking Stock Podcast here.

Journalist Ron Suskind to Publish Autism Memoir "Life, Animated"

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Pulitzer-Prize winning journalist's memoir describes his 20-year journey to connect with his son Owen, who has autism

February 28, 2014

(February 28, 2014) - Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Ron Suskind will publish a memoir "Life, Animated" on April 1. Suskind's memoir follows his 20-year journey in connecting with his son Owen, who has autism. 

Owen, who lost the ability to communicate at the age of 3, memorized animated Disney movies, and he and his family learned to communicate using dialog and scenarios from the films.

An excerpt from the book will appear in the New York Times magazine this weekend.

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