Remaining Dates:

October 19

• Informative & Interactive Sessions

• Continental Breakfast, Hot Lunch Buffet,

All Day Beverages & Snack Breaks

• Continuing Education Certificates

• Sponsor & Exhibitor Resource Fair

• Complimentary Parking

• Affordable Pricing- Thanks to Generous Sponsors!

Location: 

Desert Willow Conference Center

4340 E Cotton Center Blvd, Phoenix, AZ

REGISTRATION & CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST

Complimentary breakfast in Saguaro Dining Room.

Be sure to visit with Sponsors and Exhibitors, open now til 3:00 pm

WELCOME & OPENING REMARKS
Ann Monahan, AZ Autism Coalition President

Introductions and general information for the day’s events.

YOUTH LEADERSHIP AND ENGAGEMENT

Audra Paletta, Diverse Ability Incorporated

Oakley Priddy, Arizona Peer Leader

This session will focus on the youth leadership and engagement opportunities provided by Diverse Ability Incorporated for youth and young adults who have disabilities, including autism and neurodivergent conditions. Our Arizona Youth Leadership Forums have provided peer-led self-advocacy and leadership skills development for ten years. The Engaging Families and Young Adults Program is open to young adults and their families, who can receive compensation for advising in their own communities. Youth and young adults may also receive Peer Navigation and Person-Centered Planning services. Join us for this engaging session and learn about the many opportunities available to youth and young adults through Diverse Ability Incorporated.  

SERVICE DOGS-THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SERVICE DOGS & ESA’S

Cheryl Klein & Zeus, Canine Companions

There has been a lot of confusion about the difference between a service dog and ESAs. We will go over the difference and the Federal and State laws. Know the different categories--Service Dog, Facility Dog, and ESA. Canine Companions is a national organization that enhances the lives of people with disabilities by providing highly trained service dogs at no charge to the recipient. Learn about Canine Companions (501c3) and how you can apply.

EXAMINING SENSORY & MOTOR DIFFERENCES OF WHOLE-BODY APRAXIA IN NONSPEAKING AUTISTIC INDIVIDUALS

Staci Warren, PT, Spellers Method Provider

Participants will learn about the impact of the sensory and motor differences of whole-body apraxia in nonspeaking, autistic individuals. We will discuss components of praxis, (intentional motor planning), define whole-body apraxia, and examine the impact of sensory regulation and visuomotor skills on motor planning. Concepts of presuming competence and techniques on co-regulation and “coaching the body” when it comes to executing purposeful motor skills will also be included. This presentation will be discussing autism from a sensory-motor perspective, shifting the perspective to bring awareness that nonspeaking is not non-thinking.

HOUSING AND POST-SECONDARY SOLUTIONS FOR YOUNG ADULTS WITH AUTISM

Lisa Masters, Autism Life & Living

This presentation will focus on a safe, affordable and supportive housing solutions along with solutions for life skill education and workforce development programs. Programs that will empower young adults with autism to have a promising future.

LUNCH
Hot luncheon buffet with soup, salad, entrees, dessert, beverages.

*Lunch & Learn Special Session*

CMS, THE FINAL RULE AND HOW IT AFFECTS DUALLY ELIGIBLE

Cynthia Macluskie, Cynthia Macluskie Insurance Solutions

CMS Final Rule will negatively affect choice and freedom for those who have Medicaid and Medicare. We will see changes starting in 2025 and need to take an active role to fight to keep choice and freedom for those who have both Medicaid and Medicare. Those who have disabilities should have as much choice as those without. Nothing about us without us! Come learn about the possible changes and what we can do about it.

EMPOWERING JOBSEEKERS: ADVOCATING FOR INCLUSIVE WORKPLACE ACCOMMODATIONS

Natasha Grant, First Place

This session advocates for workplace accommodations, focusing on neurodivergent jobseekers and highlights the importance of inclusivity and equality in employment. We will cover common accommodations for neurodivergent individuals including work environment adjustments, flexible schedules, communication adaptations, assistive technology and policy modifications and emphasize how these accommodations unlock unique potential and benefit entire organizations. The session also provides information on encouraging and educating employers about neurodiversity, promoting open dialogues, and utilizing professional resources. It concludes by stressing that accommodations are essential for equal opportunities, not special treatment and calls for support of comprehensive accommodation policies to create inclusive work- places that benefit everyone.

PEER & FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES

Dawn McReynolds, Caroline Chu, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan

Introduction to how the Office of Individual and Family Affairs (OIFA) can you support you and your family. Learn more about what Credentialed Peer and Family Support Services are and how they can help you navigate the public health system and find resources for physical, behavioral health and social needs.

EMPOWERING AUTISTIC ADULTS IN HEALTHCARE: ADVOCACY, INSIGHTS & INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS

Maureen Casey, First Place AZ

Empowering individuals with disabilities to navigate the healthcare system is crucial. Our presentation delves into advocacy strategies and support systems, drawing from listening sessions across Arizona. These sessions, involving autistic adults, families, and providers, have illuminated critical insights into high-quality healthcare and behavioral health solutions. We'll introduce the innovative 360 Health & Wellness course, designed to address transition needs within health insurance for individuals with disabilities. This course, with our community of practice, aims to bridge gaps and empower patients. Join us as we explore tools, share community wisdom, and unveil a

holistic approach to healthcare advocacy that promises to transform the experiences of individuals with disabilities in the system.

THE LAW BEHIND SPECIAL EDUCATION-A GUIDE FOR PARENTS AND GUARDIANS

Hope Kirsch, Esq., Lori Kirsch-Goodwin, Esq., Kirsch-Goodwin & Kirsch PLLC

This presentation, provided by two nationally recognized attorneys, will provide a comprehensive overview of the laws governing special education and the legal rights of students and their parents and guardians. Parents and guardians will have a better understanding of the laws and feel more empowered when advocating for their child. Learn more about the IDEA, Section 504s & IEPs, and resolving disputes with schools.

END
Thank you for joining us!

Arizona Autism Coalition

Members

Non-Members

October + July Sponsor

January Sponsor

• Series Sponsor recognition with logo on Day of Learning Event website, event marketing materials, Social Page & event signage for all remaining 1 DAY OF LEARNING event.
• (3) Exclusive FB posts with tag/link to your page/website
• Logo on event tote bag given to attendees at all three events
• (2) Complimentary Tickets for each Day of Learning-6 total tickets
• Exhibitor Table on each event day with 6' table & 2 chairs
• Breakfast, Lunch, unlimited beverages/snacks for 2 Exhibitor Staff

• Scholarship Sponsor recognition with logo on Day of Learning Event website, event marketing materials, Social pages & event signage for remaining 1 DAY OF LEARNING event.
• (1) Exclusive FB post with tag/link to your page/website
• Exhibitor Table on (1) event day (your choice of date) with 6' table & 2 chairs
• Breakfast, Lunch, unlimited beverages/snacks for 2 Exhibitor Staff

• VIP Sponsor recognition with company logo/link on Day of Learning Event website, event marketing materials, Social pages & event signage for chosen Day of Learning event
• Exhibitor Table on (1) event day with 6' table & 2 chairs
• Breakfast, Lunch, unlimited beverages/snacks for 2 Exhibitor Staff

• Exhibitor Table on event day with 6' table & 1 chair, Lunch for (1) Exhibitor Staff
• (1) Additional staff may be added for $50 per person

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