Mar 17 Caring Bunny 2015 at Southdale Center Southdale Center will host its Caring Bunny event on March 29 from 9:30-11 a.m. Caring Bunny provides a subdued and welcoming environment for children with special needs and their families. Be sure to stop by the AuSM resource table at Caring Bunny and say hello! Appointments are required. Click here for more information.
Mar 01 Autism reports from the Department of Human Services On Feb. 12, 2013, the Department of Human Services (DHS) Commissioner Lucinda Jesson sent a letter to the Minnesota Legislature, highlighting two reports that DHS had completed as required by the legislature: Autism Spectrum Disorders: Report to the Minnesota Commissioner of Human Services is a study of treatments for autism conducted by the Health Services Advisory Council (HSAC). HSAC is panel of medical experts that advises DHS about health care benefits for enrollees in publicly funded programs. Click here to view this report. The Study on Housing with Supports for Children with Severe Autism report was completed by the University of Minnesota under a contract with DHS. It takes a comprehensive look at housing and service options currently available as well as best practices. Click here to view this report.
Mar 01 Current bills connected to autism Autism is on the radar of legislators as bills are being heard that affect AuSM members. This week, the autism insurance reform bill, HF.181, was heard in the House health and human services finance committee, and was held over until some questions are answered about the fiscal impact. Sponsored by Representative Kim Norton, the bill would take effect in August 2013. The companion bill, S.F. 314, is expected to be heard by Senate committees in the next few weeks. Individuals with autism are at greater risk for bullying. AuSM supports The Safe and Supportive Schools Act (HF 826/SF 783) which strengthens school district bullying policies and procedures. This week, the House Education Policy Committee heard testimony and voted in favor of the bill. Click here for a fact sheet explaining the legislation from The Arc Minnesota. For more information about this session's activities related to autism issues, visit our website or contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., AuSM Advocacy.
Mar 16 Participate in AuSM's exciting summer social skills classes Though AuSM's day and residential camps are full, summer fun still is available through AuSM's social skills classes. Stretch your imagination and try something new! AuSM Social Skills classes are tailored to give youth and adults with autism a fun, safe, and exciting experience while they increase self-esteem, expand knowledge, and build friendships that last a lifetime. Click on the above link to learn more about AuSM's classes with the Three Rivers Parks District, Como Park Zoo & Conservatory, the Minnesota Zoo, Stages Theatre Company, ComedySportz, and more. AuSM also has two social skills classes available with the Great Lakes Aquarium and the Lake Superior Zoo in Duluth! See what summer fun AuSM has in store for you!
Mar 05 Amazing morning of community at Steps of Hope 2018 Thank you so much to all of our Steps of Hope 2018 sponsors, volunteers, and participants who braved the rain and ice on March 4 to celebrate this AuSM community. The sponsor resource tables were a crowd favorite; K102's Mike Mussman kept participants pumped up; Miss Midwest, Kathryn Kueppers sang that national anthem; Mudonna posed for pictures, Anime Twin Cities superheroes and The Royal Sisterhood princesses welcomed and encouraged; Kwik Trip, Caribou Coffee, Cosmos Creations, and Bruegger's Bagels provided food and beverages; and the AuSM merchandise table was a fun place to find a fidget or two. What an amazing morning of coming together in support of each other and our local autism community. Thank you!
Mar 31 2017 AuSM Educator Challenge winners announced We are pleased to announce the winners of the 2017 AuSM Educator Challenge: Courtney Hess, Forest Lake Project Search–Fairview Lakes, Forest Lake Public SchoolsHeather Jacobs, White Bear Lake Area High School, White Bear Lake School DistrictMary Jensen, Leaf River Academy, Freshwater Education DistrictAngie Young, Stevens Elementary, Dawson-BoydLinda Wagner, Willow River Elementary, School District of Hudson, Wis. Educators in Minnesota and surrounding states were invited to share strategies on how they encourage and motivate their students in the classroom. Winning teachers’ tips included incorporating “brain breaks”; relating to students by learning about students’ special interests; flexible seating options; incorporating a “refocusing zone”; and using optical illusions to show how our brain can sometimes trick us. Continue Reading
Mar 30 Production company recruits neurodiverse job seekers Optomen Productions, the TV production company behind Employable Me on BBC2, is looking for neurodiverse job seekers to be involved in a new production of Employable Me in the U.S. Employable Me is the series where extraordinary job seekers aim to prove that neurological differences should be viewed as an asset rather than an obstacle in the workplace. With the help of experts who serve as mentors, these neurodiverse candidates unlock their hidden talents and find the job that best suits their unique skill sets and strengths. Optomen Productions is actively seeking individuals on the autism spectrum who have struggled to find employment, and wish to be involved in the U.S. program. If you’re interested in being part of the show or learning more about the project, please contact Sarah Glaser at Optomen Productions at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Contact Glaser by Friday, April 7.
Mar 29 Temple Grandin keynote SOLD OUT; registration open for other conference sessions Temple Grandin’s keynote presentation on April 27 is SOLD OUT as of March 29. We are no longer accepting registrations for Dr. Grandin’s keynote presentation. Full conference and Thursday registrations purchased after March 29 will NOT include Dr. Grandin’s presentation, and registration fees have been reduced to reflect this fact. Thank you for your excitement for this year’s conference. We look forward to seeing you at the other information-packed conference sessions April 26-29 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Minneapolis-Park Place. Click here for more information and to register for the conference.
Mar 27 Hotel rooms added to 2017 autism conference block Due to an influx in registrations for the 22nd Annual Minnesota Autism Conference April 26-29, 2017, AuSM's block of hotel rooms at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Minneapolis-Park Place was nearly sold out. AuSM wants to accommodate as many educators, parents, caregivers, direct support professionals, individuals with autism, and other professionals for this important Minnesota autism community event, so the hotel has increased the room block for each night of the conference. Please book your room soon if you're coming in from out of town and want to stay at the conference hotel. The additional rooms will be held in AuSM's conference block until April 4. Click here for more information and to register for the conference.
Mar 13 Exhibit space selling fast for annual autism conference Exhibit space for the 22nd Annual Minnesota Autism Conference is 50% sold out. Would you like to share your business message with our engaged conference participants including educators, parents, caregivers, direct support professionals, and individuals with autism? Reserve your booth space today to ensure your spot. Advertising and sponsorship opportunities also are available. Click here for more information.
Mar 06 Steps of Hope 2017 is an amazing community experience It was a beautiful morning to bring the Minnesota autism community together for Steps of Hope for Autism in Minnesota 2017 at Southdale Center. Hundreds of supportive families and friends filled the mall walkways as they participated in the first ever AuSM Flash Dash presented by Accra Care, gathered information from more than 70 resource tables, enjoyed healthy snacks, took pictures with a happy T-rex and Mudonna, and had tons of fun. Thank you to our emcees Mike "Muss" Mussman from K102 and AuSM champion Shannan Paul, Larry Moody as our friendly T-rex, The Royal Sisterhood princesses, Anime Twin Cities superheroes, all of our sponsors, volunteers, the AuSM board, AuSM staff, and fantastic participants. You made Steps of Hope 2017 AMAZING!
Mar 03 Steps of Hope 2017 is March 5: plan to join us at Southdale Center Steps of Hope for Autism in Minnesota, AuSM's 17th annual fundraising fun walk and the state's largest autism resource fair will take place at Southdale Center this Sunday, March 5, 2017 from 8:30-11 a.m. Online registration is closed, but walk-in registrants are welcome! You also can continue to donate to teams by clicking on the below link. We look forward to celebrating our awesome autism community with you on Sunday!
Mar 31 National autism rate unchanged says CDC Today the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that the national autism prevalence rate remains unchanged at 1 in 68.As with the previous report in 2014, this latest estimate is based on a systematic review of health and educational records of 8-year-old children living in designated communities that have been selected to be part of the CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (ADDM) Network. Minnesota was recently added to the ADDM Network, although local children will not be included in CDC prevalence rates until the 2018 update.“This prevalence rate is important because it demonstrates the continued, concrete level of need to people who determine funding-levels and available resources for people with autism, ” said Jonah Weinberg, Executive Director of the Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM). Continue Reading
Mar 18 AuSM and the Epilepsy Foundation MN collaborate Committed to helping community members reach their full potential, the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota (EFMN) and AuSM are partnering to offer resources and educational opportunities in April. People with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have a higher than average risk of having epilepsy. About 20 to 30 percent of children with ASD develop epilepsy by the time they reach adulthood, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. EFMN is offering a Health & Wellness Expo on April 16, and AuSM's 21st Annual Minnesota Autism Conference will include a session presented by EFMN: 10 Things You Should Know About Seizures and Epilepsy. Click here to learn more about the EFMN/AuSM collaboration.
Mar 06 Thank you, Autism Heroes! Super thanks to the hundreds of sponsors, volunteers, teams, individuals, and other Autism Heroes who walked in support of the autism community during Steps of Hope for Autism in Minnesota this morning at Southdale Center. Goldy Gopher, the The Royal Sisterhood, Anime Twin Cities, KFAN's Paul Allen, the Duluth Police Department, Shannan Paul, and many, many others provided entertainment and encouragement as our community united for a great morning of fundraising, resources, and support. Thank you!
Mar 05 KSTP supports Steps of Hope for Autism in Minnesota Steps of Hope 2016 and the Duluth Police Department were highlighted on KSTP-TV news this morning. Tom Durian interviewed Jonah Weinberg and they talked about AuSM's community friendly Steps of Hope walk and the unveiling of the AuSM autism awareness police car. Join us for Steps of Hope at Southdale Center tomorrow from 8:30-11 a.m.
Mar 04 Duluth squad car unveiled during Steps of Hope 2016 It's slick. It's quick. It's a ride for REAL heroes, and it's coming to Steps of Hope for Autism in Minnesota on Sunday, March 6 from 8:30-11 a.m. at Southdale Center! For months, the Duluth Police Department has been working with Elite Tinting & Graphics to produce this AuSM Autism Awareness squad car, and it will be unveiled outside of the second level Rojo Grill mall entrance during Steps of Hope. On your way into the walk, stop by for a car replica sticker, an Autism Hero badge sticker, and the chance to see this amazing car up close!
Mar 02 Steps of Hope is Sunday Though online registration for Steps of Hope for Autism in Minnesota 2016 is closed, we invite you to join us as a walk-in registrant on Sunday, March 6 from 8:30-11 a.m. at Southdale Center. Steps of Hope is the state's most powerful walk for autism and will feature a colossal autism resource fair. Participants will walk at their own pace while gathering resources and enjoying a stage show emceed by KFAN's Paul Allen, face painting, balloon animals, free snacks, superheroes and princesses in costume, Goldy Gopher, and so much more.
Mar 31 Open your little one's world to stories, puppetry, music and movement at Children's Theatre Children’s Theatre Company and AuSM are partnering to offer a series of interactive family workshops modeling art-based strategies to engage your whole family. Specially designed for parents and/or caregivers with a child or children ages 3-5 with autism and their siblings, each workshop will explore theater activities that facilitate self-expression, creativity and imagination-play. The first session, held April 19 from 2-4 p.m., will focus on Storytelling. Step into a favorite book! Build empathy and imagination as you use your face, body and voice to explore characters’ emotions, act out their stories and imagine different ways the story could turn out. Click here for more information and to register.
Mar 31 Adults and autism The Spring Life with Autism: Adults class has been postponed. Please consider registering for the June 2 AuSM Skillshop: Understanding ASD in Adults. This AuSM Skillshop will be taught by Dr. Barb Luskin and will provide an overview of the common features of autism and Asperger's Syndrome in adults and how they manifest as characteristics. This session will help adults and their families understand why they do things differently and how to turn challenges into assets. Click here to register today.
Mar 30 Partner with AuSM for Autism Awareness Month AuSM has a special opportunity for businesses and organizations to show their support for the Minnesota autism community during the month of April, National Autism Awareness Month. Partner with AuSM to raise autism awareness spread acceptance. Partnership is tailored for each business and organization, and can be as minimal as hanging a small poster and as involved as selling puzzle pieces in support of AuSM's programs and services. Click here to learn more and to become a supporting partner for National Autism Awareness Month!
Mar 28 Muss and Belinda take on the Twizzlers Challenge K102's Mike Mussman "Muss" and KARE 11's Belinda Jensen took on the Twizzlers Challenge for AuSM this morning. The two laughed through their sharing of the sweet treat, all in support of our local autism community. Chase on the Lake came through with a $5,000 donation, and individual donors contributed to make the challenge possible. Click here to watch the segment. Thank you, Muss and Belinda! Ready to take on your own Twizzlers Challenge for AuSM? Be sure to send us a picture or video! After you take the challenge, extend it to another pair - let's keep the momentum going for autism awareness and our Minnesota autism community! Click here for the official AuSM Twizzlers Challenge donation form!
Mar 26 Muss and Belinda Twizzlers Challenge is on! Let's raise awareness about autism while helping K102's Mike Mussman "Muss" convince KARE 11's Belinda Jensen to join him for the Twizzlers Challenge! Your donation brings Muss closer to his $5,000 goal and the sweet challenge while supporting programs and services for our local Minnesota autism community. Donations benefit the Autism Society of Minnesota. The Muss and Belinda Twizzlers Challenge will happen live on KARE 11 Saturday (in the 8 a.m. hour) if Muss can reach his goal! Click here for more information and to donate today! AuSM is pleased to welcome Muss as our emcee for AuSM's inaugural gala, Celebrate AuSM Inspirations, on May 1! Click here to register to be a part of this special event for our local autism community!
Mar 25 Continued increase in students with autism highlights need for early intervention TheMinnesota Department of Education (MDE) recently released its annualChild Count report on students with disabilities for 2014. The report indicates 17,067 children and youth between the ages of 0-21 have been identified as having an autism diagnosis. This increase from the 2013 count of 16,603 makes 2014 the eighteenth consecutive year of growth in autism diagnoses in Minnesota schools. Continue Reading
Mar 25 Steps of Hope 2015 Support Grants: two options AuSM is pleased to announce that 2015 Steps of Hope Support Grants will have a dual purpose. In addition to funding programs that encourage team building and supporting individuals on the autism spectrum, AuSM also will offer the gift of knowledge through five grants for single registrations to the 20th Annual Minnesota Autism Conference. Conference registration grant applications are due April 17; the second grant option applications for projects supporting individuals with ASD are due July 1. Click here for more information and to download the 2015 application forms.
Mar 23 {Special Focus} Photography captures walk A HUGE THANK YOU to {Special Focus} Photography By Nichole Laase for capturing the Steps of Hope 2015 walk in these beautiful images of our wonderful community day! Nichole Laase specializes in autism and special needs photography, and she definitely has a knack for bringing out the best in all of our Steps of Hope participants. Click here to see some of her great images from March 1.
Mar 23 Monkey Mind Pirates steal hearts and ease minds Z Puppets Rosenschnoz and AuSM teamed up to offer a Monkey Mind Pirates performance at Children's Theatre Company today. The performance, featuring families from our local autism community, included catchy tunes and great choreography. Thank you to participants, volunteers and the Z Puppets crew for a fun afternoon! Z Puppets Rosenschnoz and AuSM are taking the FREE Monkey Mind Pirate mindfulness workshops to Duluth in April and to Rochester in July. Registration for both cities is open now - register today to ensure a spot for your family and get prepared to bring on the calm! Click here for more information.
Mar 20 It's a monkey weekend Z Puppets Rosenschnoz and AuSM invite you to join us at Children's Theatre Company on Sunday, March 22 at 2:30 p.m. for the sensory-friendly performance of the Monkey Mind Pirates. This award-winning musical tale of a sea captain navigating the stormy seas of stress will feature the Minneapolis company of Z Puppets Rosenschnoz and youth and families from AuSM guest starring as the Sailor Chorus. Treat your family to this show featuring award-winning, catchy, original songs and lovable Monkey Mind Pirates puppets. Come early for pre-show activities beginning at 1:30 p.m. during Family Happy Hour. Online registration is closed; tickets ($7.50 each) will be available at the door for purchase.
Mar 20 AuSM does not solicit donations by phone The The Autism Society of America recently received a report from a Minnesota donor who received a call from a Michigan number soliciting donations in the name of the "Autism Society". Neither the Autism Society of America nor the Autism Society of Minnesota shares donor lists or solicits donations by phone. If you receive a call asking for donations to the "Autism Society", please report the call to AuSM or ASA as soon as possible. We value your support of AuSM and are diligent about protecting your personal information.
Mar 17 Caring Bunny event at Southdale Center on March 29 Southdale Center will host its Caring Bunny event on March 29 from 9:30-11 a.m. Caring Bunny provides a subdued and welcoming environment for children with special needs and their families. Be sure to stop by the AuSM resource table at Caring Bunny! Appointments are required. Click here for more information.
Mar 16 New summer social skills classes in the West Metro AuSM is pleased to partner with Connections Social Skills Camp (CSSC) to present two social skills day camp sessions for youth with autism and other learning differences in August. Five half-days of fun, West Metro-focused activities will be provided by the founders of CSSC. Make friends and practice social skills during exciting community outings! Click here for more information and to register.
Mar 11 Hottest ticket of the season On May 1, join us for AuSM's inaugural gala, Celebrate AuSM Inspirations. Held during the 20th Annual Minnesota Autism Conference at the Doubletree by Hilton Minneapolis Park Place Hotel, this exciting evening will bring our community together for fantastic food, drinks, games, a silent auction and a celebration of those serving as true inspirations to individuals affected by autism. All gala proceeds will benefit programs and services for the Minnesota autism community. Click here to get your tickets today!
Mar 06 20th Annual MN Autism Conference registration open The 20th Annual Minnesota Autism Conference will take place April 29-May 2 at the Doubletree by Hilton Minneapolis Park Place hotel. The conference is where we join our voices as a passionate network to inspire hope and innovation. Here speakers, educators, paraprofessionals, therapists, psychologists, professionals, employers, caregivers, parents and individuals on the spectrum have a platform to exchange knowledge and ideas with one another - all with the goal of enhancing the lives of those touched by autism. The event will feature four keynote speakers, dozens of breakout sessions, exhibitors, networking opportunities, a gala and much more. Click here for more information and to register today.
Mar 03 Become an AuSM Member this spring and reap benefits For the past 44 years, AuSM has offered a place to learn, access services, and develop skills that enhance lives. AuSM membership connects you to a common community that acts without judgment, nurtures potential, advances knowledge and builds awareness. Now is a great time to join our supportive community. Members who join in March and April will be entered into a drawing for two tickets to AuSM's inaugural gala, Celebrate AuSM Inspirations, on May 1. Click here to learn about AuSM's membership benefits and then click here to become an AuSM Member!
Mar 01 Steps of Hope at Southdale a huge success today Thank you to all of our volunteers, sponsors, performers, teams and individual walkers who participated in Steps of Hope 2015 at Southdale Center on March 1. Hundreds teamed up to raise money for the Minnesota autism community, visit with sponsors, gather information at the state's largest autism resource fair, and have FUN. Special thanks to KFAN's Dan Cole The Common Man for emceeing the stage show, KS95's Crisco for bringing the KS95 prize wheel and giving high-fives to the crowd, and Mudonna and Goldy Gopher for keeping everyone energized! If you weren't able to attend Steps of Hope but still would like to make a donation, click here.
Mar 01 Steps of Hope 2015 today Steps of Hope 2015 is today! Join the Minnesota autism community for this great family-friendly walk and the state's largest autism resource fair from 8-11 a.m. at Southdale Center in Edina. KFAN's Dan Cole The Common Man and KS95's Crisco will be there along with Goldy Gopher and Mudonna from the St. Paul Saints. Bring your friends, family and networks for an awesome morning of fun. If you haven't registered, you're still welcome. Everyone's in for Steps of Hope 2015!
Mar 27 Autism incidence rate now 1 in 68 says CDC The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported today that one in 68 U.S. children has an autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a 30 percent increase from 1 in 88 as reported by the CDC two years ago. Continue Reading
Mar 25 Double the AuSM Skillshops on April 2 Four different topic-focused AuSM Skillshops will be offered on Wednesday, April 2 from 7-9 p.m.: ASD and Getting Along with Others in the Workplace Behavior Solutions: Creative Approaches to Everyday Behavior Problems Exploring Nutritional Interventions for Children Life Planning for Guardianship and Supplemental Needs Trust To register for Skillshops 1 and 2, call AuSM at 651.647.1083 ext. 19 or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. For descriptions of each Skillshop or to register for Skillshops 3 and 4, click here.
Mar 19 Make plans for an AuSM and fulfilling summer AuSM Camps and Social Skills Summer Programs provide opportunities for friendship and confidence building. Activities are tailored to give youth with autism a fun, safe and exciting experience while increasing self-esteem, expanding knowledge and building friendships. Space is limited in all programs, and some camps are full with wait lists. Register today - your AuSM adventure awaits! AuSM Camps and Social Skills Summer Programs have job openings. Click on the links for each offering to learn how you can make a difference by working with youth with autism this summer.
Mar 17 Temple Grandin presents AuSM Workshop in May Autism community icon, Temple Gradin, Ph.D. will present an AuSM Workshop on Thursday, May 22: How People with Autism Think and Feel. The event, sponsored by Cargill, will take place at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Dr. Grandin will sign books in the on-site AuSM Bookstore from 6-7 p.m. and 9-10 p.m. Her presentation will be from 7-9 p.m. Click here for more information and to register.
Mar 17 Partner with AuSM in April April is National Autism Awareness Month, a special opportunity to show your support for the autism community. AuSM invites you to partner with us in April to raise awareness about autism. Click here for more information.
Mar 13 Share your thoughts about transition services Join AuSM for community conversations focused on improving employment and post-secondary education opportunities for students with disabilities. Share your thoughts about current resources and challenges during one of several community conversation events. Let's Talk About TransitionQuestions, Answers and Solutions Tuesday, April 29, 2014, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Bloomington School District Office, Bloomington Click here to register and for more information about additional Let's Talk About Transition community conversation dates and locations.
Mar 17 Register for the annual state autism conference On April 30-May 3, speakers, educators, paraprofessionals, therapists, psychologists, professionals, employers, caregivers, parents and individuals on the spectrum will have a platform to exchange knowledge and ideas with one another - all with the goal of enhancing the lives of those touched by autism. Garrison Keillor opens this year's conference with a keynote presentation. Also featured will be tracks for educators and therapy professionals, keynote presentations about Autism and the Legal System and Autism & Literacy, and breakout presentations by autism experts. The final day of conference will focus on autism transition, employment and life skills. This 19th annual event will take place at the Doubletree Hilton by Minneapolis Park Place Hotel. Click here for more information and to register.
Mar 07 Participate in the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities on March 11 AuSM is hosting the Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities at the Capitol on Tuesday, March 11 from 10-11 a.m. in the Department of Transportation cafeteria. Learn about current legislation being proposed including the Safe Schools for All bill and an autism early intervention services bill. If possible, please schedule an appointment with your legislator before or after the meeting to express your support. For more information, including a parking update, click here for the MN-CCD website or contact Jean Bender, AuSM Advocacy Committee Chair at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. To learn more about AuSM's Advocacy Committee, click here.
Mar 10 Supply donations for AuSM summer camps and classes Thank you to everyone who donated wish list supplies for AuSM Camps and summer social skills classes during Steps of Hope 2014. Your donations will support some unforgettable summer experiences! There's still time to donate. Click here to view the summer programs wish list. Items can be dropped off at AuSM during regular business hours.
Mar 06 Explore Leonardo's Basement at their open house AuSM is partnering with Leonardo's Basement in offering social skills classes this spring. Stop by Leonardo's Basement for an open house on March 9 from 1-3 p.m. to learn more about the classes and to get a feel for the work space. For more information and to register, click here.
Mar 03 Garrison Keillor opens 19th Annual MN Autism Conference During the 19th Annual Minnesota Autism Conference at the DoubleTree by Hilton Minneapolis Park Place Hotel, we will join our voices as a passionate network to inspire hope and innovation. On April 30-May 3, speakers, educators, paraprofessionals, therapists, psychologists, professionals, employers, caregivers, parents and individuals on the spectrum will have a platform to exchange knowledge and ideas with one another - all with the goal of enhancing the lives of those touched by autism. Garrison Keillor, Minnesota's iconic storyteller will open this year's conference with a keynote presentation titled "A Storyteller's Chat about Fatherhood." Also featured will be tracks for educators and therapy professionals, keynote presentations about Autism and the Legal System and Autism & Literacy, and breakout presentations by autism experts. The final day of conference will focus on autism transition, employment and life skills. This 19th annual event will have something for everyone! Click here for more information and to register.
Mar 02 Steps of Hope 2014 gets thumbs up and lots of smiles Harrison Heinks (third from left), the winning Steps of Hope 2014 T-shirt designer, participated in Steps of Hope with his family and hundreds of individuals, families and teams walking to raise money for AuSM's programs and services this morning. Participants came together at Ridgedale Center to visit with sponsors, pick up resources, present collected donations, and have fun. Thank you to all of our volunteers, sponsors and walkers who made this family fun day a fantastic success!
Mar 01 AuSM selected as a recipient of Cities 97 Sampler Vol. 25 proceeds AuSM is thrilled to announce that we have been selected as one of the non-profit organizations to receive proceeds from the sales of Cities 97 Sampler Volume 25. Funds will be used for programs that will continue to enhance the lives of individuals with autism in Minnesota. Thank you, Cities 97!
Mar 17 Golf as a guest of Ernie Els at TPC Twin Cities Take advantage of this exciting opportunity to golf at the pristine, private TPC Twin Cities course in Blaine this April. One person in the golfing group must be a member of AuSM. A portion of the greens fees will be shared between AuSM and the Ernie Els for Autism Foundation. Click here for details on how to arrange for your April tee time at this exclusive course.
Mar 17 Edina 8th grader with autism wins national award Harrison Heinks, an eighth grader at Valley View Middle School, won a gold medal in the National Scholastic Art & Writing competition. Out of more than 230,000 entries, only one percent received the national award. His award-winning project is a pair of homeless shoes, and they are about moving to a new place and feeling lost. Heinks was diagnised with autism at age 2 when his parents were told that he may never speak. One year ago, Heinks's family moved to Edina in search of resources for their son. Heinks is doing well in Minnesota, playing in the orchestra, singing in the choir, and learning and thriving. Click here to learn more about his inspiring story and the prestigious award.
Mar 15 April will be Wild & AuSM! In honor of Autism Awareness Month, the Minnesota Wild hockey team has selected the Autism Society of Minnesota to be it's April Charity of the Month, sponsored by Innovative Office Solutions. AuSM and the Wild will kick-off this exciting partnership on Monday, April 1 when the Wild take on the St. Louis Blues at the Excel at 7 p.m. Purchase your tickets for the April 1 game by clicking here. Ticket prices are marked down exclusively for AuSM supporters, and AuSM will receive a portion of each ticket sale. Click here for more information about AuSM and the Wild.
Mar 14 Wahode Day Camp Occupational Therapist Needed AuSM is seeking an Occupational Therapist-Registered, to work at two weeks of Wahode summer day camps in Eagan, Minn., June 24-26 and July 22-26. Duties include, but are not limited to: activity planning and implementation, direct service and assistance to children with ASD, collaborative work with staff and counselors, and assistance with daily living activities. Approximate work hours are 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Please submit an employment application, cover letter and resume or CV to: Terri Borowick, Director of Camps for the Autism Society of Minnesota, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or mail to 2380 Wycliff Street, Suite #102, St. Paul, MN 55114.
Mar 13 MN Department of Human Services focus groups The Minnesota Department of Human Services (MDHS) is conducting focus groups in March and April throughout Minnesota with community members who are over age 65, people with disabilities, caregivers and family members, and people with mental illness. MDHS is offering a thank you of a $35 cash stipend or gift card, a light meal, as well as reimbursements for supports to help participants attend a focus group. Click here to view a pdf with additional information.
Mar 11 Joey's Ride set for May Get revved up and join us for the 5th annual Joey's Ride starting in Stillwater on May 4! All proceeds benefit AuSM. Those who prefer not to ride but want to join in the excitement and games can secure a spot on the fun bus. Joey's Ride wil feature the Fury Girls, Tim Mahoney Live and DJ KMZ. Click here for more information.
Mar 04 Online conference registration is open Online registration for the 18th Annual Minnesota Autism Conference is open. Click here to register today.
Mar 07 Navigating Autism adds dates to meet demand Due to popularity, the Metropolitan Airports Commission, AuSM and Fraser are expanding their Navigating Autism program to take place every month. The first new added session will take place on Saturday, April 6. To ease the anxiety associated with an airport visit and flying, Navigating Autism, designed specifically for individuals with autism, takes families through the steps of an airport visit, from walking in the door to finding their seat on a plane. Click here for more info.
Mar 03 You stepped it up for autism today A crowd of more than a thousand gathered at Ridgedale Center this morning in support of the Minnesota autism community. Thank you to the more than 75 sponsors and to all of the families and individuals who participated. AuSM values your support that makes a difference in the lives of the 1 in 88 touched by autism. Thank you!
Mar 25 Autism: 1 in 50 - What does this mean? On March 20, 2013, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a report suggesting that 1 in 50 children between the ages of 6 and 17 have a diagnosis on the autism spectrum. This is higher than the 1 in 88 reported on a 2007 survey. There has been much discussion about what the new report means. Continue Reading
Mar 20 1 in 50 children has autism, CDC report says According to a report released today by the Centers for Disease Control, 1 in 50 children have been diagnosed with autism or a related disorder, such as Asperger's Syndrome. The report states that "Changes in ascertainment of autism spectrum disorders could occur because of changes in autism spectrum disorders awareness among parents or healthcare professionals, increased access to diagnostic services, changes in how screening tests or diagnostic criteria are used, or increased special education placements in the community." Much of the prevalence increase from 2007 to 2011-2012 for school-aged children was the result of diagnoses of children with previously unrecognized autism spectrum disorder, according to the report. Click here to read the full report.
Mar 29 No link between too many vaccines and autism, says CDC Despite concerns by some parents that their children receive “too many vaccines too soon,” a new Centers for Disease Control and Prevention study finds that many shots, even on the same day, do not increase the risk of autism. Click here to read the NBC News article.
Mar 26 Action Alert The Minnesota House and Senate released their budget targets last week. Where Governor Dayton wants to increase the Health and Human Services budget for the next two years for a variety of services needed by individuals with disabilities, the legislature wants to decrease funding by $150 million. Click here for more information and to learn how you can contact your legislators and encourage them to preserve valuable services for people with autism.
