Jan 24 Participate in community conversations to improve transition services This spring, join us for community conversations focused on improving employment and post-secondary education opportunities for students with disabilities. Share your thoughts about current resources and challenges. Explore ideas for improving transition services for students with disabilities. These community dialogs, organized by AuSM, are provided through a Community Innovation Grant from the Bush Foundation. Click here for more information.
Jan 16 Winter Carnival features Vulcan Snow Park event supporting AuSM St. Paul Winter Carnival organizers will host a Sensory-Friendly event at Vulcan Snow Park (located at the Minnesota State Fair Grounds) from 4-9 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 28. Zoom down the giant snow slide, play on giant snow piles, and participate in or watch events. On Jan. 28, the park will feature lower lights and no overhead sound. Organizers also will have a dedicated sledding lane for families and individuals affected by autism. Cost ranges from $2 per slide to $15 for unlimited slide rides. 10% of proceeds on Jan. 28 will support AuSM's programs and services for our local autism community. Click here for more information about Vulcan Snow Park.
Jan 15 Autism Spectrum Disorder Task Force - Strategic Plan Report The Minnesota Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Task Force was created by the 2011 Legislature to develop a statewide strategic plan for improving awareness and ensuring treatment and services for individuals diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder. Click here for the December 2012 report on the strategic plan.
Jan 25 Summer registration opens Monday, Jan. 28 at 8 a.m. Though you may not have received your printed copy of the summer activities catalog just yet, registration will open on Monday, Jan. 28 at 8 a.m. Packed with information on summer social skills programs, residential and daily camps, exciting event opportunities, and more, the 2019 AuSM Summer Activities Catalog is available online now. Click on these links to learn more about AuSM Summer Camp programs and AuSM Summer Social Skills classes, and get ready to register on Jan. 28! Printed copies of the 2019 AuSM Summer Activities Catalog and AuSM's Guide to Sensory-Friendly Minnesota will be arriving in mailboxes soon!
Jan 14 AuSM's newest guide about inclusivity and sensory-friendly Introducing AuSM’s Guide to Sensory-Friendly Minnesota, a reference tool and planning guide for families and individuals with autism and other sensory sensitivities. Learn why sensory-friendly events and activities are important, find recommendations for creating sensory-friendly events and activities, read personal stories, and check out the calendar guide of sensory-friendly community events and activities to unite our community. The guide will drop in mailboxes within the next couple of weeks, but it is available online now. Click here to access the electronic version of the guide. AuSM also encourages you to visit the newly designed Uniting the Community Eventspage on our site. The page includes a chronological listing of events and activities offered by AuSM and our community partners. AuSM is pleased to offer opportunities for families and individuals with autism to come together and enjoy fun activities in supportive, welcoming environments. Click on the above link to view this great new resource.
Jan 19 AuSM invites you to Disability Day at the Capitol Feb. 27 On Tuesday, Feb. 27 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., join The Arc Minnesota for the 2018 Disability Day at the Capitol where participants will gather to rally in support of people with disabilities in Minnesota. AuSM encourages participation by families, caregivers, direct service providers, and individuals with autism so the needs of those with autism can be heard. This event, held at the Minnesota State Capitol, is co-sponsored by the Autism Society of Minnesota, Minnesota Brain Injury Alliance, Advocating Change Together, MOFAS, Minnesota Council on Disability, and Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities. There is no cost to participate, but registration is encouraged. Click here to register.
Jan 19 MLB and MN Twins Autism Awareness Day: June 3, 2018 Join AuSM for a fun day at Target Field as Major League Baseball and the Minnesota Twins celebrate Autism Awareness Day on June 3. Those purchasing game tickets through AuSM's unique link will have the opportunity to participate in an on-field parade before watching the Twins take on the Cleveland Indians. Ticket purchase through AuSM's link includes the pre-game parade, a seat at the game, and a $3 donation to the Autism Society of Minnesota. Cheer for the Twins while supporting those you love with autism! Tickets are $22 each and must be purchased by May 13, 2018. Click here to order your tickets today.
Jan 12 Students with autism go Into the Wild at Xcel Energy Center Associated Bank, AuSM, and the Minnesota Wild brought students, teachers, and caregivers from Spero Academy and Lionsgate Academy "Into the Wild" today at the Xcel Energy Center. Participants were able to experience what it's like to attend a MN Wild game, including claiming tickets at the will call window, walking through security, and finding seats in the arena. They also watched the MN Wild practice, had the opportunity to shoot a puck and learn about check writing and personal finance in the Associated Bank Power Play Zone, took in the view from the press box on the top floor, and wrote and drew about what makes them awesome. Some even met Wild Coach Bruce Boudreau and were interviewed by WCCO-TV | CBS Minnesota, KSTP-TV, and FOX 9 News! Thank you, Associated Bank and MN Wild, for this amazing experience!
Jan 11 Celebrate birthdays with treats and games at AuSM AuSM is pleased to announce the creation of a monthly birthday celebration and game night for adults with autism ages 18+. Birthdays are something we all have in common – let’s celebrate together! Come to AuSM to celebrate your birthday and the birthdays of others with cake and games. Bring a board or card game to play. AuSM will provide treats. Everyone is welcome, whether it’s your birthday or not! The cost is $3 per person, unless it's your birthday month, in which case registration is free. AuSM's next celebration will be on March 21 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at AuSM's office in St. Paul. Click here for more information and to register.
Jan 08 Registration open for inclusive 2018 Super Fest Minnesota The Autism Society of Minnesota is partnering with The Matthew Foundation, ESPN, and other local organizations to bring you an exciting, hands-on event on Saturday, Feb. 3 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Eden Prairie Football Dome. Super Fest is a inclusive football clinic, cheerleading clinic, and scrimmage and features people with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities participating together. The event culminates in a game day experience with the national anthem, player name announcements, scrimmage, and cheer performance. Registration for 2018 Super Fest Minnesota is OPEN! The cost is $25 per participant. Register as soon as possible to secure your place; this event is expected to fill quickly. Click here for more information about 2018 Super Fest Minnesota and to register.
Jan 05 2018 Hennepin, Dakota, and Ramsey Counties Autism Grants Hennepin, Dakota, and Ramsey Counties are collaborating with the Department of Human Services and AuSM to promote training and respite activities for individuals with autism or a related condition and their caregivers. Up to $1,000 of financial support may be applied toward AuSM training and respite. Support varies by county. For Hennepin County, participants must be registered before June 15, 2018 for training and/or respite activities. For Dakota and Ramsey Counties, funds are for training and/or respite activities that occur before June 30, 2018. Contact AuSM at 651.647.1083 ext. 22 for more information. Click here for more information about this exciting new funding opportunity!
Jan 25 Town Hall Meeting on reducing MA/TEFRA fees Jan. 28 The AuSM Advocacy Committee invites you to join us for a Town Hall Meeting sponsored by the Coalition to Reduce MA/TEFRA Fees on Saturday, Jan. 28 from 3-4:30 p.m. at the Minnesota Department of Education, 1500 Commerce St., Conference Center A, Roseville, MN 55113. We will provide fact sheets and volunteers will be available to help you tell your story. Invite your legislators to attend so they can learn why this issue is important to you. If your legislator has indicated that he or she is attending, please let us know at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Jan 25 VITALS pilot program application extended to Feb. 3 AuSM is partnering with Aware Services, LLC and the St. Paul Police Department to offer a free pilot project that uses mobile technology to help individuals with autism and other “invisible disabilities” live more independently and securely in the community. Many conditions like autism, traumatic brain injury, mental health challenges, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, epilepsy, and others are referred to as “invisible” disabilities, because there are no physical indicators that others can see that might inform them of the disability. The invisibility of these disabilities can put the individuals at risk, because they often exhibit behaviors and traits that emergency responders can misinterpret as being intoxicated, uncooperative, or evasive. A new technology-based project called the “Vulnerable Individuals Technology Assisted Location Service” – or VITALS – helps make the invisible visible. VITALS uses a transmitter, or beacon, and a mobile app that allow individuals with an “invisible” disability to voluntarily disclose their diagnosis to emergency responders within a 30-50 foot radius. Continue Reading
Jan 18 Plan your AuSM summer adventure; catalog sneak peek Summer activities abound – swimming, canoeing, arts and crafts, exploring nature, geocaching, science, filmmaking, horseback riding, music, yoga, theater, bonfires, and more. Everyone deserves the chance to take advantage of all summer has to offer. AuSM Social Skills classes and AuSM Camps provide these opportunities – each one 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. AuSM also welcomes individuals with other learning differences who can benefit from skills including sensory integration, executive functioning, theory of mind, selfregulation, and emotional regulation. Explore the 2017 AuSM Summer Activities catalog and discover ideas for summer adventure. Registration for AuSM Camps and AuSM Social Skills classes opens Jan. 30.
Jan 15 Technology pilot program to increase safety and independence AuSM is partnering with Aware Services, LLC and the St. Paul Police Department to offer a free pilot project that uses mobile technology to help individuals with autism and other “invisible disabilities” live more independently and securely in the community. Many conditions like autism, traumatic brain injury, mental health challenges, fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, epilepsy, and others are referred to as “invisible” disabilities, because there are no physical indicators that others can see that might inform them of the disability. The invisibility of these disabilities can put the individuals at risk, because they often exhibit behaviors and traits that emergency responders can misinterpret as being intoxicated, uncooperative, or evasive. A new technology-based project called the “Vulnerable Individuals Technology Assisted Location Service” – or VITALS – helps make the invisible visible. VITALS uses a transmitter, or beacon, and a mobile app that allow individuals with an “invisible” disability to voluntarily disclose their diagnosis to emergency responders within a 30-50 foot radius. Continue Reading
Jan 10 Autism Day at the Minnesota capitol is Jan. 17 The The Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities and AuSM are partnering to offer Autism Day at the Minnesota capitol from 9:30-11 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 17. This is your opportunity to meet with legislators and policy-makers, and provide them with information about issues that impact the lives of Minnesota’s autism community. The event will take place in the MN Department of Transportation cafeteria at 395 John Ireland Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155. For planning purposes, please RSVP to the MN CCD office: 952.818.8719, or e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Jan 10 Jan. 10 AuSM Skillshop Canceled Due to inclement weather, tonight's AuSM Skillshop to be held at Merrick, Inc. from 7-9 p.m., "Keeping Aggresson in Check", has been canceled. For more information on upcoming AuSM Skillshops, including the Jan. 24 "Communication Breakdown: How to Resolve Conflicts",click here.
Jan 06 Join the Minnesota autism community for Steps of Hope 2017 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 on March 5, 2017 from 8:30-11 a.m. Registration to participate in Steps of Hope 2017 (including the autism resource fair) is free. The first ever AuSM Flash Dash presented by Accra will kick off Steps of Hope from 9-9:15 a.m. on the first floor of Southdale Center. Feel like a superhero as you power walk, skip, roll, or mosey your way from start to finish on the short, indoor course. All ages, abilities, and mobilities can join in on the fun and earn a medal and bragging rights. AuSM Flash Dash registration is $5 per person. All dollars support AuSM's programs and services for the local autism community. Register for the AuSM Flash Dash by Jan. 31, and your name will be entered into a drawing for a free one night stay (March 4) in a two room suite at the Residence Inn Minneapolis Edina. Prize includes a superhero breakfast on March 5!
Jan 25 Registration for 2016 summer programs is open Summer is the season for exciting opportunities, new experiences, and confidence-building fun. Register for your summer adventure at one of AuSM's exciting day and residential summer camps or sign up for an AuSM summer social skills class that suits your interests. Not sure what camp or class will work best for you? Explore AuSM's summer catalog online and then register for your summer adventure today!
Jan 22 Vikings voice "PA" to emcee Steps of Hope 2016 AuSM is pleased to announce that KFAN FM 100.3's Paul Allen, the voice of Vikings football, will be the Steps of Hope for Autism in Minnesota 2016 emcee! Register today to join AuSM and PA on March 6 at Southdale Center for the state's most powerful walk for autism featuring a colossal autism resource fair. Recruit the family members and friends to join your team and fundraise for the Minnesota autism community. Teams and individuals can register through the Steps of Hope 2016 Crowdrise page, AuSM's new, easy, and fun way to join in this event of the year for our community.
Jan 21 Learn communication and future prep in February On Tuesday, Feb. 2, AuSM therapist Beth Pitchford, MA, will present "Focus on Unspoken Communication" from 7-9 p.m. at Lionsgate Academy in Crystal, Minn. Individuals with autism, parents, family members, caregivers, educators, and therapists are invited to learn about facial expressions, microexpressions, and larger body movements and how these unspoken forms of communication add meaning to spoken communication and deepen the value of interpersonal relationships. On Tuesday, Feb. 16, join us at AuSM's office in St. Paul from 7-9 p.m. when Jason Schellack, Esq. presents "Preparing for the Future: Guardianship and Supplemental Needs Trusts." Learn the process for establishing legal guardianship for adult children with disabilities and how to qualify for free legal assistance. Also learn about supplemental needs trusts and how they can help provide for your loved one with autism while still maintaining eligibility for government benefits. Click here to learn more and to register for the February AuSM Skillshops.
Jan 15 Share your message with the MN autism community AuSM invites you to make an impact at the Autism Society of Minnesota’s 21st Annual Minnesota Autism Conference. The conference, held April 27-30, 2016 at the Doubletree by Hilton Park Place Hotel in St. Louis Park, Minn., is the ideal platform to share your organization’s story, products and services with our community. When you participate as an exhibitor, sponsor or advertiser, you can expect to reach hundreds of parents; special education teachers; speech, physical and occupational therapists; mental health professionals; program managers; direct support professionals, and individuals with autism. Reserving your sponsorship, advertising and exhibit space by April 5, 2016 will secure your inclusion in the conference program. Click here for more information.
Jan 11 Photographer with autism Artist of the Month at Affinity Affinity Plus Federal Credit Union in Minneapolis has named photographer Larry Mack Artist of the Month. Mack has selected 14 of his photography images to share through a display at the Affinity Plus branch in January. Mack, who has been interested in photography since he was 14, said his images are inspired by “whatever comes up”, and his display includes prints of trains, cityscapes, and nature. Mack also believes his photography skill is enhanced by the autism diagnosis he received in 2012. “I am not an autistic artist; I’m an artist with high functioning autism,” Mack said. “I have a capability and see things a little differently.” Continue Reading
Jan 05 AuSM in Health Partners insurance network As of Jan. 1, 2016, the Autism Society of Minnesota is in the Health Partners Open Access Network. The Open Access Network is Health Partners' broadest network and includes Medical Assistance and Minnesota Care. Contact Health Partners Behavioral Health Navigators at 952.883.5811 to confirm that AuSM is in your network plan.
Jan 04 Strike an AUTISM HERO pose for Steps of Hope 2016 AuSM's executive director, Jonah Weinberg, invites you to unlock your inner autism hero! Flex your hero muscles and show us what a true AUTISM HERO looks like. Pose in civilian clothes, or go all out with a cape or costume! E-mail your photo to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or post your photo to share with your networks on Facebook or Twitter with the tag #autismhero. Register today for the state's most powerful walk for autism featuring a colossal autism resource fair. Recruit the family members and friends to join your team and fundraise for the Minnesota autism community. Teams and individuals can register through the Steps of Hope 2016 Crowdrise page, AuSM's new, easy, and fun way to join in this event of the year for our community.
Jan 30 Understanding the Anxiety Curve on Feb. 3 at Fraser Join us for the next AuSM Skillshop, Understanding the Anxiety Curve, instructed by Mitzi Curtis, MA, on Tuesday, Feb. 3 from 7-9 p.m. at Fraser in Eden Prairie. Learn how to use the Anxiety Curve to assist individuals with autism in understanding and managing their emotional responses. Click here for more information. Online registration is closed. Walk in registrants are welcome, space permitting.
Jan 29 Discount tickets for Snowflake at CTC Feb. 20 Children's Theatre Company is proud to offer discount tickets to their sensory friendly showing of Snowflake on Feb. 20 at 7 p.m. Bring your love of goofy, silly, kindhearted humor, and be ready: you’ll see your own world in a completely different light afterwards. Click here to order tickets with a 25% discount.
Jan 28 Steps of Hope - AuSM Walk It's time to build your team!Calling all sponsors, individuals, families, teams and volunteers! We look forward to walking with you in 2015 at Southdale Center in Edina! Team up to raise money for autism programs and services in our community, visit with sponsors, gather information at the state's largest autism resource fair, and have FUN. Register today, fundraise, and join us for this great event with the Minnesota autism community!
Jan 28 Make Monkey Mind Pirates a part of your family Z Puppets Rosenschnoz and AuSM invite families affected by autism to participate in the FREE Monkey Mind Pirate workshops in the Twin Cities, Duluth and Rochester this spring and summer. Monkey Mind Pirates is the world's only puppet, rock yoga adventure, combining arts and mindfulness to give families creative tools to find calm. Each city's workshop is for youth living with autism, siblings ages 7+ and accompanying adults. Space is limited; register today! Click here for more information and to register for the workshop near you. Workshops will culminate with participants performing alongside Z Puppets as the Sailor Chorus in a public performance of the award-winning, nationally touring musical. Click here to order tickets for the show near you.
Jan 25 Summer camp and social skills registration opens Jan. 26 Are you ready to plan your exciting summer adventures? Registration for AuSM Summer Camps including Hand in Hand, Wahode and Discovery, and registration for AuSM Summer Social Skills classes including AuSM Como Zoo Skills, AuSM On the Town and Eastman Outdoor Adventure Camp open tomorrow. Registration for AuSM's camps with the Minnesota Zoo will open on Feb. 15. Click here to read through the catalog and choose the activity that will get your summer set for fun! Camps and classes will fill quickly!
Jan 25 Star Tribune article features AuSM's autism cards Star Tribune lifestyle writer Gail Rosenblum interviewed AuSM's Dawn Brasch about the value of "I Have Autism" and "This Child Has Autism" cards created to assist parents and individuals affected by autism. Click here to read the complete article. If you are interested in getting an "I Have Autism" or a "This Child Has Autism" card, please e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 651.647.1083.
Jan 25 One piece at a time AuSM's awesome puzzle making team had a great time working on their 1,500 piece puzzle during the Saint Paul Winter Carnival Jigsaw Puzzle Contest at the Landmark Center this morning. Way to go, team!
Jan 23 Coach Dave gives exercise tips and strategies More than 60 educators, parents, coaches and other professionals are learning how to implement effective exercise for individuals with autism during today's AuSM Workshop: "Exercise is the Gateway to Build Fitness, Self-Esteem and Relationships". Coach Dave Geslak is sharing tools and tips, and is ready to get participants up and moving. Thank you to Coach Dave, participants and workshop sponsors, Landscape Structures and Flagship Recreation for making this educational workshop possible.
Jan 22 Glimpse at a young man's journey through transition TPT MN Productions & Partnerships joined with AuSM to produce a video about a young man who has autism and his journey through the transition process. Click here to catch a sneak preview.
Jan 22 Coach Dave's exercise workshop is tomorrow Learn how to implement effective exercise into your routine during Friday's AuSM Workshop: "Exercise is the Gateway to Build Fitness, Self-Esteem and Relationships". Be ready to move and you will leave with the tools to transform the lives of those affected by autism! This workshop is sponsored by Landscape Structures/Flagship Recreation. Online registration is closed, but walk-in registrants are welcome. Click here for more information.
Jan 21 Final day to register online for exercise workshop Learn how to implement effective exercise into your routine during Friday's AuSM Workshop: "Exercise is the Gateway to Build Fitness, Self-Esteem and Relationships". Be ready to move and you will leave with the tools to transform the lives of those affected by autism! This workshop is sponsored by Landscape Structures/Flagship Recreation. Online registration will close at the end of the day today. Walk-in registrants are welcome, space permitting. Click here for more information and to register today.
Jan 20 AuSM puzzle making team at St. Paul Winter Carnival Come and watch AuSM's awesome puzzle making skills in action during the St. Paul Winter Carnival's Jigsaw Puzzle Contest on Saturday, Jan. 24 at the Landmark Center. Visit AuSM's resource table at the event and cheer on the AuSM team! Click here for more information.
Jan 20 Ice cream for AuSM AuSM is partnering with Izzy's Ice Cream for their 13 Days of Giving program. On Feb. 2, 2015, Izzy's Ice Cream will donate $2 to AuSM for every purchase of ice cream in a cake cone, a sugar cone or in a bowl. Please visit one of the two Izzy's Ice Cream Twin Cities locations on Feb. 2 and support AuSM's mission of enhancing the lives of of those in our local autism community! Click here for more information.
Jan 19 In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and you Here's to the Minnesota autism community and the dedication, caring and determination that moves us forward each day.
Jan 14 Steps of Hope 2015 registration is open! It's time to build your team!Calling all sponsors, individuals, families, teams and volunteers! We look forward to walking with you in 2015 at Southdale Center in Edina! Team up to raise money for autism programs and services in our community, visit with sponsors, gather information at the state's largest autism resource fair, and have FUN. Register today, fundraise, and join us for this great event with the Minnesota autism community!
Jan 09 Bring mindfulness and calm into your family's life Z Puppets Rosenschnoz and AuSM invite families affected by autism to participate in the FREE Monkey Mind Pirate workshops this February and March. Monkey Mind Pirates is the world's only puppet, rock yoga adventure, combining arts and mindfulness to give families creative tools to find calm. Session 2 is full, but Session 1 still has a few openings for youth living with autism, siblings ages 7+ and accompanying adults. Space is limited; register today! Click here for more information and to register.
Jan 09 Add exercise to your routine in the new year Autism parents, caregivers, educators and fitness professionals: Learn how to implement effective exercise into your routine. Coach Dave Geslak will present "Exercise is the Gateway to Build Fitness, Self-Esteem and Relationships" on Friday, Jan. 23 at Ties in St. Paul. Be ready to move and you will leave with the tools to transform the lives of those affected by autism! This workshop is sponsored by Landscape Structures/Flagship Recreation. Click here for more information and to register today.
Jan 09 Conference Call for Papers applications due Thursday Share your insights with the Minnesota autism community! AuSM is seeking proposals for breakout session presentations during the 20th Annual Minnesota Autism Conference. If you are interested in submitting a presentation proposal, please click here to download the Call for Papers application form. Proposals are due Thursday, January 15, 2015.
Jan 07 Sensory Storytime at Northtown Library in Anoka Join our friends at the Northtown Library in Blaine to participate in a free four-week Sensory Storytime class beginning Jan. 10. The sessions will be structured for children with diverse special education needs who may have difficulty engaging with books in the conventional way. Sensory Storytimes will combine books, songs, movement, and activities to stimulate the senses and promote learning. Click here for more information and to register.
Jan 05 5 ways to participate with AuSM in the new year Participate in a special interest-focused AuSM Social Skills class. Classes are open for registration in winter, spring, summer and fall, and are a great opportunity to make friends, fit into a group, take part in conversations and have fun. Join the Minnesota autism community for Steps of Hope 2015, AuSM's annual fundraiser and the state's largest autism resource fair. The family fun event will take place on March 1 at Southdale Center in Edina. Registration will open soon. Visit an AuSM Support Group. Free to the community, AuSM Support Groups offer those affected by autism the opportunity to share problems, solutions, joy, and sorrows with one another. Most groups meet monthly, and advance registration is required. Make plans to attend the 20th Annual Minnesota Autism Conference where we will join our voices as a passionate network to inspire hope and innovation. This year's event will take place April 29-May 2 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Minneapolis Park Place. Join AuSM's Advocacy Committee. As we find strength in numbers, let's work together to let the decision makers know that the Minnesota autism community is active, engaged and ready to speak out.
Jan 01 Happy New Year! May your moments in this new year be filled with love, patience, understanding, small victories, calm, smiles, acceptance, support, attention, empowerment, awareness, friendship, health, laughter, respite, and happiness. Happy New Year from AuSM!
Jan 27 It's cold outside, but we're ready for an AuSM summer! Registration for AuSM summer camps and social skills programs is open. Summer is the season for exciting opportunities, new experiences and confidence-building fun. Every young person deserves the chance to take advantage of all summer has to offer. AuSM Social Skills summer programs and AuSM Camps provide these opportunities – each one tailored to give youth with autism a fun, safe and exciting experience while they increase self-esteem, expand their knowledge and build friendships that last a lifetime. Space is limited in all programs. Register early - your AuSM adventure awaits!
Jan 27 "Steps of Hope" is granted trademark AuSM is pleased to announce that we have been granted a trademark for the term "Steps of Hope", the name of our annual family-friendly fundraising walk. We would like to thank Michael Bondi and Dicke, Billig & Czaja, PLLC, patent, trademark and copyright attorneys of Minneapolis for donating their time and expertise on registering the trademark for Steps of Hope. Steps of Hope 2014 will take place on March 2 at Ridgedale Center. Click here for more information and to register to walk with us!
Jan 24 Let's Talk About Transition community conversations This spring, join us for community conversations focused on improving employment and post-secondary education opportunities for students with disabilities. Share your thoughts about current resources and challenges. Explore ideas for improving transition services for students with disabilities. These community dialogs, organized by AuSM, are provided through a Community Innovation Grant from the Bush Foundation. Click here for more information.
Jan 11 Final chance to submit a proposal for conference Proposals for presentations at the 19th Annual Minnesota Autism Conference are due Jan. 15. Don't miss this opportunity to reach the Minnesota autism community. Click here to download the official Call for Papers document (MS Word).
Jan 11 Shop Amazon, support AuSM programs and services We are happy to announce a new way to shop and support AuSM at the same time: Amazon Smile. Click here to choose AuSM as your preferred charity and shop as usual. A percentage of your purchases will be given to AuSM to support programs and services for the Minnesota autism community.
Jan 11 Monkey Mind Pirates features members of the MN autism community The Penny George Institute for Health and Healing, Z Puppets Rosenschnoz and the Autism Society of Minnesota invite you to a Monkey Mind Pirates performance featuring families from the Minnesota autism community. The free sensory-friendly performance will take place on Feb. 15 at 2:30 p.m. at the Children's Theatre in Minneapolis. Click here for more information and to register.
Jan 10 Party at Sky Zone when Steps of Hope goal is reached Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park, an AuSM Premier Partner, has offered to throw a huge party for the Minnesota autism community when we meet our Steps of Hope 2014 fundraising goal of $88,000. Register to be a part of Steps of Hope, AuSM's largest annual fundraiser. Dollars raised during this important family-friendly walk support AuSM’s programs and services and also fund Steps of Hope Support Grants. Help us raise our 2014 goal of $88,000 and then get ready to party! Everyone's in - Team Up for Autism today! Click here to learn more, register and follow our progress to our goal!
Jan 07 January AuSM ASD 101 class canceled Due to instructor illness, the AuSM ASD 101 class scheduled for Jan. 8 has been canceled. The next AuSM ASD 101 class is scheduled for Feb. 12 from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the AuSM office. Click here for more information.
Jan 30 HSCF accepting applications for award The HSC Foundation, an organization dedicated to improving access to services for individuals who face social and health care barriers due to disability, chronic illness, or other circumstances that present unique needs, is seeking the next generation of disability advocates. If you are a young leader with a disability or know of anyone who is, you are encouraged to apply for the 2013 Advocates in Disability Award (ADA). The deadline for applications is March 15. Click here for more details.
Jan 25 Is there really a cure for autism? Several recent reports in national network news have again raised the issue of “curing” autism. The report cited an article in a research journal (Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry) that noted that a small group of young adults who had been diagnosed with autism as young children were able to function independently without special education support. Continue Reading
Jan 21 St. Croix Valley Foundation hosts discussion about autism Conversations of the Valley, a public affairs luncheon series, sponsored by the St. Croix Valley Foundation will host a session, "Autism, 1 in 88: What You Need to Know" on Feb. 27. Nora Slawik, AuSM's Director of Education will provide background on autism, talk about the latest trends, and discuss the benefits of investing in employees with autism. Click here for more information and to register.
Jan 17 Spectrum High School creates ties that bind A big thank you to the 6th-12th graders at Spectrum High School who helped create tied fleece puzzle piece-themed blankets that AuSM will sell at Steps of Hope 2013 on March 3 at Ridgedale Center. All blanket proceeds will support Minnesota families with autism.
