Autism Society Greater Harrisburg Area

Annual Call for Nominations to the ASGHA Board of Directors In preparation for our Elections and Virtual Annual Business Meeting on November 12, 2020, the Autism Society Greater Harrisburg Area is conducting its annual Call for Nominations to the Board of Directors. The purpose of the annual meeting is for all active members of ASGHA to elect Board members. Additionally, the President reviews Society business and accomplishments over the past year as well as seeks input from... the membership regarding any concerns, issues, and/or ideas. Members of the Board of Directors must be current members of the Autism Society (National), reside in one of ASGHA's 13 county service region, and have a strong desire to make a difference in the lives of those affected by autism. The Board of Directors meets monthly to ensure the affiliate is financially secure, well maintained, growing, and always operating in the best interests of those served. Any current, registered member of ASGHA can submit a name for nomination to the Board of Directors, including their own. Board members must be available to attend monthly board meetings and to take a leadership role in at least one major event or fundraiser. Nominations will be accepted through October 5, 2020. Nominations can be sent to the Nominations Committee via email: [email protected], or via USPS mail: Greater Harrisburg Area Autism Society, PO BOX 101, Enola, PA 17025, ATTN: Nominations. The Nominations Chair will contact all nominees prior to October 15, 2020 to obtain resumes and schedule interviews. Election Ballots and BOD Candidate information will be posted November 1, 2020 and will also be made available at the Virtual Annual Business Meeting on November 12, 2020. Questions concerning nominations may be directed to: [email protected] Thank you, Leora Smith Appleby President, Board of Directors Autism Society Greater Harrisburg Area [email protected] www.autismharrisburg.org Autism Society Greater Harrisburg Area Counties served: Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Mifflin, Northumberland, Perry, Snyder, Union, and York.

Click the event to learn more about our 2020 Holiday Party! We know it will look a little different this year but it is still going to be a blast! Our elves have been working hard so be sure to click the event page and register today. We can't wait to "see" you!!!

Learn about the PA ABLE Savings Program through several Upcoming FREE Webinars! Some of the topics will include: eligibility requirements for opening a PA ABLE account, the federal and state tax benefits of PA ABLE, how PA ABLE account interacts with current benefits, and information for HR/Benefits Professionals. To learn more and/or register, please visit the following link: https://www.paable.gov/webinar/

Mark your calendars for Tuesday at 11 am EDT for a special Coronavirus Information Series panel, A Global Discussion on Supporting Students with Autism!" Hoste...d with Embassy of the State of Qatar the episode features advocacy organizations, educators, and students discussing autism, education and COVID-19. See more

Many people with ASD face sensory and social communication challenges. Face masks may be tough to get used to, but with patience and effort, a person with ASD c...an successfully wear a mask and help keep themselves and others safe. Tips for encouraging mask wearing for those with ASD or other intellectual disabilities: Demonstrate using the face mask on a preferred object or person, such as a stuffed animal, a doll, or a family member. Allow the person with ASD to choose among different types of fabric face masks to find one that is most comfortable. Start by practicing wearing the face mask for short durations of time, allowing for breaks when needed. Plan initial outings in low-demand environments that are quiet and calm, so that the individual can experience success wearing the face mask. Use a printed photo or digital photo of the individual wearing a face mask as a visual cue to wear the mask before outings. The photo can be stored close to the door or on a tablet that is easily accessible.