Community Members
In 2018, the CDC determined that approximately 1 in 59 children is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). As part of the broad Pennsylvania community, individuals with autism live and work among us, making these resources for the community a valuable and necessary asset.
Emergency Preparedness Shelter Toolkits
These trauma-informed sensory positive toolkits were developed in partnership with the PA Department of Human Services for the purpose of informing self-advocates, shelter staff/volunteers, families, caregivers, and Direct Support Professionals (DSP) on how to best support persons with sensory needs, including individuals with Intellectual Disabilities and/or Autism in a disaster shelter setting. These toolkits are available to download, print, and share.
View ResourceCharacteristics of Autism
This resource, designed for direct support staff, provides a basic introduction to the different characteristics of autism.
View ResourceAutism Society of America
The Autism Society of America (ASA) provides advocacy, education, information, referral, support and community at national, state and local levels through their nationwide network of Affiliates. Their website includes information on autism for individuals, parents, professionals and community members.
View ResourceAutism Speaks
Autism Speaks funds global biomedical research into the causes, prevention, treatments, and cure for autism; raises public awareness about autism and its effects on individuals, families, and society; and brings hope to all who deal with the hardships of this disorder.
View ResourceSearch within Community Members resources
Diversionary Programs: Justice System
This resource, developed by ASERT, provides an overview of what diversionary programs are, the goals of such programs, and examples of these programs in the justice system.
Read moreEmergency Preparedness Shelter Toolkits
These trauma-informed sensory positive toolkits were developed in partnership with the PA Department of Human Services for the purpose of informing self-advocates, shelter staff/volunteers, families, caregivers, and Direct Support Professionals (DSP) on how to best support persons with sensory needs, including individuals with Intellectual Disabilities and/or Autism in a disaster shelter setting. These toolkits are available to download, print, and share.
Read moreEmployment Information for Employers
Below is information on employment that we hope potential employers will find useful when interacting with their employees!
Read moreEvidence-Based Practices
This resource provides information about evidence-based practices, what it means, how they're determined and a list of established treatments from the National Standards Project.
Read moreFighting COVID-19 Misinformation
This resource provides information and resources for providers to support individuals and families who may come across misinformation related to COVID-19.
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Fire Safety Outreach Materials for People with Disabilities
The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) reviews and collects resources that can be used in public outreach activities to help keep people with disabilities safe from home fires. Please click on the link below to access this helpful resource.
Read moreFire Safety Tips
Fire safety is important for everyone, but particularly important for individuals with disabilities and those with limited communication skills. Here are some tips and resources to support people with disabilities.
Read moreGetting a Haircut During COVID-19 Social Story
This resource provides a visual guide for individuals with autism about getting a haircut during the COVID-19 pandemic. An animated version of the social story is also included. This resource has also been translated into Spanish, Arabic, Russian, and Chinese.
Read moreGetting Tested for COVID-19 Social Story
This resource, developed by ASERT, provides a visual guide for what to expect if someone needs to be tested for COVID-19. An animated version is also available.
Read moreGetting the COVID-19 Vaccine Social Stories
These social stories provide a visual explanation of what to expect when getting the vaccine for COVID-19 and what you may experience after getting the vaccine. Social stories are provided in both English and Spanish, and have also been developed into videos.
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