What's Next for Persons with Autism

Every parent has a dream for their child -- to find their vocations, to be productive and to be self-reliant. But for the young adults with autism, after the years of therapies and interventions, what's next?

Our speaker, Mr. Dominic Cheoc, an occupational therapist specializing in transition education, discussed preparing persons with autism for employment, recognizing their strengths and challenges, developing employability skills, among others. He recognized that not all paths to productivity mean traditional employment. They may also choose to go into sheltered workshops, part-time work, freelance work and volunteerism.

Mr. Dominic Cheoc speaking in seminar

Expressive communication skills and social skills are only some of the abilities PWAs need to develop to land traditional jobs. Other challenges that need to be overcome include but are not limited to a narrow set of interests, obsessions, irrational fears.

Many adults with autism possess skills and attitudes suitable and valuable for specific industries and job roles. PWA's can be assets in workplaces; because they are focused on their work, keen on details. They have a good memory, acute organization skills, accurate visual perception and tolerance to repetitive activities. Groups like LGU PESO units, UNILAB Foundation and of course, ASP through its Autism Works career placement initiative, aim to bring these uniqueness to employers, so they can benefit from this under-tapped work force.

Employment steps for PWAs is similar for everyone else. They must walk into a recruiter's office with the experience, training and behavior, suitable for the job they aspire to have. They will undergo assessment that will being to the fore their skills, interests, capabilities and strengths; as well as their challenges.

Once they have landed the position, job coaching and continued counselling will help the PWAs deal with their work environment; as well as help the employer manage their worker on the spectrum better -- towards better acceptance, accommodation, and appreciation.

ASP National President Mona Veluz introduced the ASP Autism Works program which was carefully crafted after evaluating ASP's years of experience in finding work for persons with autism. Under Ms. Mona's management, the program developed recruitment, assessment and training modules -- continuously evolving to reflect the needs of the PWAs and the employers.

The seminar attended by 45 participants compose of professionals and parents held in Autism Society Philippines National Headquarters last 30 July 2016.

About the contributor: Lloyd Ngo worked as an ASP intern when he attended Independent Living and Learning Center. He began working in 2012 as an encoder at the Ongkiko Manhit Custodio and Acorda Law Offices in Makati. He is currently ASP’s Program Assistant for Communications.

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Posted in: 4parents,4pros,4public

ASP PweDay on August 3: RetroFitness

"A feeble body weakens the mind." --Jean-Jacques Rousseau

The Autism Society Philippines "PweDay" --pronounced [pwe'-dey] -- happens every Wednesday. The weekly activities aim to provide enrichment for teens and adults with autism who are not currently enrolled in schools. ASP PweDays will offer opportunities to learn new skills, to socialize with non-family members and to have fun.

PweDay Retrofitness

On August 3, the incomparable Miss Donna Lim will teach a modified "Retrofit" class, a dance class to the tune of fun music from the 60s, 70s and 80s. The class is open to PWAs, 16 years old and above who may be accompanied by a maximum of one (1) companion.

Participants must sign up on the form below and bring the following.
- P50 donation to ASP
- colorful work-out clothes
- towel and an extra shirt

"Adults with autism who are no longer in school end up in the fringes of society." Mona Magno-Veluz, ASP National President shares, "ASP is deeply invested in building a society where individuals with autism be the best of their potentials -- self-reliant, independent, productive and socially-accepted members of the community -- no matter where they are on the spectrum."

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Posted in: 4pwas,pweday

ASP PweDay on July 27: Yoga for Relaxation

"Relaxation is a feeling of refreshed tranquility and an absence on tension or worry."

The Autism Society Philippines "PweDay" --pronounced [pwe'-dey] -- happens every Wednesday. The weekly activities aim to provide enrichment for teens and adults with autism who are not currently enrolled in schools. ASP PweDays will offer opportunities to learn new skills, to socialize with non-family members and to have fun.

PweDay Yoga For Relaxation

On July 27, Teacher Gaizel Adan will guide the group in movements designed to promote wellness and relaxation. The class is open to PWAs, 16 years old and above who may be accompanied by a maximum of one (1) companion.

Participants must sign up on the form below and bring the following.
- P 50 donation to ASP
- comfortable work-out clothes, preferably green
- yoga mat
- towel and an extra shirt

"Adults with autism who are no longer in school end up in the fringes of society." Mona Magno-Veluz, ASP National President shares, "ASP is deeply invested in building a society where individuals with autism be the best of their potentials -- self-reliant, independent, productive and socially-accepted members of the community -- no matter where they are on the spectrum."

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Posted in: 4pwas,autismokph

ASP Alfonso and Laguna partner in seminar on care of CWDs

ASP Los Baños Laguna Mrs. Veronica Chavez and Mrs. Catherine Lopez facilitated seminar on "The Fundamentals in the Care and Management of Children with Disability" last 19 July 19 2016 at the Sanguniang Hall of the Alfonso Central School in Alfonso, Cavite.

ASP Alfonso and Laguna Participants

Day care workers, barangay health workers, teachers from elementary schools from BMS, PDAO officials, parents with CWD and members of ASP Alfonso Chapter. The said event was a joint effort of the municipal goverment headed by Mayor Virgilio Varias, Vice-Mayor Randy Salamat, Sanggunian Bayan Member Carol Rivera, MSWDO officer Gina T. Vedan, DepEd District Supervisor Milagros Norcio, Alfonso SPED Center, PDAO and the Autism Society Philippines.

About the contributor: Noleth Rozul is a college graduate B.S medical technology at De Ocampo Memorial College Manila. She has a son with ADHD. A fulltime housewife married for 19 years, now an active member and secretary to ASP Alfonso Chapter. Finished a short course in microsoft word, excel, power point last 2008 at Alfonso Technical Center.

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Posted in: 4parents,4pros,chapters,regional

Mommy Jo leads an Family Support Group

ASP Diliman President Josephine Palomares welcomed participants to a Family Support Group held in Autism Society Philippines National Headquarters last 16 July 2016. ASP’s monthly family support group sessions bring together parents, siblings and other family members to talk about their journey in living with autism. Participants share their experiences and draw enlightenment and strength from others going through the same challenges.

The discussion reinforced that importance of a support from peers who can understand one's situation. As the group shared stories about their children and their journey, they realized that mothers are not meant to be "superwomen" -- they need to give themselves a break at times.

Josephine Palomares leading Family Support Group

About the contributor. Lloyd Ngo worked as an ASP intern when he attended Independent Living and Learning Center. He began working in 2012 as an encoder at the Ongkiko Manhit Custodio and Acorda Law Offices in Makati. He is currently ASP’s Program Assistant for Communications.

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Posted in: fsg

ASP Lipa Oath Taking

The Autism Society Philippines (ASP), in cooperation with the municipality of Lipa held an Oath-Taking Ceremony for the newly-elected officials of ASP Lipa City Chapter last 11 July 2016 at the Lipa City Hall, Marawoy, Lipa City.

ASP Lipa Officers and Trustees with Trustee Ms. Jan Peña, Administrator and Mayor

Each of the officers were recognized and asked to go onstage to deliver their oaths to serve in their respective positions: Lilia M. Balane, as the president; Mona Liza A. Lantin, as the vice-president; Maricar A. Carandang, as the secretary; Menchie L. Altamirano, as the treasurer; Susan R. Segovia, as the auditor; Kristine L. Panopio, as the P.R.O.; Mary Grace A. Serrano, Leah Teresa E. Hardillo, Josie D. Sebolino, and Annabelle G. Masalunga as trustees and Mary Anne Panganiban as the adviser. The oath-taking was administered by the City Administrator, Atty. Leo S. Latido, in behalf of Mayor Meynard A. Sabili.

“Nagmimithi na mahimok sa malawakang kampanya sa pagtanggap at pagkalinga sa mga batang may autismo.” This was how Mrs. Jan Peña, (Trustee, ASP National) described the mission of the said division of the ASP in her speech which she gave after the ceremony. She also added that they also aim for “pagpapalaganap ng tamang pag-unawa” and, as an organization for Children With Autism, “Narito po kami para magbigay pag-asa sa lahat.”

For this occasion, the Autism Society Philippines - Lipa would like to extend their gratitude to the City Mayor, Meynard A. Sabili; Community Affairs Officer II Ms. Jinky S. Bruce; City Social Welfare and Development Officer Ms. Teresita T. Pesa; City Administrator Atty. Leo S. Latido, City; and Councilor Nonato “Patmon” Monfero; LAMESA Federation headed by their President Nenita Hablado; to the parents and employees who were present during the occasion; members of the ASP Lipa Chapter; and Ms. Laura de Luna, Ms. Lucy Manguiat, Ms Cherry Ann Rabino and all the CSWDO staffs for supporting and believing in the advocacy of Autism Society Philippines.

ASP Lipa would like to thank ASP National for the help and support, especially to their mentor, Trustee Ms. Jan Peña; to their Program Coordinator Mr. Cenin Faderogao and to the President Ms. Mona Magno- Veluz.

About the contributor: Ma. Bernadette M. Balane, a second year student from the University of the Philippines currently taking up Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy.

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Posted in: chapters,induction,regional

ASP PweDay on July 20: Sensory-Friendly Movie

"Movies are like an expensive form of therapy for me." Tim Burton

The Autism Society Philippines Wednesday "PweDay" aims to provide enrichment for children with autism who are not currently enrolled in schools. ASP PweDays will offer opportunities to learn new skills, to socialize with non-family members and to have fun.

On July 20, Wednesday, from 2pm to 5pm, we will be conducting a sensory-friendly movie viewing. To provide a more accepting and comfortable setting for our special audience, ASP will allow bringing up the lights, turning down sound volume, allowing families/PWAs to bring in their own snacks and welcoming audience members to get up, dance, walk, shout, sing, go in and out of the room.

This is open to PWAs of all ages. A P20 donation per head is requested. PWAs may bring their food to share.

"Adults with autism who are no longer in school end up in the fringes of society." Mona Magno-Veluz, ASP National President shares, "ASP is deeply invested in building a society where a individuals with autism be the best of their potentials -- self-reliant, independent, productive and socially-accepted members of the community -- no matter where they are on the spectrum. By keeping PWAs active and engaged outside the home, we are also training the society to be more aware of what autism is, to be more appreciative of their gifts and to be more accommodating of their deficits."

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Posted in: 4pwas,pweday

ASP PweDay on July 13: Artismo: Manga + Mandala

PweDay Artismo: Manga
+ Mandala

“Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.” Edgar Degas

The Autism Society Philippines Wednesday "PweDay" aims to provide enrichment for teens and adults with autism (16 years old and above) who are not currently enrolled in schools. ASP PweDays will offer opportunities to learn new skills, to socialize with non-family members and to have fun.

On July 13, Wednesday, from 2pm to 5pm, we will be conducting a session on art. PWA Paulo Guzman will teach how to draw Manga faces. Pweymates also have the option to color Mandala (adult coloring) cards.

We would like to foster independence among our participants. But if needed, a maximum of one (1) companion per PWA will be allowed in the training room.

"Adults with autism who are no longer in school end up in the fringes of society." Mona Magno-Veluz, ASP National President shares, "ASP is deeply invested in building a society where a individuals with autism be the best of their potentials -- self-reliant, independent, productive and socially-accepted members of the community -- no matter where they are on the spectrum. By keeping PWAs active and engaged outside the home, we are also training the society to be more aware of what autism is, to be more appreciative of their gifts and to be more accommodating of their deficits."

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Posted in: 4pwas,pweday

July 30 Seminar on Where to go NEXT: Preparation for Employment

Where to go NEXT: Preparation for Employment

8AM - 12PM

Persons with autism need to be prepared for work when they get older. Unfortunately, there is a gap between and actual practice.

To address this gap, a group of professionals started the IDEA Project (Independence, Dignity, Employability and Employment, and Advocacy) to empower the Adults with Intellectual Disabilities and their families with knowledge about adult outcomes and what happens after school, largely focusing on Independence, Dignity, Employability and Advocacy.

In this seminar, you will get to know the occupational options for PWAs, the existing models of employment, get an overview of how to prepare them for productive occupations many more.

Speaker:

Mr. Dominic Cheoc

Dominic U. Cheoc, OTRP. Has a professional interest in evaluation and intervention of adolescent and adult clients who have employment-related concerns. Dominic is a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from University of the Philippines - Manila in 2011. He has worked as an Occupational Therapist Consultant to various schools and handled different clients with special needs and becomes a full time Instructor at the University of the Philippines – Manila in 2012-2015. At present, he is an Occupational Therapist Consultant at Canopy Therapy Center, Therapy Works, Inc and Chatter Therapy Center, handling pediatric clients with different developmental disability.

He is also one of a consultant along with Developmental Pediatricians and other medical professionals in creating a Transition Clinic for Youth with Developmental Disabilities at Developmental and Behavioral Studies Unit (DBSU), PGH (started on July 2013)

Seminar Fees:

Pre-Registration (until July 26 or until slots last)

Member- P 600.00
Non-member- P 800.00

On-site Registration
Member- P 700.00
Non-member- 900.00

Seminar Details
Date: 30 July 2016, Saturday
Time: 8:00AM - 12:00PM
Venue: ASP National Headquarters, #9 11th Jamboree Street cor. Sct. Fuentabella, Brgy. Sacred Heart, Kamuning, Quezon City
Map: http://bit.ly/1LwgklB

Pre-registered participants may pay to Autism Society Philippines, Metrobank, Kamias Branch Account Number 047-3-04751874-2. Please email the scan copy of your deposit slip with the name/s of participant/s and contact numbers to autismphils@gmail.com and bring it on the day of the seminar. There will only be 70 slots available. No refund will be given to participants who do not show up on the date of the seminar. For more details, please call ASP at 7-903-5496.

The ASP Education and Empowerment Program serves as a platform to educate Filipino parents and professionals on the various interventions, modalities and theories surrounding Autism Spectrum Disorder. Their application and implementation are left at your discretion. The views and personal experiences of the speakers are their own and may not necessarily reflect the views of the organization.

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Posted in: 4parents,4pros,seminar

Wanted: Stories of love and hope

Stories of Love and Hope

The Autism Society Philippines runs an award-winning blog and
nurtures a vibrant autism support community via social media channels like Facebook, Twitter,
Instagram, Google Plus and LinkedIn.

We invite persons with autism and family members to send us your personal stories about love, hope and life on the spectrum -- so we can share on social media and help the public understand what it means to live with autism in the family.

Stories can be about an specific life experience that bring them hope. It can be an open letter. It can be about processing a negative incident into something others can learn from. It can be about praising a compassional individual or an enterprise that gives importance to the needs of customers with autism.

Simply send your stories to us via FB Messsenger, or email to autismphils@gmail.com

Submissions
1) written in English or Tagalog;
2) 200 to 400 words long;
3) never been published in print or on-line; except if on a blog that the writer owns;
4) accompanied by a high quality photo that supports the story
5) written by the submitter
6) written by someone who is willing to make their name public (no pseudonyms)

ASP reserves the right to edit articles for brevity and grammar

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Posted in: family,journey

ASP Family Support Group for July 2016

ASPs monthly family support group sessions bring together parents, siblings and other family members to talk about their journey in living with autism. Participants share their experiences and draw enlightenment and strength from others going through the same challenges. We welcome members and non-members to this intimate gathering. New ASP members are encouraged to join.

Ms. Josephine Palomares

Our facilitator for the July 16 Family Support Group session is Josephine Palomares. Jo Palomares has long been the face of autism advocacy for ASP Diliman Chapter. After serving as the President of the chapter for multiple terms, she continues to serve the disability community as she leads the Kaakibat ng Autism Society Philippines Inc. Multipurpose Cooperative; and contributes as an active member of the Association for Adults with Autism. She owns and personally manages a thriving model airplane export business in Bulacan. Her son Macky is on the spectrum.

Date: July 16, Saturday
Time: 1:00PM - 4:00PM
Venue: Autism Society Philippines National Headquarters
Address: #9 11th Jamboree Street cor. Sct. Fuentabella, Barangay Sacred Heart, Quezon City
Map: http://bit.ly/1LwgklB

Sign up for the Family Support Group via the on-line form below or call 7-903-5496. Only 15 seats are available.

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Posted in: 4parents,fsg