Candice Lange

United Health Care - UHC Children's Fund
http:/www.uhccf.org/apply.html

Kiddos Closet
www.kiddosclubhousefoundation.org

Electric Company
Your local company may offer a scholarship program if you are a subscriber to their service.
Example:
Rockdale County - Snapping Shoals Electric Company offers up to $2500 for therapy services.
Jackson County EMC - Operation Round Up

Easter Seals Champions for Children
For any child that has been denied Katie Beckett Deeming Waiver.
www.championsforchildrenga.org

Brain and Spinal Injury Trust Fund Commission
Keisha 404-656-5929 or 404-463-9487

SAGE SCHOOL

1450 Pine Road, Dacula, GA 30019
Office: 678-907-4194
Fax: 678-348-7380

www.sageschool.net
info@sageschool.net

Sage School is a unique Christian school, dedicated to meet the needs of the student with language based learning differences, including Dyslexia, difficulty understanding and/or using spoken language, written language disorders, and mathematical difficulties.

Please see their website for further information.

The program is offered through St Joseph Hospital's Mercy Care Services.
It serves uninsured, homeless, and immigrant families. Some services
offered: general medical, dental, pediatric, and immunizations.

Picture ID and proof income, loss of income, etc. is required.

St. Joseph’s Hospital offers free pediatric service for children who do not
have heath coverage:

Every 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month
8:30a.m. to 3p.m.
Mercy Care Clinic/Solidarity Village Mission
120 Northwood Drive- Suite 5-8

Additional information about locations and services can be found at
www.stjosephsatlanta.org.

http://www.yellowpagesforkids.com/help/ga.htm

Special Needs Respite Providers & Parent's Night Out

Please contact the below events to confirm times and dates.
Membership in the churches is not required.
====================================================

AGAPE Respite at North Metro Baptist Church 2nd Monday of each month, 6:30 - 8:30pm
1026 Old Peachtree Road, Lawrenceville, in back of the parking lot to the gym "Lighthouse"
www.northmetro.net
Call the Special Needs Ministry at 770-995-9055 ext. 237 or agape@northmetro.net
AGAPE is a Free, Respite program for families of individuals with developmental disabilities, ages five through adult. The Purpose of AGAPE is to provide rest and encouragement for families and a safe, Christian fellowship for individuals with special needs. Fun, Christian fellowship with games, crafts, music and other activities centered on Bible truth and scripture. Dinner is provided and each person gets a "friend" for the whole night. Siblings are welcome if they are a helper.
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Hebron’s Parent’s Night Out for families with special needs children and siblings
2nd Saturday of each month, 5 - 9 pm
Hebron Church, 202 Hebron Church Road, Dacula, GA 30019 www.hebronchurch.org
RSVP: (678) 427-5833 Jessica Butterworth hebronspecialneeds@gmail.com

Hebron's Parent’s Night Out features FREE childcare by trained volunteers, lots of fun activities, crafts, refreshments and a safe Christian environment.
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FOCUS (Families of Children Under Stress)
Call (770) 234-9111, inquiry@focus-ga.org or visit www.focus-ga.org for the calendar, locations and more information.
FOCUS is a nonprofit organization that provides families with emotional, informational and physical support as a result of their children’s illness or disability. They provide respite in several locations around Georgia.

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First Baptist Snellville 1st Tuesday of each month, 5 to 7:30 pm - Dinner $3

2400 Main Street East, Snellville http://www.fbcsnell.org RSVP: (770) 978-7000
Hosts once a month respite program for the special needs population.

====================================================

First United Methodist Church of Lawrenceville

395 West Crogan St, Lawrenceville, GA 30045 RSVP: 770-963-0386 x116 Lisa Johnson http://www.fumclv.org/

Special Needs Respite is to provide rest for special needs parents and it is an opportunity for individuals with special needs to have activities and events created for them.
EQUATE is a monthly special needs youth ministry, during the school year, for high-functioning special needs students in 6th grade through 12th grade includes activities such as: Games, Crafts, Pizza, Music, Ice Cream, Basketball, Special Guests and More!!!

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Hope House Children’s Respite Center - WeCare Respite

7225 Lester Road, Union City, GA 30291 RSVP: (770) 969-8354 Marjorie Peterson
www.swchristiancare.org

WeCare Respite (To apply for respite care or to become a WeCare Respite Volunteer): offeringhope@swchristiancare.org

Respite care on a daily and/or 24 hour basis for medically fragile children.

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Saturday Respite - Hi-Hope Center 3rd Saturday of each month

Hi-Hope Service Center
 882 Hi-Hope Road
Lawrenceville, Ga 30043
Register: www.atl-spectrum.com/socialgroupsactivities.html
For more information: info@atl-spectrum.com 404-634-4222

Hi-Hope Center is bustling with activity. In collaboration with Georgia Community Support and Solutions and Spectrum Autism Group, Hi-Hope provides the activity rooms, nursing staff and custodian so children and adults with developmental disabilities can participate in activities from noon until 6:00 p.m.
Volunteers are needed for each session and should call Hi-Hope at 770-963-8694 to sign up to help.
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Georgia Community Support & Solutions
404-634-4222 www.gacommunity.org

Non-profit organization that provides supports and services throughout greater metro Atlanta for children and adults with disabilities; mental health, emotional or substance abuse issues. This service awards 300 hours in the fiscal year used at anytime assessed on a sliding fee scale based on your income. They have respite providers or you can have your own approved through them for fee assistance. Approval for this respite is required.

Respite@gacommunity.org advocacy@gacommunity.org familysupport@gacommunity.org

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Note: Many of the churches above also have special needs Sunday school and Wednesday night programs. Many also provide special assistance during services through sign translation and any other services required. Call the church to ask what they offer.

This list may be printed and distributed with permission listed from www.candicelange.com. Thank you.

Please contact the below events to confirm times and dates.

====================================================

DBSA - Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance Northeast Georgia
Support Groups:
Tuesdays 7:30 pm to 9:00 pm
Summit Ridge Hospital, Group Room 2
250 Scenic Highway, Lawrenceville, GA 30045

1st & 3rd Wednesday, 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm
Peachtree Corners Baptist Church
4480 Peachtree Corners Circle, Norcross, GA 30092

For more information contact Cheryl at 770/755-5038 or visit http://www.dbsanortheastga.org
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Spectrum, Gwinnett's Autism Support Group & Sibling Group & Grandparents Group
1st Thursday of every month from 7:00 pm-8:30 pm
Stonemill Church, 855 Northbrook Pkwy, Suwanee, GA 30024

Sibling Group Meeting for siblings ages 5-12 during Support Group meeting.

Grandparents Group Led by Deanna Luscre
Basic autism facts, (across the spectrum), the stages of grief parents of children with autism experience (based on a study by Bryna Siegal) and consider how grandparents might support their son or daughter during the process.

Spectrum, Gwinnett's Autism Support Group
Many come who have children of other diagnoses with autism-like behaviors.

To reserve free childcare (donations accepted) call Deanna Rouse at 678-377-8324.
For more info visit www.atl-spectrum.com.
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A.S.C.E.N.D.-ER, Inc.'s, (Autism Spectrum Community Efforts and New Directions)
1st Saturday of the month, 10am-noon FREE - New Speakers each month
Parkway Presbyterian Church, 5830 Bethelview Road, Cumming, GA.

For further information call 678-300-8687, e-mail info@ascend-er.com or visit http://www.ascend-er.com.
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North Metro Tourette Syndrome Support Group
3rd Tuesday of the month, 10 am

"Coffee and Conversation" is held at the Borders Cafe near the Mall of GA.
Contact Lydia Breer: lydiabreer@comcast.net or 678-482-9358.
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Spectrum Evening Get Togethers
3rd Tuesday of the month, 7:30pm - 9:00pm, call to confirm

This is a time to relax, share triumphs, and exchange ideas in an open discussion with other parents of autism-spectrum children. Reservations are not required. Meals, desserts, coffee, etc may be purchased for your enjoyment.

La Madeliene’s, 2200 Pleasant Hill Road, Duluth, GA
Contact Alexandra Cleary at 770-368-9037 or alexcleary@comcast.net.
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FOCUS: Duluth Share Group
4th Wednesday of the month, 6pm - 8pm

Starbucks - 1611 Satellite Blvd, Building C, Suite 16, Duluth - corner of Satellite Blvd. & Old Peachtree. Please RSVP to FOCUS at 770-234-9111, inquiry@focus-ga.org or http://www.focus-ga.org.
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FOCUS: South Gwinnett Share Group - Snellville
3rd Wednesday of the month, 9:30am

Ronald Reagan Park, Five Forks Trickum. Rain - meet at Chick-fil-A, Highway 124 (Scenic Hwy) in Snellville, across from Wal-Mart. To RSVP, call Jeanett Schnupp, 770-979-6342, jeaunettschnupp@netscape.net or FOCUS at inquiry@focus-ga.org or
http://www.focus-ga.org.
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FOCUS: Other Share Group

Contact FOCUS at 770-234-9111, inquiry@focus-ga.org or http://www.focus-ga.org.
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FACES Autism Support Group - Monroe, GA
3rd Thursday of each month, 7-8:30 p.m
Walton Career Academy
212 Bryant Road, Monroe, GA 30655
Free child care provided with reservation. Upcoming meetings and speakers at www.georgiafaces.info.
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FRIENDS CLUB OUTINGS
Sponsored by SPECTRUM Camps & Clubs Program
3rd Thursday of each month 6:30-8:30pm Sign up Now!

Kids enjoy a community outing with peers, a snack, and a social skills lesson led by teachers and para-professionals in the field of autism. Friends Club is designed for individuals who are able to independently participate in a group of 10-12 students per 2 adults throughout community settings. Parents are notified of each activity in advance and will drop off and pick up their child at the community location.

Cost: $40 for remainder of session (includes activity fees, snack, leaders)
Call to register for Session 2.
For further sessions, registration and questions email: scc2000@atlspectrum.org

NEWS FOR GWINNETT FAMILIES
Subscribe by sending an email to KAddams@aol.com with subscribe in the subject line.

What is Genetic Testing?

A genetic test is the analysis of human DNA, RNA, chromosomes, proteins, or certain metabolites in order to detect alterations related to a heritable disorder. This can be accomplished by directly examining the DNA or RNA that makes up a gene (direct testing), looking at markers co-inherited with a disease-causing gene (linkage testing), assaying certain metabolites (biochemical testing), or examining the chromosomes (cytogenetic testing). Selected methodology terms are used in the GeneTests Laboratory Directory.

Genetic Tests for PACHYGYIA or Lissencephaly 1 (LIS1)

These tests were completed on Corey through Emory and Univ. of Chicago.

TEST 1: Lissencephaly Type 1: Miller-Dieker is the first Chromosome 17 testing done on Corey at Emory University. This test came back normal for Corey. 2006 (If normal do test 2)

TEST 2: Sequencing of the LIS1 gene can only be done at the University of Chicago or at two labs in Germany. This test came back normal for Corey. 2007 (If normal do test 3)

TEST 3: MLPA-based dup/del test - The yield is high, at least 1/3 chance of finding an abnormality. This test came back normal for Corey. 2007 (He is now a candidate for the research program with Dr. Dobyns.)

All the testing required just one blood draw at Emory in Atlanta. It was about 4-5 vials of blood but went quickly. Emory was very helpful working with Univ. of Chicago and the billing. The in state work on test 1 was covered by insurance and medicaid. The other 2 tests out of state are billed to my insurance and the remainder paid by us.

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Chromosome 17 has the "address" to LIS 1. To learn more about chromosomes and genetic testing visit http://www.ornl.gov/sci/techresources/Human_Genome/posters/chromosome/diseaseindex.shtml#tests.
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Syndromes with lissencephaly. I:
Miller-Dieker and Norman-Roberts syndromes and isolated lissencephaly.

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Although genetic testing shares some features in common with other kinds of laboratory testing, in many ways it is unique and requires special considerations.

Parent Training and Information Center (PTI) in Georgia

Parent Training and Information Centers (PTIs) are a funded program by the US Department of Education, Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) as authorized in Part D of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Parent Training Information Centers (PTIs) ensure that children with disabilities and their parents receive training and information on their rights, responsibilities, and protections under IDEA in order to develop the skills necessary to cooperatively and effectively participate in planning and decision making related to early intervention, educational and transitional services.

Navigation to Connections for Improved Student Outcomes (N2C) is the new PTI for Georgia. N2C is a program of Parent to Parent of Georgia.

N2C staff at Parent to Parent of Georgia assists families of children with disabilities (0-26) with education issues by providing a variety of supports, activities, resources and trainings. Levels of assistance vary based on individual needs.

For more information about N2C, call 1-800-229-2038 or 770-451-5484
or visit: www.parenttoparentofga.org

Did you know that 1 out of 5 Americans has a disability?

Many people don't realize that people with disabilities are America's largest minority group. Despite this significant presence, there is a lack of regular public dialogue about how to be inclusive of this major segment of our population. As a result, it is all too common for people with disabilities to be overlooked and underrepresented in community activities and in the workplace.

In honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month, Bobby Dodd Institute is providing free online disability awareness training at http://www.bobbydodd.org. The Web site provides the answers, tips, and resources to connect businesses to this untapped labor resource and to ultimately make a difference in the underemployment of people with disabilities. The majority of these resources are appropriate for disability awareness in a non-business setting as well.

Please take a few minutes to increase your disability awareness
by visiting www.bobbydodd.org.

Thank you!
Mark Crenshaw

Are you and your family looking for a faith community that is welcoming to families with disabilities?

Interfaith Disability Connection (IDC) wants to help you. IDC wants to connect people with disabilities and their families to faith communities that are equipped to welcome and support them. IDC also wants to connect congregations to resources that help them learn to welcome and accommodate people with disabilities and their families. To accomplish these purposes we have launched a new web site at www.interfaithdisability.org. The site provides a searchable database of faith communities that are providing programs and supports for families. The site also provides a variety of other resource and tips for accessing services and support in the community.

Please consider visiting the site to sign up as a friend of IDC for free access to a host of information to help you get connected and if you are already a member of a congregation encourage your faith community’s leadership to consider becoming a member. By doing this you can help every house of worship become a place where everyone can worship, study, serve and volunteer.

For additional information about the Interfaith Disability Connection please contact:
Mark Crenshaw, Director, Interfaith Disability Connection
Bobby Dodd Institute
2120 Marietta Boulevard NW
Atlanta, GA 30318
(678) 365-0073
Mark.Crenshaw@bobbydodd.org

EP LiveOnline™ is a national information and education initiative serving the special needs and developmental disabilities community with fresh, highly relevant programming from reliable and trusted sources.

List of 2007 Seminars:

What Families Need to Know About Childhood Seizures
Epilepsy: New Patterns of Care for the Twenty-First Century
Childhood Movement Disorders
What You Need to Know About Newborn Screening (Series of Three Seminars)
Helping Families Deal with Issues of Medical Necessity and Medical Reimbursement
The Team Approach to Managing Spasticity (Three sessions)
The Spectrum of Autistic Disorders (Series of Four Sessions)
Contemporary Issues in the Management of ADD/ADHD (Series of Four Sessions)
Pain and Pain Management in the Physically Challenged Patient (Two Part Series)
Infant Nutrition: “Failure to Thrive is Not a Diagnosis”: What You Need to Know

Go to http://www.epliveonline.org to register for upcoming seminars or view archived seminars.

CaringBridge is a free, nonprofit web service that connects family and friends to share information, love and support during a health crisis, treatment and recovery. It takes just a few moments for you to create your own personal and private CaringBridge website.
Begin your own site at www.caringbridge.org.

Tom Murdock, a NAHB Remodelers member and a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) can show you ways to modify your present home for wheelchair and other disability access. Ramps, wider door ways, full access shower stalls, and roll-up cabinetry are just a few of the services he offers. Call for an appointment.

Tom Murdock
Phone : 770-271-2233
Email : tojamga@adelphia.net

Just Kids is a free Atlanta special needs magazine.

You can email your input on the magazine written for special needs to:

Tali Toland
Managing Editor
Atlanta Parent Magazine
2346 Perimeter Park Drive
Atlanta, GA 30341
678-222-1910
www.atlantaparent.com
editor@atlantaparent.com

Guide includes hospitals, health clinics, senior care, mental health, public health and hospice care located in Gwinnett.

http://www.gwinnettmagazine.com/local_guide/health.htm

www.dunamisinc.com
3545 Cruse Road, Suite 312
Lawrenceville, GA 30044
770-279-1144

This company is committed to helping you find the technology needed to accomplish your goals and dreams, to empower people with special needs and learning differences.

They have a training calendar available for different products.

Visit http://www.cccoe.net/social/skillslist.htm for the following topics on social skills for middle school students. Some of these topics could be used for almost any age.

Prerequisites

Basic
. Accepting Criticism
. Accepting "No"
. American Table Manners
. Apologizing
. Dealing with Fear
. Expressing Feelings
. Following Directions
. Introducing Yourself
. Passing in Hallways
. Proximity
. Reading Body Language
. Showing Respect
. Solving a Problem
. Talking With Others
. The Most Magical Words
. Using Humor
. Waiting Your Turn

Disciplinary
. Accepting Consequences
. Children's Rights
. Controlling Anger
. Dominance & Submission
. Following Rules
. Good Sportsmanship
. Learning to Disagree
. Responding to Defeat
. Using Self-Control

Skills in Classroom
. Adhering to Dress Codes
. Appropriate Language
. Asking Questions
. Being on Time
. Brainstorming
. Complying with Requests
. Getting Teacher's Attention
. Ignoring Distractions
. Listening to Others
. Netiquette
. Being in a Group Discussion
. Resisting Peer Pressure
. Setting Goals
. Staying on Task
. Tolerance of Differences
. Willingness to Try New Tasks

Self-Esteem
. Accepting Compliments
. Changes in Adolescence
. Exchanging Gifts
. Expressing Success
. Giving Compliments
. Handling Embarrassment
. Helping Others
. Knowing Strengths
. Self-Defense
. Self-Improvement
. Trigger Points & Buttons

Skills with Peers
. Accepting an Apology
. Arguing Respectfully
. Asking a Favor
. Being a Good Listener
. Conflict Resolution
. Conversational Skills
. Dealing with Bullying
. Declining an Invitation
. Expressing Empathy
. Expressing Grief
. Get Someone's Attention
. Interrupting
. Maintaining Friendships
. Making New Friends
. Media Models
. Offering Assistance
. Reacting to Rumors
. Refusing Requests
. Responding to Prejudice
. Responding to Teasing
. Showing Appreciation
. Teen Violence
. Visiting a Sick Friend

Skills with Adults
. Accepting Disciplinary Actions
. Completing Agreements
. Determining Time for a Request
. Following Safety Rules
. Following Verbal Directions
. Greeting a Dog and Its Owner
. Making a Suggestion
. Reporting Emergencies
. Reporting Inappropriate Actions
. Shopping
. Showing Respectful Submission
. Theater Behavior

Prevocational Skills
. Doorway Etiquette
. Interacting with Opposite Sex
. Internet Safety & Courtesy
. Interviewing Skills
. Introducing Others
. Introducing Yourself
. Making An Appointment
. Managing An Angry Person
. Personal Hygiene
. Professional Conduct
. Relaxation Strategies
. Riding an Elevator
. Telephone Etiquette
. Volunteering

Katie Beckett Manual
The manual includes information about autism on page 51, denials and the criteria for KB approval.

http://dch.georgia.gov/vgn/images/portal/cit_1210/26/56/46098632Katie_Beckett_Manual.pdf

This is another way to access the Katie Beckett Manual and other goverment data:
http://dch.georgia.gov/02/dch/home/0,2467,31446711,00.html

Welcome to Parenting 411 Lifeline!

Expert parent coaches will lead a series of live,
interactive, telephone-based discussions
where parents seek lasting solutions.

Parenting 411 Lifeline is:

Focused on persistent parenting issues and complex family dynamics

Action oriented while seeking solutions that work

Unconditionally supportive and led by coaches with deep experience and expertise

Join Parenting 411 Lifeline $20 a call and get answers that work

Space is Limited!
Click here to learn more and register
www.theparentcoachcompany.com

Find a therapist in your area at www.psychologytoday.com by simply entering your zip code.

Therapists can help with addiction, anxiety, depression, food and diet, depression, parenting, personality, relationships, sex, stress, and work. Website includes therapist's profile, qualifications, specialties and accepted insurance plans.

LINDAMOOD-BELL
Learn about programs for reading, spelling and comprehension.

Gwinnett County Learning Center
3400 McClure Bridge Road
Building C, Suite A
Duluth, GA 30096
770-476-7177
http://www.lindamoodbell.com/learningcenters/gwinnett.html

Gwinnett Council
www.ldag.org

Contact: Sarah Davis, 770-995-1599 sarahldavis@charter.net

Meetings (see calendar of events for dates & events or above website)
Media Center Lecture Hall of Greater Atlanta Christan School
1575 Indian Trail Road
Norcross, GA

Learning Abled Kids

http://www.LearningAbledKids.com/

A website that provides resources, information, and support for parents homeschooling children with learning difficulties. Learning Abled Kids helps you teach your child with ADD, ADHD, Autism, Asperger's, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia,
Dyscalculia, Executive Function issues, Processing problems, or other
learning difficulties.

http://www.learningabledkids.com/home_school_info/AboutUs.htm

First time home-buyers with disabilities loan assistance program provided by the Department of Community Affairs (404-679-4940) and "Georgia Dream" lenders.

Also individuals can contact the "Georgia Dream" lenders and share your property information for sale.

Ask if your financial institution can help you with a "Georgia Dream" loan. If they can't call 1-800-359-HOME(4663) and they will put you in contact with someone who will.

One of the most helpful things we have done at our IEP meetings was asking for a projector at least 10 days in advance. The laptop was hooked up to the projector and the IEP was viewed on the wall. This allowed everyone on the team to see what was actually being written at the time it was written. The projector made it very easy for everyone to give their input while we were still on the subject and before the page/goal was completed. This is especially helpful if your meetings are large in number, have many goals, meetings run long or you have had difficulties in the past.

I have also taped the meetings in the past. Remember this also needs 10 day advance notice so the school can have their tape recorder ready. You can not tape the meeting without this notice. It was not intended to upset anyone but to allow us to review the long meeting. It actually came in handy the following year when we realized a service wasn't being provided and it wasn't written on the IEP like we had thought. The school reviewed their tape and it was corrected.

Another important tip is to have a positive look to future improvement even though this year may have been the worst you ever had. There is nothing that can be done to change the year now that it is almost over. Look at what can be done in the future to make sure those errors do not happen again and work together as a team. A negative, defensive attitude will not help the child or help you to think clearly.

Research and have documents to support your questions or concerns. It is very hard for the school to deny you of your comment if you have paper proof to substantiate your claims. This can be from the child's homework or test results.

Read IEP books such as:
From Emotions to Advocacy 2nd edition, Pam Wright and Pete Wright
Wrightslaw: IDEA 2004 Pam Wright and Pete Wright

Attend an IEP Conference by Pam Wright and Pete Wright. They are very informative and help you prepare yourself for many years of IEPs.

May you have a successful IEP and a very promising new year ahead of you.

Accessibility Services Plaza
"Your One Stop Rehab Resource"
1310 Kennestone Circle at US 41
Marietta, GA 30066

678-819-7583
www.rehab-plaza.com

Services Include:
Vehicle Modification
Durable Medical Equipment
Nursing Services
Home Modifications

Handicapped Drivers Services
1-877-437-8267
Atlanta: 770-422-9674
www.hdsvans.com

Includes:
New & Used Accessible Vans
Wheelchair Lifts
Scooter Lifts
Turning Seats
Accessories

"Authorized Braun Sales & Services"

Free Advertising in the Community

AJC
Gwinnett Community Bulletin Board
Gwinnettcommunity@ajc.com
BWhite@ajc.com = his article section

Gwinnett Daily Post
Calendar of Events
(770) 963-9205 ext. 1300
calendar@gwinnettdailypost.com

Editor: Todd Cline
todd.cline@gwinnettdailypost.com
770-963-9205 ext. 1300

Free Delivery
770-945-7251
freedeliverymagazine@yahoo.com

Dacula Government
P. O. Box 400
442 Harbins Road
Dacula, Georgia 30019
770-963-7451
Fax: 770-513-2187
Cell: 770-560-0867
mayordacula@charter.net
www.daculaga.gov

link on website for free if located in Dacula – Check your own community website for a listing.

Neighborhood News
(770) 277-1899
editor@e-neighborhoodnews.com
advertising@e-neighborhoodnews.com

Unable to print due to no space in 1/07
However, they did print February 2007 in Neighborhood Announcements along with other special needs articles on Hebron and Special Gwinnett Pageant.

Wrightslaw Special Education and Advocacy Conference, a Wrightslaw training program with Wayne Steedman, and Pat Howey, is being brought to you by Community Action Coalition.

Free registration for information on the autism spectrum and solutions for the behaviors. RDI is a family centered, cognitive approach to remediating autism developed by Drs. Steve Gutstein and Rachelle Sheely.

http://www.rdiconnect.com/register/default.asp

Registered RDIconnect.com members enjoy the added benefits of membership including the video clip library, live chats with Dr. Gutstein and Dr. Sheely, autism research summaries, and the message board.

See the Calendar of Events for the March 1, 2007 meeting about RDI in Gwinnett County.

A comprehensive starting place for parents of children with disabilities is www.parenttoparentofga.org.

The Parent to Parent website provides detailed explanations of individual disabilities and available intervention and support resources.

Click on the navigation map to take a tour of services.

Local supporting parents comprise the Parent-to-Parent network. These parents are available to talk one-on-one with other parents.

To view special needs information in Atlanta, GA visit http://www.atlantaparent.com/justkids/index.html. There you will find a resource guide, special needs calendar of events, special needs articles, and more.

You may find a copy at Whole Foods, School Box, Therapy Solutions of Georgia, North Gwinnett FOCUS Share group meetings, and other locations throughout Atlanta. You may also request a copy to be mailed to you for $3 or you may distribute them in your business or organization. Contact Caroline Ward at 678-222-1907 or email cward@atlantaparent.com.

Just Kids is published annually in August by Atlanta Parent Magazine. There is also a quarterly Just Kids special needs focus in the APM.

Atlanta Parent Magazine
2346 Perimeter Park Dr
Atlanta, GA 30341
770-454-7599
atlantaparent@atlantaparent.com

A Step To Independence, Inc.
202 Hebron Church Rd.
PO Box 1166
Dacula, GA 30019
(678) 407-1093
(678) 407-1907 Fax

www.asteptoindependence.com

asteptoindependence@yahoo.com

Conductive Education Services for ages 2 and older. Please contact them for current information and classes.

This is a resource library that provides information to parents and professionals about any and all aspects of special education and community resources. There’s a very extensive collection of library materials available for check-out as well as switch toys and other items of interest for students, parents and professionals.

What types of resources are available through GLRS?

◆ Loan library of specialized instructional materials, software, and equipment
◆ Parent and teacher training workshops and classes
◆ Materials production area for users to make “hands-on” instructional materials
◆ Referral and information about services for students with disabilities
◆ Child Find program to identify children with disabilities and help find appropriate
programs for them

They have online manuals and resources for:
2006 Summer Camp Directory
Transition Manuals
MID Programming Guide
and other resources for parents and teachers

Metro East GLRS
2415 North Druid Hills Road, NE
Atlanta, Georgia 30329

(678) 676-2400
www.glrs.org

A friend was able to have free laminating done and used the boardmaker equipment. She suggested to give yourself enough time there to go through everything they have to offer.

For a thorough list of therapy practices and other services in Gwinnett County log onto Parent to Parent http://www.parenttoparentofga.org/database.htm

Click on the large blue header called Special Needs Database.

Type of Service: Click on any service and type the first letter of the therapy you are searching. Scroll to the correct therapy and click on it.

Serves the geographic area of: Choose GWINNETT COUNTY

Show Info.: Choose one.
Detailed Information for all the information.
Brief Information for the company name, phone number and city.

Click on Perform Search.

This is a list of movies related to disabilities found on Blockbuster website.

Mozart and the Whale (2005)
Benny & Joon (1993)
David and Lisa (1962)
The Other Sister (1999)
I Am Sam (2001)
Mr. Rice's Secret (2000)
My Girl (1991)
Molly (1999)
Rain Man (1988)
Awakenings (1990)
A Beautiful Mind (2001)
Emmanuel's Gift (2004)
Good Luck (1996)
My Flesh and Blood (2002)
Who Are The DeBolts? (And Where Did They Get 19 Kids?) (1977)
How's Your News? (1999)
Running on the Sun: The Badwater 135 (2000)
Fielder's Choice (2005)
Door to Door (2002)
My Left Foot (1989)
A Science Odyssey: The Journey of a Century, Vol. 3 - In Search of Ourselves (1998)
First Do No Harm (1997)
Lorenzo's Oil (1992)
Mask (1985)
The Elephant Man (1980)

Community Resources for Families of Children With Special Needs in Gwinnett County

Prepared by Maureen Klesmer, LCSW
GCPS School Social Worker, Oakland Center, 770-513-6831

Lekotek of Georgia, Inc.
Lekotek is an agency that provides services to children with disabilities and their families. Diverse program services are provided to families throughout Georgia and the Southeast. Services include a toy-lending program, summer computer camp, computer loan programs, and support groups for moms, dads and siblings.
Lekotek’s main office is located at 1955 Cliff Valley Way, Suite 102, Atlanta. Telephone: 404-633-3430

The Atlanta Alliance on Developmental Disabilities
AADD has a great website that lists resource and referral information for parents, including information about community agencies that provide services to individuals with developmental disabilities, recreation, parent education, and other meaningful opportunities for children and adults.
www.aadd.org

Attorneys With Experience in Estate Planning for Families with a Developmentally Disabled Beneficiary
Stephanie E. Ceto 678-297-1151
Ruthann P. Lacey 770-939-4616
Laurin M. McSwain 404-231-9331
James B. Outman 404-521-2100
David P. Pollan 404-223-6181
G. William Thackston, Jr. 404-806-7684
Gary Zweifel 404-870-9111

Autism/DD Family Support Funding
This funding is limited and available to families of children with Autism and PDD or Asperger’s Syndrome. An application must be completed and documentation provided in order to be considered for approval. This may be based on both disability and family income.

Services that are funded might include: Counseling, Dental, Respite, O.T. and Speech
Contact: Georgia Community Supports and Solutions 404-634-4222 for an application

Benefits Navigator
This program works with individuals ages 14 – 18 in a School Work program, and individuals working age adults, ages 18 -65 who are applying for and/or receiving SSI, SSDI or both and who are or who may be considering work to better understand Federal and State work incentives and the interrelationship of these program when considering their options in reaching their vocational potential.
Trained Benefits Counselors work with people with disabilities who receive either SSI or SSDI based on a medical condition in their efforts to understand how benefits are effected by employment.
For more information, contact Sally Atwell or Curtis Rogers at 404-350-7589.

Children’s Medical Services
Children’s Medical Services (CMS) is a public health program providing medical care to low income children with specific handicapping conditions, from birth to age 21. CMS offers long-term care and therapy, along with case management services.
For information and referral, contact the Gwinnett Office at 770-339-9078.

Community Care/ SOURCE Programs
These programs are designed to help Medicaid eligible people who are functionally impaired and need medical attention to continue living in their homes and communities. They offer community-based care which include personal support services, in-home respite care, day care and supervision, and nursing services.
For additional information and to request services, please call the following numbers:
Community Care Intake Unit: 404-463-3244
SOURCE Program: 404-463-3248

The Deeming Waiver/Katie Beckett Waiver
This waiver program reduces the financial eligibility criteria for Medicaid. Families who have a disabled child with a chronic condition are eligible. The purpose of the waiver is to provide medical services for the child while helping the family care for their child at home.
To apply, contact the local Medicaid office within the Department of Family and Children Services.The telephone number for Gwinnett County DFCS is 678-518-5500. Listen for the prompt for Adult Medicaid/Katie Beckett.

http://www.kidswishnetwork.com

- Wishes granted for children who may not live past 18.

Employment in Your Community:

Effective Tools, Collaboration, and Outcomes for People with Disabilities

Sponsored by Employment First Georgia (EFG)

Employment First Georgia is a newly established, statewide technical assistance, training, and consulting center, promoting innovative customized employment practice. EFG is supported by a collaborative of state and federal agencies, including start-up funds from the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Disability Employment Policy.

Contact 404-477-2480 for registration and more information.

Interfaith Disabilities Network

What we’re about

BDI’s Interfaith Disability Network (IDN) is fundamentally about connections.
We connect the faith community with the disability community.
We connect faith leaders with critical resources to promote change.
We connect people with disabilities to church membership.
We connect questions to answers.

IDN is the interfaith community’s go-to resource for accessibility, diversity, and inclusiveness issues. From advice to tips to in-depth consultation, IDN offers the level of support necessary to successfully integrate people with disabilities into places of worship.

Developed by the National Lekotek Center, the leading nonprofit authority on play for children with disabilities, AblePlay will provide parents, and the professionals who work with them, access to information about the top play and learning products and toys for children with disabilities.

PTA Advocates: The 2007 Georgia PTA Legislative Priorities Brochure is available on the Georgia PTA web site!

Visit www.georgiapta.org under "Issues & Action" tab, select "Legislative Priorities" and click on download button on left.

You are welcome to copy and distribute the brochure at your next general meeting or other school functions.

Spread the Word:
Advocacy is our most important job as PTA members, and we are our children's best advocates!

Any questions?
E-mail Julie Haley, GAPTA State Legislative Chair at jhaley@mindspring.com

Here is the latest information from RFTS. Check out the information towards the bottom to donate money everytime you do an internet search without spending your own money.

If you're a parent, caregiver, relative
or friend of a child with Cerebral Palsy

Please Read And Spread The Word...

Stacy Psomiadis is an a RN with 11 years experience who will care for your elderly or disabled family member in your home. She is available up to 10 hours a day 2-3 days a week and 2 Saturdays a month.

Stacy has worked with Alzheimers patients, parapelegic and quadrapelegic patients, Downs Syndrome and other childhood disabilities.

Stacy will assist with all personal care, tube feeding, regular feedings, medication administration and clean up of the patients personal care area and is willing to to other various errands as needed for patients.

Rates based on time of day requested and amount of help needed.
References are available by email request to Stacy at npappasan@msn.com or call 770-271-1169.

Stacy works in the Buford, Hoschton, and Dacula area.

The Learning Disabilities Association of Georgia (LDAG) is apart of Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA). "For over 30 years our mission has been to enhance the quality of life for individuals of all ages with Learning Disabilities (LD) and/or Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD)."

For more information on LDAG visit www.ldag.org or call 404-303-7774.

I have attended some of LDAG's conferences and have learned so much from the speaker, the people attending and the vendors. If your child has learning challenges this is a wonderful site and organization full of information and resources for all ages. They even have an adult LD program which includes help for employment among other topics.

One of the accommodations that can be made in the school system is Stop Clock Testing which is on the list below. It was described to me as a way to allow the child to take the necessary breaks during testing even if the break is 1 hour for therapy or stretching or a day or a week long. If this is in the IEP or school plan then when it comes time for the SAT testing it will be more readily available to your child if needed.

"The Tools for Life Assistive Technology Resource Centers (ATRCs) are "hands-on" learning centers for demonstration, education and evaluation of products available on the market today. They are also a resource for Georgians with disabilities, families, friends, health care professionals and other professionals who are interested in seeing, learning and experimenting with new and existing assistive technology devices and equipment."

This is a wonderful resource to have products available to try out before buying and find out what really works best for you or the person you are caring for.

There are many locations throughout Georgia. Visit the Tools For Life website for more information about their assistive technology program, other related resources and locations to visit.

Tools for Life
Georgia Department of Labor/VR Tools for Life Program
Vocational Rehabilitation Program
1700 Century Circle B-4
Atlanta, Georgia 30345
Voice: 1-800-497-8665
Toll-Free TDD: 1-866-373-7778
Atlanta Metro TDD: 404-486-6333

http://www.gatfl.org/

Red-headed angel bears the message:
"Wishing you the kiss of an angel, the twinkle of a star, and the laughter of a child."

The cutest picture is available on the FOCUS website.

Use for the holidays or all year round!

One package of 25 cards and envelopes is only $10 each! Save on postage by visiting the FOCUS office. Shipping is $4.05 per pack. Proceeds except postage support FOCUS.

To order contact FOCUS or visit their website.

770-234-9111
inquiry@focus-ga.org
http://www.focus-ga.org

In our home, we took the idea of an expensive portable door system with a swing that was hundreds of dollars to roughly $35. We use the stationary pull up bar from Walmart found in the exercise department and a cloth traveling hammock was bought at a sporting goods store.

The hammock swing was placed in a very usable location right next to the bedroom stairs and the kitchen. The kids use the swing several times a day and friends fight over it when they come over to play. This is not just for special needs but for all kids. Even big kids as I find Mike, my husband, using it sometimes.

According to Carol Stock Kranowitz, author of The Out-of-Sync Child: Recognizing and Coping with Sensory Processing Disorder, the child should not swing for more than 20 minutes at a time for sensory input. After 20 minutes the positive effects diminish. Stop for a break and then get back on for another 20 minutes.

A single Traveling Hammock is the one we have shown in our home. Double hammocks are also available but I'm not sure if that would be too much fabric. When we purchased the traveling hammock years ago it was $15. I will let you know if I find a hammock for less. A friend recently bought a hot pink traveling hammock at Ski & Sports Outlet Store for $40. It was placed in her girl's room.

Doing the airplane or banana exercise is very hard for Corey. On the ground we struggled to get his body straight, curved back and arms lifted up all at one time but the swing was a helpful tool to guide the body and he really worked to lift his arms.

Ashley has a much easier time doing the airplane but it is still a workout for her.

Hebron Baptist Church
202 Hebron Church Road / PO Box 279
Dacula, GA 30019-0005
www.hebronchurch.org

Melissa Sims, Children's Director
msims@hebronchurch.org
770-277-6022

Special Needs Program
Sunday mornings:
Special Needs 1 designed for children 9+ 8:15/9:30/11am Room E105
Special Needs 2 designed for children 4-8 9:30/11am Room E104

Wednesday Awana 6:45 - 8:15pm

Parent's Night Out:
Second Saturday of each month from 5-9pm for the special needs child and siblings.
See the Calendar of Events for each months date and registration information.

From their brochure:
As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?" "Neither this man or his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life." John 9:1-3

------------------------------------------------------------------------
North Metro First Baptist Church
1026 Old Peachtree Road NE
Lawrenceville, GA 30043

Special Needs Ministry - Sunday Services as well
For more information, please call Todd 770-995-9055 Ext. 777

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Lawrenceville First United Methodist Church
395 West Crogan Street Lawrenceville, GA 30045

Allen Whittaker, Director of Youth Ministries
FUMC Church Office: 770-963-0386 x 120
Christy Hinson 770-736-2752
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Sugarloaf United Methodist Church
1795 Old Peachtree Rd NW Duluth GA
Social Program for the special needs child. See Social Programs or Calendar of Events for more information and dates.
Contact Vicki LaRoach:
salvwl@aol.com 404-932-3953

Visit http://concretechange.org/ to learn more about making every home visit-able by everyone which includes larger doorways on main floor, entrance and bathrooms on the main floor that are accessible.

To speak directly to someone regarding Medicaid eligibility issues or concerns contact:

Mr. Brian Dowd
bddowd@dhr.state.ga.us
404-657-3596

The Department of Community Health is responsible for establishing procedures and policies in regards to payment of Medicaid including Katie Beckett Waiver. It establishes what paperwork must be submitted by therapists in order to receive payment. They approve the number of therapies to be provided as well as address related provider concerns.

The person to contact at DCH is:

Warren McNeill
wmcneill@dch.ga.gov
404-651-9974

http://www.ideallives.com/

Here is information from this site's home page to see if it is of interest to you...

This is an excellent website to gather information on all areas of special needs in Georgia. Definitely a "First Stop".

First Stop is www.parenttoparentofga.org/roadmap.

Leaving off the /roadmap will take you to the home page for the Parent to Parent of Georgia where there is also a link. The two websites work well together.

Planning for Children with Special Needs

MetDESK®, MetLife's Division of Estate Planning for Special Kids helps you to take steps to provide lifetime quality care that your child or dependent with special needs requires.

On this site they provide free personalized assistance, special needs calculator and other important resources.
http://www.metlife.com/Applications/Corporate/WPS/CDA/PageGenerator/0,4132,P475,00.html

The following information is from the front page of their website. It is worth logging into and signing up. You can view your medicaid status, bills, etc. plus so much more at https://www.ghp.georgia.gov/wps/portal.

Georgia Health Partnership (GHP) is a state-of-the-art electronic health care administration system that gives patients, doctors, pharmacists and other providers easy, secure and efficient access to health care information.

Georgia Healthy Families

To assist you with the launch of this important new health care program, the following resources are available to you:

1) The Georgia Healthy Families website, at www.gahealthyfamilies.com, contains information on the health plans and who must enroll at this time.

2) The GHP Portal (this website) provides a description of the program and instructions on how to contact the Georgia Healthy Families managed care organizations. Click on the Member Information tab and follow the links to Georgia Healthy Families to view this information.

3) If you are a provider, you may contact the managed care organizations at the following numbers:

Amerigroup 800-454-3730
Peach State 866-874-0633
WellCare 866-231-1821

4) If you are a Georgia Medicaid Member, you may contact the managed care organizations at the following numbers:

Amerigroup 800-600-4441
Peach State 800-704-1484
WellCare 866-231-1821

FACES: For People with Developmental Disabilities - Facilitating, Advocacy, Care, Education, & Shelter

FACES is a program designed to residentially support children and adults with disabilities in their communities. Primarily serving individuals with developmental disabilities, this program seeks to provide them with a meaningful life by giving them guidance, encouragement, and support. This is accomplished in one of the following models:

Host Homes: provided by people wishing to open their home to welcome in adults with disabilities who might not have family or the means to support themselves in their own home. The host home makes every effort to help the individual feel that this is his or her home, too. The Host Caregiver becomes part of the individual's family and support network.

In-Home Supports: provided in the home of the individual needing supports. Often these individuals still have family or have the means to live in their own home if they receive basic support services. These In-Home Caregivers provide structure and meaning to the individuals' day by integrating them into their communities through, for example, shopping trips, trips to the library or other social outings.

Stories: Changing lives, different thinking, and supportive companions.

In the FACES program, a woman who had once lived in an institution, where she was one of many on the unit, now has a different life. She lives in a home with a family where the couple and their children bring their individual interests and attention to her. She enjoys the hustle of getting ready for school and having breakfast, the activity and serenity of attending worship services, and the warm lick of a big dog on an outstretched hand.

For another lady, the desire to help others and earn money too, has lead to her working in an office. There she helps with the chores of keeping the office clean and presentable, and engages in friendly exchanges with others sharing that space. However, like many of us, she is careful not to have her work interfere with her social interests of a boyfriend and sports.

Yet another has changed from his poorly fitted sweat pants and tee shirt uniform, in which so many with challenges are routinely dressed, into pants that button and a shirt with a collar. Now in going out to the store or to the mall, he smiles at those he sees, he walks with a taller stature and more confident gait and is becoming as he appears, another citizen in the community.

These are but small examples of how a change of thinking and intentional steps by companions sharing living in typical ways, do make a difference in peoples lives. Now you notice their faces and begin to wonder, how else are we alike?

Our offices in Atlanta, Albany, Rome, Savannah, Columbus and Athens are expanding services in and around these cities for all MHDDAD regions. For information on our program or to refer Medicaid Waiver Personal Supports Recipients to our program, please call 404-591-7044 and speak to Julia Bowen.

On-line catalogs in this section contain sites for health, safety and special needs related products and services.

Click on the picture to access more information.

http://www.americansignlanguage.com/

"Interactive Sign Language turns your computer into your personal American Sign Language tutor. It teaches you key ASL words and lets you learn them at your own pace." Also contains links to other hearing websites.

We just had a very pleasant experience. We have an adjustable bed that needed a repair. John Glee, owner of 'Heavenly Wheels, Inc.' came and made the repair in a total of 15 minutes. Most of the time was spent checking that the bed was working properly. He was so pleasant that we spoke for almost an hour, of several things, such as how did he get started in the business etc.. He repairs wheelchairs, all power chairs, including power scooters, adjustable beds, and most things on wheels. We highly recommend him. He does the repairs 'in home', gives free consultations, and takes care of people 24/7. His base is in Norcross, GA. - Hamilton Mill Resident

John Glee, owner of 'Heavenly Wheels, Inc.
404-408-2993
www.fixyourchair.com
johnglee625@yahoo.com

Exceptional Parent On-line information on special needs or printed magazine can be accessed at http://www.eparent.com/subscribe/default.htm.

Their topics include resources, education, healthcare, life planning, technology, mobility, sports and toys.

Finding More Funding for Your Child’s Special Needs Trust
By Renée Colwill Lovelace, mba, jd, cela

Here is a very thorough article on special needs trusts and funding of them.
http://www.eparent.com/lifeplanning/financial/financial04_05.htm

Easter Seals

Easter Seals website has a large section on Job Training and Career related topics.

"Employment provides the opportunity to participate as a member of a community. Easter Seals job training and employment services help people with disabilities learn skills to successfully enter the workforce, or to return to work after an illness or injury. Not only do employees benefit from the satisfaction of having a job, but businesses also gain from their contributions.

Easter Seals can help you determine what might work for you in reaching your employment goals. Contact Easter Seals to learn more about Easter Seals Job Training and Employment services in your area."

http://www.easterseals.com/site/PageServer?pagename=ntl_job_training

For a current funding list contact Parent to Parent of Georgia at 800-229-2038 and they will guide you to the right person or agency.

Some other funding sources:

Make a Wish
This is the link to the steps for having a wish granted.
http://www.wish.org/about/how_we_grant_wishes

Fragile Kids Foundation (The Foundation For Medically Fragile Children Foundation)
The parents or legal guardians of any medically fragile child age 18 or younger who live in Georgia may receive an application for assistance and be approved based on medical need and availability of funds.

Fragile Kids Foundation
3350 Riverwood Parkway,
Suite 1400
Atlanta, GA 30339

Phone: 770-951-6111
Email: help@fragilekids.org
Website: http://www.fragilekids.org/

FOCUS

770-234-9111
inquiry@focus-ga.org
http://www.focus-ga.org

FODAC
4900 Lewis Road, Stone Mountain, GA 30083
Phone: 770-491-9014
Website: http://www.fodac.org

Easter Seals
Easter Seals North Georgia
1200 Lake Hearn Drive
Web Site: www.northgeorgia.easterseals.com
E-mail: ddavidson@esng.easterseals.com
Phone: 404 943-1070
Fax: 404 943-0890

Services at this location:
Medical Rehabilitation & Health Services
Physical Therapy for children
Occupational Therapy for children
Speech Therapy for children

Columbus Community Services
To get on the planning list for services.
404-321-4574

Lions Clubs International Foundation
LCIF's grants are to Lions districts for the large-scale projects they do in their areas. A local Lions club can be found at www.lionsclubs.org

GA Programs for Children with Needs
888-651-8224

Jennifer Briggs is President and founder of Briggs & Associates. After receiving her degree in special education from Xavier University, she spent some ten years working in various special education positions in Ohio and Georgia, specializing in vocational training and career development for adults with disabilities.

She founded Briggs & Associates in 1989 based on the philosophy that anyone who has the desire has the ability to be successful in the workplace. The company has grown to over 50 employees solely dedicated community-based supported employment, now serving over 475 people across Georgia.

Jennifer Briggs

Briggs & Associates
2300 Holcomb Bridge Road Suite 103, PMB 366 Roswell, GA 30076
Phone: (404) 290-6839
Fax: (770) 552-7051
Email: jennifer@briggsassociates.org

Enable America, Inc.
www.enableamerica.org/townhall_atlanta120803.htm
Published: 12/8/2003

Enable America, Inc.
www.enableamerica.com/townhall_atlanta120803.htm
Published: 12/8/2003

Unlock the Waiting Lists!

The mission of this campaign is to reduce and/or eliminate waiting lists for thousands of people with disabilities and their families who need home and community-based services.

To learn more about and/or to join the campaign,
Visit: www.unlockthewaitinglists.com
Call: 1-877-WAITLIST
Write: Dave@aadd.org

List of Contacts:

Governor Sonny Perdue
203 State Capitol, Atlanta, GA 30334
404-656-1776
http://www.gov.state.ga.us/about_gov.shtml
http://www.votesonny.com/default.asp?pt=doc&doc=sonnydo

Lt. Governor Mark Taylor
404-656-5030

Abel Ortiz, Health Advisor to Governor Perdue
404-656-1776 aortiz@gov.state.ga.us

Dr. Medows, Commissioner of the Department of Community Health
404-651-8681 rmedows@dch.state.ga.us

Kathy Driggers, Manager of the CMO Systems, Dept. of Community Health
404-651-8681 kdriggers@dch.state.ga.us

Mark Trail, Chief of Medical Assistance Plans, Dept. of Community Health
404-651-8681 mtrail@dch.state.ga.us

BJ Walker, DHR Commissioner, Dept. of Community Health- Medicaid
Georgia Department of Human Resources
2 Peachtree Street, NW
Atlanta, GA 30303-3142
404-651-6314
Email: bjwalker@dch.state.ga.us

Her Information:http://dhr.georgia.gov/portal/site/DHR/menuitem.24259484221d3c0b50c8798dd03036a0/?vgnextoid=8da8e1d09cb4ff00VgnVCM100000bf01010aRCRD

United States Senators
Honorable Saxby Chambliss (R)
100 Galleria Pkwy SE, Atlanta 30339-3179
(770) 763-9090
United States Senate, Washington, DC 20510
(202) 224-3521
Fax (202) 224-0072
http://chambliss.senate.gov

Honorable Johnny Isakson (R)
120 Russell Senate Office Building, Washington, DC 20510
(202) 224-3643 (202) 228-2090 (Fax)
http://isakson.senate.gov

United States Representatives
Find your representative in the House of the U.S. Congress
(202) 224-3121; (202) 225-1904 (TTY)
www.house.gov

1. Georgia's 10th Congressional District, includes Dacula, GA
Congressman Nathan Deal (R)
2133 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, DC 20515-1009
email: http://www.house.gov/deal/contact/default.shtml

http://www.unlockthewaitinglists.com/MedicaidWaiverManual.pdf

Sensory Integration Disorder (SID) - Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)

This section includes websites and books that focus on Sensory Disorders. Please include your favorites in the comments section.

Websites:
====================================================
Child's Play
http://childsplay.home.att.net/
Site has topics relating to pediatric occupational therapy, sensory integration, and various developmental disabilities and an online opportunity to confidentially contact a certified occupational therapist with specific questions.
====================================================

Sensory Processing Disorder
Leading website with resources for individuals with SPD problems and for the family members, friends, therapists, physicians, teachers, and researchers.
http://www.sinetwork.org

Here is an interesting and informative article on all the sensory experiences that take place at the dentist and suggestions on how to make it more successful.

http://www.sinetwork.org/aboutspd/dentist.html
====================================================

Sensory Processing Disorder
Out-of-Sync Child
http://www.out-of-sync-child.com/
====================================================

Southpaw Enterprises for Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), Sensory Integration Disorder (SID)
http://www.southpawenterprises.com/forums/
Behavior Forum
General Forum
Products Forum
Success Story Forum
Support Forum

====================================================

Here is a link to multisensory rooms with Abilitations on-line catalog.
http://www.abilitations.com/multisensory/multisensory.jsp

====================================================
For a FREE copy of the Integrations catalog, call 1-800-850-8602 or see http://www.integrationscatalog.com. Also view their Bright Ideas section on the web for articles such as:

Products That Hug And Squeeze Help Calm, Normalize And Integrate Sensory Information
Sensory Processing Issues = Sleeping Issues
What is Sensory Integration?

====================================================
Developmental Delay Resources (DDR)
www.devdelay.org
http://www.devdelay.org/issues.html#misc

====================================================

Sensorycritters.com
http://www.sensorycritters.com/cgi-bin/comcart/redeem.pl?aff=scsc146
Weighted products endorsed by Dr. Tony Attwood. Autism and sensory integration products, parent tips and resources.

Here is an interesting and informative article on all the sensory experiences that take place at the dentist and suggestions on how to make it more successful.

http://www.sinetwork.org/aboutspd/dentist.html

Here is a link to multisensory rooms with Abilitations on-line catalog.
http://www.abilitations.com/multisensory/multisensory.jsp

This link shows the actual items used on three homes done on Extreme Makeover: Home Edition on ABC with Abilitations products. http://www.abilitations.com/productsHomeMakeoverOct3.jsp

You can receive free room design advice and information from Abilitations at
http://www.abilitations.com/multisensory/advice.jsp

The Epilepsy Foundation of Georgia is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping Georgians with epilepsy/seizure disorders. Based in Atlanta, the Foundation focuses on: educating the professional and general community about epilepsy through annual symposiums and programs held throughout the state; providing outreach through a statewide network of support groups; and assisting in quality of life issues through specialty camps for children/adults and medical referrals.

If you have any questions or concerns about epilepsy/seizure disorders you can contact our office in Atlanta at (678) 306-1210 or (800) 527-7105.

Topics included in order:

Katie Beckett Waiver Presentation given at FOCUS by Heidi Moore
Katie Beckett Waiver Denials
DHR FAQ for Transitional Funds
Contents For Katie Beckett Waiver Packet-samples of how to complete and forms
Katie Beckett Waiver Update on Denials and What to Do!
Katie Beckett Waiver History

The forms can be copied and pasted into your word processor to be filled out by you.

Thank you to all those who contributed very important information.

Autism Family Support and DD Family Support

Designed to meet the needs of targeted families when other means or resources are not available. The Department of Human Resources has secured limited funding for focused support to families who have a family member with a Developmental Disability and Autism, PDD, or Asperger’s Syndrome living at home. Each Regional Board has been allocated this limited funding. The guidelines for accessing these funds fall under Family Support, though each Region might prescribe more specific requirements for obtaining support.

Funded services can include:

Respite Care
Environmental Modifications
Therapeutic Services
Personal Support
Counseling
Day Habilitation
Specialized Clothing
Specialized Diagnostic Services
Recreation/Alternative Activities
Specialized Equipment
Specialized Nutrition/Supplies
Medical Care

In Gwinnett, Rockdale, Newton, DeKalb, and Fulton Georgia Community Support and
Solutions distributes the funding. Application process or questions -- Contact Jennifer Crosby, Autism/DD Family Support Coordinator 404-634-4222, Ex.230.

List of sources in order. Continue reading for contact information.

1. Georgia Department of Community Health
2. Georgia Family Support Policy Council
3. PeachCare

Friends of Disabled Adults and Children (FODAC)
4900 Lewis Rd., Stone Mountain, GA

Free wheelchairs, disposable medical goods, assistance in home ramp, vehicle modification, etc.

They accepts donations for their thrift store.

Atlanta: 770-491-9014

Deeming Waiver (Katie Beckett)
For children under 18 with chronic medical conditions. Waives only the parental income requirements in order to receive Medicaid health care services. Provides Medicaid health care insurance. Managed by Department of Community Health. Apply through GA Medicaid Care Foundation.

Community Habilitation Support Services (CHSS)
This waiver was created to serve individuals who were moved out of Brook Run State
Hospital. It has the same eligibility requirements as the Mental Retardation Waiver
Program (MRWP). It has one bundled service which includes services such as
residential, day habilitation, supported employment. Managed by the Department of
Human Resources through MHDDAD.

Community Care Service Program (CCSP)
Covers Elderly and People with Disabilities who qualify for the level of care provided in nursing homes and need regular nursing care and personal care services, but can stay at home with home and community based services. Includes care coordination, home health, adult day care, alternative living services, respite care, personal support services, home delivered meals. Managed by Department of Human Resources through Division of Aging Services.

GA Pediatric Program Model Waiver (GAPP)
Covers children up to age 21 who are medically fragile with multiple diagnoses and
require continuous skilled nursing care. Provides in home private duty nursing services, medical day care services, transportation, personal care attendants. Managed through the Department of Community Health, through GA Medical Care Foundation.

Service Options Using Resources in a Community Environment (SOURCE)
Covers Frail Elderly and People with significant Disabilities who are Medicaid or SSI
eligible. Provides intensive case management, primary care physician services, and
service provided through CCSP. Managed through the Department of Community
Health, by applying through the site serving their county.

Mental Retardation Waiver Program (MRWP)
For people with mental retardation or developmental disabilities (e.g. cerebral palsy,
autism, downs syndrome, spina bifida) who require the level of care provided in an
intermediate care facility for people with mental retardation (ICR-MR) and are at risk of institutionalization.

http://www.ucp.org/

United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) is the leading source of information on cerebral palsy and is a pivotal advocate for the rights of persons with any disability. As one of the largest health charities in America, the UCP mission is to advance the independence, productivity and full citizenship of people with disabilities through an affiliate network.

DisabilityInfo.gov is a comprehensive online resource designed to provide people with disabilities with quick and easy access to the information they need. With just a few clicks, the site provides access to disability-related information and programs available across the government on numerous subjects, including benefits, civil rights, community life, education, employment, housing, health, technology and transportation.

DisabilityInfo.gov is managed by the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), in partnership with 20 other federal agencies.

To view the site click on http://www.disabilityinfo.gov.

This is for sites that network parents of children with special needs either specific diagnosis or in general. Please send your sites that have been helpful to you for others to view. Thank you.

Contact your government officials to support your child's needs.

Please add any one else in the comment area that might have been missed. Thank you.

The Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Addictive Diseases
(MHDDAD)

MHDDAD provides treatment and support services to people with mental illnesses and addictive diseases, and support to people with mental retardation and related developmental disabilities. MHDDAD serves people of all ages with the most severe and likely to be long-term conditions. The division also funds evidenced-based prevention services aimed at reducing substance abuse and related problems.

Working together to serve children with disabilities

GECIC helps Gwinnett County parents find services and provide scholarships for preschool children with developmental disabilities up to their six birthday.

Services:
Evaluation and Testing
Home-based Programs
Nursing Services
Occupational Therapy
Parent Training/Counseling
Physical Therapy
Preschool Classes
Respite
Speech and Language Therapy
Special Day Care
Equipment Library
Vision and Hearing Services

Scholarships:
One application for up to $500 scholarship per family per calendar year to be submitted by the 15th of the month to GECIC. Scholarships are based on the Financial Analysis Form and subject to cost participation schedule.

GECIC Scholarship List of Approved Services and Items

Therapy Services:
Behavior therapy
Auditory Verbal Therapy
Music Therapy
Massage Therapy
Physical Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Speech Therapy
Special Instruction
BEGIN program - Vision therapy
Therapeutic Riding
Play Therapy
Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment
Biofeedback

Transportation Reimbursement for Travel to Specialized Clinics/Hospitals and to Doctors and Therapy Appointments:
Car Service (taxi)
Gas/mileage
Parking Expenses
Airplane
Hotel Expenses
Rental Car

Reimbursement for Physician, Allied Health Expenses that are not reimbursed by insurance/Medicaid:
Developmental Pediatrician Costs
Cost participation for out of network physicians
Licensed Nutritionist

Equipment/Supplies:
Therapy Equipment that typical children would not use
Adapted Bicycle
Toys that have a developmental benefit
Instruments for Music Therapy
Positioning items that typical children may use (ie. baby swing, highchair)
Assistive Technology
Glasses/ Hearing Aids
Medical Supplies
Prescriptions

Reimbursement for Other Expenses:
Formula
Tuition for Special Needs preschool
Summer day camp facilitated by a licensed therapist
Diapers
Hippo-therapy stable feeds
Nutritional Supplements
Respite Care

Parent Reimbursement:
Seminar related to their children's diagnosis
Transportation to seminar
Parent Classes
Family Counseling

Vision Therapy Resources

College of Optometrists in Vision Development
Information on vision therapy, what conditions benefit from vision therapy, where to find a qualified professional, and links.
http://www.covd.org

Optometric Extension Program Foundation
Referral list of optometrists, a resource center, news calendar of events, etc.
http://www.oep.org

Optometrists Network
A national network of optometrists, comprehensive vision care, pediatric eye care, visual health, vision therapy, behavioral optometry and more.
http://www.optometrists.org

Optometrists Network -Children With Special Needs
Information on vision problems that effect children and resources to find doctors.
http://www.children-special-needs.org

Optometrists Network -Vision 3-D
3-D exercises, games, puzzles, vision therapy information, visual training information, visual perception information, stereograms and much more.
http://www.vision3d.com

Parents Active for Vision Education
PAVE is a parent / lay non-profit organization which serves as an educational resource and support organization whose mission is to raise awareness of the crucial relationship between vision and achievement.
http://www.pavevision.org

Dr. Cook in Georgia was referred to me as a good vision therapy eye doctor.

American Occupational Therapy Association
4270 Montgomery Lane
Bethesda, MD 20814-3425
800-877-1383
FAX: 301-652-7711
http://www.aota.org

American Physical Therapy Association
1111 N. Fairfax Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
800-999-APTA (2782)
FAX: 703-706-3396
http://www.apta.org

American Therapeutic Recreation Association (ATRA)
Recreational therapists are health care providers using recreational therapy interventions for improved functioning of individuals with illness or disabling conditions.
http://www.atra-tr.org

Council for Exceptional Children
http://www.cec.sped.org

Epilepsy Foundation
4351 Garden City Drive
Landover, MD 20785
800-EFA-1000
FAX: 301-577-2684
http://www.efa.org

International Dyslexia Association
http://www.interdys.org/

National Ataxia Foundation
2600 Fernbrook Lane, Suite 119
Plymouth, MN 55447
612-553-0020
FAX: 612-553-0167
naf@mr.net
http://www.ataxia.org

National Down Syndrome Society
http://www.ndss.org/

National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities
P.O. Box 1492
Washington, D.C. 20013-1492
800-695-0285
FAX:202-884-8441
nichcy@aed.org
http://www.nichcy.org

National Lekotek Center
Expert advice on toys toys and education for those with disabilities.
2100 Ridge Avenue
Evanston, IL 60201-2796
800-366-PLAY
FAX: 847-328-5514
lekotek@lekotek.org
http://www.lekotek.org

Spina Bifida Association of America
4590 MacArthur Blvd. N.W., Suite 250
Washington, D.C. 20007-4226
202-944-3285
FAX: 202-944-3295
sbaa@sbaa.org
http://www.sbaa.org

Families with Children with Disabilities
Families coping with children with disabilities and the overwhelming financial burdens may contact the Federal Interagency Coordinating Council, an agency created to coordinate services for families with children 0 to 8 with disabilities or those at risk for developing disabilities.
http://www.fed-icc.org

Consumer Product Safety Commission
http://www.cpsc.gov

Phthalates in Teethers, Rattles and Other Children's Products
http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml99/99031.html

Integrations catalog director Sue Wilkinson (occupational therapist) has written and compiled these informational articles just for you and your children.

When I was going through the Abilitations website I found a category that allows you to Submit Your Product Idea to Abilitations. How many of you have woken up in the middle of the night with a solution that hasn't been developed yet for your child and wondered how to do it? This is the perfect place to see where your ideas can take you and help others.

See http://www.integrationscatalog.com/submitIdeas.jsp for their instructions and contact information. Each catalog on the left of the website page has different information for submitting your ideas so check out each one.

About Abilitations

At Abilitations we put fun in function. Our catalogs, products, and information provide solutions for professionals and parents working with and raising children with special needs.

We bring fun and function together as we select and create product for

Physical Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Speech Therapy
Special Education
Adapted Physical Education
Home
School

Reaching For The Stars. A Foundation Of Hope For Children With Cerebral Palsy was started by Anna Marie Champion and Cynthia Frisina Gray in late 2004. We are two mothers determined to go above and beyond what is currently possible to make a profound difference in the lives of our children and others, who suffer the negative physical, emotional and social impact of Cerebral Palsy. We saw the need that exists for more progressive research on the causes and possible cures and treatments for children with CP. We realized…."if not us…then who?"…and RFTS, Inc. was born.

RFTS Mission: Foster national Cerebral Palsy research with the goal of expediting the creation of new medicines and effective treatments for children with Cerebral Palsy.

We will also focus on:

• Building community awareness, education and patient advocacy, on a nation-wide basis, among care givers and health care providers regarding new and promising research, treatments and therapies.

• Developing and promoting new discoveries and clinical research programs that will advance the pharmacological, surgical and therapeutic treatment of CP.

For more information on this organizations, see http://www.reachingforthestars.org/index2.htm

Maxwell High School of Technology is high school that offers career and technical education programs. It provides students who are focused on their future with a solid foundation for a successful career. Students receive unparalleled instruction in a variety of career and technical education programs that include auto collision repair, auto services, commercial art, computer aided drafting and design, computer technology, construction, cosmetology, electronics, early childhood education, graphic arts, horticulture, law enforcement, medical services, and welding. Second year students may participate in the apprenticeship program, gaining invaluable hands-on experience by working in the real world with today's business leaders. Maxwell High School of Technology features cutting-edge courses and high-tech equipment and is open to all students from every Gwinnett County high school.

Children's Medical Services (CMS) directly provides or coordinates specialty medical evaluations and treatment for eligible children (birth to age 21) with chronic medical conditions. CMS provides or pays for comprehensive physical evaluations, diagnostic tests, inpatient/outpatient hospitalization, medications and other medical treatments, therapy, durable medical equipment, hearing aids, and dental care related to the child's CMS-eligible condition. Genetics Services provides diagnosis, counseling, and treatment for a wide variety of genetic conditions as a CMS service. CMS works closely with the primary care provider to coordinate services. The focus of Children's Medical Services is to provide quality care and financial assistance with services that will enable children to receive medically necessary specialty services. These medical services may prevent further complications from their condition(s) and will promote healthy growth and development.

Recently I was reminded of the heartache about appropriate classrooms for our special needs children through a friend who was grieving the loss of inclusion as her son was being placed into a self-contained classroom. The school gave her son a 30 day trial in the regular classroom and a new IEP meeting was done to change him to the self-contained classroom. She had inclusion for her son for years in another county but with her recent move her son was also being moved into a new setting. I don't know the circumstances or if this is a good or bad change but it is a loss for what was wanted and hoped for. Many of you may have felt this before too.

Corey and I have done the range from full inclusion to full self-contained, with good and bad experiences and after 5 years I can say that there is a time for everything. Each type of classroom has its pros and cons. It really comes down to what is best for your child at that time in his life and who is the teacher. How will your child be taught? Will he be loved for who he is and given the opportunity to shine?

Book helps moms meet their needs

Atlanta mothers, Heather Fawcett and Amy Baskin, with special needs kids co-wrote "More Than a Mom".

Behind almost every special needs child, there's a mother -- a mother who is often frazzled, stressed, worried and exhausted and who rarely puts herself on her own "to do" list, according to Amy Baskin. She wants mothers of special needs kids to carve out some "me" time.

"There was lots of information about special needs kids and how to help them through sports and school. Heather and I would go to autism conferences all the time," said Baskin. "But nobody was talking about moms and how they are affected. And we thought, 'That's something we can write about.'"

The AADD has so many programs and support for the community it is well worth your time to look at their website for all the details. This is a section from their website.

"Our mission is to build communities of support, acceptance, and opportunity for children, adults, and families living with developmental disabilities. We believe people with developmental disabilities, and their families, are among the most challenged, excluded and vulnerable people in society. In response, AADD works to build strong communities that encourage and support all individuals to:

Make informed choices
Participate in sporting, social, and recreational activities
Live in safe and positive environments
Grow, develop, and access and utilize resources
Achieve health and wellness throughout their lives

For many of the people we support, AADD means the difference between stability and homelessness; sickness and health; isolation and inclusion; discrimination and dignity."

Just one of the services includes:
Community Service
- Family Support
- Supported Employment
- Project Future
- Project L.E.A.P.
- Women Against Violence

Atlanta Alliance on Developmental Disabilities
1440 Dutch Valley Place
Suite 200
Atlanta, GA 30324-5371

Website: http://www.aadd.org/
Tel. : 404-881-9777
Fax.: 404-881-0094

TTY Users: 1-800-255-0056 (GA Relay Center)
STS Users: 1 - 800-229-5746 (English)
1-800-260-9470 (Spanish)
Voice: 1-800-255-0135 (GA Relay Center)

To make a donation - Clothing or Household Goods Pick Up: 404-761-6247
http://www.aadd.org/newsite/schedulepickup.html

SPECTRUM offers the following services so check out their website for current information and dates at http://www.atl-spectrum.com/.

Spectrum hosts monthly meetings with guest speakers who share their knowledge and expertise regarding Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Other Services:
Preschooler group
Asperger group
Sibling Group
Saturday Respite Program
Saturday Sibling Group
SKIP (Spectrum Camp Inclusion Project)
Friends Clubs
Five weeks of Summer Camps

The Gwinnett Coalition for Health and Human Services is a non-profit organization dedicated to addressing the health and human service needs of everyone in Gwinnett County, Georgia.

It does so through collaborative community planning, applied research, community education, membership diversity, consensus building, advocacy, and innovation.

The Gwinnett Coalition Help Book is an extensive listing of over 800 health and human service agencies including governmental, United Way-funded and other nonprofit organizations. This directory enables users to locate available human services in the greater Gwinnett County Area if they need help or want to help. Individuals in helping professions, schools, churches, civic organizations and the business community will find this directory an invaluable source of information.

http://www.gwinnettcoalition.org/helpbook.asp

We will take donations of household goods and clothing and give a receipt. These items are then passed on to a non-profit agency that needs them. Sorry, we do not make pick-ups.

750 South Perry Street Suite 312
Lawrenceville, GA 30045
Phone: (770) 995-3339
Fax: 770-995-1832
Email: Katie@gwinnettcoalition.org

Power of the Ordinary:
The everyday, ordinary activities of children and families provide incredible learning opportunities throughout the day. This site includes many ideas to assist families in making each moment filled with fun and functional learning. It includes links to the Everyday Times, a series of free and colorful photographic discovery pages which illustrate the everyday learning opportunities of children. The site is sponsored by the applied research center of the Orelena Hawks Puckett Institute.
http://poweroftheordinary.org

Babies Can't Wait (BCW) Early Intervention Because Babies Can’t Wait

Babies Can’t Wait is Georgia's comprehensive, coordinated, statewide, interagency service delivery system for infants and toddlers, ages birth to three, who have developmental delays or disabilities, and their families. Early intervention services may include assistive technology, audiology, family training and counseling, certain health services, medical diagnostic services, certain nursing services, nutrition services, occupational, physical, and speech/language therapies, psychological services, social work, special instruction, vision services, and transportation to services. The focus of Babies Can't Wait is to help reduce the need for special services later in life by helping children with developmental disabilities reach their maximum developmental potential.

Babies Can't Wait
Toll Free Phone 1-888-651-8224 or 1-800-229-2038
Atlanta (770) 451-5484
State BCW Office number (404) 657-2726
Visit their website, http://health.state.ga.us/programs/bcw.

The Handbook for Success in Babies Can’t Wait (English and Spanish Version) as well as an extensive web Directory of Internet Resources can be downloaded at http://health.state.ga.us/programs/bcw.

Sally Atwell is the person in charge of Benefits Navigation at Shephard.org. She can be contacted through Sally_Atwell@shephard.org.

This is a free service and she has been a wonderful resource to a friend of mine and her adult son.

Keeping records for school has resources to better manage all the paperwork and tips from seasoned parents. Please see the next page for more information and post your tips under comments.