The Grandparent Autism Network informs grandparents about autism and the medical, educational, legal and social issues that affect their families, enabling them to share how they may improve the quality of life for their children and grandchildren. Activities include social events for grandparents and grandchildren and advocacy efforts to increase support for autism causes. Networking together, grandparents are a vital resource for autism …and each other.
Announcements
Join us and invite your whole family to an outstanding performance of Mamma Mia! at Northwood High School in Irvine on Saturday, February 8, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. The Family Autism Network will sponsor free admission for one adult with autism (age 16 and up) and one caregiver. Tickets for additional family members are available at the box office when you arrive for the discounted cost of $10 per person. Family members will be seated together. Complimentary refreshments are offered during a 15 minute intermission. Former productions have been fabulous and after taking their bows, the talented cast members will greet and offer photo opportunities to our guests!
You can register to attend, get more information and driving directions here. We hope to share this special production with you and your family!
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Cost-Free Membership in GAN is Available to Grandparents Everywhere!
Sign up here to receive the next copy of GAN's e-Newsletter. Newsletters focus on grandparents and offer suggestions about how they can increase personal and community support for their families.
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Grandparents are Great Resources for Sibling Support
Typical siblings sometimes feel left out because their brother or sister with autism requires more attention. Learn what you can do to make them feel special too.
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Help now to Shape CA's 5 Year Plan for Disability Support
Please complete this 10 minute survey to help determine the services and supports needed for people with intellectual/developmental disabilities. Your input will help to shape the 2022 to 2026 State Plan. Go here to complete the survey. Your families and those who serve them will be affected by this plan.
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Research Study for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
A research study is underway about Grandparent Caregivers raising grandchildren with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Interviews are being conducted until May 19, 2020. You will receive a $10 Starbucks Gift Card for your participation. For additional details, go here
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Special Education News- Free INDEPENDENT Educational Evaluations (IEE)
Need An Independent Educational Evaluation?
The Jonathan Foundation has an Assessment Scholarship Program to fund IEEs (private psycho-educational assessments) to be administered by credentialed assessors. They are looking for students in Orange County that would benefit from receiving an IEE. If you are in need and interested, please complete their online application here. For more information, please contact The Jonathan Foundation at 818-368-2600 or via email info@thejonathanfoundation.org.
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New Legislation to Ensure Safety for Those At Risk of Wandering
The Kevin & Avonte's Law will benefit those with autism, Alzheimer's Disease and other conditions that put them at risk for wandering. Learn more about the law here
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Regional Center of Orange County Resources
The Regional Center of Orange County California has a website with links to many local resources for families. You can access that page at http://www.rcocdd.com/frc/ccfrc/resources/
The Comfort Connection provides additional support, information and brochures for programs and services. It is located to the right of the entrance at the Main Headquarters Office, 1525 North Tustin Avenue, Santa Ana, CA 92705
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Do You Have a Granddaughter in Orange County?
Hairstylist, Susan Kridner at The Salon & Spa at Americana, offers professional services to people with autism. Caregivers are welcome to coffee and cookies or services for themselves while they wait. Reservations are required 714-785-7978.
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Families Can Pool Resources for Disabled in ABLE Accounts!
Learn how you can contribute to ABLE accounts for your grandchild and how you can provide for future needs. Go here for additional information.
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Prepare for Emergencies
Make sure your emergency kit is stocked with the items on the checklist below. Most of the items are inexpensive and easy to find, and any one of them could save your life. Headed to the store? Download a printable version to take with you. Once you take a look at the basic items, consider what unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets, or seniors.
After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water and other supplies to last for at least 72 hours. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.
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