Welcome to GAN
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.
GAN Membership
Cost-Free Membership in GAN is Available to Grandparents Everywhere!
Sign up here to receive the next copy of GAN’s e-Newsletter. Articles focus on grandparents and offer suggestions about how they can increase personal and community support for their families.
Announcements
Summer camp opportunities available here.
Do You Want Improved Regional Center Care?
Advocate for CA Bill AB1147
This bill, proposed by Dawn Addis (D-Morro Bay), would make the Regional Center system more equitable, transparent and accountable. It would require a two-day deadline for regional staff to return phone calls to families to answer their questions. It also shortens the time permitted to determine eligibility for services. It would give people in need of services more control over their care plans. It also makes Regional Centers subject to the Public Records Act for salaries, service policies and disparity data. it could mandate the Regional Center system to provide better and more equitable care for hundreds of thousands of Californians. Go here to find your CA representatives and Assembly members contact information – and encourage them to support this bill.
The GAN Newsletter
GAN’s Fall 2023 Newsletter is now available here
Conservatorship issues may make personal contact with adult grandchildren difficult. Learn how you can overcome some obstacles here.
Seniors need to Beware of Possible SCAMS!
Scammers are targeting older adults and those with long-term health conditions, in attempts to bill Medicare for sham treatments and to illegally obtain money or Medicare numbers. Go here to report if you have provided your Medicare number to someone by phone, text or email and to learn more about how to report suspected fraud.
Additional Local, National & International Resources Available
Our Family Autism Network website has local, national and international resources for families and a community calendar that posts autism events for Orange County, California . Go to www.faninfo.org
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
