The Grandparent Autism Network is Ending
In 2006, GAN was the first all-volunteer nonprofit organization established to serve grandparents of children with autism. It has provided information, tips and suggestions about how to increase support for families. GAN has assisted in the development of many additional grandparent resources now available. The board of directors and I thank you for your support.
Our organization and this website will be ending in February 2025. Thank you for confirming that … Grandparents are a vital resource for autism … and each other!
Announcements
When this website was established in 2006, it was the only autism resource on the internet that provided information and support exclusively for grandparents. It has received thousands of visits and has encouraged the development of new websites and local support groups in communities world-wide.
This will be our final website posting. GAN’s Board of Directors wants to thank the many volunteers who have assisted in more than 200 events including research conferences, autism presentations, workshops, resource fairs and socials.
Grandparents are a vital resource for their families and for each other!
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.
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.
