Ali Thomas’ Post

Today on World Autism Awareness Day, take a moment to read this piece from Adam Harris of Asiam.ie in which he discusses the progress, but also the barriers for autistic people in Ireland. #QualityForChildren #Inclusion #WorldAutismAwarenessDay

Interesting read on the challenges faced by autistic people in Ireland.

Autism Awareness Month ... What's it all about? Join us in this article as we explore various aspects of autism awareness and advocacy, emphasizing the importance of embracing neurodiversity and promoting acceptance for all. https://lnkd.in/e_iUn_Hw #autismawareness #autism #abatherapy #autismadvocacy #WellspringLearningCenters #WellspringABA

Insights from Autism Advocates Autism advocates play a crucial role in raising awareness, promoting acceptance, and advocating for the rights of individuals on the autism spectrum. Their words and experiences can provide valuable insights and perspectives that resonate with many. Here are three notable autism advocates and the impactful messages they have shared: "Understanding and acceptance go hand in hand when it comes to autism. Embrace differences, foster inclusion." "Advocacy isn't just about raising awareness; it's about creating tangible, positive changes in policies and attitudes towards autism." "Autism advocacy involves empowering individuals on the spectrum to have a voice and be active participants in decisions that affect their lives." "It's crucial to recognize that what works for one person with autism may not work for another. Individualized support is key." "Beyond awareness, true acceptance of autism involves creating environments that accommodate neurodiversity and celebrate differences." "Championing autism acceptance means challenging stereotypes and advocating for inclusive education, employment, and community integration." "Autism advocacy involves promoting accessible resources and services that cater to the diverse needs of individuals on the spectrum." "Listening to autistic voices is central to effective advocacy. Their experiences and insights are invaluable in understanding autism." "Advocates emphasize the importance of early intervention and support to help individuals with autism thrive and reach their full potential." "Autism advocacy isn't just a one-time effort; it's an ongoing commitment to fostering a more inclusive and supportive society for everyone." These insights highlight the multifaceted nature of autism advocacy, emphasising the need for understanding, inclusion, support, and empowerment of individuals on the autism spectrum. Advocates work tirelessly to ensure that those with autism are valued, respected, and provided with the resources and opportunities they need to live fulfilling lives. #share #AutismAdvocacy #AutismAwareness #AutismAcceptance #AdvocateForAutism #Neurodiversity #NeurodiverseVoices #AutismRights #InclusionMatters #Empowerment #InclusionAndDiversity #DiversityAndInclusion #InclusionForAll #MentalHealthAwareness #DisabilityAdvocacy #SupportAutism #AutismSupport #CommunitySupport #LeadershipForChange #PositiveChange #PolicyChange #InclusiveLeadership

About 7,000 adults with autism aged 18 and above are known to the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) and disability agency SG Enable, as they have applied for or enrolled in disability support schemes or programmes. The overall number of people with autism in Singapore is not known, as there are those who remain undiagnosed or who have not subscribed to any services or initiatives. When students with autism turn 18 and graduate from special education schools, they face what industry professionals call the “post-18 cliff effect”, where services drop off and they find limited support to cater to their needs. Some may move to one of 11 MSF-funded adult disability homes for long-term residential care. https://lnkd.in/gxnGYZQV

Raising awareness Our Foundation aims to increase public awareness and understanding of autism. By educating the general public about autism, these organizations hope to reduce stigmatization and promote acceptance of individuals with autism. #raisingawareness #awareness #AwarenessMatters #publicawareness #PublicAwarenessMessage #ReduceStigma #acceptance

South Australia is implementing the state's first Autism Strategy 2024–2029: a strategy which aims to support a whole-of-government approach to create a fairer and more inclusive society. Access 2 Place Housing

Today marks a historic moment for the autism community and advocacy by Autism Speaks as Congress passed the Autism Collaboration, Accountability, Research, Education, and Support (CARES) Act of 2024, sending it to the President’s desk for signature. As the only federal law solely dedicated to the autism community, the Autism CARES Act has been the most important driver of investments in autism research, data and training programs, which have fueled the development of evidence-based, best practices benefiting autistic individuals and their families. Autism Speaks was instrumental in the original passage of this legislation in the early-2000’s and has since led advocacy efforts to secure annual funding for its programs and expand the law’s impact. Thanks to this leadership, the Autism CARES Act of 2024 not only fortifies this foundation of support but also expands programming to address gaps in autism health care and services. #autismcaresact

Autism Strategy Article Share A fantastic initiative has been launched in South Australia. 🚀 A state-first ‘Autism Strategy’, setting out a 5-year roadmap to help improve the lives of all people living with autism and their families. To fulfil commitments made by the Government, the plan will focus on areas like: - Thriving in the workplace - Access to support and services - Interactions with the justice system. What another great step for inclusion in Australia! I am excited to see where this goes next. Click the link below for the full article 📖: https://lnkd.in/gttg8uDX #AccessibleAustralia #Strategy #Government #InclusivePractices #AutismInclusion

Webinar: Understanding Autism in Indigenous Communities This webinar, held in honor of Native American Heritage Month, features a conversation with Native American professionals and advocates on the intersection of autism, indigenous heritage, and efforts to enhance resources and outreach for Native American communities affected by autism and developmental disabilities.