April 2024 | Events & Updates | |
Social Conversation Support Using AI | |
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Stanford is seeking autistic individuals who are interested in improving their social conversation skills to participate in a study using AI.
Preferred Participates:
- 11-35yrs of age
- Interested in improving social conversation
- Are Conversational
- Available 10-20 minutes 5x a week for 4 weeks
If interested, please contact Lizzie Ponder at lizziep@stanford.edu.
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Meet Alex, and Of Course, Ondre! | |
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Alex, often seen zipping around with his iPod Shuffle playing tunes of reggae and bluegrass, started his journey as a city kid, residing in San Francisco until he was six. Now, at 29 years old, he resides in Petaluma, where he is not only an avid volunteer and dedicated employee but also a well-known community member with an impressive social calendar.
Before diving too far into Alex’s story, it’s crucial we mention his fur-sibling and Canine Companions service dog, Ondre. Over the past 8 years, Ondre has become a cherished member of the family, playing a crucial role in helping Alex build social connections and engage in various activities. Ondre has even gained his own fan club, and whenever Alex shows up without him, colleagues, acquaintances, and even employees at Peet’s, Safeway and Trader Joe’s (whom Alex has befriended) eagerly inquire about Ondre's whereabouts. Ondre is Alex’s second service dog.
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Living at home with his mom, Mary Ann and dad, Art, and Ondre, Alex has been involved in community volunteering since he was 12 years old. He's been seen delivering meals and holiday treat bags to senior citizens, helping out at local nonprofit farms, and working with his mom and dog, Ondre at Canine Companions special events. Not only does Alex contribute as a volunteer, but he also holds a paid job with O.A.D.S., where he dedicates five days a week to cleaning up local parks. Thank you, Alex, for your valuable contributions to our community!
In his leisure time, Alex enjoys staying active with impressive swimming abilities, achieving a personal record of 200 meters in one stretch. He's also an avid biker, often leaving his aides in the dust due to his need for speed. Additionally, Alex practices batting with Ondre ready to assist in rounding the bases. Furthermore, Alex takes part in the Seawolf Fit program at Sonoma State University, where he refines his other fitness skills. He also enjoys attending Celebrations, an interfaith holiday program for young adults with disabilities and their families.
One of the things we love most about Alex is his go with the flow mindset, a characteristic not always associated with an autism diagnosis. Nevertheless, Alex is always up to trying new restaurants, a change in schedule, or batting in a new spot in the line up. As November approaches, Alex is gearing up to celebrate the big 3-0! With Alex's passion for trains—having ridden the Skunk Train at least 20 times—Alex’s family is considering yet another fun train trip to celebrate the big day. We know he’s happiest when he’s surrounded by community, family and friends. We can't wait to have you back on the field, Alex!
Interested in being featured in an upcoming Homer's Highlight? Contact Sarah at smarciamlnb@gmail.com
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