Monthly Milestones | JUNE 2023

The countdown to the Milestones National Autism Conference is on, and there is still time to register! Gain practical strategies, hear from experts, and connect with new autism resources, all from the comfort of your home.

Registration includes:

• 70+ virtual sessions
• 115+ presenters
• CEUs in 12 disciplines - see the credits available!
• On-demand access through August 15

Need-based scholarships available until June 9th. 

Click here for more information.

Hear from the Speakers!

LaChan Hannon, PhD



Don't miss LaChan Hannon's featured session, "Situating Welcomeness: Culturally Responsive Engagement with Families of Color." In this session, we will learn what Black parents have identified as creating an environment of welcomeness for them and their children and how school systems can be intentional in supporting Black families with autistic children.

Nikki Montgomery, MA, MEd, GPAC

Nikki Montgomery is an author and a parent of a child with a rare genetic condition and autism, and has worked with many institutions dedicated to engaging families. In her session, Nikki, along with Dr. Allysa Ware, will be presenting "The Dark Maze: The Long Path to an Autism Diagnosis for Black Families," and sharing their lived experiences, as well as information on how practitioners can help bridge this diagnostic disparity.

Come grow with us! Milestones is currently hiring for the following position:

Director of Education

Responsibilities include:

• Oversee, develop and implement aspects of year round virtual and in person training and education
• Create and develop content for educational purposes
• Develop and foster relationships with community stakeholders to develop training contracts

Qualifications include:

• Bachelor’s Degree required, Master’s Degree preferred in health/mental health/education/public health/social work field
• Minimum of 8 years’ professional experience in health/mental health/education/public health/social work (preferably related to developmental disabilities)
• Proven leadership skills that include the following competencies: program planning and program management

To view the full job description and to apply, please click the button below.

Stay connected and meet new friends with the

Milestones Self-Advocate Social Group

An online network for individuals ages 16+ with a formal or self-diagnosis of ASD or other disabilities.

New members welcome! To join the group or RSVP to an event below, please email socialgroup@milestones.org

UPCOMING EVENTS 

Neurodivergent Professionals Networking Group (virtual event)

Tuesday, June 6th from 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Are you a neurodivergent professional? This networking and social meeting is for autistic self-advocates, those with ADHD, and other neurodiverse backgrounds who are looking to build connections and community with peers as we discuss advocating in our places of employment, navigating resources, reaching our professional goals, and much more. Membership within the Milestones Self-Advocate Social Group is required. To join this activity or to request additional information, please contact us at socialgroup@milestones.org. 

Older Autistic Adults Social Group (virtual event)

Thursday, June 8th and 22nd from 6:00pm - 7:30pm

Facilitator, Rick Bondy, received his diagnosis at age 69 and is eager to connect with others who have similar experiences. Join and meet other autistic adults to share the autism journey, discuss how to navigate common challenges, and celebrate common interests. To learn more about this program please contact Beth Thompson at beth@milestones.org. To register, please contact Christa Mullis at christa@milestones.org. For individuals 45 years and older.

Social Roleplaying: Dungeon & Dragons (virtual event)

Various dates and times – Sessions are scheduled based on member availability. Options available to fit most schedules.

Join us for socialization and roleplaying as we work together to tackle challenges big and small. Create a character and join in on the adventures. New and experienced players are welcome. For this activity, we will be utilizing text and voice messaging features on Discord and will be using the D&D Beyond companion app (available for free via web browser https://www.dndbeyond.com/).

Our Moderator Team will be leading the campaign and are happy to answer questions. Questions or to RSVP, contact us at socialgroup@milestones.org. 

Social Roleplaying: Dungeon & Dragons (in-person event)

Saturday, June 10th from 2:00pm - 5:00pm

Location: Fun 'n' Stuff - 661 Highland Rd. Macedonia, OH 44056

Join us for an afternoon of adventure as we explore the mysterious Stormwreck Isle. This is an introductory campaign that is perfect for new players on their first journey and seasoned veterans alike. For more information or to RSVP, please email socialgroup@milestones.org. 

Monthly Game Night (in-person event)

Wednesday, June 28th from 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Location: Parma-Snow Public Library - 2121 Snow Rd, Parma, OH 44134

Join us in-person for a night of fun and conversation. We’ll be playing various card and board games. Have a game you like to play? Bring it along to share with members of the group. RSVP is strongly recommended. Questions or to RSVP, email socialgroup@milestones.org.

Double Rainbow LGBTQ+ Networking (virtual event)

Thursday, June 29th from 7:00pm - 8:00pm

Are you a neurodivergent member of the LGBTQ+ community? Join this virtual monthly meeting group to socialize, discuss current events, and build support and friendships. Not out? We can support you while privately attending this group. For information on how to join, please email socialgroup@milestones.org.

Click the button below for more information about the group and how to join.

Calling All Caregivers

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University, in collaboration with community partners, are holding a short survey to better understand the experiences of caregivers of individuals with disabilities.

To participate in this survey, please click the button below. The first 101 participants will each receive a $5 Starbucks gift card!

Going on a family vacation can be great fun but also a bit stressful. Stress may increase when the preparations include accommodations for an autistic child or adult. Click the button below for a travel tool kit, which includes some tips, along with some recommended websites and apps that can help you prepare your family for a smooth trip.