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< Back An Interview with an Autistic Police Officer James Ward-Sinclair Oct 12, 2019 A Bit about Ben: Before we go on, one of the interesting things I thought worth mentioning about my interviewee today was how, despite receiving a diagnosis at a young age (in fact, mine and Ben’s mums met at a support group when we were kids), Ben by his own admission doesn’t know much about autism and says that he wouldn’t class himself as being part of the ‘autism community’. To Ben, being autistic just meant a confusing school life, where social struggles caused him to be ‘isolated’ and communication challenges left him being viewed as ‘a complete looney and weirdo’. Ben says that he just ‘didn’t have an awareness’ and he was ‘treated badly by people for it’. Things eventually got so bad that after three incidents in which he was kicked, pushed over and had pins pushed into him, Ben no longer could stomach education and refused to return until he could change school (something which he eventually did). However, despite this leaving him with a somewhat lukewarm impression of the spectrum, his interview turned out to be very inspirational and more positive than I anticipated – but then again, I should probably let you be the judge of that. An Interview with an Autistic Police Officer: James: Question 1: Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth? Ben: I affirm James: So you say that social struggles are one of the biggest challenges you have. What made you choose a public sector job? Ben: When I was in school I would never have thought about being in the police. I think it was around that time [year 10] I learnt to play the guitar and that was ultimately what kind of changed things, in as much as I suddenly had something I could have a common interest in. Forming bands and stuff meant that I was able to generate this social circle that I never had before and my confidence massively improved. I developed a personality that wanted to be part of a community and I already had experiences which gave me motivation to do something good. Then very, very quickly I knew that I wanted to be in the cops. James: What was the next step after you had made this decision? Ben: Once I knew, I wouldn’t do anything else. Getting into the cops was hard but I wouldn’t be disillusioned. It’s intense and requires you to have some academic skill and there’s a lot of waiting. You have to be patient because you could wait 6 months to join and I think people who struggle under pressure would struggle with the application process because it is intense. There’s a telephone interview which isn’t very natural. They don’t ask you about a business or your past experiences. All the questions are based around competency and values that you must have, and they are very specific and don’t allow much room to present your individuality. One of them is openness to change . You then attend an assessment day at the police college; where you do 4 role plays, two written exams, another interview and it’s like phwar, you’re really pushed and by the time you are on the brink of it, your mind is racing and you’re fatigued. It’s dead tough. James: Most autistic people like their routine. So, when you say they are looking for openness to change, did this or the realization of routine breaking, irregular shifts deter you? Ben: I mean I suppose I do have my routines. I always get dressed the same way, always have the same shower and I suppose that when I’m dealing with a job, there’s a lot of paperwork which I always do in the same order. But all the stuff that I have a routine for, like getting ready, how I park my car, where I put my keys, you repeat on the night shift too. In the day, you get up, go to work, you do your shift, then when you’re on the nightshift you get up, go to work do your shift. The actual work in the nightshift doesn’t make a difference. James: So maybe I’m reading into this, and, correct me if I’m wrong, but it sounds like you have your routine, it’s not a schedule, it’s how you do things, that’s the routine. Ben: Yeah, it doesn’t matter the time of day it’s the order. It’s subconscious. James: So does autism help or hinder in the police? For example, It’s said that autistic people have a strong sense of justice. Do you feel this is true and does it help you? Ben: Interestingly enough, I had a conversation with my inspector the other day. I said I find it hard deciding what I will and won’t investigate. We could get a shoplifting, a pick pocketing, a domestic assault and a burglary and we have to be very critical with what we put to the side to ensure that we do the most critical offences. I find it hard to tell people who have been pickpocketed that we haven’t got the resources to send someone out to look at all the CCTV, locate witnesses, interview people on the street and I imagine that must feel terrible. It makes me sad, but that’s how things are with funding and staff at the moment. So yeah, it does help me to do a good job, to motivate me to catch the criminals but it’s probably more of a hinderance – because telling people I can’t investigate sometimes goes against everything I stand for. It’s an uneasy feeling. James: would you say that the police is a good job for autistic people or would you say… Ben: I think it’s important that autistic people are given the chance to be in the cops in the same way that the police should be a mix of all ethnicities, sexualities and religions, because the fabric of the community is just as diverse and we should represent who we are policing. Also, there are many autistic people who will need support. They are victims of crime so why can’t they be soldiers against crime?… [Editor’s note: although the interview took place over the phone, I imagine that it was at this point Ben put a monocle on, started stroking his chin and his brain turned on the philosophical switch] ….but then, I suppose it would be unfair for me to turn around and say that every autistic person can be a cop – because I don’t think that’s true. You have to be realistic. Some people who are autistic are regimented and you don’t get that in the cops. In a split second they could say you’re working another [shift] and you are going to really struggle. Also, the autistic spectrum opens up difficulties and strengths in all areas but generally those challenges are detrimental in terms of safety and managing workloads and it won’t always be clear-cut…. But I suppose that’s the same for everybody; nobody’s the same, so I guess that it’s unfair to say that every autistic person would be a fantastic cop in the same way that it would be unfair to say everybody would be a fantastic cop. However, when you have a Jewish community, it helps to have a Jewish officer because they will have stronger ties. But, when it’s an autistic person, that person only represents one kind of autism, potentially, in the country. You’re a fantastic representative of yourself but the spectrum is so broad and big you’ve not got the entire target audience…. do you get what I mean? James: I do. So do you think it’s important for autistic people to disclose? Ben: It’s personal choice. I haven’t but that’s not because I’m ashamed or embarrassed but because I manage my own autism. If it’s the case that you find something really really difficult then disclose and the force will support you and utilize you because of your different background for a certain community, or to help with learning. The force is aware that there are autistic people in it and they will provide help if you want it. So, should people disclose? It depends what’s right or wrong for you. James: Finally, and most importantly, who is the best cop in TV and movies? Ben: …all I can think of is Bruce Willis and he did a pretty bang up job in all 7 of his movies but my favorite cop film is End of Watch – except for the last 10 mins which I thought was a bit OTT. Previous Next

< Back CHILDCARE About Childcare Services Our childcare resources provide information on finding high-quality childcare options for individuals with autism. These resources can help families find providers who are trained and equipped to support children with autism and provide them with the care they need. CHILDCARE PROVIDERS Brightstar Kid Care 210.377.3355 Web: www.brightstarcare.com/san-antonio-north-central-/child-care/ 7410 Blanco RD, Ste. 200, SA TX 78216 We offer flexible sick-day childcare and sitter services and pediatric home care; including a wide range of home care services for children with special needs. Our clinical caregivers are experts in well-baby and newborn care. Our in-hospital companions give family caregivers a respite break and peace of mind that their child is being looked after when in the hospital. Brighton Center 210.826.4492 Web: www.brightonsa.org 14207 Higgins RD, SA TX 78217 Bright Beginnings Child Care Center: NAEYC Accredited Center, curriculum is designed to meet the needs of each child based on his/her developmental level; ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Family Endeavors 210.208.5700 Web: www.familyendeavors.org 535 Bandera RD, SA TX 78228 This agency provides a myriad of programs including Fairweather Programs; Supportive housing; job training; employment; case management; and supportive services provided to individuals and mothers with disabilities and their children. Children & Youth Services; Licensed after school programs; childcare & learning centers; and summer day camps. Joy Learning Center - Child Care 210.736.2552 250 Sherwood Dr, SA TX 78201 JLC provides quality childcare for children diagnosed with Autism between the ages of 18 mos. - 12 yrs. Specialized in early learning intervention and individualized instruction for children with language and learning disabilities. Low Page 39 staff to child ratio and staff holds degrees in occupational and speech therapy; psychology and ABA. Mi CASA 210.561.7660 Web: www.micasachildcenter.com 8601 Cinnamon Creek, SA TX 78240 A day program for school age students, from 6:30 a.m. till 6:30 p.m. Respite Care of San Antonio – Daycare 210.737.1212 Web: www.respitecaresa.org Christ Episcopal Church, 605 Belknap Pl., SA, TX 78212 Families may bring their children (6 wks. To 5 yrs.) with special needs and complex medical conditions, Monday - Friday from 7:30pm – 4pm (extended care 4pm -6pm); non-disabled siblings (up to the age of 5) welcome. Study Hall Learning Center 210.615.0565 Web: www.studyhalldaycare.com Multiple Locations Summit Christian Center 210.402.0565 Web: www.summitsa.com/ministries 2575 Marshall RD, SA TX 78259 Summit offers many different programs dependent upon the age of your child. They offer a nursery for ages 2 months to 3 years; a King’s Court - ages 4 to 1st grade; Elevate - grades 2nd through 5th; Emerge - grades 6th through 8th; The X - grades 9th through 12th and other young adults programs. They also offer divorce care for children of divorced parents; which includes a program to help kids deal with the hurt caused by the separation; provides special needs Sunday school classes with a trained staff. Also offers Parents and Challenges Support Group and field trips for children ages 2 to 18. CHILDCARE REFERRAL & RESOURCES City of S.A. - Head Start 210.206.5500 Web: saheadstart.org 1227 Brady Blvd, SA, TX 78207 Family Service Association - Smart Start 210.299.2400 Web: www.family-service.org E-Mail: support@family-service.org 702 San Pedro, SA, TX 78212 Provides consultants who assist with connections to local child care resources and community agencies, as well as national agencies and information; SMART START Connections is a network member of the National and Texas Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Association (NACCRRA and TACCRRA) and the national Child Care Aware system. Basic services are no charge. Online Child Care Search Web Only Web: https://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Child_Care/Search_Texas_Child_Care/ Spectrum Sitters, LLC 512.777.2676 Web: www.Spectrum-Sitters.com E-Mail: contact@spectrum-sitters.com Serving Central Texas; Texas Association of Child Care Resource Specialized Sitters for Special needs children. Provide both on call sitters, as well as long term sitter referrals. Texas Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies 210.299.2424 Web: www.taccrra.net 702 San Pedro Ave., SA TX 78212 Assists in locating a network of childcare resource and referral agencies serving communities throughout Texas; includes help for childcare for children with special needs. Texas Department of Family & Protective Services 210.333.2004 Web: www.txchildcaresearch.org Provides an online search of all Texas licensed facilities including center-based childcare and home-based childcare. Database is searchable by location and programs provided, such as special needs care, acceptance of childcare subsidies and transportation. Inspection reports of facilities available online. Previous Next

Caregiver Ambassador Program (CAP) ACN offers a Caregiver Ambassador Program designed to connect new and more practiced autism caregivers. Through the program, participants are able to share resources, discuss best practices, and learn from each other’s experiences. This program provides support, guidance, and education to families who are new to autism caregiving. Additionally, it helps experienced caregivers stay up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in autism care. 02 What do I ask my ambassador? Feel free to ask you ambassador anything you think might help. If you are unsure about where to go to sign up for Medicaid waiver programs, or if you need help with finding a great place for haircuts, our CAP's will share with you what has worked best for them and other resources they may have heard about. All CAP's are familiar with ACN's services and can get you to the right place if they don't have an answer. 01 How CAP works. The Caregiver Ambassador Program pairs families new to our herd with caregiver volunteers of our organization. The program helps give families and caregivers a friend who has experienced similar circumstances, successes and struggles and is further along on their autism journey. 03 What else do ambassadors do? CAP's are volunteers for the organization and may be found representing our ACN family at special events and resource fairs handing out swag and educational/promotional information. CAP's are leaders of the herd, families who have a special passion to support other autism families in any way possible. How to start: Contact our CAP Team. Autism Community Network wants to pair you with the right ambassador. Whether you are a grandparent, father or mother, we have someone who can keep it real with you, guide you to real answers, and celebrate real victories! Request An Ambassador

< Back RESPITE SERVICES About Respite Services Sometimes you need a break, we totally get it! Respite services provide short-term relief for families and caregivers of individuals with autism. Our resource library provides information on respite care options, including in-home and out-of-home services. PARENT’S NIGHT OUT / DAY RESPITE Artful Start Web: www.artfulstart.org E-Mail: artfulstart@gmail.com Artful Start organizes art programs for children with special needs throughout the community. Programs are run by trained volunteers with an adaptable curriculum to allow all participants to reach their maximum potential. Children’s Association for Maximum Potential (CAMP) —Teen and Adult Day Adventure 210.671.8112 Web: www.campcamp.org E-Mail: michelle.elble@campcamp.org Physical Address: 2525 Ladd St., Bldg. 3850, Lackland Air Force Base, TX 78236 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 27086, SA TX 78227 A supervised social program for teens and young adults with developmental disabilities, ages 14-40 (with no aggressive behavior); scheduled for one Saturday per month. Activities include dinner, movies, sporting events, concerts, and dances; teens may bring a date. Respite Club membership required. Mission Road Ministries - Mom’s Morning Out 210.334.2437 Web: missionroadministries.org/programs/children/moms-morning-out E-Mail: lbutler@mrmsat.org 8706 Mission Rd, SA TX 78214 Mission Road Ministries offers Mom’s Morning Out *each month. The program allows parents with children with intellectual developmental disabilities (IDD) some much deserved free time - even “me” time. This fun and important program is available to families living in San Antonio & Bexar County caring for a child with IDD. Tuition cost is $40/ child for 4 hours of care and must be between the ages of 6 thru 17. The program is from 9 AM - 1 PM. Program runs 1 Saturday per month and dates are on the website. Respite Care of San Antonio 210.737.1212 Web: www.respitecaresa.org 605 Belknap Pl., SA TX 78212 Families may bring their children (6 wks. To 17 yrs.) with special needs and medical complex conditions. Monday - Friday from 7:30am –6pm; non-disabled siblings (up to the age of 12) welcome. San Antonio Busy Bodies 210.545.2840 Web: https://www.sabusybodies.org/programs.html E-Mail: info@sabusybodies.org 11985 Starcrest Dr, SA TX 78247 Busy bodies is a learning center providing services for children including the development of fine and gross motor skills; balance; ocular motor control; attention span; self-esteem; and social skills. To qualify for the program; the child must attend an initial assessment for $200; in which the doctors determine what kind of treatment the child requires. The following therapy sessions are $35/hour. Busy bodies accepts some commercial insurance; but mainly private pay. Special Reach Inc 210.784.7478 Web: https://www.specialreach.com/ 6851 Citizens Pkwy suite #220 , San Antonio TX 78229 Party night is a Special Reach’s unique twist on Parent’s night out. It’s a great opportunity to develop social skills and meet other children aged 6-18. Additional summer program locations are available as well as new programs such as San Antonio Adventure Program. RESPITE CARE Mission Road Ministries - Respite Care 210.334.2437 Web: https://missionroadministries.org/lets-talk 8706 Mission RD, SA TX 78214 Children with Intellectual Disabilities have lived on the campus of Mission Road for nearly 65 years. We know what it takes to care for children who require individualized attention and constant supervision. At Mission Road we can provide your child with a weekend of fun and activity; while giving you the rest and relief you deserve. Your child will spend the weekend in one of our 5 cottages; interacting and playing with other children; all under the watchful eye of trained residential care professionals. A gymnasium; basketball court; sensory room; playground and Open Air Pavilion provide the backdrop for stimulating activities. A menu of meals and snacks carefully designed by our licensed dietitian are served family style. Our on- campus Health Care clinic dispenses any medications your child may need during their stay. Maxim Healthcare Services 210.341.3800 Web: https://www.maximhealthcare.com/ E-Mail: SanAntonioTX@maxhealth.com 7550 IH 10 West, Ste. 1001, SA TX 78229 Contact Person: Angela Barker, Business Development Manager Provides Private Duty Nursing, Companion services, respite care; Insurances accepted: Traditional Medicaid, Superior Medicaid, AmeriGroup, Molina, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, United Health Care, TriCare, Humana Military, Cigna, Care Centrix and most other insurances. Please, feel free to call the office should you need help with a funding source. Ramiro P. Estrada Respite Station - Children’s Hospital of San Antonio....210.704.3497 519 W. Houston, SA TX 78207 A respite program for families of children with developmental disabilities and multiple medical conditions; the program is available to children from birth to 18 years of age who require skilled car and medical support services. Respite Care of San Antonio 210.737.1212 Web: www.respitecaresa.org Davidson Respite House (DRH), 605 Belknap Place, SA TX 78212 Emergency/crisis facility dedicated to caring for children with special needs and complex medical conditions. Children may be placed at the DRH by their families so that they may attend to a crisis. Children are placed by the Texas Department of Family & Protective Services as a result of abuse or neglect; cares for children ages 0 to 17 years of age. The shelter is open 365 days per year, 24 hours per day. Previous Next

Lightening the Load: Promoting Relational and Sensory Safety in Schools Time PM Breakout Session - 2:15 PM Presenter/Facilitator Adrienne Gaither, OTR, C-SIPT, NDT, PACT Accredited Provider and Kathryn Benson, MPA Back to Course List < Back About the Course This session aims to equip participants with a comprehensive understanding of sensory processing and its crucial role in integrated child development within a school and classroom setting. Using current research, the course will explain the science behind sensory processing and sensory overload. Participants will learn to address individual student needs while creating a neurodiversity-affirming classroom environment by focusing on a common sensory experience for all learners. Leaders will discuss how a proactive approach to meeting sensory needs and creating a relationally and sensory safe space promotes prosocial behaviors in students and enhances overall classroom management. Objectives Participants will explain sensory processing and its role in child development, including the effect of sensory dysregulation on peer relationships and the importance of sensory integration. Participants will identify and address individual and group sensory needs in the school setting, including sensory-seeking or avoiding behaviors, signs of a sensory-based "meltdown," the use of sensory supports to promote peer interactions and relational bandwidth. Participants will differentiate between co- and self- regulation in the school setting and implement strategies for calming an overloaded child. About your Instructors Adrienne Gaither, OTR, C-SIPT, NDT, PACT Accredited Provider Adrienne Gaither, OTR, has been a pediatric occupational therapist for over 25 years. She received her degree from The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio and began her pediatric therapy career, eventually gaining experience in every setting available for the provision of children’s occupational therapy services. Adrienne has had the opportunity to serve as a member of ACN’s team since 2009. She holds specialty pediatric certification in the Sensory Integration and Praxis Tests (SIPT) and has completed advanced training in Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) for children as well as in the Sequential Oral Sensory (S.O.S.) feeding approach. Locally, Adrienne had the privilege of serving on the planning team for the development of Morgan’s Wonderland; in particular, contributing recommendations for the Sensory Village portion of the park. In addition to her work with ACN, Adrienne is a part-time Program Director and Sensory Consultant with Kinetic Kids, Inc., a local non-profit agency providing sports and recreation activities for children and teenagers with special needs. When she is not working, Adrienne enjoys life with her husband, 2 children, and 2 dogs, running, singing, and traveling. Speaker Disclosure: Ms. Gaither receives a salary from Autism Community Network. Kathryn Benson, MPA Kathryn “Katie'' Benson has a Bachelor's degree from Florida State University and a Masters in Public Administration with a concentration in NonProfit Management from the University of Texas Arlington. She spent 14 years total in the public education setting as a special educator and district leader. While with the public school system, Katie specialized in working with neurodivergent students, and opened two new autism units, including one focused on addressing neurodiverse needs in a general education setting. In the past, she has worked with other nonprofits in San Antonio to create and improve programming for neurodiverse populations and children and adolescents with other developmental differences. Katie joined the programs team at Autism Community Network (ACN) in the summer of 2023. Since that time, her role has grown to include hands-on involvement in ACN educational and camp programs, as well as planning and executing ACN’s quarterly family events. She enjoys working with the incredible staff at ACN to create a relational and sensory safe “home away from home” for the autism community in San Antonio. Speaker Disclosure: Ms. Benson receives a salary from Autism Community Network.

Camp AUsome! Camp AUsome! is a great opportunity for autistic children to connect with others and have fun in a safe and inclusive environment. Our week-long programs are affordable and specifically designed to meet the unique needs of the neurodiverse community. The experienced staff is equipped to handle a variety of needs, ensuring that every child has a fun and successful camp experience. We also offer opportunities for neurotypical siblings. Check out Camp WeGo! 02 Camp We:Code. Camp We:Code is designed to inspire middle and high school students on the autism spectrum to explore the exciting world of computer science. Partnering with Youth Code Jam, we offer a five-day program focused on getting children excited about coding and the endless possibilities it offers, including future career paths. Join us for an innovative experience which will inspire, challenge, and delight your child! But wait ... there's more! We are now partnering with Youth Code Jam to offer coding opportunities to younger autistic children. Third through fifth graders are invited to join us for an hour, once a week, for a series of 26 weeks, in the Valero Community Center annex on our campus, as a part of our new collaborative After School Coding Club. After School Coding Club. This club is a safe space where any young coder can be comfortable having fun and being creative with code. Contact adrienne@acn-sa.org for more information about Club We:Code. 01 Camp We:Play Camp We:Play is dedicated to providing a safe and fun-filled environment for children developmental ages 5-12. Our unique sensory-based activities offer a balance of exploration play and structured activities, ensuring that your child learns while having fun. Join us at our own Valero Community Center and let your child experience a summer camp they'll never forget! Contact adrienne@ 03 Camp We:Go. Camp We:Go offers a special experience for neurotypical siblings to come together and create lasting memories. Our 5-day sleep away camp, held in partnership with Camp Aranzazu in Rockport, Texas, is an opportunity for kids ages 7-10 and 11-16 to bond with each other while experiencing traditional camp activities and nature. Our experienced staff is dedicated to making this a special and memorable experience for every camper. How to start: Apply for Camp AUsome! Autism Community Network is begining to take applications for our summer program and we want you to get in because spaces will be limited. It all starts by filling out the following form... Enroll Cost of Camp Cancellation Policy In the event of a cancellation, ACN asks that you notify us at least a week in advance, so that we may offer the spot to another camper and return your investment. Failure to notify ACN will result in the forfeit of your fee for camp. Late Arrivals We understand that delays can happen however we ask that you notify us if your camper will be more than 10 minutes late to camp, so that, if necessary, we can adjust locations and activities accordingly to receive them. To find out more information about Camp AUsome pricing, please email Katie Benson at: katie@acn-sa.org

Autism Community Network works with a large consortium of donors and healthcare professionals in the San Antonio community to provide quality educational, diagnostic, and therapy services for families and loved ones on the autism spectrum. Thank you to our founders. Founding Donor Kronkosky Foundation The focus of the Kronkosky Charitable Foundation is to support programs, projects and collaborative efforts that reach as many people as possible; involve the persons served in developing solutions; raise expectations; build self-esteem; develop personal and organizational capacity; encourage innovation; and make use of technology. Founding Donor Baptist Health Foundation of San Antonio Baptist Health Foundation of San Antonio is committed to honoring God and their Baptist heritage by fostering and funding health initiatives in our community. Founding Donor Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas Methodist Healthcare Ministries of South Texas, Inc. is a private, faith-based, not-for-profit organization dedicated to creating access to health care for uninsured and low-income families through direct services, community partnerships and strategic grant-making in 74 counties across South Texas. Founding Donor USAA Foundation, Inc. USAA, USAA Bank and The USAA Foundation, Inc., strive to increase positive impact by providing financial support to organizations that align with our corporate responsibility focus areas. In local communities where USAA has a significant presence of employees, we provide financial support to causes that address needs that align with our local focus areas. Founding Donor Spellman Charitable Fund of The San Antonio Area Foundation The San Antonio Area Foundation serves as your most trusted and impactful philanthropic partner to close opportunity gaps for the people in San Antonio who need it the most. Founding Donor / Capital Campaign - Platinum Valero Energy Foundation The Valero Energy Foundation -- a public charity and Valero's philanthropic arm -- funds nonprofit agencies that serve predominantly disadvantaged children and families. In 2019, the Foundation contributed appoximately $40 million in assistance in the communities where Valero has major operations. Founding Donor Gordon Hartman Family Foundation Gordon Hartman Family Foundation is dedicated to help bring about positive transformation in the lives of our friends with special needs, their families and caregivers. They strive to achieve this by investing their financial support, their time and their energy into organizations that serve individuals with cognitive and physical disabilities. Founding Donor Shield-Ayres Foundation The Shield-Ayres Foundation strengthens organizations that effectively meet the basic human needs of the most vulnerable members of our community, provide access to educational opportunity and the arts, advocate for social justice, and promote land and water conservation. Founding Donor St. Luke's Lutheran Health Ministries St. Luke’s Lutheran Health Ministries, Inc. is a non-profit foundation whose philanthropic focus is funding healthcare ministries that will benefit the San Antonio regional community, including direct and indirect healthcare services (medical, dental, mental health care and protective health services); health education; preventive services; wellness initiatives; and healthcare equipment and supplies that are critical to the delivery of direct care. Founding Donor Zachry Foundation The Zachry Foundation is a private, family foundation in Bexar County, Texas, founded by H. B. Zachry and sustained by family business entities. It seeks to help people improve their lives and communities by contributing to nonprofit organizations in the fields of the arts and humanities, education, health and social services. Founding Donor Myra Stafford Pryor Charitable Trust Myra died in 1943 leaving Frost National Bank as the trustee of her estate valued at $750,000 (over $10 million today) for the purposes of “a trust created for charitable purposes in perpetuity.” Today, this Trust has over $25 million in assets and annually gives over $1 million to charities and non-profit organizations. Among the many wonderful initiatives funded by Myra’s generosity are full time tutors and mentors for San Antonio’s underpriviledged youths, funding for trainers for Guide Dogs of Texas, and new state-of-the-art technology for the Mays Business School at Texas A&M. Her legacy in San Antonio lives on! You are in good company. Donate

< Back SAPD cadets learn how to respond to incidents involving people with autism Tiffany Huertas Apr 2, 2024 SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio nonprofits have teamed up to create a training program to help San Antonio police cadets better understand autism spectrum disorders. Any Baby Can of San Antonio, a local nonprofit serving families with children and youth facing serious health or developmental challenges, is part of the group behind the program. Robert Peaden, director of Autism Services at Any Baby Can San Antonio, said it teaches cadets how to respond to incidents involving people with autism. “What they look like when it comes to recognizing from level one to level three on that spectrum. And then after that, after about two hours of instruction there, we do about two hour instruction of the response phase,” he said. Peaden has a passion for helping parents navigate autism spectrum disorder. His son Logan was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder when he was two years old. “My son was diagnosed at two years old at Triple Army Medical Center in Hawaii when I was in the United States Air Force,” Peaden said. Peaden’s love for his son brought him to the program. “I would describe my son as the nicest person you’ve ever met in your life,” Peaden said. Any Baby Can San Antonio teamed up with the nonprofit Family ADDventures to start the program last year. “My mission is to keep children with autism out of the school to prison pipeline,” said Nicole Santiago, CEO of Family ADDventures. Santiago is passionate about this training and explains the reason it started. “One of my clients was unlawfully arrested and I filed a complaint and we had a meeting and the police were open to us coming in to train,” Santiago said. San Antonio Police Department officials say every cadet class is now taking the trainings. “We talk about different sensory needs. Different communication needs. So, for example, I have communication boards I use. So sometimes if someone becomes with their anxiety, they become non-speaking, they can use the board to point to what they want to say,” Santiago said. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports about 1 in 36 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder. “Autism is a developmental disability or disorder that is diagnosed in childhood, and it affects communication chiefly, it also affects social skills, sensory processing,” Adrienne Gaither, director of caregiver empowerment at Autism Community Network said. The Autism Community Network also played a big role in the program and is involved in the training. “I think the most important strategy is to be open minded and also to take a step back when they encounter a person with autism and really think about what accommodations can be made. How they can read the communication of someone who might have a communication impairment. And also to draw on the training that we’ve providing and not to be scared of that call,” Gaither said. “The training is super helpful because it helps develop a level of competency in our new officers. These are cadets preparing to become officers serving the community, and it helps them to develop relationships and to learn how to interact with really all people from our community,” Jeremy Spencer, police officer at SAPD and instructor at the training academy said. April is National Autism Awareness Month and KSAT community is partnering with Any Baby Can to help raise awareness. Tune in for the KSAT Community “Town Hall: Understanding Autism”, hosted by Tiffany Huertas. You can watch live at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16 through the KSAT+ streaming services. Also, Any Baby Can San Antonio is hosting its 20th Annual Walk for Autism on April 20, 2024 at Palo Alto College. Watch Autism Community Network's Director of Caregiver Empowerment, Adrienne Gaither, work with other community nonprofits to educate the SAPD about autism here: https://www.ksat.com/video/news/2024/04/02/sapd-cadets-learn-how-to-respond-to-incidents-involving-people-with-autism/ Previous Next

Letting Love Lead: Pediatric Autism Communication Therapy Strategies for Parents Time AM Breakout Session - 10:00 AM Presenter/Facilitator Anna Paola Smith, LCSW, PACT Accredited Provider Back to Course List < Back About the Course Social communication difficulties are a hallmark of autism spectrum disorder (ASD), often impacting children’s social interactions and development. Traditional interventions can be resource-intensive and may not always engage parents effectively in the process. This session will discuss the different strategies used during PACT sessions that have been proven to be an effective and integral piece of parent-mediated intervention designed to enhance social communication skills in children with ASD. Objectives Participants will list and briefly explain parent-mediated approaches and how they help increase social communication in children. Participants will list high impact, social-emotional, and developmental strategies to support growth of healthy relationships and social brains. Anna Paola Smith, LCSW, PACT Accredited Provider Anna Paola Smith attended The University of Texas at Austin where she received her BA in Psychology and her Masters degree in Social Work. She has had the opportunity to work with children and families in the school, hospital, and clinical settings. Anna Paola's interests lie in family systems and how the development of one child may impact the entire family unit. She started a sibling support group at Autism Community Network to provide siblings a safe space to share their own experiences. Anna Paola also provides routine follow-ups for caregivers after their child receives an autism diagnosis and is a bilingual Pediatric Autism Communication Therapy Accredited Practitioner, supporting families impacted by autism through dyadic coaching. Anna Paola is part of an interdisciplinary diagnostic team that uses a strength-based approach to address the unique presentation of the child and family. Speaker Disclosure: Ms. Smith receives a salary from Autism Community Network.

< Back RESIDENTIAL SERVICES About Residential Services Our residential services resources provide information on residential options available for individuals with autism who require support with daily living skills. These resources can help families find appropriate residential options for their loved ones with autism. ADULT RESIDENTIAL SERVICES Complete Life Care – Cade’s Cove House 210.520.0774 6647 Cade’s Cove, SA TX 78238 ICF-MR/RC Council Oaks Community Options 210.646.0717 Provides ongoing evaluation; planning; 24-hour supervision; coordination; and integration for health or rehabilitative services in a protected residential setting to individuals with disabilities; please call for a full listing of available programs; fees; scheduling and eligibility. Dreams Come True Assisted Living 210.979.6420 3242 Swandale St, SA TX 78230 State funded group home for men ages 19 and above with disabilities; provides a protected residential setting; ongoing evaluation; planning; 24-hour supervision; coordination and integration for health or rehabilitative services to help men with disabilities function at their greatest ability. Please call for a full listing of available programs; fees; scheduling; eligibility and availability. Most insurance including Medicaid and Medicare accepted. Eldorado Adult Living Center 210.599.8656 Mailing Address: PO Box 33487, SA TX 78265 Physical Address: 12302 Gran Vista St, SA, TX 78233 El Dorado Adult Living Center offers assisted living for people with disabilities by offering comprehensive and individualized health care and rehabilitation services to individuals to promote their functional status and independence in San Antonio; Texas. Assists males ages 18 and up. Medicaid and private pay only. Enhanced Living Services 210.599.4449 4422 Centergate St., SA TX 78217 ICF-MR/RC, HCS Hill Country San Antonio Management, Inc 210.340.8256 Web: www.hillcountrysanantoniomanagementinc.com 3355 Cherry Ridge, Ste. 108, SA, TX 78230 Hill Country San Antonio Management Inc. is a Medicaid based program that provides services to Individuals with disabilities in the Austin, San Antonio and Corpus Christi areas. Hill Country San Antonio Management Inc. is a Home and Community Based Services (HCS) provider agency; and we also provide services to individuals enrolled in the Texas Home Living (TxHmL) program. Some services provided include nursing, physiological and physical therapy. For information about services offered; please call. Clients need to be assessed by AACOG prior to being accepted for residential services. Medicaid and Medicare are accepted insurances. Homelife & Community Services, Inc 210.736.3334 Web: https://homelifeandcommunityservices.com/ 2401 Wilson Blvd., SA TX 78228 HCS, Texas Home Living General Revenue Lifetime Living, Inc 210.651.0279 Web: http://lifetimelivinginc.com/ E-Mail: info@LifetimeLivingInc.com Central Main Office: 5425 N. Loop 1604 E., SA TX 78247 Specializing in community-based services for those with intellectual & developmental disabilities. Home & Community Based Services (HCS), Texas Home Living Services (TxHmL), Classes, & General Revenue Services (GR); Accept Traditional Medicaid thru Approved Medicaid Waiver Programs & Private Pay. Mission Road Ministries 210.924.9265 Web: www.mrmsat.org E-Mail: info@mrmsat.org 8706 Mission Rd, SA TX 78214 We provide each child with professional; 24-hour AWAKE care by trained; attentive staff allowing the child to thrive and grow into a successful and happy adult. We provide our partnering families with time and respite from the 24/7/365 care that often overwhelms families with children with special needs. Our caregivers are rested and ready to provide focused and loving for each of the children in their care. Our caregivers are not distracted like parents and foster parents are with other obligations like cooking dinner; doing laundry; driving other children to practices. They are 100% focused on the special children in their care. Furthermore; our caregivers all participate in 50+ hours of professional training each year. Our greatest strength: three 8-hour shifts of ready; rested and loving caregivers providing 24/7/365 awake care. For more info, you can call Monday - Friday 8 AM - 5 PM. Mission Road Ministries - Campus Cottages 210.924.9265 Web: https://www.missionroadministries.org/programs/children/ 8706 Mission RD, SA TX 78214 Mission Road provides residential care for children (3 to 17 years of age) with intellectual and other developmental disabilities in five homes on our 22-acre South San Antonio campus. Mission Road cares for children from all areas of Texas. To schedule your own private campus tour please call, or you can also take a virtual tour of the campus on the website. Mosaic of South Central Texas 210.967.0566 Web: www.mosaicinfo.org 1804 NE Loop 410, SA TX 78217 Mosaic is a faith-based organization serving people with disabilities living in group residences. All services are provided in a typical community-based setting which includes individuals living as roommates in a group home setting. Individuals receive 24-hours a day to provide assistance with completing daily living skills; meal planning and preparation; budgeting; shopping and medication administration. Assistance provided include matching a person receiving services with someone who provides the assistance needed for daily living in a family-like or roommate like setting. Residential and facilitative services include: skills training and adjunctive therapies with 24-hour supervision and coordination of the individual program plan. Providence Place - Legacy Program 844.546.8697 Web: www.provplace.org E-Mail: info@yourstore.com 6487 Whitby Rd., SA TX 78240 Two residential programs for young adults with disabilities after high school. Both are 2-4 years in length and teach/practice work and independent living skills. Oasis Home is an eight bed ICF Group Home and Legacy is an apartment living program for a young person who is already independent enough to not need supervision (case management is provided). Premieant 210.525.1509 1218 Arion Pkwy., Ste. 106, SA TX 78216 HCS and Texas Home Living providers; Provides services to individuals with disabilities like group homes; foster care and transportation to doctors’ visits; serves those 18 years old or older; HCS and Texas Home Living providers. R & K Specialized Homes, Inc 210.805.0802 Web: www.RKhomes.net 1550 NE Loop 410, Ste. 206, SA TX 78209 ICF-MR/RC, HCS A for-profit provider of Medicaid and private pay programs for people with disabilities; provides Dayhab; vocational and supported employment services. The Intermediate Care Facilities (ICF) is a Medicaid program that provides residential services in the community through group homes. Services include; adaptive aids; specialized therapies; behavioral supports; community supports; respite and nursing. Primary eligibility requirements include a diagnosis of disability and the individual must live at home with their family or on their own. Clients need to be assessed by AACOG prior to being accepted for residential services. Hours are Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM; tours of facilities can be arranged by calling office. Reaching Maximum Independence (RMI) - Group Homes 210.656.6674 Web: http://www.rmihomes.org 6336 Montgomery Dr., SA TX 78239 Reaching Maximum Independence; Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that assists adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the San Antonio area live and work as independently as possible. --Our group homes; supported apartment programs and foster care services allow individuals with developmental disabilities and their families to choose the residential option that best meets their needs. Rescare - Residential Services and Home Health 210.979.7009 Web: http://www.rescare.com 3700 Belgium Ln, SA TX78219 ResCare Residential Services provides support to adults and children that need assistance with daily living. With almost four decades of experience in the disabilities services field; we are the country’s leading provider of services to people with disabilities. We offer a comprehensive range of services through: Community Living; Signature Services (day services/sheltered employment; respite/home care; case management; support services - physical; occupational; and speech therapy/nursing); Signature Quality and Training Programs; Rest Assured Telecare; and Supported Employment. Clients need to be assessed by AACOG prior to being accepted for residential services. Medicaid and Medicare are accepted insurances. River Gardens 830.629.4400 750 Rusk St., New Braunfels, TX 78130 ICF-MR/RC South Texas Community Living Corp 210.494.1030 Web: https://icltexas.com/ 2391 NE Loop 410, Ste. 110, SA TX 78217 ICF-ID, HCS; South Texas Community Living Corporation is an Intermediate Care Facility for individuals ages 18 and older with disabilities. We operate 6-bed group homes and an array of additional services to meet the needs of those individuals. We provide the full array of the following HCS services below: Audiology; Adaptive Aids; Behavioral support; Case coordination; Day habilitation; Dietary; Direct care in 3 and 4- bed group homes; Direct care in the natural home (Supported Home Living); Host (Foster) Care; Minor home modifications; Nursing (LVN and RN); Occupational; Physical and Speech therapy; Respite care; Social work; Specialized dental care and supported employment. Eligibility is done thru AACOG; Medicaid is accepted. Hours are Monday - Friday 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Southwind Fields 210-526-1567 Web: www.southwindfields.com 6851 Citizens Parkway, Ste. 224, SA TX 77829 The Southwind City Locals program is designed for men and women of a wide variety of abilities. Whether living in their own place, or at home with a caregiver, a Southwind Local Advisor will come to them. If living at home is what's best for now, we'll help build skills to reach new levels of independence towards tailor made goals. City Locals already living in the community, may stay in their current place of residence, should they choose to do so. Those moving to the area, or who would like to relocate, may reside in an affordable Southwind partnership apartment complex, maintaining their own lease agreements, while enjoying the fellowship and community of living alongside other Southwind City Locals. City Locals receive basic case management services from our City Local Advisors, who will check in several times weekly to assess health & safety of the living environment, bus training (if appropriate), assistance with assuring bills are paid on time (if applicable), and the offer of assistance for financial management, employment search and retention (if applicable), medical needs, personal care, and independent living skills training. Specialized Home Life 210.599.8656 12302 Gran Vista, SA TX 78233 POBox33487, SATX 78265 ICF/ID Group Home The Arc of San Antonio Web: www.arc-sa.org Northeast side: 13430 West. Ave., SA TX 78216.................210.490.4300 North side: 6530 Wurzbach, SA TX 78240...........................210.682.4200 Day habilitation program; Life Enrichment and recreation for, teens and adults, ages 14 or older with developmental or other cognitive delays, 1-8 ratios; M-F, six-hour program; before and after care available. We accept HCS, General Revenue, and private pay; part-time available. Teen recreation program offered only during the summer. Limited reduced slots. The Center for Health Care Services 210.434.7001 Web: www.chcsbc.org 806 S. Zarzamora St., SA TX 78207 Assists adults suffering from mental illness; provides Adult Mental Health Intake and Crisis Management. Applications are taken on a walk-in basis from 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM. Availability is on a first come first serve basis. Bring a valid ID; proof of income; and proof of residency. Yes I Can 210.599.6668 10807 Perrin Beitel, Ste. 100, SA TX 78217 HCS; call from 8-5 CHILDREN’S RESIDENTIAL SERVICES CLASS Community Living Assistance and Support 877.438.5656 Interest list in Austin for individuals with a diagnosis of development disabilities and related conditions. Deaf/Blind Multiple Disabilities Program 877.438.5658 Interest list in Austin for those with diagnosis of deaf, blind, and a developmental disability. HCS - Home and Community Based Program 210.832.5020 Interest list in San Antonio for individuals with a diagnosis with intellectual disabilities. MDCP - Medically Dependent Children’s Program 877.438.5658 Interest list in Austin for individuals with a need for skilled nursing services up to age 21. YES - Youth Empowerment Services 210.735.2341 For children and adolescents with severe emotional disturbances to live in the community with their families. Previous Next