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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 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

:Le Brunch des Chapeaux Raffle Items Purchase your Raffle Tickets here! This button connects to our Valero Champions fore Charity link to buy raffle tickets. Click donate to purchase and 100% of your donation comes to us - no fees! Raffle tickets are $25 each or 5 for $100 Luncheon Package #1 Beauty & Bliss The Beauty Package is Always a Favorite! 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< Back STATE & FEDERAL SUPPORT About State & Federal Support State and federal support programs can be tricky to navigate. Thats why we have compiled a list of all the right places to call for options for individuals with autism and their families. Our resource library provides information on the different types of support available, including Medicaid waivers, social security benefits, and state and federal programs. STATE & FEDERAL SUPPORT Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRCs) 855.937.2372 Web: https://hhs.texas.gov/services/aging/long-term-care/aging-disability-resource-center State Agency over Medicaid Waiver Programs like CLASS, HCS, and MDCP Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities 512.437.5432 Web: www.tcdd.texas.gov E-Mail: tcdd@tcdd.texas.gov 6201 E. Oltorf, Ste. 600, Austin TX 78741 Note: TCDD does not provide any direct services Texas Workforce Commission Vocational Rehabilitation Services 800-628-5115 Web: https://twc.texas.gov/jobseekers/vocational-rehabilitation-services Vocational and employment services, independent living services; Early Childhood Intervention is under this department; technology and resource center. Previous Next

< Back Donate Every donation makes a difference. We're reaching out to you with an open heart and a shared vision for a brighter, better world. Today, we invite you to become a driving force behind the change we all wish to see. Your support, in any amount, can create ripples of impact that touch lives, uplift communities, and foster progress. Whether it's a small contribution or a larger gesture, every donation is a stepping stone towards positive transformation. Let's build BIG futures together. Let's get started

< 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

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< Back Patricia "Patty" Vela, MA Chief Development & Outreach Officer Patricia "Patty" Vela holds a Bachelors degree in Psychology from Southwestern University and a Masters degree in School Psychology from Trinity University. After 14 years of practicing as a Licensed Specialist in School Psychology for NISD, Ms. Vela entered her second career, non-profit development and fundraising. Prior to ACN, Ms. Vela worked for a large non-profit in San Antonio. However, she always missed working alongside children with disabilities and their caregivers which made her excited when this opportunity became available. She joined the ACN team in March, 2017. Ms. Vela is a daughter, mother, friend, bibliophile, frustrated artist, lover of music, and enjoys Gilmore Girls and HGTV a little too much! She has also developed a passion for retaionally-based or conscious parenting as she has spent more time at ACN and can often be found down internet rabbit holes of leaders in this field. Patty is a proud aunt to 2 neurodivergent children. pattyv@acn-sa.org (210) 435-1000 ext. 5002

The blog. All Posts Search Feb 9 1 min ACN is Hiring: Join our Amazing Team! Autism Community Network is looking for a confident, mature, smart individual for our very fast paced insurance and billing position. We... 261 views 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1 Jan 26 3 min Co-Regulation and How it can Help Your Child The holidays are over and you’re trying to get your family back into a routine, but your child has been struggling these last few weeks.... 147 views 2 likes. Post not marked as liked 2 Mar 26, 2023 7 min The ACN logo story. How the elephants became our mascots. The elephant is a remarkable animal that is often associated with strength, intelligence, and a... 146 views 1 like. Post not marked as liked 1