Support Groups - Gina Baum, Realtor ®

Autism & Down Syndrome Support Groups in York, PA

Being a parent to a special needs child can be very trying especially when your child is dual diagnosed. I know the trials and tribulations, the many tears shed through the years and the joys that come with just the slightest accomplishments that most people take for granted. It can be very frustrating when all you seem to do is fight for your child to get educational services, health care or even a babysitter. I've been there, I know what you are going through. With the help of some of my favorite groups and the friends I've made over the years, things have gotten a little easier. I'd like to share those groups with you in hopes that you will be able to gain some piece of mind as well as some knowledge that may help you get what you need for your child because we all know unless you ask, very few will offer information to you. Too many people don't think outside the box anymore in fear of not following the rules, etc. But what about the children? Who will stand up for them? We will! So here are a few of the groups that I attend and/or participate in the forums. I hope this will help some of you.

1. YORK COUNTY PARENT ADVISORY FORUM (PAF)

"Come join the York Co. PAF for a FREE night out!"

We are a team of parents and caregivers that are making a difference for our children who may have mental health or mental retardation issues affecting their lives.

Each month features a speaker on topics parents have asked for!

Learn more about what services are available to your family, and how to access them.

You have asked how to overcome the hurdles in the MH/MR system to assure your child has the care that they deserve...we are here to help you. The system needs changes, we are here to help you have your voices hear and get you the information you need!

FREE CHILDCARE PROVIDED BY INDIVIDUALS WITH CLEARANCES!!

FREE DINNER FOR YOU AND THE KIDS!!!

We meet on the third Tuesday of each month from 6:30 p.m. - 8:00p.m.
At Dallastown High School (enter through the door labeled #2).

Look for signs or feel free to contact the York county Human Services Department at (717) 771-9347.

The group is co-chaired by parents using services for their children.

We want to start a network of support.

To Subscribe:YorkParentForum-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

2. The Down Syndrome & Autistic Spectrum (ds-autism)

The Down Syndrome & Autistic Spectrum (ds-autism) listserv is a discussion list for families, parents, and professionals interested in this dual diagnosis.Topics include medical, educational, and family concerns in a free, and open forum

The list is a program of Creating Solutions (www.creating-solutions.info) and managed by volunteers: Joan Guthrie Medlen, Donna Duffey, and Mary Beth Pilewski Paul.

The list is the inaugural service of The Down Syndrome & Autism Internet Information Center. For more information about the Center, visit:

http://www.disabilitysolutions.org/dsaiic/index.htm

To Subcribe: ds-autism-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

3. National Autism Association of PA

http://www.naa-pa.org

To Subscribe: NAA_PA-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Autism & Down Syndrome Support Groups in York, PA