You Can Speak Up for Special Needs Housing Just Like This Father
My name is Alex Gargarita. I’m not a professional lobbyist or policy wonk – just an autism parent and advocate for people with developmental disabilities. This is how I realized my voice matters and so does yours. The state of…
You Aut to Know: What Helps Adults with Autism Thrive
One of my biggest concerns, like most others out there, is about the future. We all deserve one, and many of us try our best to build it. Whether it’s our career, finances, social life, or elsewhere, every one of…
ABLE Accounts: Saving Without Fear for Working Adults with Disabilities
I began working as an Occupational Therapist in 2005 and had my first experience working with people who have acquired disabilities in Adult Rehabilitation. I then worked with pediatrics and children with developmental disabilities. After seeing patients in their homes,…
Challenges and Victories For Rident Park, An Emerging Community for Adults with Special Needs
Have you ever thought about building your own supported living community for adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DDs)? Maybe you’ve considered this idea in passing and then thought, “Where would I even begin with such a massive undertaking?” While a project…
Autism Gurus | Dena Gassner: You Are Not A Failure For Utilizing Public Supports
Dena Gassner is a powerhouse. Not only does she serve on the national board for The Arc US, she is also a social worker and a Ph.D. candidate at Adelphi University where she is studying Social Welfare. Her research interests…
Public Assistance: A Lifeline for People with Special Needs
When you notice a cute little girl with Down Syndrome in Target or a young man on the autism spectrum excitedly flapping his hands in GameStop, do you ever consider where these individuals will live in 30 years? Only 13%…
Words Matter: The Dos and Don’ts When Talking About Disabilities
Words matter. They help us understand each other and the things around us. Sometimes well-intentioned people do not know how to talk about disabilities and accidentally use language that is offensive. The common words of today may become offensive at…
Adam “AJ” Jones: Thinking Out-Loud
Adam Jones has been riding and working with horses for 12 years. As a graduate of Meredith Manor International Equestrian College, one of the only colleges that offers classes in all areas of horsemanship, Adam studied training, teaching, farrier work, and massage therapy,…
Autism Gurus | Financial and Special Needs Planner, Eric Jorgensen, CFP®
MHAF is starting an exciting new series entitled "Autism Gurus" that features professionals who have significant experience and/or training in working with adults on the autism spectrum. This series includes, but is not limited to, doctors, dentists, lawyers, financial planners, and other professionals…
5 Things You Need to Know About Disability Housing and Advocacy
If you or a loved one has an intellectual/developmental disability (I/DD) and/or autism, it is imperative that you consider the following five realities that impact the future of available support services and housing. 1. Without access to affordable housing, people…