The S. June Smith Center Blog

S. June Smith Center Event Dates

2012-01-10T10:02:00.000-05:00

Here is an updated list of our upcoming fundraising events:

Battle of the Banks: February 25 (Sunday) at Hempfield High School
Spring Gala: May 12 (Saturday) at the Lancaster Country Club
Carl J. Witmeyer, Jr. Memorial Golf Tournament: June 21 (Thursday) at Overlook Golf Course

ModernEYES Optical Party, Benefiting the S. June Smith Center

2011-09-16T13:25:00.003-04:00

Date/Time: Thursday, October 6 · 5:00pm - 8:30pm
Location: Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling (1704 Hempstead Rd, Lancaster, PA)

Let us ModernEYES your look and help benefit the S. June Smith Center!!! Here's more about the event:

All frames only $99.99!
BOGO frame sale at event only!
First 50 people who RSVP (717-299-4829) will receive a free gift!
ModernEYES will donate $5 to S. June Smith Center for each attendee!

How the event works:

Bring a valid (within 2 years) copy of your prescription. (If you don’t have one, ModernEYES can get it from your eye doctor.)
ModernEYES staff are trained and skilled to help you find your new look.
ModernEYES staff are professionally trained to take all needed measurements for your glasses.
ModernEYES will call you in 1-2 weeks when your glasses are ready at their Park City store.

RSVPs are appreciated but not required. RSVP with the S. June Smith Center at 717-299-4829.

The S. June Smith Center thanks ModernEYES (our optical party people) and Paul Davis Restoration & Remodeling (our hosts). You are awesome!

For more info check out the event at the S. June Smith Center Facebook Page.

Community Shopping Night at Ten Thousand Villages, Ephrata

2011-09-14T10:36:00.000-04:00

Ten Thousand Villages in Ephrata PA will be holding a Community Shopping Night, benefiting the S. June Smith Center, on Wednesday, December 7, 2011, from 5 to 9 p.m. A portion of each sale will go to support the programs and services of the S. June Smith Center. Come on out and do some holiday shopping!

Pit Crew Blog

2011-09-13T14:13:00.000-04:00

Be sure to check out the Pit Crew Blog of S. June Smith's Project Together program. The Pit Crew Blog, along with the Project Together Pit Crew Facebook Page, are resources for individuals and organizations involved with Project Together or interested in the process of inclusion in educational and community settings.

What is a Pit Crew? A Pit Crew "is an outcome driven process that gives students the opportunities to develop social relationships, leadership, and communication and collaboration skills. The concept is derived from NASCAR pit crews where we focus on supporting individuals to win the race, the race for acceptance, understanding and full community inclusion."

New SJSC Board Members

2011-09-09T09:21:00.000-04:00

We welcome Anthony Essis and William Sanchez to the S. June Smith Center Board of Directors. Mr. Essis is an Ameriprise Financial Advisor. Mr. Sanchez is with Susquehanna Bank.

Project Together Pit Crew Facebook Page

2011-09-06T12:49:00.000-04:00

The S. June Smith Center Project Together Pit Crews now have a Facebook Page of their very own to share news, information, ideas and success stories. You can find it by following this link: http://www.facebook.com/pages/SJSC_PitCrews/167010196705536

It Truly Takes a Village

2011-08-10T09:09:00.001-04:00

It truly takes a village to raise and educate and child. Sometimes that village can be found in surprising and wonderful ways, as in this story from Helen, a Special Instructor at the S. June Smith Center:

One of our little children lives with his grandparents and aunt in southern Lancaster County. The grandmother and aunt are both attending Immaculata University. The aunt joined Alpha Xi, a social and service sorority. The Alpha Xi sisters began caring for her nephew when Grandmother had conflicting schedules and had to be in class. The sisters of Alpha Xi helped the family when they had to move into a new home due to unsafe conditions with flooding. The sisters assisted the family with the move and provided child care for our little one. Before class schedules were finalized this coming fall, the sisters of Alpha Xi asked for Grandmother’s class schedule so they could plan their classes around hers in order to care for our little one.

Link To A Little Story About Our Board

2011-07-21T08:30:00.000-04:00

Here is a post on another blog about Matthew Grosh joining the S. June Smith Center Board of Directors: Matthew Grosh joins S. June Smith Center Board of Directors

Welcome, New Board Members!

2011-07-19T10:02:00.000-04:00

We are pleased to welcome five new people to the S. June Smith Center Board of Directors. They are:

Erin Warner--General Sales Manager with Bed, Bath and Beyond.
Matthew Grosh--Attorney with Russell, Krafft, and Gruber, LLP.
Kim Carter Paterson--Attorney with Blakinger, Byler & Thomas, PC.
Marie Lehman, Ph.D.--Clinic Coordinator and Staff Physical Therapist with CPRS Physical Therapy.
Thomas Sponaugle--Attorney with Griffith Strickler Lerman Solymos & Calkins.

We are looking forward to their leadership.

We also say good-bye and thank you to five faithful Board members whose terms are up and whose leadership will be greatly missed: Allison Weber, Cindy Hinkle, Denise Schwebel, Diane Gottlieb, and Lucinda Boone. Thank you so much for your faithful service to the S. June Smith Center and for your faithful leadership in moving us forward in our mission of supporting children with disabilities in reaching their potential and their full participation in their families, schools, and communities.

Parent Event: Summer Break--Caring for the Care Giver

2011-06-02T08:02:00.000-04:00

Lancaster County Early Intervention Presents:

Summer Break--Caring for the Care Giver

For Parents & Caregivers of Children Birth to Age 3

Where: Lancaster Host Resort & Conference Center, 2300 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, PA.
When: Saturday, June 18, 9 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.
Cost: FREE!!

Register by calling Darlene Taylor at 717-735-2130 or email her at TaylorD@co.lancaster.pa.us

Summer Break - Schedule

9:00 a.m. Registration & Contitental Breakfast

9:15 a.m. Opening Remarks
(James Laughman, Executive Director, MH/MR/EI Lancaster County)

9:30 a.m. Mindful Parenting
(Wynne Kinder, BA and Christen Cosia, BSE,Kinder Associates LLC)
Stressful moments can dominate our days as parents. Managing our own stress can lighten (and make more healthy) our interactions with our little ones. This workshop will focus on practices that parents can do to care for themselves, as well as better care for their children.

10:45 Promoting Healthy Families by Creating Healthy Eaters
(Krista Yoder Latortue, RD, LDN, Family Food, LLC)
Take some time to discuss positive meal times and picky eating. Get a better understanding how your child’s nutritional status can impact many aspects of your family’s life.

Lunch and Nutrition Display

1:00 p.m. Surviving Potty Training
(Jerome Bibelheimer, M.S.Ed., BCBA, Behavior Interventions Inc.)
This presentation provides you with information on when and how to get started in potty training your child. It will review possible problems and solutions to help reach your goal along with getting some basic strategies to manage challenging behaviors.

2:30 p.m. A Behavior and Sensory Focus
(Tim Caldwell, M.S.Ed., BCBA, Philhaven)
Tim’s extensive knowledge in specialized programming for individuals with developmental delays, will provide for a well rounded presentation on developmental skills, behavior and sensory concerns.

Thank, Alpha Sigma Alpha!!

2011-03-24T13:27:00.000-04:00

Thanks to the women of Alpha Sigma Alpha for their recent gifts to the S. June Smith Center: Beta Rho Chapter (Northern Ill U)–Alphabet Books; Epsilon Tau (U of MD, Balt)-Totebags; Delta Iota (U of DE) & Delta Nu B (Kettering U)-financial contribution. You are awesome!!

Easter Seals Therapeutic Horseback Riding Program in Lancaster

2011-03-22T13:43:00.000-04:00

Easter Seals Lancaster Therapeutic Horseback Riding Program

Where: BrownHill Stable (6713 Division Highway, Narvon, PA 17555)
When: Starting April 6, 2011
Time: Wednesday Evening Sessions
Cost: $140.00 per month (four lessons)

This program will operate monthly April through November of 2011. In the event of bad weather lessons will be held in the barn. Barn Lessons are a great opportunity for students to learn more about horses. Barn lesson will include grooming, basic horse care, and hands on activities related to horses. Individuals with spina-bifida, cerebral palsy, ADHD, blindness, hearing impairments, autism and many other disabilities are encouraged to participate and benefit from this program’s therapeutic values.

Call Matt Ernst at 717-741-3891 for more information.

Easter Seals Lancaster Therapeutic Horseback Riding Program is not associated with the S. June Smith Center.

2011 Battle of the Banks Wrap-Up

2011-03-02T16:32:00.000-05:00

Thanks to everyone involved in this year’s Battle of the Banks. It was another great year and we raised about 20% more than last year. We are still getting a few last minutes donations, but we raised almost $25,000 this year, making it the most successful Battle of the Banks in recent memory. The follow banks and credit unions participated:

Belco Federal Credit Union (1 Team)
Citizens Bank (1 Team)
Ephrata National Bank (2 Teams)
Fulton Bank (3 Teams)
Graystone Bank (3 Teams)
Members 1st Federal Credit Union (1 Team)
Metro Bank (2 Teams)
Northwest Savings Bank (1 Team)
Susquehanna Bank (3 Teams)

Team Winners

Games Competition: Fulton Bank Team A, 650 Points
Fundraising Competition: Susquehanna Bank Team B, $5,685.67
Overall Winner: Susquehanna Bank Team B, 1137 points
Team Spirit Contest: Graystone Bank
Mascot Dance Contest: “Penny the Puppy,” Members 1st Federal Credit Union

Click on the chart at the bottom of this post to see all the team results.

Individual Fundraising Winners

1st Place: Hope Gebhart, Susquehanna Bank Team B, $2,536.55
2nd Place: Corey Craver, Fulton Bank Team B, $700.00
3rd Place: Jamie Flynn, Fulton Bank Team B, $670.00
4th Place: Barb Palm, Ephrata National Bank Team B, $590.00

Thanks to..

Pat Principie of WGAL for doing such a great job as our emcee and play-by-play announcer.
The women of Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority for doing so many things, big and small (the Epsilon Kappa Chapter from Millersville University; the Delta Chi Chapter from Bloomsburg University; and the Central Pennsylvania Alumnae Chapter).
Our Battle of Banks event committee: Melissa Argall, Christina Brownawell, Corey Craver, George Crisp, Doug Hall, Lisa Johanning, Deborah Kerchner, Jo-Ann Karbowski, John Landin, Justin Lehman, David Reintjes, Fernando Sanchez, Denise Schwebel, Heidi White, and Brianna Zimmerman.
The bankers and credit unioners who were so generous with their time.
Most of all, thank you to our Honorary Team Captains and their families.

Battle of the Banks Final Results (Click on Image To Enlarge):

Congratulations To Our Executive Director!

2011-02-21T11:25:00.000-05:00

Kudos to our Executive Director, Ken Harrison!

Ken Harrison, S. June Smith Center’s Executive Director, was recently named a finalist in the Leadership Excellence category for the upcoming Central Penn Business Journal’s Nonprofit Innovation Awards. The staff leadership team at the S. June Smith Center came together to nominate Ken for his innovative approach that has improved the Center since 2008. Ken and the additional finalists will be honored for their achievements at a breakfast at the Lancaster County Convention Center this Wednesday, February 23rd.

Connie Walp, S. June Smith Center’s Director of Birth to Three Early Intervention, recently shared, “Two of Ken’s most outstanding values are his honesty and integrity. He communicates the state of the organization to our entire staff in a way that makes them feel connected and comfortable. By sharing the information that he does, Ken encourages our staff to meet their goals and come together for financial stability. Ken’s passion for the mission of the organization paired with his innovative approaches has proved to be a perfect fit for the S. June Smith Center.”

Demi Porter, S. June Smith Center’s Board President, also shared, “Ken continuously involves staff and board members in the overview of the Center’s goals and targets with an ‘open book’ dashboard that is understandable by all. His style of open communication, honesty and integrity bring out the very best in his staff, volunteers, and board members.” She continued, “Ken’s creation and support of electronic scheduling via laptops on site with the therapists has greatly decreased scheduling and transportation issues. This improvement, when partnered with the fulfillment of fleet vehicles for service providers, has brought the staff together to provide the most efficient services while not sacrificing service level, and strengthened them as a team.”

George Crisp, S. June Smith Center’s CFO also commented, “When Ken and I began our tenure with the S. June Smith Center we quickly realized that we were losing $20K per month. At that rate, if nothing changed, we would need to close our doors in October, 2010. Ken brought together the ad hoc committee who ultimately brainstormed six reduction measures and five revenue innovative enhancement measures. Today, the organization has not only survived, but thrived under Ken’s leadership. Ken’s approaches helped to create a real business plan that we utilize each day.”

Finally, another member of the S. June Smith Center’s Board of Directors, Cynthia Phillips, Ph.D, shared, “Ken is more committed to personal growth and learning more than most leaders I work with (public, private or non-profit), and it inspires those who work with him.”

The S. June Smith Center staff are honored and proud to be Ken's colleagues!

Interested in being part of our innovation? We are growing! Please check out our website at http://www.sjunesmith.org/ for more information!

The 1965 Campaign: Looking Back...Moving Forward

2011-02-18T09:42:00.000-05:00

The S. June Smith Center is embarking on a new campaign to celebrate its 45th through 50th anniversaries. The 1965 Campaign will include a ten-week time period for long-time friends of the organization to raise awareness and fundraise on behalf of the S. June Smith Center. 1965 Campaign participants are urged to raise $1965 each; the year we began to provide services. Our goal is to have 8-12 individual fundraise each year for five years. Ultimately, the S. June Smith Center will celebrate its 50th anniversary with those 50 individuals who fundraised on behalf of the Center over the previous five years. Our goal for the 1965 Campaign is to raise $100,000 for the Center’s programming; however the unique nature of the fundraising effort in Lancaster County will also help create awareness for the S. June Smith Center and its important mission to support children with disabilities in achieving their potential and promote their full participation within their families, schools and communities.

The S. June Smith Center is grateful to the nine individuals who have accepted the challenge to serve as the inaugural group for this special campaign including: Jeffery Bolin (Lancaster), Noble Chemical, Inc.; Paula Foreman (Lancaster), retired teacher; Georgia Martin (Lancaster), S. June Smith Center retiree; Arlene Newman (Lititz), community volunteer; Kenneth Allan Slotnick (Lancaster), retired on-air radio personality; Barbara Sullivan (Willow Street), S. June Smith Center retiree; Donald Thomas (Lititz), Janney Montgomery Scott, LLC; Lee Walp (Lancaster), Ameriprise Financial; and one additional community volunteer that would like to remain anonymous.

Two children, who are currently enrolled in the S. June Smith Center’s preschool program, will serve as the Honorary Captains for the 1965 Campaign.

Additionally, the S. June Smith Center is honored to have Anne Shannon, WGAL, serve as the 1965 Campaign’s Honorary Chair. Anne shared this about her involvement, “The S. June Smith Center is such a special organization in Lancaster County. I am honored to be part of this unique Campaign.”

Please visit the S. June Smith Center’s website at http://www.sjunesmith.com/ for more information regarding the 1965 Campaign. Participant fundraising information, including a way to securely donate to help meet the individual’s goals, can be found here as well. For more information on regarding the S. June Smith Center, please contact Elyse Kauffman, Director of Development, at 717-299-4829 or via email at ekauffman@sjunesmith.com.

In Dallas with Alpha Sigma Alpha

2011-02-15T10:08:00.000-05:00

From Ken, the Executive Director:

I had a great time in Dallas, TX, at Alpha Sigma Alpha’s District 7 District Day. It was an awesome and humbling honor to serve as the Keynote Speaker. The S. June Smith Center and, more importantly, our kiddos and families have benefited from the philanthropic relationship we have with the women of Alpha Sigma Alpha. Over the past 20 years, we have received hundreds of thousands of dollars in donations, boxes and boxes of much needed classroom and office supplies, and many hours of volunteer support at our events and in our classrooms.

Getting back to the ASA District 7 District Day, despite the lower turnout because of the weather, we sold a record 55 S. June Smith/Alpha Sigma Alpha tee shirts. The gauntlet has been thrown down for the women attending the final three ASA District Days (yes, this means you, District 4, District 5, and District 9).

2011 Battle of the Banks Facebook Page

2010-12-30T15:03:00.000-05:00

Be sure to check out the 2011 Battle of the Banks Facebook Page (just click on the hyperlinked text).

Volunteer Spotlight: Katie Eshleman

2010-12-20T14:12:00.000-05:00

The S. June Smith Center is blessed with an amazing and uniquely talented group of volunteers. Katie Eschleman is one such volunteer. Katie is a music therapist and has been volunteering in our Lancaster City preschool classroom, providing music therapy for our preschool children every week.

Sally McKinney, the teacher in our Lancaster City preschool classroom says this of Katie: Katie Eshleman has been providing music therapy in our Lancaster classroom. We are benefitting from the variety of songs, instruments and opportunities she provides. The experience is more than listening and singing. It is sensory based, so there are opportunities for moving, acting out to the words of a song, feeling the strings of a guitar or other instruments, handing out props and turn taking. We are seeing progress and having fun. Katie is truly a gifted musician and great with children. We appreciate her gift to our classroom.

Katie also recorded two highly regarded (and, more importantly, fun!) CDs. They are available for purchase through Katie's website (http://www.singoutonline.com/).

23rd Annual "Battle of the Banks" (February 27, 2011)

2010-12-06T15:47:00.000-05:00

Join us on Sunday, February 27, 2011 for the 23rd annual Battle of the Banks as more than ten local banks and banks teams compete and raise money for the programs and services of the S. June Smith Center! The annual event will again be held at Hempfield High School's Buchanan Gymnasium from noon to 3 pm. Admission is free.

Special thanks to Pat Principe, WGAL, for serving as emcee again!

Parent Resource: Autism Resource Center

2010-12-02T13:31:00.000-05:00

Parents, caregivers, and friends of individuals on the Autism Spectrum have a new and very useful local resource in Lancaster County: The Autism Resource Center at Lancaster Public Library. The Autism Resource Center provides support to those in community with materials about Autism and related issues. Topics include teaching social skills, behavioral therapy, conflict resolution, and community interaction. Additionally, signage throughout the library (125 North Duke Street, Lancaster, PA) has been specifically designed to assist patrons on the Autism Spectrum in navigating the building.

The Autism Resource Center has a specialized collection of books and audio-visual materials. This unique collection includes resources for teachers, therapeutic support staff and individuals and families who live with autism. Most materials are available for loan and in-library use. The collection includes works prominent authors, such as Temple Grandin and Tony Attwood.

The Autism Resource Center is equipped with computer access and Boardmaker Software. Boardmaker is a computer program that uses clipart of picture communication symbols to create printed communication boards, device overlays, worksheets, and schedules. Boardmaker is used to enhance learning and communication.

For more information, visit the Autism Resource Center’s website or visit the Lancaster Public Library (125 North Duke Street, Lancaster, PA).

Chicago: Alpha Sigma Alpha District 8 District Day

2010-11-11T09:52:00.000-05:00

From Ken, the Executive Director of the S. June Smith Center:

I had a great time as the District Day Keynote Speaker for Alpha Sigma Alpha District 8 in Glen Ellyn, IL (a suburb of Chicago). It was an honor to speak about the work of the S. June Smith Center and our shared legacy in Dr. S. June Smith. Your generosity and support for our work with children and families continues to amaze us. Thanks so much for your hospitality and support!

Invitation to Parents by Lancaster County's Success By Six

2010-10-20T11:26:00.000-04:00

From our friends at Success By Six/United Way of Lancaster:

SB6® PARENTS ADVISORY COMMITTEE

SB6’s Parent Advisory Committee (PAC)* is looking for parents to meet no more than three times a year to advance the provision of quality of early childhood care and education in Lancaster County. If you are a child care provider, please encourage parents in your program to participate in our next meeting which will be scheduled for mid-November in the early evening. Send names of interested parents to rheafstarr@yahoo.com and Rhea will notify them of the exact day and time of the meeting.

At this meeting, parents will participate in a United Way of Lancaster County community conversation which provides United Way of Lancaster (UW) with information community members’ thoughts about issues that affect them. UW is conducting these conversations with various groups throughout Lancaster so that the best choices about how to address problems in our community can be made.

Community conversations give UW a way to have informal dialogue with people as members of the community so they can share their aspirations for their community, including education. These conversations provide people with an opportunity to have real discussions about where they want their communities to be, and how everyone can step forward to be part of making change happen.

*The SB6's Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) is not the same as the Early Intervention Parent Advisory Committee (PAC).

"A Day of Scrapbooking" To Support Tiny Miracles, a Partnership Service of the S. June Smith Center

2010-10-19T15:08:00.000-04:00

Tiny Miracles, a partnership service of the S. June Smith Center, is hosting, “A Day of Scrapbooking” fundraiser on Saturday, November 20. The event will be held at the Eden Resort Inn & Suites, 222 Eden Road, Lancaster from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A $35 registration fee includes table space, a lunch buffet, and raffle prizes. The registration fee also includes support and ideas from Lena Stoltzfus, a local Creative Memories scrapbooking consultant.

As seating is limited, attendees must pre-register to by sending payment to Tia Hashinger (Tiny Miracles Volunteer) at 107 Wheatfield Court Quarryville, PA 17566. Tia can also be reached at (717) 786-1394. Additionally, interested parties can email tinymiracles@sjunesmith.com for more information. Proceeds from the fundraising event benefit Tiny Miracles, Lancaster County’s only support group for families of children in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. This support is both emotional and financial.

Founded in 1965, the S. June Smith Center is a non-profit agency focused on supporting families, teaching children, and strengthening communities. The Center provides early intervention services to children birth through six years of age with developmental disabilities and delays. For additional information, visit the Center’s website, www.sjunesmith.org.

S. June Smith Stories: Michael

2010-10-15T12:50:00.000-04:00

Michael enjoying the park

Adapted from Milestones: A Quarterly Newsletter of the S. June Smith Center (Summer 2010).

Michael McCloud is looking forward to his 21st birthday this fall! His Mom, Judith, still remembers her first conversation with a case worker from the S. June Smith Center on the day Michael was born. We sat down to talk with Judy about her family’s experience with the S. June Smith Center.

“Michael was born at Lancaster General Hospital on October 16th. He was a healthy little soul,” shared Judy. “I still remember the case worker entering the NICU to talk with us about our newborn son. She encouraged us to seek Early Intervention. We started physical therapy with Michael at two months old at Bethany Church [former location of the S. June Smith Center]. And, we are so glad we did!”

Michael’s primary diagnosis is down syndrome, but that does not hold him back. His teachers at McCaskey East, where Michael will graduate from, tell his parents he is a “star pupil.”

“Michael loves to listen to music and gives the best hugs,” Judy tells us. “While he’s non-verbal, we know exactly what he is telling us through his facial expressions.”

Judy remembers the kind and caring professionals that she met from the S. June Smith Center. They shared hands-on tips and practical lessons that she and her husband, Bruce, could use in their home.

Judy and Michael at Thanksgiving, 2009

Their daughter, Chrislyn, is 18. Judy shared, “She is an honor student. She would love to be a Medical Assistant. I believe that her love and patience for her brother is what has steered her into the healthcare profession.”

Judy continued, “We are so grateful that Michael was sent to our family. My husband and I are a team. He is just as hands-on with Michael as I am. We are married almost 22 years this year.”

“We are also blessed to have a wonderful support network in our extended family. All of Michael’s aunts, uncles and cousins are very accepting and loving toward him. Michael has a very kind touch. Love is the language of our home.”

As Michael progressed with his physical therapy, he also started to receive speech therapy services. At almost 21 years old, he is just beginning to nod his head in recognition of questions being asked of him. Judy gives a lot of credit to the time and energy that Michael spent with those therapists shortly after his birth.

She also shared, “We were so fortunate to have the S. June Smith Center come to us. We didn’t need to seek out services, but yet were put on this wonderful path at our greatest time of need. We were immediately surrounded with the right people and good advice.”

When we asked Judy what advice she would give to a new parent or caregiver of a child with disabilities, she commented, “Lose your pride. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Take advantage of early intervention. And just love, love, love that child."

She continued, “All we all want is love and acceptance. When we have both of those, we are so much more fulfilled and can reach our potential."

Judy and her husband, Bruce, live with their children Michael and Chrislyn, in Lancaster. They attend Emmanuel Temple Church in Lancaster.

On Solid Ground

2010-10-08T14:09:00.000-04:00

It has been a common theme lately here in Lancaster. Bad news from not-for-profit organizations: Programs and services cut, staff layoffs, financial losses, and continued struggles as the economy flounders. And there are plenty of self-inflicted wounds...stories of mismanagement, poor planning, and even lawsuits aimed at donors. The not-for-profit community here in Lancaster appears to be on unstable, shaky ground.

But what about the S. June Smith Center? How are we faring in all this? I'd be lying if I told you that it is all peachy here at S. June Smith. No, we are not immune to the negative impacts of funding cuts and an overall tough economy. What we have been able to do, however, is plan ahead and make changes ahead of the stormy waves. The net result is that, despite our funding environment, we serve more children now in each of our major programs than we did five years ago. We have been able to expand in the last two years by (a) adding a new preschool classroom; (b) expanding Early Intervention services into York County; and (c) increading the number of Pit Crews and school districts involved in Project Together. We have not had to cut programs and services, layoff staff, or cut salaries. It is true that we have been forced to be more cautious and we are not in the position of taking on new projects and ventures (but we are still planning them!). Despite the economy, the S. June Smith Center is on solid ground. In fact, we are stronger financially than we were five years ago.

There are many reasons for this:

The commitment of our staff to being both more effective and more efficient in the delivery of programs and services.
The wisdom and support of our Board of Directors.
The key decisions made by our staff Leadership Team.
The ongoing support of our faithful donors.
Increased support from the women of Alpha Sigma Alpha.
The unflagging work of the S. June Smith Foundation Board of Directors.
Our funding partners, such as Lancaster County Early Intervention, Intermediate Unit 13, and the United Way of Lancaster County, who have enthusiastically supported our mission and work.

Here are a few specific examples of what this preceding list looks like in action:

Over the last three years, the amazing staff of our Infant/Toddler Early Intervention Program have worked very hard at being more efficient with their time and have shared methods with each other as to how spend less time on administrative work and more time in the actual delivery of services. The net result is that we now have $100,000 more in annual revenue and, more importantly, we now serve 30% more children than we did in 2005.
Through some careful analysis, we have figured out that we save a lot of money when we have some fleet vehicles available for our staff to use on their appointments in the community. We also figured out that getting grants and other funds to purchase vehicles (something very tangible) is much easier than raising money for general operations (something very blah to lots of folks). We know that we save about $4,800 per year per fleet vehicle. Read that last sentence again. When a fleet vehicle is used, we are not paying staff mileage nor are they incurring wear and tear on their personal vehicles (a win for the S. June Smith Center and a win for our staff). We also figured out that the best number of vehicles for us to have is eight (not seven nor nine). You can do the math to see how much we save each year.
In 2005, we received less than $10,000 in contributions from Alpha Sigma Alpha. In 2009, that number approached $40,000 (including in-kind contributions). This partnership has benefitted the S. June Smith Center and the sorority. Through our active participation in their regional and national events, the ASA women have become enthusiastic supporters of the S. June Smith Center and our mission. They, in return, have developed a philanthropic mindset that will benefit other organizations and the world in which we live. This is especially true of the collegians, our future leaders.

Even as we have so far successfully navigated the treacherous waters of this economy, we know that we still face challenges as a not-for-profit agency. We know that government funding for Early Intervention services will remain flat or perhaps even be cut in the next few years. We know that our staff feels the pressure that comes with increased effiency. We know that there is not a lot of room for error in our decision-making. But we also can face these issues with a certain amount of confidence, knowing that the S. June Smith Center is on solid ground.

S. June Smith Center: Keynote Speaker for Alpha Sigma Alpha District Days

2010-09-28T09:55:00.000-04:00

We think it is quite an honor and privilege! We will be sharing the S. June Smith Center story at eight upcoming Alpha Sigma Alpha District Days as the Keynote Speaker at each event. Here are the dates/locations:

District 2 - Nov. 20, Valley Forge (Philadelphia), PA
District 3 - Nov. 20, Pittsburgh , PA
District 4 - Feb. 26, Charlottesville, VA
District 5 - Feb. 5, Fort Wayne, IN
District 6 - Nov. 13, Memphis, TN
District 7 – Feb. 12, Dallas, TX
District 8 - Nov. 6, Chicago, IL
District 9 - Feb. 19, Kansas City, MO

Parent/Caregiver Training: Philhaven's Autism Resilency Program Presentations

2010-09-17T15:25:00.000-04:00

Autism Resiliency Program Presents: Education/Information Series on Autism

What is it? A three part presentation covering details on characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorders, an understanding of Autism through the Life Span and Services and Support in the area. Each part of presentation is one hour followed by ½ hour discussion time.

Who will benefit? Open to families and individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD); Anyone working with or caring for individuals with ASD. Especially for those who may suspect someone they care for has ASD or was recently diagnosed.

When? Each presentation part is offered every other week so participants can attend all three or just one.
--November 3, 2010 Part 1 What is Autism?
--November 17, 2010 Part 2 Autism through the Life Span
--December 1, 2010 Part 3 Autism Services and Support
Time: 5:00pm to 6:30pm

Where? Philhaven’s Grace M. Pollock Training and Community Center 283 S. Butler Rd. Mt. Gretna, PA 17064

Presenters: Tim Caldwell, M.Ed., BCBA and Jennifer Lyristis, LSW

How to sign up? Contact: Jennifer Lyristis (717) 675-2831 or email: jlyristis@philhaven.org
-Registration is required. Please provide your name, contact information and your role (parent, individual with ASD, community leader, caregiver) when registering.
-DEADLINE for registration is one week prior to each presentation.
-Capacity for each presentation is 25 participants.
-Space will not be reserved without your name and contact number provided.
-Child care is not provided.

Cost? FREE. And light snack provided.

Parent Event: Success By Six Parent Advisory Committee

2010-09-13T13:56:00.000-04:00

Parents, interested in voicing your ideas in Lancaster County?

Join the Success By Six (SB6) Parent Advisory Committee to help them understand the needs of parents of your children and improve the quality of care.

Provide feedback on current practices in preparation for your child's entry into Kindergarten.
Receive information from SB6 throughout the year related to Early Childhood Education.
Make suggestions for future SB6 meetings.

Where: United Way of Lancaster, 630 Janet Avenue, Lancaster
When: Wednesday, September 29, 2010; 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Contact: Rhea Starr-- rheafstarr@yahoo.com, 717-299-5963

Refreshments will be provided.

2011 S. June Smith Center Fundraising Event Dates Set

2010-09-03T14:23:00.000-04:00

We have been hard at work here at the S. June Smith Center, planning for the upcoming year. The dates for our 2011 major fundraising events are:

Battle of the Banks--Sunday, February 27, 2011
Golf Tournament--Thursday, May 12, 2011
Gala--Saturday, June 11, 2011

Be sure to save the dates so you do not miss out on the fun.

Over $1,000 Raised for S. June Smith Through GoodSearch and GoodShop

2010-08-30T08:08:00.000-04:00

Over $1,000 has been raised for the S. June Smith Center by those using GoodSearch and GoodShop. GoodSearch and GoodShop are easy, no-cost ways you can raise money for your favorite charitable organizations.

Search and Support the S. June Smith Center
Support the S. June Smith Center with just a click of your mouse by using GoodSearch as your online search engine. The S. June Smith Center gets a penny ($0.01) for each search. Be sure to type in "S June Smith Center" in the appropriate space on the webpage.

Shop Online AND Support the S. June Smith Center
You can also support the S. June Smith Center as you shop online by using GoodShop. Popular online stores, such as Amazon, eBay, Target and Staples all use GoodShop as a way to donate to nonprofit organizations, such as the S. June Smith Center. Just be sure to indicate "S June Smith Center" as the organization you are shopping for at the GoodShop website and follow the links to your favorite online stores. Up to 30% of your purchase will go to the S. June Smith Center without any extra cost to you.

S. June Smith Stories: Ty

2010-08-23T13:22:00.001-04:00

The following is adapted from the Summer 2009 Edition of "Milestones" (the newsletter of the S. June Smith Center):

“This is a special family,” said Barb Gerber, of Ty Van Buskirk and his family who recently moved from St. Louis to Lancaster County. As Ty’s TSS (Therapeutic Staff Support), Barb Gerber has had the opportunity to meet Ty for 10 to fifteen hours a week. Ty and Barb work on social skills, manners, home and community safety and focusing on the task. Upon meeting Barb, Ty introduces her as his “co-pilot.”

“This is special, a huge gift,” shares Carrie, Ty’s Mom, when asked about her experience with the S. June Smith Center. “I was very nervous about moving from Missouri because the providers there were excellent, most of which worked with Ty since his diagnosis.” Ty was diagnosed at 18 months with Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified (PDDNOS) which falls under the umbrella of autism.

“When we arrived in Lancaster County we were looking to find an inclusive preschool. We visited the Mount Joy classroom and immediately felt as ease. We watched as the teachers almost co-taught in the classroom, a team approach that seemed so natural to them. Ty loves his Thomas toys. Barb Perko, Ty’s teacher, offered to leave the train table out for Ty as it was something familiar to him and she thought it would be a good tool to use during his transition to relieve anxiety. It was those small offers that made a huge impact on us; we had peace of mind and knew that Ty would get exactly what he needed at this preschool.” Ty will have attended the Mount Joy preschool class for two years come August.

S. June Smith Center’s Terri Hess and Kiki Davis (Speech and Occupational Therapists) also have the opportunity to work with Ty at preschool. Carrie noted that the classroom staff goes above and beyond their expectations in supporting and communicating with her and husband, Mark, regarding Ty. She often gets handwritten notes from the women to help them feel included in what they are working on; Ty’s teacher will also do the same with suggestions such as “this is working, try it at meal time!”

Carrie also shares, “even the bus drivers that work for the Center! Ty had never ridden on a bus before, but he couldn’t wait to ride just weeks after his first trip. It amazed me how the drivers give the students kazoos to boost their oral motor skills in preparation for school. Ty can play “Happy Birthday” and “Twinkle Twinkle” with the best of them!”

Ty shared that his favorite part of preschool is playing trains and seeing his friend, Ethan. He also enjoys building “big castles” in his backyard sandbox. He loves to read Chicka Chicka Boom Boom; noting that his favorite part is when “they climb the coconut tree.” Ty’s infectious smile and fun imagination make others want to spend lots of time with him!

An Update from Ty’s Family:

So much has changed since the first publication of our experience with S. June. Ty graduated from the program over a year ago and will be attending a regular ed class room in the Hempfield School District. He will still have some supports and they all will be inclusive, I might add! Because Ty has been receiving all of his special services in an inclusive environment since the very beginning (Thanks to S. June Smith!) and is continuing on that trend, it only seemed commonsense to request that it continue into his school-age years. After careful planning and some educating of faculty (on my part), the district agreed to place Ty in an a.m. and p.m. kindergarten class. You see, his S. June Smith providers identified early on that Ty needed to see material more than once to grasp concepts. This method of instruction often is referred to as pre-teach and re-teach! We are so excited to see another step forward in inclusive education in our community and thank S. June for introducing us to this practice. It works for Ty. There you have the update on our amazing Ty. He is still smiling, making friends, and learning from his environment. And, it appears that his community is learning from him!

There is an added bonus to our S. June Smith experience. Our little Ben, Ty's younger brother was diagnosed with PDD (NOS) last spring. As soon as I came home from our lengthy appointment with his developmental pediatrician, I called Sue Oberholtzer (Director of the S. June Smith Center Preschool Program) to enquire about the wait list for the Mount Joy classroom. When you know it works...why not try it again, right?! At that time, Ben was too young and no spaces were available. However, I eventually received a call this summer from Sue telling me that Ben had a placement in the very same class that was so magical for our Ty. You can imagine my joy! Honestly, it felt like we had never left. Upon entering the class, we were greeted by all of the same loving and familiar faces! Little Ben seemed as if he remembered all of the moments he had shared with his brother there and jumped right in. He loves trains, just like his brother. But his needs are so very different and the staff picked up on them right away! He has difficulty with feeding...and there is no better placement than an S. June placement to handle feeding issues in my book! Each provider has their very own special gifts and Ben seems so comfortable and willing to work for them. I must brag on Barb Perko a bit! After the first week, she requested that I send Ben in underwear claiming that She felt he was ready! I must admit, I was skeptical. In two weeks, yes, two weeks!!!! He was potty trained! The magic is still in that classroom and we are so very thrilled to be a part of it all!

Alpha Sigma Alpha Convention 2010 Wrap-Up

2010-07-22T13:17:00.000-04:00

I (Ken, the S. June Smith Center Executive Director) had a great time at the Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority National Convention in Indianapolis a few weeks ago. It is always amazing to me the amount of support and enthusiasm the women of Alpha Sigma Alpha generate for our mission and our work with children and families. It is also a humbling honor to have the opportunity to speak about the S. June Smith Center during lunch to the delegates and guests at the Convention.

It is an unusual thing for a local/region non-profit organization to have a philanthropic partnership with a national organization. It is a relationship that we at the S. June Smith Center value highly, and not only because of the financial, in-kind, and volunteer support. Our relationship with Alpha Sigma Alpha is a continual reminder of our namesake, Dr. S. June Smith, and the values and leadership she brought to both Alpha Sigma Alpha nationally and to our own community here in Pennsylvania. Even as she was a national leader in Alpha Sigma Alpha for much of her adult life, she was a vital and important leader locally in advocacy and education for children with disabilities and specialized needs. Her role in getting the S. June Smith Center started back in 1965 is only one part of Dr. June's legacy, a legacy I am proud to be a smart part of.

This year marks the 45th anniversary of services provided by the S. June Smith Center and we also celebrate the 20th year anniversary of our philanthropic partnership between the S. June Smith Center and Alpha Sigma Alpha. Being present at Alpha Sigma Alpha's National Convention in Indianapolis was a great way to celebrate our partnership.

S. June Smith Stories: Alex

2010-07-19T08:27:00.000-04:00

Adapted from Milestones: A Quarterly Newsletter of the S. June Smith Center (Spring 2009).

When you first meet Alex, age 2, you learn that he is full of joy and excitement about life. Just minutes after entering his Lancaster home, he is ready to show you his favorite giraffe storybook and proceed to play peek-a-boo behind it. He uses the sign for dog when he hears his puppies barking from an upstairs bedroom, while also signs friends when you mention the word. When he sits to play with his blocks he dumps the container and places it on his head like a hat, giggling and peeking out from underneath it. Instead of stacking the blocks, he shows you how he is learning to gain his hand strength by pulling apart the pieces. When his mom helps, he drops the blocks and uses the signs for thank you and Mom.

Shortly after Alex’s birth in December of 2006, he started to receive services from the Center in March of the following year. The family’s first therapy session was with Carol Sponaugle, physical therapist at the Center. Shortly thereafter, the family added special instruction, speech therapy, and occupational therapy. Alex also recently started attending the Center’s SPLASH program, while he also attends a neighborhood preschool once a week.

Lisa, Alex’s Mom shared, “We have had a wonderful experience with the Center and its therapists. We really enjoy the team approach; the therapists can conference with one another and feel comfortable knowing that they are all trying to achieve the same goals for Alex.”

As you continue to visit, Alex shows you how he is gaining his strength to begin to walk and later shows off his quick defeat up and down the steps. He’ll also show you the large mirror that is mounted next to his new child size table and chairs. Lisa let us know that he received it for Christmas, after the Center’s speech therapist suggested that they get one to help Alex practice watching him and others talk. He loves it!

Afterword: Alex and his family has remained with the S. June Smith Center and Alex is now a student in the S. June Smith Center Preschool program. Lisa has become a member of the S. June Smith Center Board of Directors.

S. June Smith Center Board of Directors Update

2010-06-11T10:31:00.000-04:00

The S. June Smith Center welcomed the addition of three community members to their Board of Directors. These new members, along with 12 existing members, will lead the non-profit organization in 2010-2011. The Board also elected officers for 2010-2011.

New to the S. June Smith Center Board are: Ramon Escudero, Coordinator for Lancaster’s Keystone Innovation Zone; Heather Wilson, Director of Major Gifts for Lancaster General Health; and Michele Stauffer, Human Resources Manager for Shank’s Extracts, Inc.

Board officers for 2010-2011 are: President—Demi Porter (President, Securus Third Party Administrators); Vice President—Diane Gottlieb (Retired, formerly with Lancaster General Health); and Treasurer—Matthew Long (Manager, Business Services, Susquehanna Bank).

We also said thank you and farewell to Dave Carson, who served on the S. June Smith Center Board for almost 20 years. Executive Director, Ken Harrison, read a letter on behalf of the Center, that included these words: During your many years on the S. June Smith Center Board of Directors, you have provided wise and thoughtful leadership in good times and in bad. And, as important as your leadership has been in many facets of Board and Center operations, I believe your most important contribution has been to continually call us back to our mission to the children and families of our community.

Alpha Sigma Alpha Convention 2010

2010-06-03T09:24:00.000-04:00

From Ken the Executive Director

I'll be in Indianapolis June 30-July 3, 2010, representing the S. June Smith Center at the Alpha Sigma Alpha Convention. I am particularly excited about being at the Convention because this is the 20th anniversary of our partnership with Alpha Sigma Alpha. Alpha Sigma Alpha adopted the S. June Smith Center as one its national philanthropies at its 1990 Convention.

I recently had an opportunity to chat with Paula Foreman regarding the 1990 Convention. Paula was instrumental in bringing the resolution for our adoption to the ASA Convention in 1990 and she is still actively involved in Alpha Sigma Alpha and in helping us stay connected with the women of ASA. She was thrilled that Dr. S. June Smith was still alive to celebrate our adoption by Alpha Sigma Alpha.. Dr. June was a life-long national leader in ASA and instrumental in helping the S. June Smith Center get up and running in the 1960s. You can read more about Dr. June and her community leadership on behalf of children with disabilities by clicking here.

2010 is not only the 20th anniversary of our partnership with Alpha Sigma Alpha, it is also the 45th anniversary of the S. June Smith Center. We began serving children and families in 1965. One of the ways that we will celebrate both anniversaries is by offering our latest ASA/SJSC tee shirt for sale at this summer's Alpha Sigma Alpha Convention. The color was chosen by a poll on our Facebook Page and GetSomeGreek did a great job with the design, which features references to the 45th anniversary, the 20th anniversary, and to Dr. June. You can see the design to the right.

Parent Event: Introduction to Sensory Integration Disorder for Parents

2010-06-02T14:36:00.000-04:00

Schreiber Pediatric Rehab Center will sponsor an Introduction to Sensory Integration Disorder for Parents on Wednesday, June 23rd at 6:30 p.m.

It will be at the Schreiber Center in the Multi-purpose Room.

Please RSVP to Lori Shoemaker by Monday, June 21st.

Lori Shoemaker, MSS, LSW
Social Services Director
Schreiber Pediatric Rehab Center
625 Community Way
Lancaster, PA 17603
717-393-0425
Fax: 717-735-6009

Value, Values, and What Is Truly Valuable

2010-06-02T14:25:00.001-04:00

From Ken The Executive Director:

I’ve been thinking on these a lot in the last year, as some of my S. June Smith Center coworkers and I worked on crafting a Core Values Statement. We spent some time reading various opinions about the importance of value statements to an organization and what should be contained in a values statement. We read stacks and stacks of value statements from other organizations. This was all very informative and helpful.

In the end, however, we still had to ask ourselves. What is it that we value at the S. June Smith Center? What is it that is most important to us? We came up with three answers: Mission, Integrity and Relationships. We also decided that when it comes to a Core Values Statement, simplicity and conciseness is also a virtue (we noted that some of the values statements lost their impact as they rambled on for two or three pages so we decided brevity was a very good thing). Here is our newly crafted and adopted Core Values Statement of the S. June Smith Center:

In supporting children with disabilities to achieve their potential and promote their full participation in their families, schools, and community, the S. June Smith Center…
…Acts ethically and with integrity.
…Creates effective strategies for children and families.
…Cultivates constructive partnerships with our community.
…Espouses an integrated team approach.
…Promotes the professional and personal growth of our staff.
…Provides value to funders and donors.

S. June Smith Foundation Announces Minigrant Awards for 2010

2010-05-18T12:17:00.000-04:00

The S. June Smith Foundation announced that $6,000 in mini-grants were awarded to the following youth-serving, non-profit organizations:

Aaron’s Acres received $2,000 to support full and partial scholarships for the organization’s summer camp program.
Greystone Manor Therapeutic Riding also received $2,500 to fund scholarships for children with special needs to attend a therapeutic horseback riding program.
United Support Group received $1,500 to help fund scholarships for its Summer Enrichment Program.

The S. June Smith Foundation was established in 1993 to support Lancaster County children with developmental disabilities and delays, including the S. June Smith Center. The S. June Smith Foundation is an independent charitable organization governed by a board of directors.

S. June Smith Event: Moonlight on the Mediterranean--This Saturday!

2010-05-17T09:48:00.000-04:00

Moonlight on the Mediterranean: Monte Carlo Night with the S. June Smith Center is less than a week away. It is not too late to get your tickets for this year's event, which is on Saturday, May 22, 6 p.m. at the Lancaster Country Club. Tickets are $60 per individual and include Banquet Stations, Dessert, Silent and Live Auction, Gaming Tables, and live jazz by Dave Newman and Friends. Click here for more information.

Community Event: Medical Assistance & Waivers

2010-05-13T14:32:00.000-04:00

Medical Assistance & Waivers

Using Public Funding to Get Services & Supports You Need

Date/Time: Monday, May 24, 1-3 p.m.
Location: Farm & Home Center, 1383 Arcadia Road, Lancaster, PA
Cost: Free (pre-registration is required--Call toll-free 1-866-950-1050 or email Admin@pealcenter.org)
Presenter: Dave Gates, Esq., Managing Attorney-Harrisburg, PA Health Law Project
Sponsors: The Peal Center and United Disabilities Services

Medical Assistance and Waivers are the most common funding for non-educational services and supports for children and adolescents with special health care needs and disabilities. Learn who can qualify, what's covered and what to do when coverage is denied.

Topics covered:

Eligibility rules for Medical Assistance and "Loophole"
How to apply
Services and supports under Medical Assistance (MA) EPSDT Program
What are "Waivers?"
Eligibility rules for Waivers and how to apply
Services and supports under Waivers
Appeal rights under Medical Assistance and Waivers

Community Event: Autism Panel Discussion (MHALC)

2010-04-30T14:02:00.002-04:00

Mental Health America of Lancaster County (MHALC) is presenting "Autism: A Panel Perspective" on Thursday, May 13, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in the Blair Room at 630 Janet Avenue, Lancaster, PA. This event is part of a series, Living Your Life Well, part of MHALC's recognition of May as Mental Health Month. The complete schedule for all sessions is listed below. There is no cost and no advance registration is needed. For more information, call Mental Health America of Lancaster County at (717)397-7461.

Living Your Life Well Schedule

All sessions are free of charge, no advance registration is needed. All sessions will be held in the Blair Room, 630 Janet Ave., Lancaster, PA.

Thursday May 6th: “Living Rationally in an Irrational World”
Ed Silverman, Ph.D – Psychologist

Thursday May 13th: “Autism: A Panel Perspective”
Tim Caldwell; Behavioral Specialist, Ann Woodland; Psychologist and Grandparent, A Parent, and an Individual living with Autism.

Thursday May 20th: “Embrace Stress, Avoid Depression”
John Spychalski M.Ed. – Psychologist

Thursday May 27th: “Developing Resiliency in Yourself & Your Child”

Alan Babcock, M.Ed. – School Psychologist

Online Parent Participation in Autism Research--The IAN Project

2010-04-27T12:19:00.000-04:00

IAN, the Interactive Autism Network, was established in January 2006 at Kennedy Krieger Institute. IAN's goal is to facilitate research that will lead to advancements in understanding and treating autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). To accomplish this goal, Kennedy Krieger Institute created the IAN Community and IAN Research.

IAN is funded by Autism Speaks and the Simons Foundation. IAN also has a grant from the National Institutes of Health.

The IAN Community
The IAN Community is an online environment designed to act as an inviting library and meeting place where everyone concerned with autism spectrum disorders can learn more about autism research. Everyone can participate and benefit from the IAN Community.

The IAN Project goal is to help parents, caregivers and the community:

Understand the research process
Keep up with the latest research findings, news, and events
Understand the value of participating in autism research
Influence the direction of research

They hope that the IAN Community will bring individuals with ASDs, their families, and friends together with researchers, therapists, educators, and other professionals in the autism field. The goal is to better understand this complex disorder through research and collaboration, and to develop effective strategies that will improve the lives of people on the spectrum.

IAN Research
IAN Research is scientific study where individuals with ASDs, their families, and qualified researchers throughout the United States work together to understand autism spectrum disorders. IAN Research connects researchers to individuals with ASD and their families --the people who live with autism day to day-- to uncover the secrets of this complex disorder.

Without leaving home, participants provide information in a secure online setting about diagnosis, behavior, family, environment, and services received. Participating parents report on their child’s progress over time. Adults with ASD share information about their experiences and needs. Researchers from different institutions throughout the country will work with this information to learn about the effect and interaction of factors such as genetics, environment, and treatment, as well as the current situation and needs of those affected by ASD.

IAN Research will match willing individuals and families with appropriate local and national research projects. This partnership will solve one of the major difficulties that autism research projects face—recruiting enough participants. Each year, many useful and innovative studies in the United States are not completed or are significantly delayed because researchers cannot find enough participants who qualify; valuable opportunities to learn about autism are lost.

Individuals with ASD and their families may benefit directly from this match because they will be able to participate in research that they would not have known about without IAN. Participation may also provide opportunities to learn more about ASDs and their impact.

More Information

Click here for more information about the IAN Project.

Some Online Central PA Autism Resources from ASERT

2010-04-23T13:52:00.000-04:00

ASERT of Central PA has announced some new online autism resources for parents, caregivers, and professionals (ASERT=Autism Services, Education, Research, and Training). You can follow ASERT through their blog, their Facebook page, and on Twitter. Just click on the links below:

Family Event: LEIP Family Fun Day

2010-04-20T10:12:00.000-04:00

LEIP Family Fun Day

Date: Saturday, May 15th 2010
Time: 11:00-2:00 PM
Location: Herr Park, 1670 Nissley Road, Landisville PA (intersection of Nissley Road and Harrisburg Pike)
Cost: This event is free of charge

Please come out and join families and children of the Lancaster County Early Intervention and IU#13 Preschool Early Intervention programs.

We’ll have food, fun, and games

We are looking forward to an exciting and fun-filled day. The safety and well-being of the children is a top priority of LEIP. Please note, we are unable to watch each individual child that attends with their family. Families are expected to be with their children at all times.

The S. June Smith Center is an active partner in LEIP and all families in the S. June Smith Center's Birth to Three Early Intervention and Preschool programs are invited to Family Fun Day.

Ten Tips for Teaching Preschool Children About Their Health

2010-04-19T14:42:00.000-04:00

Parents and caregivers play an important role in preparing children to be responsible for as much of their own health as possible. It is vital that parents and caregivers teach children about their health and any medical conditions, increase their comfort and confidence around healthcare professionals, and prepare children for making decisions, as appropriate, about their health.

Here are ten tips for parents and caregivers:

Explain to your child her medical condition in simple terms. Parents can ask for help and resources from healthcare professionals. It also is a good idea to have all important medical information organized and in one place (a 3 ring binder is ideal).
Teach your child about any medication he may be taking. Children need to know the name of the medication, why they need it, what it does, the exact instructions on how to take it (and that they need to be supervised by a trusted adult), and ways to help children remember to take their medication.
Teach your child about health eating, including any special dietary needs that she might have.
Make sure your child knows what he is allergic to. Children should practice telling other people about their allergies. They should also know what to do when they are exposed to a substance that they are allergic to.
Have your child learn the names of her doctors.
Encourage your child’s independence in all aspects of his life. It is important that this be age-, developmentally-, and ability-appropriate. Parents should consult their healthcare and education providers as to what is appropriate.
Encourage your child to talk with her healthcare providers directly and to ask questions.
Teach your child to notice health-related warning signs that she may be getting sick and to let you or another trusted adult know.
Teach your child what to do if he becomes ill and you are not with him.
Find out from your healthcare professionals if your child needs special accommodations for school success. Parents should be prepared to work with schools with regards to an IEP (individualized education program) or a 504 plan (which lists specific types of assistance that a child needs from the school).

Adapted from information provided by The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Reminder-S. June Smith Center Event: Project Together/Pit Crew Event at the Laserdome

2010-04-19T10:59:00.000-04:00

S. June Smith Center Pit Crew/Fundraising Event at the Laserdome

Come join us for the fun at the Laserdome!

Date: Thursday, April 22, 2010
Time: 5:00pm - 10:00pm
Location: The Laserdome, 2050 Auction Road, Manheim, PA
Cost: $25 for the public; Free for Project Together Pit Crew Participants
Sponsor: Josh Wood, Realtor, Coldwell Banker Select Professionals

Come join us as you can play all you want. We will also be having a silent auction and lots of great prizes. Don't forget that Project Together Pit Crew participants are the guests of our sponsor, Josh, and get in for free (Thanks, Josh!). Proceeds benefit the S. June Smith Center.

Community Event: Interactive Autism Training (Franklin & Marshall College)

2010-04-16T14:01:00.000-04:00

Autism Spectrum Connections (ASC) & The Tommy Foundation (TTF)

Are sponsoring and inviting you to attend an exciting and educational event that is aimed to educate you about the fastest growing developmental disorder in the US today—Autism.

Interactive Autism Training

What: An interactive Autism Training by Youth Advocate Programs (YAP)
When: Sunday, April 25th from 9am-3pm
Where: Franklin and Marshall College at Stahr Auditorium, in Stager Hall
Who: Anyone who wants to learn more about autism
Why: As a parent, caregiver, professional already within the field or a student possibly interested in pursuing a career caring for individuals on the spectrum, you will have the unique opportunity to participate in this event FREE of charge and you will receive a certificate for attending the training.
Contact: Sugey Cruz-Everts at sugey@tommyland.org to RSVP by Sunday, April 18th. You can also contact Liz Carotto at liz@autismspectrumconnections.org with any questions.

Lunch will be provided at no cost, but a donation would be appreciated.

Sponsored by:

Community Event: Reframing Autism-A Panel Discussion (Millersville University)

2010-04-16T10:20:00.000-04:00

The Humanities Film Series proudly presents:

Reframing Autism: A Panel Discussion

When: 7pm on Tuesday, April 20
Where: In Myers Auditorium in McComsey Building on Millersville Campus

Join Millersville University for an open panel discussion on autism and its representations with Autism author William Stillman; Pat Amos, Parent Advocate; Dr. Thomas Neuville, Associate Professor of Special Education; Dr. David Hill, Professor of Psychology; Dr. Karena Rush, Associate Professor of Psychology; and graduate students Meghan Sirianni and Jennifer Bieber.

Stillman is a nationally known consultant and an award-winning author of several books on autism, including the trilogy Autism and the God Connection, The Soul Connection, and The Autism Prophesies. As an adult with Asperger's Syndrome, he educates others from an "inside-out" perspective.

Amos, an advocate for children with disabilities, founded Autism Support and Advocacy in Pennsylvania (ASAP), The Family Alliance to Stop Abuse and Neglect, and the Autism National Committee; she served as past president of the Greater Philadelphia Autism Society and the Autism National Committee. Currently she serves as the Vice President for Development of The Association for Persons with Severe Handicaps (TASH) and on the Steering Committee of the new national Alliance to Prevent Restraint, Aversive Interventions, and Seclusion (APRAIS).

The event is free and open to the public.

Event: 3rd Annual Pennsylvania Autism Training Conference, PATC (Lancaster, PA)

2010-04-14T12:11:00.000-04:00

Bureau of Autism Services Presents

3rd Annual Pennsylvania Autism Training Conference, PATC

A New Vision for Autism Services: Practical Strategies and Solutions

When: Wednesday, June 2, 2010 - Friday, June 4, 2010
Where: Eden Resort Inn and Suites, 222 Eden Road, Lancaster, PA 17601

Keynote Speakers:

Wed. 6/2/2010 - Ann Poindexter, MD…….Effective Medical/Behavioral Community Teaming
Thurs. 6/3/2010 - Cary Griffin, M.Ed.….......Customized Employment
Fri. 6/4/2010 - M. Fredda Brown, PhD…Positive Behavior Support for Better Outcomes

Plus 15 breakout sessions!!!

About the Conference: This conference will focus on addressing real-life situations faced by those who work directly with individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), from the youngest children to older adults. The presenters will share strategies that exemplify best and most current practices developed by nationally recognized autism experts. Participants should be prepared to consider challenges for those individuals with autism they currently support. Each session will offer practical strategies and solutions that can improve the quality of life for people with ASD and their families.

Pennsylvania Autism Training Conference, PATC, Learning Objectives:

Attendees at the conference will be able to...

List Challenges experienced by persons with ASD across multiple settings;
Describe common adaptations that may improve quality of life for persons with ASD;
Be familiar with appropriate psychopharmacological interventions in ASD;
Describe the link between ASD communication deficits and challenging behavior;
Explain issues experienced by families and siblings supporting persons with ASD.

Who Should Attend: Adult Autism Waiver providers, adult service providers, Behavioral Health Rehabilitation Services (BHRS) professional staff; diagnosticians, educators, family members/caregivers, individuals with ASD.

Registration Fees:

$50/day for professionals and paraprofessionals
$40/day for family members and self-advocates Continental breakfast and lunch are included.

Continuing Education: This conference is approved for continuing education for Board Certified Behavior Analysts, Educators, Social Workers, Certified Counselors, and Psychologists. General Continuing Education hours are offered for nurses and other medical professionals.

Note: You must indicate your request for continuing education at the time of registration. A professional number or license number is required at the time of registration. Exception: Applicants for BCBA credits will apply on site at the conference.

Registration:
Registration to open April 2010 through our online registration site: http://www.solutionwhere.com/bastraining/cw/main.asp

How do I register? Visit http://www.solutionwhere.com/bastraining/cw/main.asp to register online for this and other BAS trainings. If you have not previously registered for BAS trainings through this system, you will need to create a free Log-In ID and password prior to accessing the registration form. You should record your Log-In ID and password so that you will be able to access documentation of attendance and continuing education. This ID and password will be stored and can be used to register for future BAS trainings. Please note that paper registration forms are no longer used for BAS training opportunities.

Is there a registration deadline? Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants who register for the training but are unable to attend should deregister online as soon as possible. Individuals on the wait list for a session will then automatically be enrolled.

Do I need to provide an email address when I register? Yes. Registration confirmation, wait list status, and additional information about the trainings will be sent via email through the online registration system. Email addresses will not be used for purposes unrelated to Bureau of Autism Services trainings. If you do not have an email address, you may provide one for someone who is able to receive the information on your behalf.

Can I register multiple people from our agency? No. Registering multiple people in the online registration system is not recommended. It is important individual staff create unique Log-In ID and password accounts to access registration confirmations, wait list status, attendance records, certificates, continuing education documentation, and required evaluations.

Payment: Information about how to submit payment is available through the online registration system and is included in the email confirming your completed registration.

Checks sent by an agency’s accounting department must clearly note the name(s) of the registrant(s) for crediting payment.
A copy of the registration confirmation email for each registrant must be submitted along with payment.
Payments received for individuals who have not registered online will be returned.

Cancellation & Refund Policy: The Bureau of Autism Services, Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare reserves the right to cancel or postpone any course due to any unforeseen circumstances. In the event of cancellation or postponement, the Bureau of Autism Services will refund any registration fee but it is not responsible for any related costs, charges, or any expenses to participants, including cancellation costs incurred by airlines/travel agencies. In order to process refunds for course withdrawals, written notification of cancellation must be received two weeks prior to the lecture (subject to a service fee). No refunds will be granted thereafter.

Overnight Accommodations: Overnight accommodations are available at the following hotels. A special rate for conference attendees is guaranteed for those who make reservations by the date noted below. You will need to contact the hotel directly to make a reservation.

Eden Resort Inn & Suites (CONFERENCE SITE)
222 Eden Road, Lancaster, PA 17601
Phone: 717-569-6444 or www.edenresort.com "reserve now"
Rate: standard with 2 double beds: $94.95 per night
Rate: queen beds or 1 king: $114.95 per night
Reservation Group Number: 033701
Reservation Cut-off Date: May 2, 2010

Heritage Hotel Lancaster
500 Centerville Road,
Lancaster, PA 17601
Phone: 1-800-223-8963 or 717-898-2431
Rate: $89.00 per night Reservation Group Name: BAS Autism Conference
Reservation Cut-off Date: May 2, 2010

For More Information and Updates:
http://www.dpw.state.pa.us/ServicesPrograms/Autism/UpcomingEvents/003683805.htm

Children with Disabilities & Child Abuse

2010-04-13T10:28:00.001-04:00

April is not only Autism Awareness Month, it is also Child Abuse Prevention Month. While some might argue that child abuse is not the S. June Smith Center’s “issue,” the reality is that children with disabilities are almost twice as likely to be victims of abuse as children without disabilities. In addition to the many factors that can lead to the abuse of any child, researchers have identified additional reasons why children with disabilities in particular are at risk for abuse:

Children with disabilities are often considered of less value to society and to their families. Children with disabilities are often punished more severely and frequently than their peers.
Families of children of disabilities often have additional stressors: (a) The inability to cope with the added demands that come with parenting a child with disabilities; (b) The additional financial burden that comes when a child has specialized medical and home care needs: (c) The lack of a social support network that can help the parents in difficult situations.
Children with difficult to handle behavior or communication difficulties are often targets of abuse. Children unable to communicate their needs are particularly vulnerable to being victims of neglect.
The perceived public stigma that parents may feel at having a child that is “different.”
Research indicates that abuse of children with disabilities often goes unreported as the children may be unable to communicate what has happened to them. Compounding this, educators, physicians and other professionals may overlook signs of physical abuse and attribute them to other causes, such as clumsiness.

At the S. June Smith Center, we take the issue of child abuse and neglect very seriously. Nothing is more important to us than the safety of the children in our community. All of our direct service staff are considered mandated reporters by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, meaning that they have a professional, ethical and legal responsibility to report suspected child abuse and neglect to those legally charged with investigating child abuse allegations. It is not up to our staff to determine what happened or who did it, they are simply to report what they suspect and why. This is also not something that is subject to management approval or override.

It is also vitally important that parents of children with disabilities understand that their children are at higher risk for being victims of abuse. Parents and families should first take stock of themselves, to make sure that they manage their own stress and maintain a good support system for themselves. Parenting is never easy and parenting a child with disabilities can be doubly difficult. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from family, friends, and professionals when you are feeling stressed.

Recognizing Child Abuse
The following signs may signal the presence of presence of abuse or neglect:

The Child:

Shows sudden changes in behavior or school performance
Has not received help for physical or medical problems brought to the parents’ attention
Has learning problems (or difficulty concentrating) that cannot be attributed to specific physical or psychological causes
Is always watchful, as though preparing for something bad to happen
Lacks adult supervision
Is overly compliant, passive, or withdrawn
Comes to school or other activities early, stays late, and does not want to go home

The Parent:

Shows little concern for the child
Denies the existence of—or blames the child for—the child’s problems in school or at home
Asks teachers or other caregivers to use harsh physical discipline if the child misbehaves
Sees the child as entirely bad, worthless, or burdensome
Demands a level of physical or academic performance the child cannot achieve
Looks primarily to the child for care, attention, and satisfaction of emotional needs

The Parent and Child:

Rarely touch or look at each other
Consider their relationship entirely negative
State that they do not like each other

These are general signs that child abuse may be present. For the specific signs of physical abuse, neglect, and sexual abuse, click here.

Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect
In Pennsylvania, there are two ways to report child abuse:

If it is an emergency or a child is in immediate danger, call 911.
For non-emergencies, call Pennsylvania Child Line: 1-800-932-0313

More Information
Websites
Prevent Child Abuse America
National Children's Alliance
Child Welfare Information Gateway

PDF Documents
Fact Sheet: Maltreatment of Children with Disabilities
Fact Sheet: Recognizing Child Abuse and Neglect: Signs and Symptoms

LEIP Parent Event: Getting Organized

2010-04-12T14:38:00.000-04:00

LEIP welcomes Kathy Schlegel from “Organized Enough”

When: Wednesday, April 28 at 6:30 PM
Where: IU 13 office at Burle Business Park, 1020 New Holland Ave., Lancaster

Kathy is an ADHD Coach, Speaker and Professional Organizer with a passion to see that a lack of organization does not keep anyone from being the best they can be. She has ADHD, and once was totally disorganized. She went back to college, and developed skills and strategies that helped her graduate with honors. Now she uses these same strategies to help others succeed in school and to manage their lives

"How to manage your paper piles so you can manage your life"

Are you tired of shuffling papers from place to place?
Are you tired of not finding what you need when you need it?
Do you need a way to keep track of appointments regarding your child’s services?
Do you need a better way to keep track of your child's medical and school records?

Kathy will teach you how to be in control of your paper. With some effort to set up the system, you will find that you need little effort to keep it under control.

"Overcoming Procrastination - it's the little things that count"

Do you put things off because you don't know where to start?
Do you put things off because they just seem too difficult?
Would you like some tips, tricks, and tools to move you beyond your resistance?
Would you like some tips to organize all those toys?

Please feel free to bring along a one-subject spiral notebook. If not, we’ll make sure we have some provided for you. We want you to go home from the seminar with your questions answered, ready for action! In addition to answering questions the night of the talk, Kathy has asked that we collect questions and concerns ahead of time on the topics to be covered. When you RSVP to Ashley Hilgert, please share your questions with her.

RSVP: By April 23 to Ashley Hilgert 717-203-6619 or ashleyd1986@yahoo.com

Community Event: New Directions in Autism Research and Treatment

2010-04-08T09:43:00.000-04:00

The International Society for Autism Research
The Center for Autism Research and
Drexel University School of Public Health

Present

NEW DIRECTIONS IN AUTISM RESEARCH AND TREATMENT

Date/Time: Wednesday, May 19, 2010 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Location: Chemical Heritage Foundation Conference Center, 315 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA

This conference features nearly twenty renowned autism researchers from across the country who will present on their most current work and findings. Presentations will discuss new directions and recent discoveries in autism research. Speakers will present on four primary topics: Neurobiology and Genetics, Treatment, Epidemiology and Screening, and Comorbidities and Outcomes. Each topic will be followed by a panel discussion.

Registration Fee: $45 per person (includes lunch). Registration is on a first-come basis. Seating is limited.

Click Here to Register for this Event!

Questions: Contact Erin Bogue, 267-426-4914, boguee@email.chop.edu

Some Useful Autism Links

2010-04-06T09:01:00.000-04:00

April is Autism Awareness Month. Parents, caregivers and even professionals can be overwhelmed by information regarding Autism and the varied ways in which Autism can be manifested. Here are a handful of the most popular links to online resources and information regarding Autism.

Autism (Wikipedia)
Autism Fact Sheet (National Institutes of Health)
Autism Research Institute
Autism Society of America
Autism Speaks
Autism Spectrum (Wikipedia)
Autism Spectrum Disorders (National Center for Disease Control and Prevention)
Autism Transition Handbook
Autism Web
Autism Wiki

April is Autism Awareness Month

2010-03-31T12:51:00.000-04:00

April is Autism Awareness Month and Friday, April 2, 2010, is World Autism Awareness Day. You can find out more about Autism Spectrum Disorder, Autism Awareness Month and World Autism Awareness Day by clicking on the following links:

Everyone is encouraged to wear blue on Friday, April 2, 2010, in recognition of World Autism Awareness Day.

Resource: National Down Syndrome Society

2010-03-30T09:35:00.000-04:00

The National Down Syndrome Society is an excellent resource for parents, families and friends looking for information on Down Syndrome--particularly in the areas of education, advocacy and inclusion.

Check out their website here.

Happy Anniversary: Our Partnership with Vantage House

2010-03-26T13:41:00.002-04:00

We are celebrating the first year of our partnership with Vantage House. We provide educational programming for children and their mothers at Vantage House while the mothers are there for residential treatment of substance abuse. The project is funded by the federal Center for Substance Abuse Treatment.

Providing hands-on parenting and educational information using an experiential approach brings out the best in the mothers' ability to be their child's "first and best teacher" (a cornerstone of the S. June Smith Center philosophy). Helen Gibson, Special Instructor with the S. June Smith Center, leads a group of moms and their young children every other week in fun, educational activities while coaching moms at the same time. Everyone at Vantage House loves "Miss Helen." You can read more about the partnership here and also learn more about the other organizations involved in this partnership.

Next T3=Tinker, Touch and Taste Sessions Offered

2010-03-24T16:00:00.000-04:00

The S. June Smith Center is now enrolling children and families for our next set of T3=Tinker, Touch, and Taste sessions. Here is the T3=Tinker, Touch, and Taste schedule:

Day/Time: Tuesday, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Dates: April 6 to June 1 (no class on May 4)

Food Can Be Fun!

Children and their caregivers have the opportunity to enjoy oral-motor, gross motor, and food-based sensory play activities in a supportive and nurturing environment. A small group setting allows for social modeling and positive reinforcement. Parent participation and education help to make mealtimes more successful.

T3 = Tinker, Touch & Taste is facilitated by a licensed occupational therapist. This small group program creates opportunities for children to have fun exploring food through touch and taste.

For more information, please call Erica Wentzel, MOT, OTR/L, at 717-575-4268 or via email at ewentzel@sjunesmith.com.

Community Event Reminder: Disabilities and Public Policy--A Community Forum

2010-03-19T09:34:00.000-04:00

Disabilities and Public Policy: A Community Forum will be held Wednesday, March 31, 2010 (8 a.m. to Noon) at the Bolger Conference Center, Millersville University. For more information and to see the updated agenda, click here.

Online Resource: Autism Transition Handbook

2010-03-18T12:11:00.000-04:00

We (the S. June Smith Center) received an email recently with the following information that we want to share with others:

Through the very generous support of an anonymous donor family, Devereux has launched an innovative online resource to support Pennsylvania families and individuals living with autism. This tool will help guide PA residents as they prepare for what we know is the very difficult and confusing period of Transition.

The new resource, ‘Autism Transition Handbook’(www.autismhandbook.org), takes the form of a Wiki, a collaborative, open-source document that allows individuals inside and outside of Devereux the ability to add relevant and timely content. Overall, the purpose of this Wiki is to offer important information on Autism Transition, provided by people directly impacted by autism spectrum disorders, along with experts in a variety of fields.

While Devereux has created this tool and supplied the original base of information, future content will come from numerous sources including parents, pubic officials, and legal, medical and financial professionals who serve the autism community, and even other direct service providers. That said, Devereux will maintain editorial control of the Wiki and be responsible for granting editing privileges, in an effort to ensure the accuracy and appropriateness of all content submissions.

The ultimate goal is a unified one, to provide individuals with autism disorders and their families with the most current and comprehensive information on Transition services in Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, when the school bus stops, many parents simply don’t have the information they need to help their children prepare for post-secondary education, vocational training, independent living and community participation.

Through this Wiki, we can virtually join with families and individuals as they go through this process and provide them with much of the help they need. Because of the dynamic and shared nature of this tool, visitors to this site can feel confident the information is up-to-date and trustworthy; they will have peace-of-mind knowing they are informed
and educated when making decisions.

In addition, I should add that, while much of the content in the handbook is Pennsylvania specific, there will be a good deal of general Autism Transition information that will interest a broader audience.

Please spend some time reviewing www.autismhandbook.org. We truly welcome your feedback. You can email comments to Lorraine Barrett at lbarrett@devereux.org.

In the end, your input will help make this tool the first stop parents make when looking for information on Transition services. Thank you for your time, participation, and support.

Sincerely,
Bob

Robert Q. Kreider
President and CEO
The Devereux Foundation
444 Devereux Drive
Villanova, PA 19085

New S.P.L.A.S.H. Classes Offered

2010-03-17T11:51:00.000-04:00

The S. June Smith Center is excited to be offering more sessions of our widely acclaimed program S.P.L.A.S.H. starting April 1 and running through May 27. S.P.L.A.S.H. stands for "Sound Play and Language Awareness Story Hour." This adaptive and interactive story time helps children celebrate the theme of a story. Participants are engaged in helping to "tell" the story through hand motions, sign language, props, and songs. Puppets, picture communication symbols, and voice output devices help widen the appeal to all children and their diverse learning styles. Plus, there is always time for movement, art, and other hands-on experiences.

S.P.L.A.S.H. class, starting April 1, 2010 from 11:00 am noon at the Lancaster Cleft Palate Clinic (223 N. Lime Street). The 9-week course will be held each Thursday morning through May 27, 2010. At a cost of $90 per child, SPLASH is designed for two- and three-year olds accompanied by a parent or caregiver. For more information or to register for this class, contact the S. June Smith Center at (717) 299-4829. There are still scholarships available.

Dr. Temple Grandin Presentation Update

2010-03-15T14:23:00.000-04:00

Due to the expected high attendance, Dr. Temple Grandin's presentation at Millersville University (Tuesday, March 16, 7 p.m.) has been moved to Pucillo Gymnasium.

Free Community Event: Mozart and the Whale

2010-03-15T09:02:00.000-04:00

The Humanities Film Series
proudly presents
Mozart and the Whale
Screening at 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 18
In Myers Auditorium in McComsey Building on Millersville Campus

Petter Naess’s 2005 film chronicles the ups and downs in a romance between Donald (Josh Hartnett) and Isabel (Radha Mitchell), two adults with Asperger’s Syndrome. The couple’s preoccupations challenge their budding relationship. Click here for more information on the film.

It’s free and open to the public. Post-screening discussion on Reframing Autism led by Dr. Thomas Neuville, Associate Professor of Pscyhology, and his students.

Sponsored by the Office of the Dean of Humanities and Social Sciences and the Common Reading.

Search, Shop, and Support the S. June Smith Center with GoodSearch & GoodShop

2010-03-14T17:04:00.000-04:00

Search and Support the S. June Smith Center
Support the S. June Smith Center with just a click of your mouse. Simply use GoodSearch as your online search engine. The S. June Smith Center gets a penny ($0.01) for each search. Be sure to type in "S June Smith Center" in the appropriate space as the organization you are searching on behalf of. Your computer will save this information, unless you clean out your cookies. In 2009, the S. June Smith Center received $169.74 through GoodSearch.

Shop Online AND Support the S. June Smith Center
You can also support the S. June Smith Center as you shop online by using GoodShop. Popular online stores, such as Amazon, eBay, Target and Staples all use GoodShop as a way to donate to nonprofit organizations, such as the S. June Smith Center. Just be sure to indicate "S June Smith Center" as the organization you are shopping for at the GoodShop website and follow the links to your favorite online stores. Up to 30% of your purchase will go to the S. June Smith Center without any extra cost to you. It couldn't be easier.

S. June Smith Center Fundraising Event at the Laserdome

2010-03-11T10:00:00.000-05:00

Come join us for the fun at the Laserdome!

When: Thursday, April 22, 2010, 5 p.m.-10 p.m.
Where: The Laserdome, 2050 Auction Road, Manheim, PA
Cost: $25 for the public; Free for Project Together Pit Crew Participants
Sponsor: Josh Wood, Realtor, Coldwell Banker Select Professionals

S. June Smith Foundation Mini-Grants Available

2010-03-10T10:53:00.000-05:00

The S. June Smith Foundation announces the availability of grants up to $3,000 to Lancaster County non-profit 501(c)3 organizations that provide services to children with developmental disabilities and delays. Interested organizations should call the Foundation office at 717-299-4829 or write to the S. June Smith Foundation at 600-I Eden Road, Lancaster, PA 17601 for information or to receive a grant application. Grant applications can also be downloaded here. Applications are due by Friday, April 23, 2010, and grant decisions will be announced on or after Tuesday, June 1, 2010.

The S. June Smith Foundation was established in 1993 to support Lancaster County children with developmental disabilities and delays. The S. June Smith Foundation is an independent charitable organization governed by a board of community leaders. Organizations that have received grants from the Foundation include the S. June Smith Center, Aaron’s Acres, Lancaster County Therapeutic Riding, and The Susquehanna Association for the Blind and Vision Impaired (SABVI). For additional information, visit the Foundation's web page.

Ronald McDonald House Charities Grants S. June Smith Center Preschool Classes with Yoga Classes

2010-03-09T13:10:00.000-05:00

One of the services we provide at the S. June Smith Center are our inclusive pre-school classes for children with developmental disabilities from age three to school age. Each child participates in developmentally appropriate activities in a small classroom setting; students with disabilities vary from classroom to classroom. Some have physical disabilities and delays, while there are also some diagnosed with ADHD, for example. Speech, occupational, and physical therapies are integrated into daily learning and play activities. Each classroom is unique and provides a variety of inclusion programs with typical children. Four classrooms serve families throughout Lancaster County with centers in Ephrata, Lancaster City, and Mount Joy, while each classroom is staffed by a Pennsylvania certified early childhood teacher and a teacher assistant.

The pre-school staff at the Center is continually looking for unique ideas to help their students grow and learn. Based on a recent article in the Lancaster New Era, titled Take a Deep Breath, Class Teaches Young Children How To Relax, the staff found the effectiveness of yoga and children to be most interesting. Suzanne Accardo, owner of The Yoga Place in Ephrata, has agreed to team up with the Center to offer an opportunity for the pre-school students to participate in a yoga session.

According to Marsha Wenig (yogajournal.com), “Children derive enormous benefits from yoga. Physically, it enhances their flexibility, strength, coordination and body awareness. In addition, their concentration and sense of calmness and relaxation improves.”

Additionally, as concerns about the safety of prescription drugs grow, concerning ADHD patients, researchers in Australia and Germany have found that children diagnosed with ADHD may find relief and improved focus with yoga. "Yoga can be a lifetime friend," says Pauline Jensen, coauthor of a 2004 study published in the Journal of Attention Disorders. "It increases concentration, promotes mental and physical discipline, and induces confidence" (yogajournal.com).

The overall goal of the project would be for the pre-school staff and children to learn from the experience, but then additionally utilize the effective yoga teachings and movements back in their own classroom setting.

Through a grant made available by the generosity of the Ronald McDonald House Charities, we have been able to add add yoga to our curriculum in partnership with The Yoga Place in Ephrata, PA.

Two Questions Worth Answering

2010-03-05T15:52:00.000-05:00

Back in September of 2008, the S. June Smith Center Board of Directors gathered for a planning retreat. There were the usual icebreaker activities, some good food, and some work on board committee job descriptions. All important. But the most important work of the retreat involved answering two very simple questions:

Who benefits from what we do?
In what ways do they benefit?

At first there was a bit of discomfort. Could these questions were better answered by the staff or by the families we serve? How could a volunteer Board, made up of a cross-section of the community, answer such profound and deeply probing questions?

After the initial awkward silence the Board members began to think about the questions and the conversation started in earnest. In looking at the first question, the Board discovered that there are plenty of people who benefit from the work of the S. June Smith Center: Children with developmental disabilities and delays, parents and caregivers, early childhood education providers, children who have typical childhood development who serve as peers, schools, communities of faith, and the entire community.

After more conversation, the Board members narrowed their focus. While families usually benefit and schools might benefit more often than not, children with disabilities always benefit by what we do. The Board answered the first question, “Who benefits from what we do?” with “Children with disabilities.”

The second question proved more of a challenge but the talented and creative individuals of S. June Smith Center Board of Directors were up to the task. After listing a number of ways in which children with disabilities might benefit from our services, they again narrowed their focus, honing in on the words “potential” and “participation.” They identified two universal benefits of the S. June Smith Center’s work: (1) Children with disabilities move towards reaching their potential and (2) Children with disabilities are more fully able to participate in their families, schools and communities.

The S. June Smith Center staff, along with Board members on the Strategic Planning Committee, used the answers to the two questions to craft our current mission statement, which reads:The S. June Smith Center supports children with disabilities in achieving their potential and promotes their full participation within their families, schools and communities.

While we already had a pretty good sense of mission before rewriting our mission statement, the work involved in creating our current mission statement plus the actual statement itself has truly energized both the staff and Board of the S. June Smith Center. This statement is not only our fundamental policy statement, it is also our creed that brings us together and energizes us. It reminds us that each child is truly important. It also reminds us that our work is more than just working with children—it also involves parents and caregivers, educational institutions and our whole community.

What was interesting is that the Board did not try to answer the “how” questions: How would would do our mission? What kind of services and programs should we do to meet our mission? The reality is that the “how” changes as services change and evolve and the availability of resources rise and fall. The “how” is best answered by our staff, not by the Board. The Board, using its best collective wisdom, is responsible for the “who” and the “what” of our mission.

Our mission statement is not meant to be a tagline or a marketing gimmick. It is a statement of our core purpose as an organization. There is a lot of collective wisdom contained in that one sentence mission statement: The S. June Smith Center supports children with disabilities in achieving their potential and promotes their full participation within their families, schools and communities.

Thanks Alpha Sigma Alpha District 4!

2010-03-04T11:00:00.002-05:00

I (Ken the Executive Director) had a great time in Charlottesville, Va attending Alpha Sigma Alpha District 4 District Day on February 27. Thank you for your hospitality and inviting me to speak during lunch. We sold most of our remaining SJSC/ASA tee shirts--clearing the way for a new tee shirt which we will begin selling at the ASA National Convention.

Thanks so much for the collection of educational and general supplies for the S. June Smith Center. Our staff was very excited to see the car load of goodies that I brought back.

Thanks Alpha Sigma Alpha District 9!

2010-03-03T16:45:00.000-05:00

I (Ken the Executive Director) had a great time in Kansas City attending Alpha Sigma Alpha District 9 District Day on February 20. Thank you for your hospitality and inviting me to speak during lunch. We are also happy that you purchased so many ASA/SJSC tee shirts. Thank you for your continued support of the S. June Smith Center. You truly honor the legacy of Dr. S. June Smith, our namesake and your Alpha Sigma Alpha sister.

Community Event: Disabilities and Public Policy, A Community Forum

2010-03-03T16:35:00.001-05:00

Date: Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Time: 8 a.m. to Noon
Location: Bolger Conference Center, Millersville University
Information Contact: Dennis B. Downey, Millersville University Honors College

8 to 8:45 Registration & Coffee

8:50 Welcome: Susan Eckert, United Way of Lancaster
County

Moderator: Dennis B. Downey, Millersville University

Honors College

9 a.m. "Disabilities and Public Policy: Current Issues"

-Steve Suroviec, Executive Director, The Arc of

Pennsylvania

10 a.m. "Disabilities and the Law: Current Issues and

Controversies"

-Judith Gran, Esq., Reisman Carolla Gran
(Philadelphia)

11 a.m. "Pennhurst and the Disabilities Rights Movement"

-Thomas K. Gilhool, Esq., PILCOP (retired)

12 a.m. "Conclusion"

Free and open to the Public. Bolger Conference Center is an accessible facility.

Sponsors: Millersville University Honors College; United Way of Lancaster County; ARC of Pennsylvania; Public Interest Law Center of Philadelphia (PILCOP)

Community Event: Dr. Temple Grandin Lecture

2010-03-02T14:13:00.000-05:00

When: Tuesday, March 16, 2010 at 07:00 PM
Where: Bolger Conference Center, Lehr Room; Millersville University
Contact: Dr. Linda McDowell ; Phone: 717-871-2388

Dr. Temple Grandin of Boston, Mass., is the speaker for the 2010 Anna Funk Lockey Lecture and will be speaking about her experiences with autism. Grandin obtained her B.A. at Franklin Pierce College in 1970. In 1974 she was employed as livestock editor for the Arizona Farmer Ranchman and also worked for Corral Industries on equipment design. She earned her M.S. in animal science at Arizona State University in 1975 for her work on the behavior of cattle in different squeeze chutes. Grandin was awarded her Ph.D in animal science from the University of Illinois in 1989 and is currently a professor at Colorado State University.

Grandin was born in Boston Mass., in 1947 and three years later was diagnosed with autism. Ignoring instruction to institutionalize young Grandin, her mother chose to hire a caregiver to eliminate Grandin's chances of falling into the isolationist shell of autism. With the help of her mentor, Grandin recognized her talents and abilities, allowing her to lead a successful career as a livestock-handling equipment designer. Grandin is the author of The Way I See It: A Personal Look at Autism and Asperger's and has become an influential author and speaker on the subject of autism.

This event is free and open to the public.

Thank You, Loxley's!

2010-02-23T14:19:00.000-05:00

Thank you to Loxley's Restaurant (Heritage Hotel Lancaster) for their generous donation of $1,717.92 raised from last November's Legend Program.

Kansas City Here We Come

2010-02-18T11:29:00.000-05:00

I (Ken the Executive Director) have been getting everything packed up for my flight to Kansas City tomorrow to be a part of Alpha Sigma Alpha's District 9 District Day (February 20). Besides speaking during lunch, I'll be bringing a giant suitcase full of ASA/SJSC tee shirts to sell. I'm looking forward to seeing all of our Alpha Sigma Alpha friends in District 9 and also tasting some Kansas City BBQ on Saturday night.

Battle of the Banks Update

2010-02-18T11:24:00.000-05:00

Battle of the Banks just a little more than a week away (Sunday, February 28, 2010). Some of our staff just tested the games today and, based on the enthusiastic response of the S. June Smith Center guinea pigs, the Battle of the Banks participants should have a great time competing this year.

Just a reminder that you can pledge online for your favorite team or honorary team captain.

Parent Event:: Nutrition Workshop

2010-02-18T11:18:00.001-05:00

Join us for a Nutrition Workshop!

Eat Better for Less $$

Get Kid-Friendly Recipes

Sample Tasty Treats

LEIP is sponsoring a nutrition workshop by Deb Tucker, a nutrition education advisor affiliated with EFNEP (Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program). The workshop is free of charge.

Deb will provide us with healthy alternatives and recipes for meals your children will love. She will even give us a cooking lesson, and a taste-testing.   Come join the fun!

Where: IU13 Burle Building
            1020 New Holland Ave.
        Lancaster PA.
When:   March 16 at 6:30 PM

RSVP By March 10 to Ashley Hilgert 717-203-6619 or ashleyd1986@yahoo.com

We invite you to come early (5:30) to participate in our monthly LEIP Executive Committee meeting.

Thank you, Dr. Palmieri!!

2010-02-08T13:16:00.000-05:00

Thank you to Dr. Gilbert Palmieri, DDS & Associates, for the recent gift of $625. This generous contribution came from Dr. Palmieri's Smiles For Life campaign.

Upcoming Alpha Sigma Alpha District Days

2010-01-11T10:05:00.000-05:00

Ken Harrison, the Executive Director of the S. June Smith Center, will be participating in two upcoming Alpha Sigma Alpha District Days: District 9 in Kansas City, Missouri, on February 20 and District 4 in Charlottesville, Virginia, on February 27.

We're looking forward to seeing everyone attending and shamelessly hawking our S. June Smith Center/Alpha Sigma Alpha tee shirts.

Hearing Loss and Young Children

2010-01-07T15:07:00.004-05:00

Concerned with your child’s hearing?

There are several steps parents can take to identify the presence of a hearing impairment. First, pay attention to your child’s responsiveness to sounds. Do they attend to a variety of sounds? Do they look up when they hear a loud siren outside? Do they respond to their name? If you call them from another room will they hear you or come find you? Do they attend to music or a radio set at differing volumes? Does the TV need to be turned up for them to attend to it? If they are not looking at you while you are speaking do they seem to understand what you have said?

If you answered these questions and see a pattern related to hearing difficulty the next step is to speak to your pediatrician and discuss a referral to an audiologist for a hearing assessment. Bear in mind the presence of one or more of these characteristics do not necessarily imply a hearing impairment.

Assessments
There are several options for hearing assessments typically performed on children. These include:

Otoacoustic Emission-This test assesses the response of the hair cells in the cochlea to sound. It is often down after birth as a screening but can be used later as a diagnostic test. Babies are typically asleep when performed.
Auditory Brainstem Response-This test assesses the response of the brainstem to sound and can tell you if sound is being transmitted all the way to the brain from the outer ear. It is often down after birth as a screening but can be used later as a diagnostic test. Babies are typically asleep when performed.
Visual Response Audiometry or Play Audiometry-These tests also assess a child’s ability to hear through visual reinforcement and conditioned play. The child is trained to look at a certain spot when they hear a sound or complete a play action such as putting a toy in a box upon hearing a sound. Often used for older children.

If a hearing loss is identified there are multiple options available to parents and audiologists can help to identify the next step in the process. Hearing aids, speech language pathology services, or deaf and hard of hearing services are all options and should be discussed as a team.(parents, audiologist, pediatrician, speech language pathologist)

Resources
The following are several resources available to parents within the state of Pennsylvania for children with hearing impairments as well as other diagnosis:

Pattan-This organization is an initiative of the PA Department of Education that works in partnership with families and educational providers to support programs and services to improve student learning and services. They offer a variety of workshops and informational sessions for parents and professionals.
MHMR/Early intervention-Lancaster County (717) 399-7323.
PA Family’s Incorporated-This is a statewide family network. Its goal is to link parents and parent groups with children of various needs (Website is pending).
Hands and Voices-This organization acts as a guide for parents of newly diagnosed children with hearing loss. Provide new families with a contact family to help them through the process.
Pa Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing-1521 North 6th Street, Harrisburg, PA 17102. Director - Sharon Behun. Telephone: 717-783-4912 This is a resource for people with hearing loss at a variety of ages. Provide information, referrals, and advocacy.
Educational Resources for Children with Hearing Loss- This organization advises the PA department of education. Help children with hearing loss form an educational plan that meets their needs in a variety of settings.

This was adapted from a seminar at PATTAN in the Fall, 2008, “Supporting Families with Hearing Loss” by Joy Rice, MS CCC/SLP, S. June Smith Center Speech Therapist.

S. June Smith in the News

2010-01-06T08:43:00.000-05:00

The S. June Smith Center's T3=Tinker, Touch, and Taste was featured in yesterday's Lancaster Intelligencer Journal/New Era (Jan 5, 2010). The article is available online here.

We are taking registrations for the upcoming session of T3=Tinker, Touch, and Taste. For more information, call 717-299-4829.

S. June Smith Foundation: End-of-Year Appeal

2009-12-28T14:02:00.001-05:00

The S. June Smith Foundation's End-of-Year Appeal began on November 15, 2009. While your financial contributions to the Foundation are always welcome, it is not too late to have your contributions make a difference in your 2009 federal tax bill. Just send your tax-deductible contribution to:

S. June Smith Center Foundation

600 Eden Road, Building I

Lancaster, PA 17601

Please make your check out to "S. June Smith Foundation"

Contributions to the S. June Smith Foundation help ensure the long-term sustainability of the S. June Smith Center and allows us to use your contribution where and when it will make the biggest difference to in services to children and families. Because the S. June Smith Foundation has no staff and is operated by a Board of volunteer Directors, we are able to keep overhead very low so that every donor dollar has a positive impact on the lives of children and families in Lancaster County.

A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the PA Department of State by calling toll free, within Pennsylvania 1-800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.

Lancaster Early Intervention Partnership (LEIP): Upcoming Meetings

2009-12-23T15:58:00.001-05:00

The Lancaster Early Intervention Partnership (LEIP) is a great way for parents to make a difference in Birth to Three Early Intervention and Preschool Early Intervention services in Lancaster County. Parents have a chance to interact with Early Intervention service providers, funding agencies, and other early childhood
organizations.

Here is the upcoming meeting schedule:

January 14, 2010 (Thursday), 3:30 p.m. at Intermediate Unit 13 (1020 New Holland Ave, Lancaster)
February 11, 2010 (Thursday, 9:30 a.m. at Intermediate Unit 13 (1020 New Holland Ave, Lancaster)

Come join us and build a better community for your child and family.

Winter 2010 SPLASH Classes

2009-12-22T15:21:00.000-05:00

There is still time to register you and your child for S. June Smith Center's SPLASH program. Our Wednesday 9:15 class is now full. However, there are still openings available for the Thursday 11:00 winter SPLASH class.

Interested families can contact Robbie, at the S. June Smith Center office at 717-299-4829 to register (or email robbie@sjunesmith.com). There are a limited number of scholarships available.

Battle of the Banks

2009-12-22T15:11:00.000-05:00

The 22nd Annual Battle of the Banks is scheduled for Sunday, February 28, 2010. The event will again be held at Hempfield High School's Buchanan Gymnasium. If you are interested in participating in this event, please contact Elyse Kauffman, Director of Development at 717-299-4829 or via email at ekauffman@sjunesmith.com.

Banks are already forming teams. The following banks are participating, with more on the way:

Parent Event: Creating Agreement in Special Education

2009-11-19T13:15:00.000-05:00

On Tuesday, December 1, 2009, from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM at Schreiber Pediatrics, 625 Community Way, Lancaster, PA, NAA-PA will sponsor in connection with the Office for Dispute Resolution (ODR) the workshop:

Creating Agreement in Special Education:

Conflict Resolution Skills for Parents and Educators
A practical approach to resolving special education disputes at the local level

This FREE workshop is an educational and training opportunity, designed to focus participants' understanding of, and skill development in, the areas of conflict, effective communication, collaboration and problem solving. The aim is for appropriate and successful outcomes at the local level. This training will include interactive activities with relevant special education scenarios designed to assist in building skills.

The format of the training is a hands-on style of instruction with many opportunities to reinforce the principles of the learning outcomes. We are inviting parents and school district special education administrators and principals together to support long-term conflict resolution success. So please contact them and invite them to attend as well!

Space is limited to 40 participants. RSVP is required on or before Friday, November 27, 2009 by completing the following information and sending to info@naa-pa.org or regular mail.

Registration information: http://naa-pa.org/ODR%20Training%2012_2009.pdf

Ten Thousand Villages (Ephrata) Community Shopping Night for the S. June Smith Center

2009-11-18T08:54:00.000-05:00

Date:       Thursday, December 17, 2009
Time:       5:00pm - 9:00pm
Location: Ten Thousand Villages
               240 N. Reading Road, Ephrata, PA

Do some holiday shopping and support the S. June Smith Center! Your loved ones will enjoy the handcrafted gifts you purchase at Ten Thousand Villages of Ephrata. The artisans who skillfully craft these items receive vital fair income, and the S. June Smith Center will receive 15% of sales from the store, Cafe, and Rug Room. Join us for a night of shopping, music, and refreshments. Live music performed by Jealous Moon (live music from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.).

Alpha Sigma Alpha District 3 District Days

2009-11-16T15:32:00.000-05:00

We are excited that Elyse Kauffman, the S. June Smith Center's Director of Development, will be at Alpha Sigma Alpha District 3 District Day on Saturday, November 21, in Pittsburgh, PA. Be looking Elyse for next to the pile of S. June Smith Center/Alpha Sigma Alpha tee shirts.

GoodSearch & GoodShop: Philanthropy Has Never Been So Easy

2009-11-05T15:33:00.001-05:00

Search and Support the S. June Smith Center

Support the S. June Smith Center without opening your wallet. Just use GoodSearch as your online search engine. The S. June Smith Center gets a penny ($0.01) for each search. Be sure to type in "S June Smith Center" in the appropriate space as the organization you are searching on behalf of. Your computer will save this information, unless you clean out your cookies. In 2008, the S. June Smith Center received $239.24 through GoodSearch.

Do Your Holiday Shopping AND Support the S. June Smith Center

You can also support the S. June Smith Center as you shop online by using GoodShop. Popular online stores, such as Amazon, eBay, Target and Staples all use GoodShop as a way to donate to nonprofit organizations, such as the S. June Smith Center. Just be sure to indicate "S June Smith Center" as the organization you are shopping for at the GoodShop website and follow the links to your favorite online stores. Up to 30% of your purchase will go to the S. June Smith Center without any extra cost to you. It couldn't be easier.

Poinsettia Sale: Supporting the S. June Smith Center

2009-11-04T13:09:00.000-05:00

Don't Forget To Place Your Order!

We are now taking orders for this year's crop of poinsettias. Proceeds from the sale support Project Together, an inclusion program of the S. June Smith Cent er.

Our order deadline is Wednesday , November 25, 2009. Pick-up and delivery are scheduled for Thursday, December 4 and Friday, December 5 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Pick-up your order at the S. June Smith Center's administrative offices (600 Eden Road, Building I, Lancaster).

Poinsettia Links

Our Sponsors!

Loxley's: Enjoy a Great Meal and Support the S. June Smith Center

2009-11-03T14:29:00.001-05:00

Enjoy a great evening and wonderful meal at Loxley's while supporting the S. June Smith Center. 5% of your total food and non-acoholic beverages bill will be donated to the S. June Smith Center. Just designate the S. June Smith Center on your check for your meal.

For more information, go to:

Heritage Hotel Lancaster & Loxley's

Address and contact information:

Heritage Hotel--Lancaster
500 Centerville Road
Lancaster, PA 17601
1-800-223-8963

Thank you to Heritage Hotel and Loxley's for their generous support of the S. June Smith Center and the children and families we serve.

The "Wild" Child

2009-11-03T14:05:00.001-05:00

Here is a thought-provoking article that might make you think a bit differently about children with disabilities, particularly in terms of protecting them versus allowing them to take some risks:

The "Wild" Side of Kids with Disabilities

Thanks Alpha Sigma Alpha District 8!

2009-10-28T16:12:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Alpha Sigma Alpha District 8 for their hospitality to the S. June Smith Center at your District Day in Chicago. We are very thankful for the opportunity to present the latest news about the S. June Smith Center during lunch and allowing us to sell Alpha Sigma Alpha/S. June Smith Center tee shirts. Eylse, the S. June Smith Center's Director of Development, had a great time in Chicago.

A Classroom Filled with Stars: Filming a United Way Television Commercial at the S. June Smith Center

2009-10-21T15:59:00.000-04:00

It was not business as usual in Sue's classroom at the S. June Smith Center Ephrata Preschool Site this past Monday. The first tip off was the cartload of television equipment--a large camera, lights, power cables, and other items that were not easily identifiable. There were lots of grown-ups--Becca Stamp from United Way of Lancaster County, a camera crew from WGAL-TV, and men in suits from Donegal Insurance. All of this to film a television commercial for United Way of Lancaster County, featuring the S. June Smith Center Preschool Program.

Filming a group of preschoolers for over an hour through multiple takes and equipment set-up is a daunting task. The crew did a nice job and Sue and the classroom staff were great, as usual. But the most amazing part of the whole experience were the preschoolers. When it was time to be on camera, they were spot on and focused, like little professionals. When the camera was off, they went back to their usual classroom activities as if no one else was in the room. After a few takes, some of the kids had the narrator's lines down pat and were coaching the narrator. We wouldn't be surprised if a few of our preschoolers had agents by the end of the week.

Far from a classroom interruption, it was a great lesson in what television production is all about. Our kids were fascinated by the process. Not only was a great learning experience for children and staff, it is also an honor for the S. June Smith Center to be representing the United Way of Lancaster County to the our community.

Hot Digity Dog Supports the S. June Smith Center Preschool

2009-10-20T15:19:00.000-04:00

Our friends at Hot Digity Dog stopped in for a visit at our Lancaster City Preschool classroom this week, bearing smiles and a gift for the classroom.

Thanks to the owners, staff, and patrons at Hot Digity Dog for their recent contribution to the S. June Smith Center Lancaster City Preschool Classroom. Patrons at Hot Digity Dog donated $505.38 to the S. June Smith Center Lancaster City Preschool Classroom during a three month period.

Hot Digity Dog
1325 Fruitville Pike
Lancaster, PA 17601

S. June Smith Center and Alpha Sigma Alpha District 8

2009-10-15T11:22:00.001-04:00

Elyse Kauffman, the S. June Smith Center Director of Development, will be attending the Alpha Sigma Alpha District 8 District Day in Chicago on Saturday, October 24, 2009. She'll have plenty of tee shirts and news from the S. June Smith Center.

Order Your Poinsettias Now!!

2009-10-14T10:03:00.000-04:00

The 2009 Poinsettia Sale: Benefiting the S. June Smith Center

We are now taking orders for this year's crop of poinsettias. Proceeds from the sale support Project Together, an inclusion program of the S. June Smith Cent er.

Poinsettia Links

Our Sponsors!

Oh, the Thinks You Can Think!

2009-10-13T12:08:00.002-04:00

A very wise person once said, “Think left and think right and think low and think high. Oh, the thinks you can think up if only you try!” That wise person was Theodore Geisel, better known to most of us as Dr. Seuss. Underneath the humor is a profound point: Human possibilities only exist if we can first imagine them.

This is especially true for children. We often think of children with disabilities in terms of their challenges and limitations. We define them and their future according to what they cannot do, rather than thinking in terms of what they can do.

That is a big part of our role at the S. June Smith Center. We not only work with children and their families in a very tangible hands-on way, we also help children and families reframe their perspectives. The future looks very different when you think of possibilities rather than limitations. With the proper therapeutic and educational tools, and a healthy dose of creative imagination, our children can and do accomplish amazing things.

Where there are no dreams, there are no possibilities. You have to first imagine before you can do. This is true for our work at the S. June Smith Center. “Think left and think right and think low and think high. Oh, the thinks you can think up if only you try!”

Parent Event: Community Connections

2009-10-09T13:54:00.002-04:00

Feeling overwhelmed?

Wondering about resources for your family?

Find new resources for your child and family at...

Community Connections

Learn more about local resources available for your child and family. Community Connection presenters include Parent to Parent, Elks Home Services, the Parent Partnership Committee (for parents with children 3-5), and the Parent Advisory Committee (for parents with children 0-3).

When:    Thursday, October 22, 2009
             6:30-8:00 PM

Where:   Lancaster-Lebanon IU 13
             Burle Business Park
             1020 New Holland Ave
             Lancaster Pa 17601

Why Attend:

Learn more about the wealth of resources available to you and your family in your own community.
Learn how you can be supported and more involved as a parent and caregiver.

RSVP: Ashely Hilgert 717-203-6619 or ashleyd1986@yahoo.com

Alpha Sigma Alpha District 2 Is Amazingly Awesome

2009-10-07T13:27:00.000-04:00

I (Ken the Executive Director) had a great time participating in Alpha Sigma Alpha District 2 District Day in Valley Forge, PA, on October 3, 2009. I truly appreciated the opportunity to speak during lunch about the S. June Smith Center. Business was brisk at the S. June Smith Center tee shirt table and we received $510 in tee shirt sales and donations.

S. June Smith Center Cornerstones Conference Reminder

2009-10-07T11:04:00.001-04:00

The S. June Smith Center Cornerstones Conference for parents, caregivers and early childhood professionals is less than two weeks away:

Saturday, October 17th, 2009
9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
HACC Lancaster Campus E203
Online brochure (PDF) and registration

Click here for more details.

Make Your Mealtimes Fun: T3=Tinker, Touch and Taste

2009-10-05T12:36:00.000-04:00

T³=Tinker, Touch and Taste is an S. June Smith Center small group program designed for children to have fun exploring food through touch, taste and play.

Start Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: S. June Smith Center, 600 Eden Road, Lancaster, PA
Registration: Call 717-299-4829

Who should attend? This class is designed for 2 and 3 year old children who are resistant to trying new foods, tastes and textures.

Food Can Be Fun! Children will enjoy opportunities for food-based play in a non-threatening environment.

Participants engage in sensory-based play activities that promote oral motor awareness, postural awareness and motor planning development. A group allows for peer modeling and caregiver support. Children and caregivers will discover creative ways to incorporate food into their play activities.

Join us as we discover how much fun we can have with food.

Call 717-299-4829 for registration or for more information.

Start up funding for this program was made available through a generous gift from the Delta Iota chapter (University of Delaware) of the Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority.