Pictured are Burlington County Commissioner Randy Brolo with Jamiel Owens, family relations coordinator at the Center for Autism Research at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the founder of the Autism Fathers Conference, at an autism event last year. Owens will be the keynote speaker at the Autism In My Shoes symposium.
Families from across South Jersey are invited to attend a special Burlington County event devoted to increasing understanding about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and the many resources that can assist those impacted by the condition.
The Autism In My Shoes symposium will take place at the Burlington County Special Services School District’s Westampton Campus on Saturday, April 25, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The free event is organized by the Special Services School District in partnership with the Burlington County Commissioners and Willingboro Township. It is designed to provide families impacted by ASD with information about support services, resources, education and strategies.
There will also be opportunities for families to meet, connect and share their experiences with other parents, caregivers and instructors.
The event will feature a variety of opportunities for attendees to interact, learn and access resources, including:
- A keynote address from Jamiel Owens, family relations coordinator at the Center for Autism Research at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the founder of the Autism Fathers Conference
- Expert Panels and Discussions: Sessions will be led by professionals sharing current approaches, strategies and insights on a number of subjects, including the transition from pediatric to adult care, guardianships, how to navigate the process of applying for services from the Division of Developmental Disabilities, and other available autism supports and services
- Interactive Workshops: Practical, hands-on learning opportunities for parents, caregivers and educators
- Resource Fair: Access to state, county and local agencies and community organizations offering direct support to families.
Other presenters include:
- Burlington County Surrogate Brian Carlin and staff from the Surrogate’s Office will deliver a presentation on adult Guardianship and New Jersey Superior Court procedures
- Stuart Altshuler, President of Disability Navigators
- Virtua Health nurses Connie Blanchard and Kristie Johnson, who will present on Virtua’s early identification programs and other autism supports and resources
The symposium is free and open to the public, but registration is required. To register, go to bit.ly/autisminmyshoes.
