PA Employment, Educational & College Resources

Support ASCEND today!

As a nonprofit organization, we depend solely on the support of our members. Please click on the donate now image above to see the different ways you can support ASCEND Group.

Help the ASCEND Group Every Time you Shop Online
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We hope you'll give it a try! To learn more or sign up now click here. Thanks in advance for supporting ASCEND Group!

ASCEND Membership

Find out more about our membership benefits.

ASCEND Professional Directory

Thank you to ASCEND Board Member Rich Fry for raising $1,325.00 through Facebook! In lieu of birthday gifts this year Rich asked his friends and family to donate to the ASCEND Group. If you or someone you know would like to set up donations to ASCEND Group through Facebook, here are the steps:

Fundraisers for Nonprofits
To create a fundraiser for a charitable organization, click here or follow these steps:

Click Fundraisers in the left menu of your News Feed.
Click Raise Money.
Select Nonprofit/Charity.
Select ASCEND Group, choose a cover photo and fill in the fundraiser details.
Click Create.

Calling All Volunteers!
ASCEND President Elena Perri asks: What Type of Person Are You?

Interested in volunteering? We welcome ASCEND members and non-members to sign up to volunteer on one of our committees. It's a great way to meet other people in our community and to give back! Please click here to sign up to volunteer.

Research Studies

In the interest of promoting autism awareness, we feel it is important to help spread the word about autism spectrum research studies that are being conducted in our area. For the first time, we are giving individuals and organizations the opportunity to advertise their research studies in future ASCEND e-newsletters and on our website, for a nominal fee without first becoming ASCEND members. Use this Research Study Form to submit your study.

The Experiences of Stigma, Stress, and Social Support Amongst Fathers of Children on the Autism Spectrum
Are you a father of a child or teenager (ages 5-18) with autism? Have you ever felt that people don't understand what your life is like and how you feel? Have you ever been rejected, judged, or embarrassed by friends, family, or even complete strangers because you are the father of an amazing and wonderful child with autism? Your experiences as a father of a child with autism are unique and important. As a parent, you are the only person who really knows what it's like to raise a child with autism. You have experienced the ups and downs, the laughter and tears, the joy and pain. We are inviting you to participate in a research study and share your experiences of stigma, stress, and social support. Your perspective will increase our understanding of what your life is like. You can help us know how it feels to be a father of a child with autism. The entire survey should take approximately 20 minutes to complete. As a small token of appreciation for your participation, you may choose to be entered into a raffle for one of four Amazon Fire 7 tablets.

NEW: Suicide Prevention and Autism
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania are conducting a study on suicide prevention in adolescents and adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorder. You may qualify to participate if you are the family member of a teenager or adult with ASD. Participants will complete a 1-hour interview with a member of our research team and will be compensated $30 for their time. Please call Dr. Shari Jager-Hyman at 215-746-3944 for more information. Investigators: Shari Jager-Hyman, PhD, Brenna Maddox, PhD, and David Mandell, ScD.

NEW: Suicide Prevention in Adolescents and Adults
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania are conducting a study on suicide prevention in adolescents and adults with autism spectrum disorder. You may qualify to participate if: you are 12 or older; you have a diagnosis of ASD; you have struggled with thoughts of suicide in the past; and you have the verbal abilities to complete an interview. Participants will complete a 1-hour interview with a member of our research team and will be compensated $30 for their time. To see if the study is a good fit for you, please take our brief screener survey by going to this website. Investigators: Shari Jager-Hyman, PhD, Brenna Maddox, PhD, and David Mandell, ScD.

SPARK for Autism
We are enrolling any individual with autism spectrum disorder and their biological parents into the nation’s largest autism study, called SPARK. The goal of SPARK is to speed up autism research and find the genetic causes of autism. All participants enroll online at www.sparkforautism.org/CHOP and then provide a saliva sample via kits that are mailed to the home. Families who return the saliva collection kits will receive compensation and access to free webinars and an interactive and informational dashboard. For more information: 267-426-4971 [email protected]

Police Safety Study
We are looking for teens and adults ages 12 and older with autism spectrum disorder to participate in a research study testing two different methods of helping people with ASD learn to interact with police officers. One method will use virtual reality (VR) and the other uses video modeling (VM). Participation in this study involves one to three visits to CAR for VR or VM intervention and complete questionnaires. Participants will be compensated for their time. For more information: Ashley Zitter [email protected]

Social and Motor Communication Study
The goal of this research study is to better understand differences in the way children with autism move their bodies and faces compared to children who are developing typically. Children who are diagnosed with ASD or who are typically developing are invited to participate in this study, which will include a visit to CAR to complete simple social skills tasks, motor behavior and language tasks as well as an IQ test. Participants will be compensated for their time and effort and will receive a brief report of their behavioral and IQ tests results. For more information: [email protected] | 267-425-1192

Orbiting- For Repetitive and Restrictive Behaviors
No two people with autism are the same. And of course we wouldn’t want them to be. We’re looking for children and adults with autism between the ages of 5 and 17 to join the oRBiting study. oRBiting will help us to better understand the different scales used to measure certain behaviors associated with autism. We’ll also ask what wearable technologies can tell us about autism. For more information: 267-425-1179 Jessica Tschida.

Transportation Research Study

We are looking for adults with autism ages 18 and older to participate in a study looking at the impact of travel training on use of public transportation to access the community (i.e., social events, medical appointments, work).

Wandering Research Study
Researchers at Cohen Children’s Medical Center are conducting a new, national study about wandering in children with autism and other developmental disabilities. If you are the parent of a child who wanders, you may be eligible to participate. Participants will be asked to spend approximately 30 minutes completing an anonymous, online questionnaire about their child’s wandering behavior. To take the survey, click on this link. For more information, contact Bridget Kiely.

autismMatch

autismMatch is an online registry that can quickly and easily connect interested individuals and families with research opportunities to advance scientists' understanding of ASD and related disorders, such as ADHD, anxiety, 22q deletion syndrome, and others.

Infant Brain Imaging Study (IBIS)
In an attempt to learn about patterns of brain development in children, we are studying the differences in brain patterns between children with autism spectrum disorders and typically developing children. Infants between 3-6 months of age with an older sibling who is diagnosed with an ASD are invited to participate.

Research on Autism and Developmental Disorders (ROADD)
This study will observe young children to learn more about the biological underpinnings of ASD. Children ages 3-5 with or without a diagnosis of ASD may be eligible to participate.

Early Autism Risk Longitudinal Investigation (EARLI)
This ground-breaking study is looking at possible environmental and genetic links to autism. Mothers who have a biological child with ASD or who less than 28 weeks pregnant and who live in the tristate area are being invited to participate in this study.

JAKE App Study
With the use of new mobile app technology, this study aims to develop a mobile app-based system to monitor clinical outcomes in children and adults with ASD vs. typically developing children and adults. Children and adults ages 6 and older with or without ASD may take part.

Our Sponsors

PA Employment and Education/College Resources

EXTENDED SCHOOL YEAR LINKS

Wrightslaw Article on ESY
PA Code on ESY
ASCEND member develops an app that turns an IEP into a 1-page profile. The 5 Min of Fun iProfile™ app is an easy to use, menu-driven app developed by a mom to turn an IEP into a 1-page profile to share with teachers, therapists and community supports; motivate kids to participate in their IEP meetings and to advocate for themselves; and coach parents/caregivers, both experienced and new, to the IEP process.
Documents to Keep for Youth Transitioning to Adult Life.
Parent Education Network
PA Secondary Transition Guide
Inclusive Postsecondary Opportunities for Students with Intellectual Disabilities webpage
Pulling it All Together! Developing Student-centered IEP Goals Based on College and Community Experiences
State and Local Task Forces include parents and professionals who can offer assistance to families with questions about services for students with special needs. The Task Forces exist to help families and school districts work together to ensure the integrity and delivery of special education services to eligible students.

Online Resources:

College and Employment Readiness Programs

Carousel Connections
A residential summer program that is housed on the campus of Haverford College in an authentic living setting. At Carousel Connections, teenagers and young adults are provided opportunities to learn, maintain, and improve skills through participation in vocational training, independent living mentoring, and recreational/social activities.
Contact Number: 215-948-2527
Email: Amy McCann [email protected]

Life in Progress Coaching
A career and executive coach with a special interest in Aspergers/HFA and a father of a young adult son with Aspergers helps people with Aspergers make rewarding and achievable career choices, and navigate the “mine field” of job search, interviewing and networking in order to compete effectively.
Contact: Ed Hunter [email protected]

Variety Works
Community Based Work Assessments-individuals participating in this program are assessed in six different areas including: a job skills baseline, social skills baseline, functional behavioral assessment, preference assessment, sensory profile and social supports web. The assessment takes one week to complete and the report is sent in ten days. Assessments are OVR, ODP waiver adaptable
Contact [email protected]

School To Work, LLC.
Vocational Exploration, Transition Services & Independent Living options to individuals with intellectual disabilities and students on the Autism spectrum. Our goal is to educate clients about employment and life skills using a community based service delivery model. about employment and life skills using a community based service delivery model. We assist students to transition from school into adult life: working, living & participating independently in the community.
Contact Number: 215-817-4444
Email: [email protected]

The Learning Academy at Drexel University (anticipated start date September 2019)
A structured employment-focused program for young adults with autism spectrum disorder
Transition Pathways of the A.J. Drexel Autism Institute plans to replicate this 30-week transition program from the University of South Florida. The Learning Academy provides services, supports and experiential opportunities for participants to develop and achieve employment goals and enhance independence.

Making My Way through College 
NCWD/Youth has released a new guide, Making My Way through College, aimed at helping students with disabilities navigate postsecondary education. The guide provides information and resources on preparing for and succeeding in college and transitioning from college into the world of work. Families and professionals who work with students entering or in postsecondary education are encouraged to share the guide with students and youth."

Transitional Day Program
SJU Kinney Center offers "The Transitional Day Program" which provides students diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) the tools needed to develop life, social and vocational skills. This program is designed to supplement a typical high school curriculum with the goal of preparing participants with the practical skills needed to increase independence after graduation. For more information contact a Kinney Center Representative.

REAL Certificate
The Raising Expectations for Academic Learning or REAL Certificate offers students with disabilities the opportunity to participate in the same learning environments available to same-age peers in an academic-, vocational- and social inclusion-focused program. Eligible students are able to apply for certain types of federal aid. See the Student With Intellectual Disabilities eligibility section of the Federal Student Aid website (studentaid.ed.gov) for further information. For updates on the REAL Certificate, find us on Facebook (/REALCertificate) and Twitter (@REAL_CERT)

Pre-Employment Testing

Colleges & contacts which offer Autism Spectrum/disability accommodations (this is not a comprehensive list)

Dream partnership (multiple colleges in PA) [email protected] (Sherri Landis )

Arcadia University- [email protected] (Jessica Mattis)

Mercyhurst University- [email protected] (James Conroy)

Penn State University Harrisburg Campus - [email protected] (Dr. Linda Rhen)

Slippery Rock University-[email protected] (Dr. Robert Arnhold)

Temple University- [email protected] (Kathy Miller)

West Chester University - [email protected] (Cherie Fishbaugh)

Lehigh Carbon Community College - [email protected] (Michelle Mitchell )

Kutztown University- [email protected] (Linda Lantaff)

Eastern University- [email protected] (Dr. Sharon Thompson)

Delaware County Community College -contact form (Ann Binder)

Bucks County Community College- [email protected] (Jennifer Osinski)

A list of PA Colleges Offering Peer Mentorship

Carnegie Mellon University – Pittsburgh, PA
The Olitsky Family Foundation Career-Readiness Program
https://www.cmu.edu/parents/news/2018/olitsky-family-faoundation.html
Our career readiness program for students with cognitive and emotional differences is run through our Career and Professional Development Center, with extensive consultation and support from Disability Resources.

Drexel University – Philadelphia, PA
Drexel Autism Support Program (DASP)
http://www.drexel.edu/studentlife/student_family_resources/class/programs/autism-support/
The Drexel Autism Support Program (DASP) values neurodiversity and the benefits that diversity contributes to the Drexel community and greater society. With personalized peer mentoring and coaching, social events, skill building and more, DASP participants are supported to take full advantage of University life, develop academic and social skills for pursuing career opportunities and ultimately lead an enriched life. For more information, please visit www.drexel.edu/studentlife/dasp or email Dr. Amy Edwards, Director of the Drexel Autism Support Program at [email protected]

Eastern University – Saint Davids, PA
College Success Program (CSP)
http://www.eastern.edu/csp
The College Success Program for Students Living with Autism Spectrum Disorder is a comprehensive program providing academic, social, life skills, and cultural supports to undergraduate students living with ASD. $4000 per semester. Contact Dr. Sharon Thompson at 484-654-2378 or [email protected]

Edinboro University – Edinboro, PA
Boro Autism Support Initiative for Success (BASIS) Program
http://www.edinboro.edu/directory/offices-services/osd/basis/
The BASIS (Boro Autism Support Initiative for Success) Program assists students with an autism spectrum disorder through individualized transition support. Academics, social competence, daily living skills, communication, and employment are the focus of BASIS. A wide range of staff, peer advisors, and campus resources collaborate to provide students with ASD a positive successful experience.

Indiana University of Pennsylvania – Indiana, PA
Labyrinth Center
http://www.iup.edu/labyrinth/
The Labyrinth Center provides a comprehensive and holistic approach to support IUP students with Autism Spectrum Diagnosis (ASD) as they build relationships, gain independence, experience academic success, and graduate from IUP with the professional and personal skills needed to embark on a fulfilling life and career.

Kutztown University – Kutztown, PA
My Place
http://www.kutztown.edu/DSO/myplace
The My Place program provides structured support services to Kutztown University students on the autism spectrum and assists students with adjustment to college life and integration into the college community. Services include weekly coaching sessions, study halls, and other group activities. This is a fee for service program. Please visit www.kutztown.edu/DSO/myplace for application and program details.

Mercyhurst University – Erie, PA
AIM Program
https://www.mercyhurst.edu/aim
The AIM Program at Mercyhurst University supports students in all areas of the college experience, including campus life as well as class work. Students are evaluated in key domains that are essential to higher education and vocational success. These A.I.S.E domains explore functioning in Academic, Independent, Social and Emotional areas. Students enrolling in AIM pay an annual fee that covers services and resources provided throughout the academic year. Contact Brad McGarry at (814) 824-2451 or [email protected] for more information.

Slippery Rock University – Slippery Rock, PA
ATLAS Program
https://www.sru.edu/academics/academic-services/services-for-students-with-disabilities/atlas-program
The ATLAS Program provides Slippery Rock University students with autism spectrum diagnosis a wide variety of support, resources and events to ensure a successful transition into, through and out of their college experience.

St. Joseph’s University – Philadelphia, PA
Kinney Center for Autism Education and Support
http://kinneyautism.sju.edu/s/1378/kinney/start-hybrid.aspx?gid=56&pgid=61
The Kinney Center ASPIRE Program provides Saint Joseph’s University students who are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) comprehensive customized support as they transition to college and matriculate. The ASPIRE program includes crisis intervention and prevention, time management strategies, independent living and social skills training, peer mentors, and a supported work environment. The Kinney Center acts an intermediary with faculty, residence life, academic support, and facilitates training and advocacy programs for the campus community. Cost: $6000 per academic year.

West Chester University – West Chester, PA
Dub-C Autism Program (D-CAP)
https://www.wcupa.edu/viceProvost/dcap/
The mission of D-CAP is to provide evidence-based social and behavior supports to help WCU matriculated students with autism develop the independent life and interpersonal skills to graduate and lead successful professional lives.

Employment guides:

Employer's Guide to Asperger's Syndrome,
Getting Hired A Primer for Individuals with Asperger's & NLD
Workplace Disclosure Strategies for Individuals with AS

The Center for Autism Research sponsored a Distinguished Lecture Series program on March 9, 2015 where Jane Thierfield Brown, PhD spoke to the audience about transitions to college for young adults on the Autism Spectrum. After Dr. Brown spoke, a panel discussion was moderated by Deb Dunn, Esq. The panelists included professionals who work with young adults, individuals diagnosed with ASD who are current college students and a college student participating in the peer mentoring program at the Kinney Center at St. Joseph’s University.
SEE AND HEAR A VIDEO OF THE PRESENTATION.

Planning for the Future Checklist from OVR
A list of goals in the form of a checklist.

Legal Disclaimer: ASCEND maintains the Professional Services Resource Directory as a service to families and professionals as a reference tool. ASCEND does not endorse or claim to have personal knowledge of the abilities of those listed. The resources listed on this page are not intended as a recommendation, referral, or endorsement of any resource or as a tool for verifying the credentials, qualifications, or abilities of any organization, product or professional. Users are urged to use independent judgment when considering any resource associated with diagnosis or treatment of autism, or the provision of services related to autism.

ASCEND Group Inc. is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. We do not endorse any specific professional or therapeutic treatment. We are not meant to be a replacement for medical or legal advice. Our mission is to raise public awareness about Asperger Syndrome and related disorders, to advocate for improved education and services, and to provide support and information to the Asperger and autism community. This web site is for informational purposes only. Any link or mention on our web site should not be construed as an endorsement or recommendation. If you have questions about Autism or Asperger Syndrome, please consult with a qualified medical professional.

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