Welcome Letter

Dear Parents, Friends and Colleagues:
Welcome to the Coachella Valley Autism Society of America! We are a chapter of the Autism Society of America and are here to help you become educated about autism spectrum disorder, network with other parents and professionals, and realize you are not alone in your search for answers and support. WE EXIST FOR YOU!

Our membership includes family members, educators, professionals and other individuals interested in autism. The children with autism in our group range in age from toddlers to adults and represent all aspects of the autism spectrum.
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CVASA Board of Directors 2009

Misty Hogan, - Monica Bernaldo, Secretary - Randy Corti, Treasurer - Gina Davis, Past President - Dianne Russom, Past President - Regina Vazquez, Board Member - Adriana Araiza, Board Member - Dean Moore, Board Member - Shine Nissar, Board Member - Jacqui Knudsen-Kerze, Board Member

Upcoming Events

	Therapeutic Camp Scholarship CVASA is once again offering their annual Therapuetic Camp Scholarship. Up to $1000 per child per calendar year is available to assist families for therapeutic camp assistance. A camp is defined as something that lasts for at least 2 consecutive days in duration and would be utilizing the specialized skills of an OT, SLP, PT tutor or aide. There are a limited number of scholarships available, so please apply early. Please contact CVASA if you would like a scholarship application.
	Social Skills Support Group Tuesday March 30, 2010    (6:15pm - 7:15pm) This support group is for 9th - 12th graders who are attending regular education classes and must be high functioning on there own, without one on one assistance. This month's topic will be "Conversation strategies: Introductions, initiation and maintenance". There will only be a maximum of 8 children. Parents are not required to attend but, if you choose to do so, we do ask that you wait in the waiting room. You do not have to be a CVASA member to attend. Please RSVP to (760) 772-1000 or email us at cvasacoordinator@verizon.net Let's Communicate 79440 Corporate Center Drive Suite 113 La Quinta Let's Communicate 79440 Corporate Center Drive Suite 113 La Quinta
	FETA Conference From Emotions to Advocacy Saturday April 17, 2010 Based on the Wrightslaw book, From Emotions to Advocacy, this two part FETA conference will teach information and skills and provide attendees with support, guidance, and practical help. Parents will gain knowledge and skills to be effective advocates for their children. Instead of showing their emotions to school officials, parents can bring their concerns to the group and receive guidance about how to handle specific problems. Some of the various topics presented will include Advocacy 101, The Parent as Expert, Special Education Law, and Tactics and Strategies. This conference will be given by Valerie Aprahamian, a seasoned Special education Consultant, with over 11 years experience in successfully assisting families navigate through the IEP process and develop an appropriate educational plan that will meet the specific needs of their child. Conference Cost: FREE Coffee and desserts will be provided Even though this is a free conference, you must pre-register by March 13th to be able to attend. Click here for registration form Or call CVASA at 760-772-1000 to register Rancho Las Palmas Resort and Spa
	3rd Annual Walk for Autism Sponsored by B.E.S.T Services Saturday April 24, 2010 The entire staff of B.E.S.T. Services, Inc. have volunteered their time and are sponsoring this walk for the benefit of the Coachella Valley Autism Society. If you need more information about the organization, please check out their Web site at www.cvasa.org or contact the staff of B.E.S.T. Services, Inc. by calling 619-442-1271. Click here to sign up as a walker and recieve your FREE walk T-shirt You can also purchase raffle tickets for $25. They can be purchased at any Monthly Support Meeting or at the CVASA Resource Center. Join a team today or start your own, but don't miss out on this great community event.
	LUMPY'S 7th Annual Scramble for Autism Monday May 3, 2010 PGA West, La Quinta
	Teacher Appreciation Luncheon Saturday May 22, 2010