October  2018 Newsletter 
Please e-mail Pam at ironkids@hotmail.com         For a printable version of this newsletter.           With your activities and events!
                                                   
                                                     Empower yourself with information, resources and personal connections!  
                                               Please go to the PIER Calendar Tabs for more information on Trainings &  Activities!   
             

         Trainings and Workshops
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Please check out the Original Calendar for more information & updated listings!

10/3 Special Needs Planning Webinar.     https://wisconsibs.org/event/futureplanningwebinar/?instance_id=542

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10/3  Marshfield Special Needs Parent Groups 
       12:00-1:00  Pizza Hut N. Central Ave.
&    2:45 to 4:oo Marshfield Perkins for pie
       and coffee!
or families who have individuals’ special needs! Learn about resources and services for our children, youth and adults!
We can “flex” this time, just contact me ~
ironkids@hotmail.com   715-423-7182
​----------------------
10/4  Autism Society of Central Wisconsin St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 600 Stevens Drive, Wausau
6:30 PM. Mike  715-359-0886    autismsocietycw@gmail.com
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10/4 Powerful Tools for Caregivers
9:30 to 12 Evelyn Briggs Library in Iron River       No charge
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10/9  Pam's Blu Play Tuesday! Wisconsin Rapids 9:15 to 11:15   Free Coffee and Play- For families who have individuals with special needs!
A great time to talk about resources and services for our children, youth and adults!
​Pam ironkids@hotmail.com   715-423-7182
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10/10, Understanding Underemployment
10/10   McMillan Library  1-2:30
10/18  McMillan Library 2-3:30
10/23 AF Schools Admin Building  10-11:30       Learn about how underemployment affects all segments of our community including the students and families that we serve.  RSVP Emily emily@uwswac.org  or 715-421-0390
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10/11 Special Needs Resource Night - Wisconsin Rapids  For:  families and supportive community members of children Birth to 13 years old! Learn Who's Who in your Community and Schools!    ​
NO COST TO ATTEND!  Food and Childcare if you register!  715-423-7182 
Speakers:
Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs – CYSHCN Allison Lourash
 Doorways to Medical Assistance    What can you access with the MA Card and Handling Denials
Wood County Human Services  Birth to 3 Services, Children’s Long-Term Waivers, Children’s Community Options Program, Comprehensive Community Services (CCS), Coordinated Services Team (CST), Crisis, Out Patient Services and Guardianship.
CHC-Nekoosa Head Start  CHC Nekoosa Head Start specializes in Developmentally Disabled, Disabled, Stroke Care.
Midstate Independent Living Personal Assistances Services, Independent Living Skills Training, Accessible Recreation, In Home Supportive  Care, Respite or Personal Care.
Meet our Vendors   WEAP/ Therapies Plus/ Project Lifesaver/ PIER/Autism Society of Central Wisconsin, (ABA) Agnesian Beyond  Boundaries of Autism, Caravel Autism Health - Autism & Behavior Specialists and more!  
  
Barriers in attending or need help with transportation please contact Allison
                 715-261-1933      allison.lourash@co.marathon.wi.us
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10/11 Not Your Mothers Social Stories™ Presented by Carol Gray
Bridgewood Resort Hotel & Conference Center, 1000 Cameron Way, Neenah, 
http://www.asw4autism.org/event-cal/fall-conference/

Evidence based instructional strategy used worldwide with people with autism and other social communication disorders. Unfortunately, they are frequently misused and misunderstood – resulting in stories… but definitely not Social Stories. Learn how to develop a Social Story (or Social Article for adults) according to the current Social Stories 10.2 criteria. 
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10/11 College & Transition Fair Deaf, Hard of Hearing, Deaf blind!!! (and your families, and professionals)   9-11:30 a.m 
10/11 DC Everest PDC 1480 County Road XX, Rothschild

10/12 9-11:30 Wisconsin School for the Def  Delevan  Free!  262-728-7194 maryann.barnett@wesp-dhh.wi.gov   
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10/16-17 Wisconsin Statewide Transition Academy Providing information relating to all areas of transition! Attend~ whether you are an educator, paraprofessional, parent, youth, or agency member.  Glacier Canyon Lodge, WI Dells   
https://www.witig.org/event-details.html?id=4305
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10/17  Specific Learning Disabilities (SLD)  12-1 pm  Webinar   https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/4686640113289853955 
Learn more about the truths about Specific Learning Disabilities and the WI SLD Eligibility Criteria: What is SLD; How is a child found eligible; What resources are available.  
 
PRESENTER: Elizabeth Cook is the school psychology consultant for the Department of Public Instruction. 
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10/20 Services of TIES (Training, Intervention, and Evaluation Services) and Community Outreach WI/Waisman Center on Wednesday, October 10, 2018 from 12-1pm
https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/3262885805017251331

Consultation on positive behavior supports to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their caretakers.   https://cow.waisman.wisc.edu/
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10/21  Sam's Blu Play Sunday! 5:30 – 7:00 PM Free Pizza - Free play ~ Sponsored by: WR Optimist! Open only to our families w/ special needs individuals.  Shopko Plaza -Wis Rapids
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Strategies for All Children
10/23  McMillan Memorial Library, Wisconsin Rapids     6:30pm-8:30pm
11/13 Streitel Conference Center, Marshfield      6:30pm-8:30pm
Presented by: Allison Lourash, Northern Regional Children & Youth with Special Health Care Needs Center  Register: Childcaring  715-423-4114 or 800-628-8534 or email: info@childcaring.org
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10/23-24 Crisis Intervention Partners – Youth 8 am – 5 pm, Holiday Inn, Stevens Point    (CIP) Adult support is critical to help youth successfully navigate the multiple stressors related to everyday life.  Gain skills and understanding how mental health issues impact youth, how to identify when a youth is in crisis, and how to best support in a crisis and connect to services. 
 Do not delay – Space is limited
Contact Amy Marcott at marcotta@co.portage.wi.us
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10/25 Parents Night Out!  For adoptive and foster parents to socialize and connect with for the evening.  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/parents-night-out-registration-50616462201
*Attendees are responsible for the cost of their meal.
6:15-8:15 El Jovenaso Mexican Restaurant Medford
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10/29 -30  Self Determination Conference-What's YOUR Super Power? 
Kalahari Resorts Dells Learn about ​self ​directed ​supports ​& ​live ​independently, ​be ​members ​of your ​communities, ​and ​use ​public ​funds ​efficiently. ​ (920) 723-5571  selfdetermined@incontrolwisconsin.org
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11/1 Meet and Greet, For families with hearing loss - All Ages -All Stages
Stevens Point Children's Museum! Fun for the whole families!  5:30-7:30 Pam Jinsky  715-562,2716
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11/3 Keys to Success Conference For families and educators providing support to children with disabilities ages 3 -21. Keynote Speaker: Ann Brand, “Tending the Heart: Mindful Practices for Educators and Caregivers. Free event
8:00 a.m. - 2:45 p.m
Elk Mound HS, Elk Mound, WI
http://wspei.org/
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11/3 Parent's First Call Training This training is for parents of children with Down syndrome to become Support Parents, providing support and resources to new/expectant parents 
https://www.dsaw.org/events/pfcnov18
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11/7  Prescription Drug Abuse and Alternatives to Prescribing 5:30-7:30pm   McMillan Memorial Library Wis Rapids
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Waisman Centers ~Day with the Experts Series
https://www.waisman.wisc.edu/outreach/waisman-center-day-with-experts/
11/10 @  9:00 am - 12:30 Cerebral Palsy
1/ 26  @ 9:00 am - 12:30 Autism
3/9    @ 9:00 am - 12:30 Down Syndrome
5/1    @ 9:00 am - 12:30  Cochlear
                                                Implants
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11/12 & 13  Children Come First Conference - "Collaboration"  Are you interested in the well-being of children and youth with social, emotional  or behavioral challenges?
Speakers: Tina Goldstein PH.D.
         Improving the outcomes for mood
                           disorders and suicidality
                Ross Greene Ph.D    
           Collaborative & Proactive Solutions
                The kids we lose - Documentary
Wis Dells - Glacier Canyon Lodge
Also exclusive workshop for youth (12 to 26)  who identify as having Mental Health or substance abuse challenges.
Alison 626-617- 6775  alisonwifamilyties.org
www.ccfconference.org
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11/19 &20 Special Education Conference  Dr. Ross Greene ~ Keynote speaker. Dr. Greene is the originator of the innovative, empirically-supportive approach now known as the Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS), as described in his influential books The Explosive Child, Lost at School, Lost & Found, and the recently released Raising Human Beings.   Kalahari, WI Dells
Amy 715-986-2020 Ext    amys@cesa11.k12.wi.us
Registration: https://www.edevents.org/conferences/41/special-education-conference-2018
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11/29 “Beyond Behaviors: Understanding and Supporting the Mental Health Needs of Autistic Individuals.” Explore what individuals with autism share about their experiences and the impact living with autism has on their mental health. Myths and realities of autism and mental health!  https://www.asw4autism.org/event-cal/mental-health-conference/
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12/12  -   Wood County Children's Advisory Committee Meeting 10am -12pm  Wood County Human Services Dept. Riverblock in Wisconsin Rapids and Cornerstone in Marshfield.
Your participation will help shape future children’s services within Wood County.  What works? What do you need? How can we improve?
Call Denise 2 weeks in advance if possible and participate via "Youbuyity"  Denise dklosinski@co.wood.wi.us  715-421-8848 –phone
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2/23 Asperger Experts ~Travis Monson @ "Embracing the Future with Possibilities" Conference!  Holiday Inn and Convention Center in Marshfield
Topics:
          Sensory concerns (Good Input and Bad Input),
         Defense Mode Strategies ( how to become less isolated)
         Motivational Techniques to increase activity and productivity.

WE are also hosting a resource panel for parents and professionals Who’s Who and how can they help?

Contact Laura if you are interested in Co-Sponsoring this event or Hosting a Resource Table!
Laura 715-207-7785  angermenotfoundation@gmail.com or email Pam  ironkids@hotmail.com
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4/11-13 Autism Society of Wisconsin's 30th Annual Conference
Kalahari Resort and Convention Center Wisconsin Dells, WI
http://www.asw4autism.org/event-cal/30th-annual-conference/
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5/2&3 Circles of Life 2019 Stevens Point, WI  circlesoflifeconference.com Talk to your case manager to pay for this conference in your 2019 “plan”
Develop new skills, learn up to date information and resources! circlesoflifeconference.com

​     WI FACETS FREE
            workshops & webinars:
By phone, Sandra: 877-374-0511
all webinars 12:00—1:00 PM
(unless otherwise noted

10/1   WSEMS: Mediation 
10/2   Serving on Groups 6:
           Understanding and Using Data

10/9 Serving on Groups 7 & 8: The Role 
          of Families and Skills for Serving
          on Groups 

10/10 Services of TIES and Community
         Outreach WI/Waisman Center 

10/16 Community Outreach WI Self-
       Advocacy: What to Expect in College
       6-8 pm Location: WI FACETS office
       Contact Matthew Zellmer
                 (414) 374-4645x203

10/17 Specific Learning Disabilities 
        Presenter: Elizabeth Cook, WI DPI

10/23 Bullying and Harassment

10/24 Self-Advocacy Spotlight  
         6-8 pm Location: WI FACETS
        office Contact Matthew Zellmer
        (414) 374-4645x203

10/27  Latino Autism Support Group 
         10:00-12:00 Location: WI FACETS
         Contact: (414) 374-4645, ext. 231    ​

             Activities      
^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Remember to check:
        Your local Library's!
        Stevens Point Children’s Museum  
   ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
Sensory Friendly Movies!
      10//6- Smallfoot
      11/10 - Dr. Seuss' The Grinch
      12/1 - Ralph Breaks the Internet
      12/29 - Aquaman
       1/5 - Mary Poppins Returns
 Rogers Cinema in Point
10:00am.  Ticket price is $6.50 for just the movie or $8.50 with movie, popcorn and small soda.  Everyone is welcome(on the spectrum or not).
Questions, Lori ldziedzic27@gmail.com
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 Sensory Storytimes
Select Tuesdays at 10:30a.m. beginning .Monona Public Library
Big Bear Sensory Storytime!
Sensory Storytime is just like regular storytime, but with modifications that make storytime more comfortable for children with specific needs -Registration is recommended  Karen Wendt in collaboration with Lindsey Rice, an Early Childhood Special Education Teacher from Winnequah Elementary School. 
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DSAW-Central WI Awareness Walk
​Doepke Park Wausau 414.327.3729.
www.dsaw.org/events/centralwalk18
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Other DSAW Walks!  www.dsaw.org ​------------------------
10/4 & 11 Music Tot Shoppe
10:00-11:30 a.m.
Presented by Marisa Doll, Marshfield Family Resource Center Coordinator
Parents/caregivers and young children join us for fun, dancing, and singing. Let’s move to the beat with your own handmade instruments. Held at JP Adler Room, Everett Roehl Marshfield Public Library, 105 S. Maple Ave. Marshfield
​715-387-2729   ext 5                                   ------------------------
10/6 Healing Art Show
**Artist application deadline: - Aug 23
https://www.namiwisconsin.org/healing-art-show-application

This show features the works of local artists who experience mental illness, and creatively express themselves through various mediums of art!  5 to 9pm
Lakeside St. Coffee House in Madison, 
No cost to attend, and open to the public!
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10/10 Mom's Coffee Date Moms, grandmas, aunts, and female caregivers are all invited to attend this casual social. Stop by for some coffee and conversation with other women who have a loved one with Down syndrome. We'll be meeting every second Wednesday of the month! 
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10/14  Fall Festival   DSAW-Central WI Family Fall Festival at Wilkes!! The event will include wagon rides, pumpkins, and activities on the farm for all ages. Lunch will be provided!     12pm-3pm
      Wilke's Dairy Farm
T8417 County Road W, Wausau, 

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10/15 Haunted Horsey Hustle!  & Hoopla  5k/walk /fun run Wildwood Park  Marshfield     HART is dedicated to empowering individuals with special needs through equine-assisted activities.  Those with challenges and/or special needs have an opportunity to partner with a horse to give them a sense of accomplishment and self-worth while in a fun and safe environment.
10:30 am - 2:00 pm
(715) 305-5166  kim.hartetc@mail.com Website: http://www.hartetc.com/
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10/26 TAILGATE PARTY 
2018 ODC EVENING TO INSPIRE 
6:30 pm - 10:30 pm Hotel Marshfield 2700 South Central Ave. 
HTTPS://WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/EVENTS/2197556563606319/ 
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11/6 Kids Can Cook Too! Trail Mix edition  11-11:45 a.m.Presented by Marisa Doll, Marshfield Family Resource Center Coordinator
One of the best ways to get kids to try new foods is to involve them in the process. Scoping, measuring, and taste-testing is all part of the fun! Held at Good Shepherd Church Register 715-387-2729   ext 5
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11/10  Sibshop - Saturday, 9 a.m. - noon.
Marshfield Area YMCA.  Cost is $5, which includes a t-shirt and a snack.
For brothers and sisters age 5-12 with brothers and sisters with special needs. This gives our children a chance to see they are NOT alone… there are other kids like them! This is an opportunity for them to connect, share common joys and concerns ~ learn about the implications of the siblings’ disability- in a lively, recreational setting.  ***We do accept participants from past Sibshops!!!
Facilatated by Cerified Child Life Specialist /Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist
Call  Kari @ 715-221-8824    www.stjosephs-marshfield.org/childlife
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11/30 "Changing Lives Gala" 
Tamra Oman Stand-up Comedy and Singing! 
http://www.wifamilyties.org/ 
 5pm to 9pm 
 Banquet Room at Harley-Davidson of Madison  6200 Millpond Road 
 
Ample Appetizers - Silent Auction & Raffle - Entertainment - Cash Bar 
$50/PERSON 
(Sponsorship Tables available, contact alison@wifamilyties.org) 
 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/changing-lives-gala-tickets-48933601720 
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12/4 A Holiday Surprise!
6-7:30 p.m. Presented by Marisa Doll, Marshfield Family Resource Center Coordinator Calling all kids ages 2 to 7: Do you want to make a holiday gift to give to that extra special person in your life?  Then come with your mom or dad or another adult and create a masterpiece! Held at Tiny Tigers Child Care Center, Register 715-387-2729 ext.  5
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12/1 Mane Event ~ Winters Gala  5-10 PM  Sit-down-dinner/Live Music   Raffle/Live Auction.  Kick off the Holiday season in style! A Jeremiah's Crossing Event and Fundraiser!
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"Wisconsin Extreme Dream team"- Cheer and Stunt!
          For individuals interested in participating in our Special Needs team, Athletes ages 5.3 through Adult are able to participate in an all star cheer program.  Have fun, learn a new sport and participate in on activity that is exciting and healthy!  
Contact Sue:  poeschl@gmail.com   Practice is at:  5216 Heffron Ct. St Point.
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Swimming classes for children are available this fall through the Special Needs Aquatic Program at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.  The classes are for young children of all abilities accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Five weeks: Mondays, Sept. 17,24, and Oct. 1, 8 & 15, or Thursdays, Sept. 20 and 27 and Oct. 4, 11 and 18.
Classes for infants and toddlers, ages nine months to three years, will be held at 5:50-6:20 p.m. 

Preschool classes for ages 3 to 5 will be held at 6:30 p.m. 

costs $40. The 30-minute classes
 www.uwsp.edu/shcp/Pages/SNAP/child.aspx,       call 715-346-2706 or email rsuomi@uwsp.edu.
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Sky Zone's  Sensory Morning -events 2nd & 4th Sunday morning of each month from 9:30-11:30am. Sky Zone Appleton, WI will turn off the music and dial down the distractions for the comfort of their jumpers. The event is held outside of general public hours, when children & adults with special needs and their siblings, family & friends are all welcome to come jump! They will make every effort to accommodate all jumpers with any kind of special needs (they even have a wheelchair lift). The price to jump anytime during the two-hour session is $10 (+$2 for reusable Sky Socks if you don't already have a pair).
         ==============================
​Catholic Charities Adoption Opportunities for foster and adoptive families!***Registration required http://cclse.org/post-adoption/

Wausau and Surrounding Area 

10/17 Mom's Night Out  in Wausau.
 We will meet up for food and good conversation. Hope to see you there!  
 *Attendees pay the cost of their own meal.    HuHot Mongolian Grill 
             4530 Rib Mountain Drive 
            Wausau,     5:00-7:00 pm 
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/moms-
night-out-registration-50459512761
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10/25Parents' Night Out: Medford*6:15 pm El Jovenaso, Medford
Join us for a great time of friendship, conversation and food. Meet other adoptive and foster parents like you to socialize and connect with for the evening
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10/27 Kids Halloween Party on Skates 2-4 pm RSVP by 10/21 Foster & adoptive families -Let's have a party and celebrate Halloween early. Bring your kids dressed up in their Halloween costumes and lets skate together, meet friends and spend a fun Saturday afternoon with other families. *Families are responsible for the cost of their entrance fee and skate rental.  Melody Gardens Restaurant & Skateland 1200 South Oak Avenue, Marshfield,
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11/15 Parents' Night Out: Marshfield*5:00 pm   Royal Tokyo, Marshfield Join us for a great time of friendship, conversation and food. Meet other adoptive and foster parents like you to socialize and connect with for the evening. Please RSVP so reservations can be made in advance. 
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11/17 Core Issues of Adoption. 
Our Post Adoption Coordinator Christy Reppe will present a closer look at each of these issues and what we have learned about their impact on the adoptee as well as the adoptive family.  
Everett Roehl Marshfield Public Library 105 South Maple Avenue 
Marshfield, 10:30 am-12:30 pm         RSVP     
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-closer-look-at-the-7-core-adoption-issues-registration-50491892610
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12/12 Mom's Night Out event and a great evening where foster and adoptive moms can get together to connect, socialize, and meet old friends as well as make new friends. RSVP & join us!  5:30-7
Ranchito Perez, 3462 Church Street, Stevens Point, 
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Please reach out and contact: 
Eau Claire and Surrounding AREA    Anne Rozeboom  ozeboom@cclse.org
                 or 715.832.6644 x 1520.
10/13 Blugold Football Game+Carson Park, Eau Claire Join Catholic Charities PARC and the UWEC Blugolds for a football game against UW-Whitewater. The game starts at 1:10 pm, but please pick up your guest pass near the ticket counter just prior to the game. Each guest pass is good for admission for two family members (parent/child). Registration is required as passes are limited (one per family please).
Trust-Based Parenting Lunchtime Discussion Group*
10/18, 12:00-1:00 pm
11/15, 12:00-1:00 pm
12/20, 12:00-1:00 pm                            Five & Two Cafe at Down to Earth Garden Center, Eau Claire
Connect monthly with others implementing relationship-based caregiving. New friends always welcome!
Parents' Night Out - Rice Lake*         10/18, 6:00 pm Norske Nook, Rice Lake
The best place to make friends is around a table, so come for a fun time getting to know other foster and adoptive parents over great food. Attendees are responsible for their own cost of meals. Please RSVP by 10/15.

Parents' Night Out - Superior*10/22, 6:00 pm Vintage Italian Pizza, Superior
Come out for a gathering with old and new friends alike. All foster, pre-adoptive, or adoptive parents are welcome. Please RSVP by 10/19.

National Adoption Month Event on Ice+ 11/2, 6:00 pm Hobbs Ice Arena, Eau Claire    Come recognize National Adoption Month together with FREE ice skating at the Hobbs-Hughes Indoor Rink. If you own ice skates, please bring them. A limited number of skates will be provided. Please RSVP online.

Artistic Night Out for Moms - Eau Claire 11/7, 5:30 pm  Blue Canvas Art Studio, Eau Claire  Take a night to gather with other adoptive and foster moms. Make time for self care through art and connection. We will be creating wood signs that say, "gather". No artistic experience necessary! Cost is $15. Please pay/register by 10/1.

Popcorn & a Movie: Somewhere Between+  11/12, 6:30 pm  UW-Eau Claire Davies Center   In recognition of National Adoption Month, join us for a special viewing of the film, "Somewhere Between." The documentary follows four teenage girls adopted from China and now living in the U.S. This film is recommended for ages 12 and up. Popcorn & soda will be provided! An optional discussion time will take place afterwards for those interested.

Holiday Make & Take for Moms          12/3, 5:00-6:00 pm  Down to Earth Garden Center, EC  We will be making lovely holiday evergreen centerpieces in the greenhouse that you will get to take home. These centerpieces will be made out of evergreen branches, dogwood twigs, pine cones and more! By using a special foam core, they will last for the entire season too! Cost is $25 per person and includes one centerpiece. Please register by 11/19

La Crosse & Surrounding Area
Magen mduffy@cclse.org or 608.782.0710 x 1223.
Kid's Group: Fall Pizza Party+10/ 8, 6:00-7:30 pm   The Pizza Oven, West Salem
Bring your kids to the next Kids Group. This group is open to all kids ages 5-12 who are in foster care or were adopted. We will have a pizza party and do Halloween and fall crafts. We will be meeting at the Pizza Oven in West Salem in their party room. Parents are welcome to stay and socialize.

CONFERENCE: The Transracial Parenting Journey 
10/12, 9:00 am - 2:30 pm   Black River Beach Community Center, La Crosse Whether you are a professional, advocate or parent, this conference will explore the various aspects of transracial adoption. Guest speaker Robert O'Connor will explore the role that culture plays in serving diverse families and communities as well as the implications of transracial placements. He will focus on helping families gain a better understanding of the tools and perspectives shown to be beneficial in supporting transracial families.

Mom's Night Out: Onalaska* - October and December
10/17, 6:00 pm
12/10, 6:00 pm
Senor Villa, David Reay's, Onalaska  This group will have two get-togethers in the coming quarter! Please join us to chat, ask questions and meet other adoptive/foster moms in the area. All foster and adoptive and pre adoptive moms are encouraged to join us! Attendees pay the cost of their own meal.

Parent/Tot Playgroup+ - November and December
11/2, 9:30-11:30 am 
12/ 7, 9:30-11:30 am                                La Crosse Wellness Center  Join us for a fun day of playing while the big kids are in school! Admission for kids will be paid for by CCPARC. Parents are free. This group is open to all foster and adoptive kids aged 5 and under! The big turf gym is open to all. There are games, toys, balls and a bounce house! Note there are two different dates this quarter. RSVP for either or both!
Mom's Night Out: Black River Falls*
1/ 5, 6:00 pm
Rozario's Pizza, Black River Falls
Join us for a fun night out meeting other moms who are raising their families through adoption and foster care. We will meet up to talk about our kids, families and any concerns and questions you may have. Come lend support or ask your questions! Attendees are responsible for the cost of their own meal.

A Night at the Museum+
11/ 9, 5:30-7:30 pm
La Crosse Children's Museum
Join us for a special night to celebrate adoption and foster care. We will have the whole museum just to our group! Come enjoy all of the fun interactive exhibits and climbing areas. There will also be door prizes and snacks for all. This event is FREE to all that attend. All foster and adoptive families, workers and those who love and support adoption are welcome to attend. Online registration is required.

Dad's Night Out: La Crosse*
11/15, 6:45 pm  Shenanigans, La Crosse
Join us for a night out of other foster and adoptive dads getting together. We will meet at Shenanigans at 6:45 pm to watch the Packers and the Seahawks game. Appetizers, soda and football are free to all that attend. Please RSVP so we know who will be joining us. Bill Robbins will be facilitating this event.
Birth Parent Get-Together: Pizza Night 11/19, 5:30 pm Catholic Charities, La Crosse
Come support and meet other birth parents who have placed a child through adoption. All birth parents are welcome to join us regardless of type of adoption placement. A pizza dinner will be provided by CCPARC. Please RSVP.

*Attendees responsible for the cost of own meal   Free event, please RSVP​
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          Featured  Opportunities
******************************
10/3  Special Needs Dance is the 1st Wednesday of the month 6-8:30 @ the Biron community center on 32nd St. Please let people with special needs know must be 18 or older to attend.  

10/11 Special Needs Resource Night - Wisconsin Rapids  Speakers:
Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN) Allison Lourash
           * Doorways to Medical Assistance, what can you access with the MA Card and Handling Denials?
      *  CHC Nekoosa Head Start specializes in Developmentally Disabled, Disabled, Stroke Care
      * Midstate Independent Living
Personal Assistance Services, Independent Living Skills Training, Accessible Recreation, In-Home Supportive Care, Respite or Personal Care.
Wood County Human Services
       * Birth to 3 Services, Children’s Long-Term Waivers, Children's’ Community Options Program, Comprehensive Community Services (CCS), Coordinated Services Team (CST), Crisis, Outpatient Services and Guardianship.
CHC-Nekoosa Head Start

Vendors:   WEAP/ Therapies Plus/ Project Lifesaver/ PIER/Autism Society of Central Wisconsin, (ABA) Agnesian Beyond                            Boundaries of Autism, Caravel Autism Health - Autism & Behavior Specialists and more!
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Parenting Classes Raising Safe Kids Parenting Program Tuesdays, ​6 - 7:30 p.m. Marshfield Family Resource Center   715-387-2729   ext 5
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Born Learning workshops Tuesdays -Wisconsin Rapids  For parents with children Birth to 4 yrs   715-421-0390
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10/2 NAMI Homefront Tuesdays 6:00–8:30 p.m. Wisconsin Rapids
For family, friends and significant others of Military Service Members and Veterans.  Lisa (715) 630-8337
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10/2 Sign Language Class Tuesdays  Marshfield 4:30 to 6.  Free, food and class!        Pam 715-423-7182  ironkids@hotmail.com
Sponsored by: Marshfield Elks 665
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Waisman Centers ~Day with the Experts Series  
11/10 @  9:00 - 12:30 Cerebral Palsy
1/ 26  @ 9:00 am - 12:30 Autism
3/9  @ 9:00 - 12:30  Down Syndrome
5/1  @ 9:00 - 12:30 Cochlear
​                                           Implants   https://www.waisman.wisc.edu/outreach/waisman-center-day-with-experts/ 
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From: WisconSibs, Inc
Paid leave is not just for new parents.  https://blog.aarp.org/2018/09/17/paid-family-leave-policies-are-not-just-for-new-parents/ )

FMLA and siblings, visit http://siblingleadership.org/siblings-family-medical-leave-act-fmla-common-questions/

Cerebral Palsy - new resource https://cerebralpalsygroup.com/treatment/therapy/ to help provide FREE support and useful resources to individuals and families who have been diagnosed with cerebral palsy and other disabilities?
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Lil’ Sprouts Language Group offered at UW-Stevens Point ~  a new program designed to help children ages 3-4 who need help developing language skills. 9-11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, Sept. 11 through Dec. 8 by the School of Communication Sciences and Disorders. The program offers fun, interactive language-rich activities and evidence-based intervention techniques and strategies to assist in developing language skills. $250 per semester. call 715-346-3667 or email slhclinic@uwsp.edu. https://spmetrowire.com/lil-sprouts-language-group-offered-at-uw-stevens-point/
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                      GRANTS
Variety annual grant process for individuals with physical disAbilities Adaptive bicycles. Nov 1-30, 

Grants for all other enabling equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers, lifts, ramps, vehicle modifications, adaptive driving equipment, and more.  2019
1st Quarter Grant Cycle: Jan 1- 31,
2nd Quarter Grant Cycle:Apr 1- 30, 3rd Quarter Grant Cycle:July 1-31,  4th Quarter Grant Cycle: Oct 1-31,  If your child, or someone you know could benefit from a grant, please apply! Applications will be available during the open grant cycles. Email: programs@varietywi.org.
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                 RESOURCES!!!
From Decoding Dyslexia Wisconsin -Tracy!
Free Resources to identify those at risk for reading failure:   https://dyslexiaida.org/dyslexia-test/ Free Resources ID those at risk for reading failure: http://www.learningally.org/Dyslexia/Dyslexia-Test
Free Resources ID those at risk for reading failure: http://www.dyslexiatest.me/
Free Mississippi Screener https://www.lexercise.com/clinicians/mississippi-dyslexia-screener
Free Resource ID those at risk for reading failure https://www.dynaread.com/online-dyslexia-test
FREE https://www.reallygreatreading.com/content/foundational-skills-survey
FREE Neuhaus resources Thanks to Barbara Bush  https://www.neuhaus.org/reading-challenges/screening-measures
Comprehensive screener $25 with proceeds to Dyslexia Research, Dr David Hurford Pitt State University Center for Assessment and Remediation of Reading Difficulty  https://www.carrdinc.org/
FREE  http://www.thereadingcenter.org/StrugglingReaders/DyslexiaScreen.aspx
----------------------------------------- Medicaid Eligibility Handbook  http://www.emhandbooks.wisconsin.gov/meh-ebd/meh.htm 
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Autism Society of the Fox Valley   www.autismfoxvalley.org/membership/ ASFV's monthly Monkey Joe's event returns on the First Saturday of the month! Starts September 1st!! As an added bonus, Monkey Joe's in Appleton is now offering $25 off any birthday party package for those who participate in these play dates! Parents simply need to mention this when reserving a room for the party. ASFV President Diane Nackers will also be on hand September 1st to answer any question you have about ASFV. Monkey Joe's opens their doors exclusively to families of children with autism from 9:00 until 10:00 am (and you're welcome to stay as long as you like). Parents get a chance to meet other parents, siblings have an opportunity to meet other sibs in a fun environment, and kids on the spectrum can safely bounce, jump, slide and have fun. FREE for members or just $5 for non-member families! 
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If you are a teen with a disability or someone close to a teen with a disability, this site can help you explore and prepare for the future. Turning 18 is a big deal and taking some actions now will help you get ready. So get ready to consider  choices, explore the possibilities, and take action now to prepare for age 18! The Future Possibilities Are Only Limited By Your Imagination…   
         https://beforeage18.org/
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What is Supported Decision Making? Supported Decision-Making is an alternative to guardianship through which people with disabilities get help from trusted family members, friends and professionals to help them understand the situations and choices they face, so they can make their own decisions. Supported Decision-Making enables people with disabilities to ask for support where and when they need it. Supported Decision making agreements can be used for many kinds of decisions including medical, financial, housing and other life matters. Powers of attorney, representative payees and simple release of information forms can also help families provide the needed supports and safeguards without going to court and imposing guardianship restrictions.

http://wi-bpdd.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/Lets_talk_SDM.pdf

           ---------------------
 Peer Education Program - Kit for Kids
Helping classroom peers understand and accept our children as any they would any other child.                            
        https://researchautism.org      
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Do I Have a Right to Observe My Child's Classroom? The special ed director said I cannot observe the class because of confidentiality issues with the other children. Answer: SCOTUS decision in Owasso v. Falvo addresses expectation of privacy. Learn how to work with administrators. http://www.wrightslaw.com/info/priv.confid.observe.htm
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WI FACETS – www.wifacets.org Family Engagement Newsletter – 

​October:     Learning Disabilities November: Emotional Behavioral
                            Disorders​

Family Voices  -FACT sheets on ever thing you need to understand: CCOP/Waivers/Denials and more!  
http://www.familyvoicesofwisconsin.com  

Down Syndrome Statewide calendar of events!          https://www.dsaw.org/statewide-events     
          
Behavioral Health/Mental Health Online Database: 
www.mch-hotlines.org/wisconsin-first-step

NAMI  calendar for Mental Health, Networking,  AODA, NA and Clubhouse Opportunities and Resources:                                  http://namiportagewoodcounties.org/Events/Calendar.html
 
2-1-1 Your local United Way Website!

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             Attention:
  Family Caregiver needing 
        funding for Respite!  The Respite Care Association of Wisconsin is currently restructuring their respite program.
Please go to:  https://respitecarewi.org/live/our-programs/   for their most current forms and application process. 
           ----------------------------
   Caregivers & Providers! 
Within every neighborhood there are individuals that need help. Check out this flexible opportunity in which you as a provider can help child, youth, adult or elderly individual  get up in the morning and get out to work or school!  Maybe mentor so individuals can be involved in their community!   Perhaps it would be helping that family caregiver get a break, to do household tasks, work, run errands and / or oh my Gosh ~ go for a walk!  You set your time/travel/cliental/wage!
Please share forward to others you may know that are caregivers or providers! 

Family Care Givers - check out to find a provider that can help you out!
         www.respitecarewi.org

Respite Care of Wisconsin also has 
resource for:
           Caregivers of Elderly
           Caregivers of Adults
           Caregivers of Children 
                        and 
           Respite Care Worker

https://respitecarewi.org/​
+++++++++++++++++++++
Please support PIER by:

     *  Shopping Amazon Smiles  https://smile.amazon.com/ch/39-2004868
          
     * Purchasing Kwik Trip Gas cards  
                       Contact  Pam
               ironkids@hotmail.com

       * Purchasing a bag of Coffee from
                       Blu Play
          
        * Sending donation to: 
                PIER, c/o Pam Ironside,
               6211 North Park Road,
               Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494

        * Join our PIER board

        *Help update and edit website

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​Disclaimer: These activities and information in this document are not sponsored nor endorsed by the agency, organization or school district sharing forward this information. Neither do they assume responsibility for the conduct during or safety of the activities. The above (or forwarding party) shall be held harmless from any cause of action, claim, or petition filed in any court of administrative tribunal arising out of the distribution of these materials including attorney’s fees and judgments or awards.



This newsletter is compiled through a variety of list serves including but not  limited to:

Waismen Center Healthy Ready to Work
Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN)
Family Voices of Wisconsin
Tony Evers DPI Connection
Family Assistance Center for Education Training and Support 
             (FACETS)  http://www.wifacets.org
 Public Access to Court  Electronic Records (PACER)
 Cooperative Educational Service Agency (CESA)
Wisconsin Statewide Transition Initiative  (WSTI) 
             http://dpi.wi.gov/sped/parent.html
Parents
Board for People with Developmental Disabilities
DAWN - Disability Awareness Wisconsin Network
National Center on Secondary Education and Transition
             http://www.ncset.org/enews/.
Wisconsin Children and Families - WisKids Journal -       
             http://capwiz.com/wccf/mim/signup/.
The Catalyst Centerhttp://hdwg.org/catalyst/.
National Center on Secondary Education and Transition  
                http://www.ncset.org/enews/.

WSPEI and WI FACETS to share statewide information
regarding parent leadership and family involvement.

Parent Leadership Hub:http://wispdg.org/pl/e-news.html
 Just in Time Information (JITI):
                                          http://wispdg.org/pl/res_jit.html
Resources: http://www.wispdg.org/pl/resources.html*
Calendar of Events:  http://wispdg.org/int/pl-cal.html
Multi-Media Workshops, Video and Webcasts: 
                                    http://wispdg.org/pl-multi.html
Product Order Form:  http://wispdg.org/pl/Revised_Parent_Leadership_Hub_Order_Form-9-08.pdf
 The Parent Leadership Hub supports parents/family members, educators and other  community partners to build capacity regarding meaningful family involvement.   The Hub serves three primary purposes:
(1)  To support parents of children with disabilities between birth and 26 years of  age to participate as partners in the professional development activities of each of the other Statewide Initiatives as they design, deliver and support
professional development experiences
(2) To facilitate opportunities for parents/family members to build leadership skills
(3) To provide Content  Focused technical assistance concerning family  involvement
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PIER is an informational site.  It is not a legal services agency and cannot provide legal advice or legal representation.  Any information contained on this site is not intended as legal or medical advice but only as an informational resource.   This web site was created to inform and educate. The content should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, recommendations, diagnosis or treatment.

You are encouraged to confirm all information with other sources and a physician. If you have health concerns, please call or see a qualified health care provider without delay. . 

We do not endorse any treatments, providers, or product information in this site.    

As with any program - we strongly encourage you to thoroughly check out references.