ASK Autism hosts first community conference

Acceptance, Support, Knowledge Autism, a local parent-led support group, will hold its first conference Saturday, April 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the community room on Chestnut Street.

The group began as an autism group, but all disabilities are welcome to join. One of its goals is bringing education to families and professionals in the community. When they couldn’t find a conference to attend, they decided to hold their own.

The conference will begin with a presentation from Amanda DeLuca, a mother, advocate, author and speaker whose journey into special education began with her own family’s experiences. She is the co-founder and president of The More Than Project and the founder of Pathways for Inclusion. She is the author of “Dear Mama, Nothing Is Impossible” and the creator of Jackson’s Journey, Jackson's Voice on Facebook.

A parent panel will share advice and experiences from local families, followed by lunch catered by The Real McCoy BBQ.

After lunch Dennis Debbaubt will present on autism risk and safety management. He has more than 30 years of experience in autism and law-enforcement curriculum development and training. His son Brad was diagnosed with autism in 1987, and his lived experiences with his son continue to inspire and inform his research into the interactions between those with autism and law enforcement. He is the author of “Autism, Advocates and Law Enforcement Professionals.”

The cost of the conference is $25 per person. Local vendors also will be on hand to share information about the services they provide, and books will be available for purchase and to be signed.

To register for the event, visit Facebook/ASK Autism to see the event link or call Jen Jones at 740-502-1664 to be sent the link. ASK is still seeking vendors and donations for the event. Registration will end Thursday, April 2.

The group said, “We are so grateful for the amazing support of our county officials and local businesses who continually support our families. We are so excited to be bringing this valuable information to our community.”