November/December 2020’s Neat Links

  • Carolyn Tomchik contributed some great articles for us this month:
    • “Flip the Script” – This is a very informative infographic. From the link: “Words are powerful. Even with the best of intentions, we may say something that is unhelpful or even hurtful to a person in our workplace who has a disability. Or, afraid of saying the wrong thing, we might stay silent. Rather than focusing on a coworker’s abilities, it’s important to establish connections and engage without pity, judgment, or apprehension to foster a sense of belonging and create a more inclusive workplace”.
    • “Why Dell is Making Neurodiverse Hiring a Priority” – A new and innovative way Dell Technologies is thinking about the talent pipeline.
    • “Everything You Know About ADHD Is Wrong” – An interesting article discussing outdated stereotypes and stigmatization of ADHD.
  • Schools Have Struggled To Fulfill IEPs Amid Pandemic, Government Report Finds
  • New Housing Concepts Emerge For Adults With Developmental Disabilities

October 2020’s Neat Links

  • John Hummel sent us some excellent information regarding education and programming at the DuPage Children’s Museum. This series is still continuing and worth checking out! This program he highlighted is actually geared for parents who may be struggling with balance during this time…here is a synopsis:
    • DuPage Children’s Museum invites you and your company’s employees to participate in our wellness webinar series Success in the Balance: Work, Life and Pandemic Parenting.  Employees are struggling to manage the competing demands of working productively and parenting effectively all in the same time and space. Learning strategies to sustain this balance is imperative for the well-being and health of our families and businesses. To address this need, DuPage Children’s Museum is partnering with thought leaders and businesses to offer your employees access at no cost to you or to them.
  • Jacque LeBreck alerted us to this great segment recently on 60 Minutes about Autonomy Works in Downers Grove and their impact with the disability community.
  • Virtual training can help parents of kids with autism manage behaviors.
  • A very useful program here in Illinois to make you all aware of: anyone 16 and older with a diagnosed mental or physical disability can get a free state identification card that will help explain habits that might seem out of the ordinary to a law enforcement or other first responders.
  • People with disabilities receiving Supplemental Security Income and other Social Security benefits will soon see their payments
  • Ugg launches boot collection for people with special needs.
  • 2020’s best and worst ranking of cities for people with disabilities.

September 2020’s Neat links

  • Diane Ansah made us aware of this upcoming seminar “Autism in the Workplace” which discusses how to build an autism-to-work program and how a neurodiverse workforce can impact productivity, innovation and culture.
  • Government agency recommends ending sub-minimum wage for people with disabilities.
  • Disney introduces adaptive Halloween costumes for people with disabilities.

August 2020’s Neat links

  • Pam Gruszka made us aware of this exciting local announcement: The all-inclusive discovery playground officially opens in Lisle. Additional info here.
  • Andy Jansen sent this link about the Autismerica program at the College of DuPage. A very active student organization serving students on the autism spectrum.
  • Patricia Weikersheimer shared this resource for trust planning, Rubin Law. This local firm specializes in special needs legal and future planning. It has been a very hot topic with many of our ABLED members.
  • Feeling Forgotten: Students With Special Needs Face Unique Challenges With Virtual Learning.
  • States Pressured To Remove Disability Bias From Medical Care Guidelines.
  • Disability employment documentary heading to TV.
  • Mask requirements at amusement parks violate ADA, suit claims.
  • Mom equips ambulances with sensory kits to help children with autism.
  • Stephanie D’Angelo provided this video link on how to make mask wearing easier for autistic adults and those with sensory needs. In addition, she provided this link from Autism Speaks to a story for children to help them understand why they see everyone wearing masks. Lastly she also provides a link to a new app called “Exercise Buddy”, an autism-friendly exercise system.