Every year the Society also hosts several large events including a special-needs flag football game and family picnic, a 5K Walk/Run/Resource fair in April, and a Holiday Party. The Society also offers resources to the community and provides education through attendance at resource fairs and community events.
President Elizabeth Redmon says her group has provided direct education to local churches and elementary school classrooms about how to be welcoming and how to be a friend to someone with autism. Members have distributed “Sesame Street” books introducing a new character with autism to families and schools to help educate kids on autism and acceptance.
Donations of these items are used at various events, gifts for holiday parties and more.
Here’s what they need:
- Small board games, including gently used puzzles
- Calming fidget toys
- Sensory chew items
- Water beads
- Kinetic sand
- Pin art toys
- Play dough
- Building blocks/stackable toys/LEGO's sensory/knobby balls
- Holiday-themed craft kits (to use at events)
- Gift cards that can given out to families at the holiday party
- Children's books, including gently used
- Weighted Blankets/vests
Donations can be dropped off at the Regional Education Center, 4801 Springfield St., Dayton between the hours of 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays.
OTHER WAYS TO PARTICIPATE
The Autism Society is always in need of volunteers for events and is always looking for companies willing to partner for new outings for the families in a sensory friendly setting.
For more information: contact atasadayton@gmail.com, send a message on Facebook, call (937) 815-4986 or visit www.autismsocietyofdayton.org
Columnist Meredith Moss writes about non-profit organizations in our area and their specific needs. If your group has a wish list it would like to publish, contact Meredith: MMoss@coxohio.com
Please include a daytime phone number and a photo that reflects your organization’s mission.
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