BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Square Peg Society - ECPv6.18.3.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Square Peg Society X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Square Peg Society REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Vancouver BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20140309T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20141102T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20150308T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20151101T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20160313T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20161106T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20170312T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20171105T090000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0800 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:PDT DTSTART:20180311T100000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0800 TZNAME:PST DTSTART:20181104T090000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170322 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170323 DTSTAMP:20211025T002051Z CREATED:20170425T070000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211025T002051Z UID:1157-1490140800-1490227199@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:Looking Beyond Autism - Dr. Anthony Bailey DESCRIPTION:Treating Anxiety\, Depression & OCD in ASD Individuals \nGuest:   Dr. Anthony Bailey\, Phd\, Chair\, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry\, UBC                                                                                                         \nThis meeting was our follow-up from ACT’s webinar Part 2: Looking Beyond Autism: Treating Anxiety\, Depression & OCD in children & youth with ASD\, we are continuing to explore the co-existence of these mental health conditions with Autism. \nDr. Bailey’s presentation at our meeting was based on his segment at this above conference\, Part 4\, on Depression & ASD. Part 1 was ACT’s Deborah Pugh’s introduction\, and Part 2\, was Melanie McConnell\, Phd\, R. Psychologist in Neuropsychiatry at BC Children’s Hospital\, speaking on Anxiety & ASD\, and Part 3\, was David Worling\, R.Psychologist\, Westcoast Child Development\, speaking on Obsessive Compulsive Disorder & ASD.   Parts 5 & 6\, featured  panelists\, Georgina Robinson\, of POPPARD\, and David Batstone\, Phd\, R.Psychologist. Please see link below: \nhttp://www.actcommunity.ca/education/mentalhealth/treating/ \nOur focus\, at Square Peg\, is on the adult population – we are interested in which of the treatments discussed are applicable to adults\, and which existing programs might be effective\, accessible and affordable for our ASD individuals. \nWhat was presented: \nThe subject of depression is particularly relevant – it is pervasive\, 1 in 2 people will experience depression at least once in their lifetime\, and approximately 25% of ASD individuals have experienced depression. The rate of occurrence of anxiety is even higher – 50 -60% of ASD individuals have also experienced significant anxiety. These conditions tend to emerge in puberty or later. There is a genetic component – ASD individuals have family members with a history of a mental health disorder. While several studies indicate that these mental health disorders occur more frequently at the higher functioning end of the autism spectrum\, others conclude that this finding is due to the inability of the lower functioning population to express their symptoms\, which therefore go undiagnosed\, and untreated. \nThese co-morbid mental health issues interfere with all aspects of a person’s life – with their ASD treatments\, with schooling\, homelife\, and overall quality of life. Often anxiety and depression are missed in ASD individuals\, either because the symptoms do not present in the same way as in the neurotypical population and/or because ASD individuals may not self-report in a typical manner. \nAnxiety \nSome anxiety in life is normal but it is pathological when it is disproportionate to the stimulus\, and prolonged. This occurs for a variety of reasons in different individuals – a lack of social understanding\, uncertainty around or resistance to change\, impaired imagination resulting in an inability to imagine other outcomes\, impaired cognitive coping strategies\, and a biological predisposition to anxiety. The consequences range from fairly moderate to extreme\, and include over-preoccupation with issues or circumstances\, avoidance of situations or issues\, fatigue/irritability\, poor sleep\, impaired executive functioning\, physiological impairments\, low mood\, and even psychosis. \nApproaches to treating anxiety include: \n\nchanging the anxiety producing environment\nstress management\, distraction\ngraduated exposure to the stress-provoking stimuli\ncognitive strategies\, such as breaking down a situation logically & rationally\, particularly\, Cognitive Behavourial Therapy – CBT- an approach with which Dr. Bailey likes for its practicality\, and with which he has had success. While there are many self-help books that employ CBT techniques\, people tend not to use them long enough. Most people seem to need a guide through this process. (However\, it was brought to my attention that the problem with non-specific CBT programs is that the ASD tends not to be understood or addressed. To make these programs more effective would be to have a mental health clinician work with the ASD individual in the program\, and/or to adapt the CBT program to accommodate the needs of the ASD. Also\, using CBT in conjunction with other “therapy” methods (e.g.\, psychodynamic) would be more effective.\nvigorous exercise (in which the heart rate is raised for more than 1/2hr\, for at least 3 times per week)\nMindfulness techniques/programs\nMedication   Bailey does not prescribe benzodiazanpines (habituating)\, but along with others prescribes SSRIs – serotonin reactive uptake inhibitors.\nOne-on-one psychotherapy. Dr. Bailey emphasized that this is not a quick fix undertaking\, but rather\, about 5 years from his 1st meeting with a patient.\n\nDepression \nDepression is usually co-morbid with anxiety. Some of the usual indicators may be absent\, but are likely to include some of the following: social withdrawl\, unhappy or flat facial expression\, prosody\, low mood\, negative cognitions\, irritability\, and decreased activity level. Depression can be genetic and/or caused by environmental factors such as bullying\, social isolation\, academic failure\, perception of arrested development\, an uncertain future. \nApproaches to treating depression include: \n\nChanging the environment\nCBT\nVigorous exercise\nMedication\nECT (Electric Convulsive Treatment – shock therapy)\n\nObsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) \nOCD symptoms are similar to those of the typically developing ASD population\, and therefore\, may be hard to tease out. They are likely to be OCD when the cognitions/behaviours become paralyzing – for example when an individual feels compelled to rewash all of their dishes at 2am. \nApproaches to treating OCD include: \n\nCBT which focuses on the causes of the observed behavior\nMedication – higher doses of SSRIs.\n\nAs to the question of inadequate supports for programs and treatment for ASD individuals with co-occurring mental health conditions – Dr. Bailey placed the onus of this squarely back in our court\, claiming that any advocacy in this area would be perceived by government\, as a vested interest on his part\, and that parents and ASD adults\, en masse\, have the post power to pressure politicians. When asked about research and data gathering to support our case for more support\, he cited …..studies underway…. \nHis focus is research and his clinical practice\, and he did not seem to be engaged with programs outside of this. He noted that professionals are looking for treatable conditions\, while parents are focused on unrealized potential. \nAs to group programs which might be of benefit to ASD individuals\, at a more affordable cost than private therapy\, Dr. Bailey favoured Mindfulness and CBT programs in combination with one-on-one psychological therapy\, but noted that the ASD individual must be able and motivated to participate in a group program. We did not have the time\, and Dr. Bailey did not seem to want to examine existing group programs and their efficacy for ASD individuals\, perhaps\, their success may depend on many factors\, such as the individual facilitators and the participants of a group in a given session. Finally\, Dr. Bailey noted that\, for programs for adults to succeed\, the ASD adults involved must be motivated to participate\, or to make the changes asked of them. This was discussed in relation to social programs for people on the spectrum. \nMany of our members felt re-assured by Dr. Bailey’s gentle reminder that the timeline of our individuals and families is\, by virtue of the ASD diagnosis\, longer – that we cannot examine our progress toward our life goals in light of the developmental stages of neurotypical individuals. However\, he emphasized that growth in self-awareness\, learning\, and progress toward personal goals is entirely possible. He stressed that parents need to be persistent\, and parents\, professionals\, and ASD adults need to be patient. This longer time frame\, he believes\, is offset by all of us today living longer life spans\, and attention should be given to living well & healthily. \n  URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/meeting-march-22-2017-looking-beyond-autism-dr-anthony-bailey CATEGORIES:Mental Health END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170119 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170120 DTSTAMP:20211019T043902Z CREATED:20170425T070000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211019T043902Z UID:1156-1484784000-1484870399@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:Meeting: January 19\, 2017 ASD & Mental Health- Canadian Mental Health\, Echo Program DESCRIPTION:We are seeing that people with ASD experience mental health issues such as stress\, anxiety and depression\, at greater rates than the general population. Often these conditions have a greater negative impact on their lives than does autism. We are exploring which programs exist which might be effective\, accessible and affordable for ASD individuals. \nSpeakers:   Kelsey Millar\, Vocational Coordinator\, Canadian Mental Health Association \n                    kelsey.millar@cmha.bc.ca \n                     Brittany Borean\, Program Coordinator\, ECHO program\, CMHA \nThe ECHO Clubhouse philosophy includes recovery\, wellness and personal responsibility. ECHO’s goal is to encourage greater community involvement and connections for young adults\, 19-35 years old\, who are living with\, or recovering from a mental illness. Programs are tailored to an individual’s needs and goals\, which might include employment\, education\, housing\, and/or social connection. Regular activities include a games night\, bowling\, movie nights\, wellness classes\, are\, cooking\, and then sharing a meal together. ECHO is operated as a drop-in program. \nProspective participants are required to attend an orientation session\, followed by a meeting with Kelsey. They are also required to have a community referral (contact ECHO for further info). Participants must be residents of Burnaby. This restriction was frustrating to our membership\, who live throughout the Lower Mainland. Ways to “get around” this restriction were discussed\, but no resolution found. \nKelsey has interest and training in vocational counselling\, and can assist individuals with career planning through a program called “career cruising”. \nThe Clubhouse is run by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Vancouver-Fraser Branch\, and has two sites: \nEdmonds: 604.526.9606\, 109 – 7355 Canada Way \nGilmore: 604.291.8846\, 501-4190 Lougheed Hwy \nOther Resources: \nYouth Mindfulness Group\, YMCA of Greater Vancouver\, Sarah Blackmore\, MA\, RCC \nT: 604-673-6175\nE: sarah.blackmore@gv.ymca.ca \nVideo:  YMCA Youth Mindfulness Group   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ADRmuz4qznA&feature=youtu.be \nA mindfulness-based group for youth ages 18-30 who experience anxiety. This is a 7-week support group that meets one evening a week in a safe and friendly environment. This group is both psycho-educational and experiential and is grounded in the principles of Acceptance & Commitment Therapy and Mindfulness. Another benefit is that participants receive a complimentary YMCA gym membership. There are 2-3 intakes per year\, with locations in Vancouver & Surrey. Apply now to be put on a wait list. \nEach group can accept 12 participants with two facilitators\, each with Clinical Counselling degrees at a Masters level. This program is fully funded at present\, and therefore\, the program is offered at no cost to participants. Another benefit is that participants will receive a complimentary YMCA gym membership. Following an information session\, prospective participants will be asked to fill out forms and undergo an intake interview. Some applicants may be referred to other services\, if the program facilitators find that his or her needs cannot be best served in this program. \nTo register please email: youthmindfulness@gv.ymca.ca \nBurnaby Mental Health \nMental Health Team\, Burnaby 604.453.1900 ext 531935 Sarah \nPsychiatric\, one to one\, and group counselling are offered to adults 19 and over. A doctor’s referral is required. –  There are two group streams: Rapid Access Anxiety or Rapid Access Depression – Participants are required to attend 4 initial sessions\, which are then followed by eight Cognitive Behavioral Training sessions. Counselling & Psychiatric covered by MSP. There is usually about a 1 week wait between processing referral to intake. \nFraser Health New West 604.777.6800 \nKelty Mental Health Resource Centre  604.875.2084 \nMindshift App \n “Dealing with Depression”    dwd.online.ca             \n Mindcheck.ca   crisis line \n  URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/meeting-january-19-2017-asd-mental-health-canadian-mental-health-echo-program CATEGORIES:Mental Health END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20170118 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20170119 DTSTAMP:20211019T043824Z CREATED:20180305T080000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211019T043824Z UID:1160-1484697600-1484783999@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:A Home of My Own \, Part One DESCRIPTION:Presentation: A Home of My Own \nSpeaker: Ross Chilton CEO Community Living Society (CLS)\, January 18th 2017\n \nBelow Notes taken by Joette\n \nMany of the calls of concern from families coming to organizations such as CLS are about housing and affordability. This is reflective of the gap between the Disability monthly housing allowance of $375.00 and the average price of a one-bedroom apartment at $1\,600 – $2\,000. \nThe existing crisis\, particularly in the Lower Mainland\, but also in other cities around the Province\, has gained the attention of decision makers regarding the need for affordable housing. The Provincial Government has proposed the creation of 114\, 000 affordable housing units over the next 10 years. The Federal Governments has also taken some responsibility\, after a 30-year hiatus\, for the provision of affordable housing. Some municipalities\, such as Vancouver and New Westminster\, feel that they can be partners in resolving the acute need for affordable housing through the means that that are available to them – for example\, the rezoning of municipally held property\, rezoning to higher density to increase supply\, and demanding that developers provide non-market housing in exchange for density bonuses. \nThose in attendance expressed their agreement with existing research that families want for their supported individuals what everyone wants – safe and affordable homes\, meaningful employment\, and to love and be loved. They want their adult children to be independent\, but not isolated from community either geographically or socially. \nHISTORY OF INSTITUTIONS \nIn the past it was commonly believed that grouping the disabled together was the best way to keep them safe. However\, placing people institutions\, large and small\, from hospitals to half-way houses\, most often does not provide residents with the opportunity to control their day-to-day living\, and therefore\, the dignity of self-determination. Ross shared the quote that smaller institutions are not the solution\, from them we have merely “learned to disappoint people in much smaller numbers”. Residents in this type of housing often find themselves in enclaves for disabled people\, rather than citizens in a broader community. \nRoss cautioned that how an adult child with a developmental disability envisions his or her future may be different from what their parents envision for them. The young adult may not want to share housing with others with developmental disabilities\, or with other families. Current thinking is that opportunity leads to skills; that it might be better to provide the desired housing opportunity first\, and then support individuals in gaining the life skills that they need as they need them. \nThe 2016 IGNITE CONFERENCE examined the following housing models: \n\nGroup homes\nShared living\nSupported or independent living\nLiving with parents\n\nThere are no reliable statistics on the number of people who require affordable housing due to developmental disabilities. Some of them have never been registered for services\, and some have simply merged into the homeless population. \nBC HOUSING AND CLS \nBC Housing and CLS are discussing the housing crisis in general as well as how to address together the problems of those who fall between the cracks and receive no help or the wrong help. CLS could become a housing support agency. \nCurrently\, the main priorities of the provincial Government are mental health and drug addiction. However\, as safe & secure housing is key to achieving success on all other fronts\, addressing these “top priority” needs should therefore\, also be the impetus for affordable housing solutions. \nWHAT WORKS OR COULD WORK? \nModels: \n\nFamilies collaborating to purchase/develop housing and/or supporting each other to share information and advocate for affordable housing. However\, families without deep pockets want help – in the form of access to development advice/expertise\, access to low interest development funds\, parental funding matched by government grants\, the ability to apply Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) to housing.\nChurch or service provider led housing – in our February 2018 meeting we will present a Church led mixed use development soon to be under construction.\nDeveloper/Government/Social Service Provider partnerships. Typically\, this involves the various levels of government providing the land and/or zoning relaxations and density bonuses to allow developers to build more units in exchange for building some affordable housing units for special needs individuals. The service providers contribute the social supports\, and perhaps property management post-construction. The link between transit and affordable housing is increasingly understood – people with lower incomes and people with disabilities often do not drive. Therefore\, there are building cost savings to be gained if developers are allowed to provide fewer parking spaces. The role of government in this example would be to ensure good transit connections. CLS new 6 unit building. Building plans such as BACI’s 12 units of housing that layers those with disabilities on the ground floor for ease of access\, another floor for seniors\, and another for students.\nGovernment programs that offer support through rental subsidies\, that may even be portable – that is\, that are attached to an individual\, rather than a building.\n\nSafety and security post-construction: \nRoss feels that technology can provide solutions to many families concerns for their individual’s safety and well-being through virtual support such as: \n\n“Find my phone app” to track an individual through GPS tracking of their iPhone.\nAutomatic door and light sensors\, auto emergency advisor systems\, digital medication reminders.\nMeal or ingredients delivery services.\n\nAs well\, there are things that we can do as families to help support our young adult to live independently successfully. \n\nEncourage them to develop predictable patterns of behavior – e.g. shopping at same grocery store – to establish community connections.\nHelp them to build a personalized guide book\, based upon their specific interests and preferences\, which can include useful ideas\, recipes\, lists of things to remember etc. URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/meeting-january-18th-2017 CATEGORIES:Housing END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20161118T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20161118T190000 DTSTAMP:20211019T043842Z CREATED:20211009T012654Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211019T043842Z UID:1662-1479488400-1479495600@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:SPS Fundraiser DESCRIPTION:To buy tickets in advance to this SPS Fundraiser click on the link below. \n  URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/sps-fundraiser CATEGORIES:SPS Business ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://squarepegsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/SPS-Fundraiser-Chez-Christophe-2.2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20161117T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20161117T210000 DTSTAMP:20211019T043923Z CREATED:20211009T012127Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211019T043923Z UID:1659-1479409200-1479416400@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:Autism Spectrum Disorder & Mental Health DESCRIPTION:Thursday\, November 17\, 2016 \nAutism Spectrum Disorder & Mental Health \nLocation : Vancity South Burnaby\, 5064 Kingsway URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/autism-spectrum-disorder-mental-health CATEGORIES:Mental Health END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20161117 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20161118 DTSTAMP:20211019T043946Z CREATED:20170425T070000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211019T043946Z UID:1155-1479340800-1479427199@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:Meeting: November 17\, ASD & Mental Health - Polly Guetta\, Mood Disorders Association DESCRIPTION:While families approach Square Peg Society seeking help with adult issues such as employment and housing\, their underlying fear is that their adult offspring will live a life of poverty and isolation\, after they are gone\, or after they are no longer able to care for them. Often it is mental health issues – stress\, anxiety and depression\, not autism – that is impeding their success at work\, post-secondary education\, and independent living. \n Our meeting was the first of several meetings we intend to host on ASD and Mental Health. The next will be in February\, 2017. We want to better understand the prevalence and consequences of these co-occurring mental health conditions\, which programs and treatments are effective for people with autism\, and if they exist\, and are affordable and available to people with autism. \nAs a background to these interests and concerns\, we viewed 3 excerpts from an Autism Community Training  (ACT)  Webinar on Mental Health & Autism (October 2016). They are: \n            Background to ASD and Mental Health                                          Dr. Karen Bopp \n            Why are Psychiatric Co-morbidities Important?                Dr. Anthony Bailey \n            Role of the Certified Behavioral Analyst                                         Dr. Richard Stock \n Dr. Karen Bopp\, (Ministry of Children and Family Development)  \nBackground to ASD and Mental Health  \nAs the incidence of ASD increases (1 in 78 in BC) so does the difficulty of identifying and distinguishing the differences presented by ASD and mental health issues. They can mask each other. They can exacerbate each other. They can be co-morbid. Currently\, experts in Autism are not well versed in mental health concerns. \nComments from discussion: There is no funding for mental health issues for those diagnosed with ASD; autism funding is supposed to go specifically toward those issues that arise directly as a consequence of the autism. As a result\, mental health issues often go undetected and untreated. \nExisting Mental Health services: In BC\, a doctor’s referral is required to see a psychiatrist\, and once referred\, wait lists are long. As well\, not all psychiatrists have experience with individuals with ASD. We perceive a need for the right help at the right time from a specialist with an understanding of autism. \nAppointments to a psychiatrist are covered under the Medical Services Plan (MSP). Both the Mood Disorders Association of BC (MDABC) and the various branches of the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) also have psychiatric clinics. The MDABC offers psychiatric appointments at their Robson Street clinic – these are for mild mood disorders – anxiety\, depression\, and bi-polar disorders. A referral from a family doctor or walk-in clinic physician is required and these appointments are covered under MSP. There is approximately a 2 month wait list from receipt of the referral. Burnaby Mental Health\, a Branch of CMHA offers psychiatric appointments\, again requires a doctor’s referral\, and is covered under MSP. There is about a week’s wait between processing the referral and intake for an appointment. \nThere are many psychiatric counsellors and behavioural therapists in BC who offer counselling appointments at hourly rates ranging from $175 – $250/hour. As well\, both the MDABC and Burnaby Mental health offer counselling services to adults. MDABC has counselling services at their Pender Street location\, on a fee-for-service basis. One-to- one counselling costs $85.00 per session\, family counselling is $95.00/session\, and there is also group counselling in the form of free drop-in social support groups. Burnaby Mental Health offers group counselling to adults 19 and over\, referred by a doctor. They have two group counselling options: Rapid Access Anxiety or Rapid Access Depression. Following their intake participants are required to attend 4 initial sessions in their stream\, which are\, in turn\, followed by eight Cognitive Behavioral Training sessions. There is usually about a 1 week wait between the processing of a referral to intake. These group counselling programs are covered by MSP. \nMood Disorders Association of BC\, 604.873.0103 #1 for psychiatric clinic #2 for counselling services \nBurnaby Mental Health\, Mental Health Team\, Burnaby 604.453.1900 \nFraser Health New West 604.777.6800 \nDr. Anthony Bailey \nWhy are Psychiatric Co-morbidities Important? \nThere has been a shift in intellectual ability. In the past three quarters of the population diagnosed with ASD had below average intelligence. Presently this proportion is reversed. Three quarters of this group has average or above average intelligence. \nBased on a study of 300 school age children in BC the most likely co-morbid conditions with ASD were found to be anxiety\, depression and OCD. (In girls\, eating disorders may be an expression as well).  Less present was the incidence of psychosis. Anxiety and depression tend to increase with adulthood from 25% to 51% and 6% to 32% respectively. The implications of this understanding suggest that because co – morbid conditions are so common they should be suspected by the observer. \nMisdiagnosis may occur with the common co-morbid condition of ADHD\, if accompanying social difficulties are missed. Mental disorders can be missed for various reasons in both children and adults. In a child\, observation can be obscured by another identified condition such as ASD. \nPsychological distress is expressed in different ways by children. In adults\, symptoms can be missed because the individual has limited language skills or cannot identify their own emotional state. This may result in remaining in an anxiety provoking situation\, from which others would remove themselves\, until the point when there is a meltdown. When anxiety is expressed at home the family may presume this is an expected part of ASD behaviour. \nMental disorders can interfere with progress for example through repetitive thoughts. \nPsychosis can be induced by stressful situations at school or work. \nFamily genetics studies focussing on anxiety and depression among relatives suggest that genetics is a risk factor for those with ASD\, and though separate\, is perhaps\, an exacerbating\, condition. \nEnvironment can have a bigger impact on those with ASD than others. \nComments resulting from discussion: There are shut downs as well as melt downs. \nThe norm for those with Autism should not be a state of distress perhaps caused by\, “unfriendly\,” environments. \nRichard Stock is a Board Certified Behaviour Analyst \nRole of the Certified Behavioral Analyst     \nHis services include long term planning for clients which can continue from pre-school to employment. A designed program would address the key areas of language\, communication and social as well as repetitive behaviour\, fine and gross motor skills\, academics and functional assessments. Links to both home and school provide unity among a team of professionals. \nSeveral examples were given of correcting problem behaviours that were inappropriate such as spitting or reciting dialogue from entertainment sources. \nComments from discussion: RDI was mentioned as an alternative to ABA as well as other programs that speakers suggested focused on a different relationship approach. \nSpeaker:   Polly Guetta\, Development Co-ordinator\,  Mood Disorders Association of BC \npolly.guetta@mdabc.net \nSee above for existing mental health services offered through MDABC. \nCheck out: “What Helps\, What Hurts?”  for ages 18-30\, to help identify problems & strategies. \nPolly spoke on how to be proactive about mental health\, how to build emotional resiliency and gave a brief overview of several kinds of mental illness.   \nThe Mood Disorders Association of BC is a non-profit organization with these goals: \n* To be proactive \n* To identify the problem \n* To fight against misconceptions about those with mental health problems. \nGood mental health can be defined as a sense of well-being\, an ability to handle life and realize abilities. \nEmotional fitness enables the individual to be stronger\, more confident\, resilient\, and to provide a meaningful contribution. \nPeople with an optimal demonstration of well-being exhibit the following abilities: \n1) Set achievable goals \n2) Know when they need support \n3) Don’t believe everything they think. \n4) Strategize for tough days. \n5) Practice compassion for self and others. \nThese skills can be learned. \nRef: courageworks.com (a free course in compassion) \nThe Wellness Wheel encompasses these areas: \nSpiritual \nEmotional \nIntellectual \nPhysical \nSocial \nEnvironment \nFinancial \nPoor mental health can occur when demands exceed the ability to cope impacting body and mind. Polly suggested talking to trusted friends/family and/ or professionals such as a doctor who can provide referrals. \n  \n  \n  URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/meeting-november-17-asd-mental-health-mda-echo-clubhouse CATEGORIES:Mental Health END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20161105T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20161105T210000 DTSTAMP:20211019T044001Z CREATED:20211009T011850Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211019T044001Z UID:1656-1478368800-1478379600@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:Jazz Cafe with Karin Plato & Bill Coon DESCRIPTION:Jazz Cafe with Karin Plato & Bill Coon URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/jazz-cafe-with-karin-plato-bill-coon CATEGORIES:Fun ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://squarepegsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/Jazz-Cafe.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20161030T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20161121T210000 DTSTAMP:20211018T235725Z CREATED:20211009T011459Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211018T235725Z UID:1652-1477850400-1479762000@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:Halloween Social Gathering DESCRIPTION:Halloween Social Gathering \n  URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/halloween-social-gathering CATEGORIES:Fun ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://squarepegsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/HalloweenSocial.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20161024T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20161024T190000 DTSTAMP:20211019T044020Z CREATED:20211009T010710Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211019T044020Z UID:1648-1477328400-1477335600@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:Cooking Club DESCRIPTION:Cooking Club with Kurt & Tilman URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/cooking-club-2 CATEGORIES:Fun,Life & Social Skills ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://squarepegsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/cookingClub2-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20161022T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20161022T200000 DTSTAMP:20211019T044042Z CREATED:20211009T013209Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211019T044042Z UID:1667-1477159200-1477166400@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:Square Peg Society Cooking Club DESCRIPTION:Square Peg Society Cooking Club URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/square-peg-society-cooking-club CATEGORIES:Fun,Life & Social Skills ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://squarepegsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/A-SPS-Cooking-Club-Invitation-March-19-2017.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20161020 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20161021 DTSTAMP:20211019T044106Z CREATED:20170425T070000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211019T044106Z UID:1154-1476921600-1477007999@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:Meeting: October 20\, 2016 Job Readiness DESCRIPTION:Panel Discussion:   Kalena Kavenaugh\, Anjela Godber\, Caroline Gatchalian\, Sarah Blackmore \nEmployment success for people with Asperger’s\, HFA\, or a similar profile\, is dependent on effective preparation and follow up for both employers and employees. Many people with these diagnoses do not qualify for assistance after the age of 19\, yet they are required to compete in a neuro-typical world. Social skills can often trip them up\, particularly if they did not receive treatment or training when they were young. They now need to become prepared to seek and keep employment if they are to fulfill their dreams of acceptance and independence. \nLouvain Chalmers and Joette Heuft organized two speaker panels for this meeting: \nThe first group consisted of people from some of the agencies that run employment programs\, and who are working hard to find solutions to the challenge of job readiness for our family members and other like them: \nKalena Kavenaugh – Manager of PosAbilities Employment Services \nAnjela Godber – Outreach Manager for Ready\, Willing and Able (RWA) \nCaroline Gatchalian – Facilitator for Open Door’s “Jobs in Demand” employment program \nSarah Blackmore – Facilitator for Youth BEAT Employment Program\, run by the YMCA in Vancouver \n  \nThe second group consisted of four of our family members\, willing to speak about their experiences with job readiness\, finding work\, and their aspirations for employment: \nSam Guenther \nAlex Donohue \nAaron Michael \nPeter Wlasenko \n  \nThe First Group:  The Service Providers \n Kalena Kavenaugh\, is a manager at PosAbilities\, an employment agency specializing in working with clients with a disability. Kalena stated that job applicants need to have both the technical skills and soft skills specific to a job. She wanted to know about our family members’ wants and needs in order for PosAbilities to provide good services for job-seekers on the Spectrum. She discussed the job-coaching process as something that is different for each person\, depending on their needs. PosAbilities is a fee for service model. \nAnjela Godber\, of Ready\, Willing\, and Able\, (RWA)\, a federal government pilot project that began in February 2016. This particular RWA program is run under the umbrella of the Pacific Autism Family Network\, and therefore\, its staff has knowledge and experience working with individuals with autism. Anjela outlined their intake process\, which may include completion of their pre-employment program\, Employment Works. EW is a 12 week program\, consisting of 2 ½ hours\, 2 times per week. One session each week is in a classroom\, focused on a particular employment theme. The second session each week is in a workplace. There are six workplace experiences in each 12 week program. Anjela emphasized that employers are unanimous in claiming customer service and flexibility around work hours and job tasks are key assets in employees. Aside from doing good intake\, so that they find the best possible employment “fit” for their clients\, they also work on employee “soft skills” to help to make them “job ready”. As well as working with their clients on the Spectrum\, RWA has a staff member whose full time job is to seek out\, to educate employers about the advantages of hiring ASD individuals\, and to prepare and educate employers about how to support these new employees. \nCaroline Gatchalian\, of Open Door Jobs in Demand\, emphasized that their program focuses on job readiness in particular employment sectors (currently – security\, hospitality\, retail\, construction\, and social services). She talked about the advantages of openness with employers in disclosing the need for accommodation. She explained that this is an opportunity to highlight a job-seeker’s abilities and to explain how accommodations can be made to effectively integrate individuals with disabilities into the workplace. Caroline feels that employers are equally accountable to understand\, and to work with individuals of diverse abilities. \nSarah Blackmore\, of Youth BEAT\, talked about how her program serves people up to 29 years of age. It includes a pre-employment course that includes both hard skills\, and health and wellness components\, including mental wellness. This is a recognition that good mental health is a huge component of “job readiness”\, and that often\, anxiety and depression affect many people on the autism spectrum. The Youth Beat program provides 3rd party support to assist their clients to effectively communicate with employers\, and focuses on equal opportunity and employers. This program is also relatively new\, and\, as such\, is still developing and adjusting to meet the needs of its clients. \n  \nThe Second Group:  SPS Members Experiences in the Workplace \nSam Guenther talked about his experience with the Employment Works Program through Ready\, Willing and Able. He entered the program because he was not satisfied with the work he had been able to find so far. He was surprised by\, and appreciated how “hands-on” the program was. The program included on-the-job-training in a variety of work situations including hotel maintenance\, a recording studio\, and a horse ranch. In the past\, Sam has worked at Garden Works\, Safeway\, and at Stanley Park and Granville Island in security and parking enforcement. He currently works at CanPar\, loading delivery trucks. He has held this job for 2 ½ years. He got his current job through an employment service called Regard Resources. He is now looking for full time work\, a living wage\, and job functions that are less physically demanding. He would also prefer to work day shift rather than nights. He likes working with people. RWA has put some jobs forward to him but the jobs that have been offered to him so far\, have not seemed to him to be an improvement from his current job. \nAlex Donohue is studying part time. He also found his current job through RWA. Currently\, he works a Dietary Aide at Vancouver General Hospital preparing patient meals. His employment status is casual. He would like a regular shift with predictability and permanent status. He prefers not to work early mornings\, because his journey to work by transit early in the day is long\, and requires waking very early. Alex may enter film studies at Capilano University full time\, starting in the spring of 2017. \nAaron Michael participated in employment programs with RWA and BC Win. He is working full time\, in insurance\, and is taking one course at SFU. His previous job was at RGI\, as a travel agent\, booking rewards trips for Avion clients. Aaron has insurance education and credentials\, and he has just been made a permanent full time employee in the insurance department at London Drugs. Aaron likes his work and his manager\, and has settled in well. Initially though\, the job was very demanding\, due to a province-wide effort to implement  a new ICBC computer system\, working under two interim managers\, and staff shortages due to the sudden departure of a co-worker. Nevertheless\, the changes have been managed well by London Drugs\, and learning the new ICBC system together has made Aaron feel part of a team. Aaron also feels that he is learning transferable skills that will benefit him in future jobs. \nPeter Wlasenko discovered 4 years ago\, as a mature adult\, that he has Asperger’s Syndrome. After his diagnosis he participated in the Open Door Program. Peter worked with three specialist employment agencies for two years to find his current job. He discovered that he needed to build a good rapport with the intake worker at the agency; Peter realized that he or she needed to know him very well in order to understand what type of work would best suit him. He found success in VanCity’s Workforce Initiative\, a program designed to find and hire employees with barriers. As part of this program\, Peter’s disability was disclosed at the outset\, in his employment interview. He was therefore\, able to describe the type of work tasks and work environment that will best enable him to feel comfortable and to be successful. For Peter\, the specific work assignment is less important to his success than the workplace colleagues and environment. Peter enjoys feeling part of a team\, working on a common outcome\, and believes that people should feel supported\, stable and not anxious\, in their jobs. Peter’s peers are accepting and inclusive\, and his supervisor is supportive. He sees himself moving forward at VanCity. \nObservations and Questions \n\nThe gift is in identifying what we don’t like\, and turning the negative aspect around to focus on what does work for us. Then go for that.\nManagers who can effectively organize and communicate tasks and how to do them are very helpful.\nManagers can help by identifying a problem as soon as it occurs. It doesn’t help to let a small problem develop into a bigger problem\, especially when the worker does not understand that his or her behavior may be a problem. Being clear and direct is best.\nWhether or not to disclose barriers to supervisor and co-workers is a personal decision. Generally\, those who have disclosed find that this helps\, as they are able to seek the support that they need\, and gain understanding and accommodation.\nThe work team plays an important part in contributing to a worker’s enjoyment of the job and success at work.\nFamilies are important support networks. They know the supported individual’s strengths and weaknesses best\, and are highly motivated to see them succeed. Sometimes the worker doesn’t know\, due to youth or inexperience\, what work they might be able to do\, or are unable to clearly communicate their thoughts and feelings about their job path.\nA good friend can be a mentor. Victor talked about the role his school friend played in helping him to learn communication skills. Now Victor operates the Capability Club\, which offers training in communication skills to children on the Spectrum.\nFinding and keeping relationships is key to being successful in finding and keeping work.\nThere is general concern that agencies will find only entry-level or menial jobs for our family members. Having Asperger’s or HFA does not mean low intellect\, in fact\, ¾ of individuals with ASD have an intellect that is average or above.\nThere is an acknowledged gap in services to job-seekers on the spectrum who have average or above average intelligence. They need work to match their intellectual capacity and technical skills and training.\nSome workers already employed may need some support to be more successful and to keep their current work\, or to advance in their job\, by taking additional training\, or by making it clear that they are willing and able to take on larger roles in their jobs. There is an identified need for support to these people.\n\n  \n  \n  URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/meeting-october-20-2016-job-readiness CATEGORIES:Employment END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20161001T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20161001T190000 DTSTAMP:20211018T235627Z CREATED:20211009T010057Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211018T235627Z UID:1644-1475341200-1475348400@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:Pinball with Robert DESCRIPTION:Pinball with Robert Gagno URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/pinball-with-robert CATEGORIES:Fun ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://squarepegsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/pinball-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20160919T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20160919T180000 DTSTAMP:20211019T044122Z CREATED:20211009T004601Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211019T044122Z UID:1635-1474300800-1474308000@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:Cooking Club DESCRIPTION:  URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/cooking-club CATEGORIES:Fun,Life & Social Skills ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://squarepegsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/IMG_1718.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20160915T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20160915T210000 DTSTAMP:20211019T044228Z CREATED:20211009T005035Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211019T044228Z UID:1637-1473966000-1473973200@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:On Asperger's & Gender DESCRIPTION:Regular Square Peg Society Meeting : Nicole Jinn to present on Asperger’s & Gender \nLocation : VanCity South Burnaby Branch\,  5064 Kingsway\, Burnaby URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/on-aspergers-gender CATEGORIES:Advocacy END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20160915T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20160915T000000 DTSTAMP:20211018T235305Z CREATED:20161020T070000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211018T235305Z UID:1153-1473897600-1473897600@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:Meeting:  September 15\, 2016  Nicole Jinn\, Victor Toh\, Talie DESCRIPTION: This meeting was an opportunity for SPS members to speak about their interests and experiences. We had three speakers – Nicole Jinn\, who spoke from her experience\, about advocacy and gender imbalance\, and employment issues; Victor Toh\, who spoke about his business\, “Capability Club”\, providing life skills training for ASD children;  and Talie\, who spoke about her Autism 30 podcasts project. \nNicole Jinn\,  Advocacy for Adults with ASD and Gender Imbalance \nDuring her research\, Nicole approached both the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Social Development. As well\, she has viewed a number of service and employment agencies operating in the Lower Mainland. \nThese are her findings: \n* Access to funding after the age of 19 for those with HFA (High Functioning Autism) is very difficult. \n Those with an IQ over 70 and an adaptive functioning level greater than 55 (3 standard deviations below the mean) are excluded from Community Living BC (CLBC) funding. \nThis criteria excludes HFA and Asperger’s individuals\, and the assessment tools used do not adequately identify the deficits that those individuals struggle with\, for example\, difficulties with executive functioning. \n* There is an absence of services for spectrum adults generally\, but particularly those with HFA. \nThese organizations were canvassed: \nACT (Autism Community Training) has a mandate to work only with children. \nAutism Society of BC has an adult program in Prince George\, but none in the Lower \nMainland. This could change soon. \nCanucks Autism Network has programs for teens and adults with more serious \nconditions and has a waiting list. \nPALS Autism School offers adult programs for the severely affected. There is a long waiting list. \n* There is an absence of Employment related services for those with HFA  \nOrganizations currently addressing employment for those with ASD include: \n\nPacific Autism Family Centre (PAFC) Employment Works\nInclusion BC: Ready Willing and Able (through PAFC\, has expertise on Autism\n\n\nCoast Clubhouse – mainly for labourers.\n\n\nGastown Vocational Services\n\n\nYMCA Youth Beat Program\n\n\nEmployment Works Canada\n\n\nFocus Professional Services Trains adults with HFA to deliver software and data quality services to their various clients.\n\n\nCBI Consultants offers a fee-for-service program for those without CLBC funding.\n\n\nPosAbilities offers a fee-for-service program for those without CLBC funding.\n\n\nWork BC\n\n\nJobs West\n\nMost of these programs are not specific to individuals with autism. \n* There are service barriers for those with HFA \n For those without a qualifying diagnosis or CLBC many programs are often inaccessible or unaffordable. Often the programs that do exist do not provide the supports necessary to finding and keeping employment. These may include: \n–  Emotion and anxiety management\, \n–  Communication and interpersonal skills \n–  An established support network with follow up coaching. \n* Gender imbalance? \nAnecdotally\, differences between males and females have been noted\, in terms of frequency of diagnosis and in the impact on the individual’s lives.  However\, there have not been a sufficient number of research studies published to date. While most case studies related to Asperger’s have male subjects\, the following differences between males & females have been observed. Females tend to be stronger than males in language and social interaction skills\, and in the ability to mirror socially acceptable behaviours. They tend to suffer more fromsensory or emotional overload than do males. Females are also more likely to be diagnosed with anorexia or A.D.D. Consequentially\, females without significant intellectual impairment are diagnosed later and less often; this is a population that struggles on without supports. \nConclusion \nMost services and employment agencies were neither accessible nor suitable for high functioning individuals who need help to function in the community after age 19. \nWays Forward \n\nParticipate in the Autism Society of BC (ASBC) through the establishment of a group for adults.\nJoin Autism Canada\, in their efforts to achieve Federal Accessibility Legislation leading to a Canadian Disability Act\, and to improve representation of ASD adults on this initiative.\nEncourage additional research which will help us to better understand the differences between males and females on the Spectrum.\n\n  \nVictor Toh\,  Capability Club   “All Kids are Special” \nVictor’s mission is to prepare kids for adulthood and employment\, through the development of life and social skills that lead to independence\, and to satisfying and meaningful interdependence. \nThe turning point in Victor’s life\, and the impetus for this business idea\, occurred while at University in Kingston\, where he helped his friend John\, who was paralyzed\, negotiate his way around the campus. John returned the favour by coaching Victor in social skills\, such as subtle cues from language and body language\, which enabled Victor to begin to develop his social network. \nVictor has a background in tutoring\, a degree in psychology\, and has previously owned his own business. At Capability Club\, Victor offers a specialised tutoring service based on his own and his son’s experience on the Spectrum. His service runs after school and on weekends. Pick up and drop off is offered. Family members are welcome to volunteer. Currently\, he is based in the Collingwood area but will be expanding to Chinatown. \nThe Program   \nSchool age children in groups of two to five (including neuro-typicals) participate in various activities in the community with the purpose of interacting with each other while forming broad social networks. Peer and adult support are key factors that are often not covered in schools. Each child is assigned an individualized development program. This file is used to record measureable progress in areas such as motivation\, creativity\, critical thinking\, language\, ability to collaborate. In part\, this is achieved through journals in which the children are encouraged to record their activities and observations. \nThe curriculum includes: \n\nOral communication\nSelf awareness and self respect\nMobile technology\nPsychology and philosophy\nReading\, Writing & Listening\nMoney awareness\n\nActivities\, such as gardening or music\, are typical activities which are used as a focus for social development\, with the goal of finding talents\, overcoming fears\, and acting on solutions to difficulties. \nFuture Steps \nVictor’s goal is to complete training in psycho-social rehabilitation\, and to become a non profit Society. \nContact Victor Toh at: 778 302 1319 \n  \nTalie\, Autism 30 \nTalie began her project to share information about autism via podcast in 2015. She is energised by her own autistic son and an international background as a teacher with a strong desire to help others. \nTalie’s collection of podcasts can be accessed from 98 countries. Her goal is to make more people aware of issues and solutions relevant to ASD\, especially in the Lower Mainland\, and to share knowledge and experience. \nContact Talie at: autism30.com or talie@autism30.com URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/meeting-september-15-2016-nicole-jinn-victor-toh-talie CATEGORIES:Advocacy,SPS Business END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20160827T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20160827T160000 DTSTAMP:20211018T234049Z CREATED:20211009T005336Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211018T234049Z UID:1640-1472292000-1472313600@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:Social Gathering at Deer Lake DESCRIPTION:Social Gathering:   Picnic & boating at Deer Lake in Burnaby. URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/social-gathering-at-deer-lake CATEGORIES:Fun END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20160722 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20160723 DTSTAMP:20211018T235123Z CREATED:20160729T070000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211018T235123Z UID:1151-1469145600-1469231999@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:Meeting: July 22\, 2016 Charitable Status\, Fundraising & Advocacy DESCRIPTION:The following Mission Statement was adopted: \nWho We Are: \n\nA non-profit volunteer group supporting atypical & Autism Spectrum post-high school adults and their families.\nOur goal is independence for our supported adults; therefore\, our focus is on the following issues as key to achieving this goal:\n\nEmployment\, Post-Secondary Education\, Housing\, Finances\, and Life & Social Skills. \nWhat We Offer: \n\nInformation dissemination pertaining to the above issues.\nEmotional support for our individuals & families. \nAlliances with funded service agencies\, who may partner with us to host meetings or provide workshops on issues of common interest.\nAdvocacy to push for Government policy change. \n\nMembership approved the appointed Board for one term only \n            President:                               Joette Heuft \n            Vice-President:                      Louvain Chalmers \n            Secretary:                               Sue McIntyre \n            Treasurer:                               Mahmoud Rezaee \n            Board Member 1:                  Catherine Alcee \n            Board Member 2:                  Fred Michael \nElection of Board Member 3 \n            Board Member 3:                  Sam Guenther nominated and elected . \nSubsequently\, all Board Members are to be elected\, in keeping with terms specified below: \nWe became a BC Non-profit Society May 30th 2016. Therefore\, we designated May 30th as our year end\, with elections and an Annual General Meeting to be held In June or July. Board Members terms are to be 2 years\, with the election of Vice-President\, Treasurer\, and Board Member 2 to be held in June/July of 2017. The election of President\, Secretary\, and Board Members 1 & 3 to be held in June/July of 2018. \n  \nBusiness of Meeting was to review Charitable Status\, Fundraising & Advocacy \nVideo:  http://sectorsource.ca/resource/video/what-charitable-status \nHaving Charitable status: \nPros: \n\nWould enable us to issue tax receipts to donors\nMay legitimize us as an organization\, thereby attracting donors who would not otherwise consider supporting us (seen as vetted by CRA).\nSome funders (government agencies\, foundations) are prohibited from donating/sponsoring organizations that do not have charitable status.\nIncome tax exemption.\n\nCons: \n\nMore admin: regular minutes\, an AGM\, Board\, accounting of time and money spent on various activities.\nMore bookkeeping\, showing income & expenditures\, accounts sent to Minister. Form T3010 Registered Charity Information Return needs to be submitted; Registered Charities Official Receipts need to be issued for your donors to claim a Charitable Tax Credit.\nAll monies paid into separate accounts\, and all accounts need to be open to inspection.\nNeither fundraising nor advocacy are considered to be activities primary to the purposes of a Charity. Both are restricted to 10-20% of the Charity’s activity. All activities of all members would need to be documented to track time & resources dedicated to each of these activities.\n\nhttp://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/vdgllry/chrts-gvng/fndrsng-eng.html \nCRA’s Rules for Advocacy for Charities \n\nCharities can engage in political activities so long as they advance\, but do not supersede its charitable purpose. As part of their general activities\, charities can engage in public awareness campaigns\, can communicate with an elected or public official\, and can share the entire text of a communication with an elected or public official\, as long as there is no specific call to action within it.\nPolitical activities can comprise 10-20% of the Charity’s activities\, so long as the activities are non-partisan\, connected to\, and subordinate to the charities purposes.\nAs part of their political activities a Charity can explicitly communicate a Call to Action to an elected or public official\, urging them to retain\, oppose\, or change a law or policy or decision of any level of Govt\, including a foreign country.\nAs part of their political activities a Charity can explicitly indicate in its materials\, that the intention of its activity is to incite\, to organize or to put pressure on any level of Govt\, including a foreign country in order that law or policy or decision be retained\, opposed\, or changed. \n\nProhibited Political Activities for Charitable Organizations \n\nCan promote a gov’t policy\, but can’t directly or indirectly support a political party or candidate\nCan provide information to its supporters or to the public on how officials voted\, but can’t single out how any one official or party voted on any single issue.\n\nOperating as a Non-profit: \nPros: \n\nPolitical activities are less regulated.\nFundraising events are less regulated\, in that they are not limited to a certain percentage of the overall activities\, and they do not require specific receipting procedures.\nLess record-keeping of activities for the purposes of conformity to primary purposes of the organization.\n\nCons: \n\nCannot issue tax receipts to donors.\nCannot claim tax exemption.\nCannot appeal to donors who require Charitable status.\nIf we appeal to other agencies\, who have funding and Charitable status to assist us with funding our programs or activities\, our agenda must align or over-lap theirs. (ie\, we will not get funding from inclusive service providers for programs specific to people with Asperger’s).\n\nHow/why this matters to us: \nI asked that we weigh the above against how we view our role as advocates\, and how much and for what purposes we require funding. \nAdvocacy: We can form an Advocacy committee within SPS. We can select interested members of SPS to work on this issue with other interested groups\, with us identifying issues relevant to us\, and with our delegates reporting back to us (Catherine\, Nicole\, Bruce?). \nFundraising: I do not want to fundraise for programs that exist\, that with good networking and alliances we can participate in. I am willing to fundraise for programs relevant to our supported individuals\, which do not currently exist. I cannot see our fundraising needs being greater than $8000.00/per year. This amount would give us enough each year to run 2 programs\, and pay honorariums and/or expenses to some speakers and/or volunteers/hosts for programs or activities (ie\, volunteer chefs for cooking club).  For the upcoming Relationships & Dating workshop\, the entire budget of $4000.00 is secured. (Sponsors are Spectrum Society\, PosAbilities\, Simon Fraser Society\, Community Living Society\, Family Support Institute\, Burnaby Association for Community Inclusion\, & Community Living BC). A modified PEERS workshop likely would have to be funded ourselves\, as it was designed specifically for High-functioning Aspergers. \nAfter some discussion the Members present voted in favour of Option 2: \n\nApply for Charitable Status.\nOperate as a Non-Profit Society; Fred Michael to proceed with fundraising for Modified PEERS program to start March 2016.\nAdditional information required. Table this vote until the September 22 meeting\, with report from Fred Michael at that time.\n\nVote on above two options at that time. \nMember Participation:  \nHow We Need Your Help: \n\nChat about us to everyone you know – hand out our card. (about to be revised)\nEncourage your kids to become involved: social gathering\, cooking club\, relationship & sexuality workshop\, PEERS workshop\, or Website postings – New webpage is soon to be added to our Website. This will provide space for our members to submit thoughts\, reviews\, and creative work. Member needed to post these submissions.\nAdvocacy Team\nAssist Fred with specific funding requests. We need funds for PEERS\, and for honorariums for our Cooking Club chefs.\nA Square Peg parent to be a follow up on Ready\, Willing & Able’s progress with our individuals.\n\nHow you are Helping: (Thanks!) \n\nCatherine is going to update Resources on Website. Meeting with Derik (BACI) August 24th.\nSue is going to do the food shopping and be the volunteer parent for the Cooking Club; I will do the booking.\nLaya\, Nima & Mahmoud will continue to host the social gatherings.\n\nFred will proceed with fundraising. I will help with appeals to service agencies. URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/meeting-july-22-2016-charitable-status-fundraising-advocacy CATEGORIES:SPS Business END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20160616 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20160617 DTSTAMP:20211019T044342Z CREATED:20160620T070000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211019T044342Z UID:1150-1466035200-1466121599@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:Meeting\, June 16\, 2016: Workplace Safety & Employment Standards DESCRIPTION:Speaker: Matthew Bowcott from WorkSafe BC spoke about his workplace accident and his lessons learned the hard way –  \nThe Matthew Bowcott Story (YouTube) and through a Quiz we explored the Employment Standards Act. For more information about the Act: \nhttps://www.labour.gov.bc.ca/esb/igm/igm-toc.htm \n  \n  \n  \n  \n  URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/social-gathering-saturday-june-25-2016 CATEGORIES:Employment END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20160519T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20160519T000000 DTSTAMP:20211019T044401Z CREATED:20160525T070000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211019T044401Z UID:1149-1463616000-1463616000@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:May 19\, 2016 Meeting: Finances 101 DESCRIPTION:Our speakers\, from VanCity\, Monina Selga and Edi Soehardi\, of VanCity\, spoke to our group about monthly management of our finances and about how to improve our financial well-being  over the long term.This meeting was intended primarily for our young people\, and covered the basics of spending within our income\, making wise choices with our money\, credit card management\, and record keeping methods. The more our youth learn now about managing their financial affairs\, the more capable they will be to do so when they are fully on their own! \nFinancial Planning Budgeting Tips \nPoints to Remember: \n\nPay yourself first\nKeep receipts and check them against your bank statement\nUse funds for their intended purpose\nPay off your credit card balance monthly (interest rates can range from 19.5-30%)\nBeware of scammers & fraud\nBe cautious of buy now\, pay later promotions\n\n Review your budget after the first month: \n\nMake sure that all income and expenses are listed\nDetermine whether you have a Surplus or Deficit\n\nSurplus – extra money that can be saved or invested \nDeficit – money that needs to be made up by cutting expenses \n\nContinue tracking income & expenses to ensure a Balanced Budget\n\nThree Month Budget Review: \n\nLook for trends\n\nSurplus continues – put extra money toward long term goals\, ie\, savings\, retirement\, education\, vacation \nDeficit continues – look for other sources of income\, overtime\, second job – or reduce expenses \n\nExamine your results against your long term goals\n\nAre you progressing toward your goals? \nHow are your needs being met – the things you must have? \nDon’t Give Up: \n\nImproving your financial situation does not happen overnight\nContinue listing your detailed income & expenses\nReview your bills and statements regularly\nAdjust your budget to reflect changes in income and changes in goals\nThis is your plan; you can always update it\, but keep focused on your long term goals & dreams\n\n Tips to Successful Budgeting: \n\nKnow why you are budgeting\nHave a specific long term goal in mind\nKeep a written budget\nKnow how much you actually make\nMake sure your budget data is complete and accurate\nUse bank accounts with budgeting tools\nEnlist the support of at least one person you trust\nSet a few short term goals\, in addition to your long term goals\n\n Resources: \n\nCanadian Bankers Association – http//www.cba.ca/en/consumer-information\nMoneysense magazine and website\nFinancial Consumer Agency of Canada budget calculator – http//itools-ioutils fcac-acfc.gc.ca/BC-CB/NetInc-RevNet-eng aspx\nYour financial association.\n\n  \nMonthly Budget Template \n\n\n\n\nJanuary\nFebruary\nMarch\nApril\nMay\nJune\nJuly\nAugust\nSeptember\nOctober\nNovember\nDecember\nTotal\n\n\nIncome\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n0.00\n\n\nOther income\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n0.00\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nExpenses\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSavings\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n0.00\n\n\nRent\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n0.00\n\n\nUtilities\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n0.00\n\n\nInternet\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n0.00\n\n\nFood\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n0.00\n\n\nCar/Transit\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n0.00\n\n\nClothes\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n0.00\n\n\nCell phone\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n0.00\n\n\nEntertainment\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n0.00\n\n\nEating out\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n0.00\n\n\nMiscellaneous\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n0.00\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTotal\n0.00\n0.00\n0.00\n0.00\n0.00\n0.00\n0.00\n0.00\n0.00\n0.00\n0.00\n0.00\n0.00\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSurplus\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDeficit\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nBeginning Balance\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEnding Balance\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nSocial Well being points URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/may-19-2016-meeting-finances-101 CATEGORIES:Life & Social Skills END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20160418 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20160419 DTSTAMP:20211018T233056Z CREATED:20160302T080000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211018T233056Z UID:1144-1460937600-1461023999@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:February 18\, 2016\, Meeting: The Ready\, Willing & Able Employment Initiative DESCRIPTION:The Ready\, Willing & Able Employment Initiative (RWA)\, in BC\, is being hosted by the Pacific Autism Family Centre and Inclusion BC.  Jenna Christianson-Barker\, is the Director of Adult Programs at Pacific Autism Family Centre; her role within RWA is to oversee the positions of Anjela Godber\, the Autism Outreach Manager\, and Stacey Freeman\, the Regional Autism Manager.  Stacey will be procuring employers and educating them about working with people on the Spectrum\, and Anjela will be interviewing individuals seeking employment and connecting them with the employers through Employment Placement Agencies. The RWA program is being offered in 20 communities across Canada.  In the Metro Vancouver region\, these communities are Vancouver\, the North Shore\, Richmond\, Delta\, Surrey\, Maple Ridge & Langley. \nThis RWA  initiative is a federally funded\, 3 year pilot program formed specifically to address the under-representation in the workplace of people with developmental disabilities.  To participate in this program: \n\nan individual need not be formally diagnosed\, or be a CLBC recipient\, but must self-identify as having permanent impairments that restrict his or her ability to perform daily activities. This could mean a self-diagnosis of ASD\, and/or having recurrent challenges with anxiety or depression.\nRWA participants must be 18 or older\, and be legally entitled to work in Canada.\nindividuals who are working part-time\, but who wish to be working full time\, or who would like to obtain a second part-time job\, are eligible.\n\nFor those just entering the workforce\, Worktopia’s Employment Works program\, a 12 week employment preparation program will be offered through RWA\, beginning in April. \nFrom our perspective at Square Peg Society: \n\nWe hope that this program can help our capable\, young adults to find & keep employment.\nWe want our youth to be well-matched with their prospective employers\, and to be assisted with integration in their jobs.\nWe fully understand that an employee doesn’t start his or her career at management level. However\, we hope that RWA will lead to jobs that our youth can grow in that will provide them a viable living.\nWe want skills/training/education deficits to be identified and the path to obtaining these skills outlined.\nWe want to be part of the dialogue and want to help to make this important employment opportunity succeed for our youth\, for the employers\, and for the program.\n\nJenna commented that\, as RWA is a federal program\, it has a broader reach than existing employment programs\, and therefore can approach larger employers with branches/offices throughout the country. This National and Provincial address distinguishes this program from the approach used by many existing inclusive Employment Agencies. As much as possible RWA attempts to approach employers at the senior level\, to make them aware of the advantages of hiring people on the Spectrum\, and to encourage  them to participate in this employment initiative. The intention is to create awareness of an underutilized workforce\, and hopefully\, to generate a pool of jobs\, rather than a single job at a time. Existing service agencies working on employment for people with disabilities tend to have difficulties finding a sufficient number and range of jobs to meet the demand. \nParticipants in the RWA program will be matched to jobs found through RWA\, but will be placed in those jobs through existing employment placement agencies. This means that\, while Anjela will be interviewing RWA prospective employees\, and Stacey will be seeking out prospective employers\, and matching the two\, the job placement will occur through a placement agency\, such as WorkBC\, Jobs West or PosAbilities. Job coaching\, if needed\, will be provided\, through the employment agency\, with funding from RWA. We were told that the requirement for the job placement to be made through an employment agency is so that there is a record of an individual’s placements. I am unconvinced that this is  the primary motivation for this requirement\, and worry that the rapport and the understanding of an individual’s abilities might be lost in the handing off of the individual to the Employment Placement Agency. Anjela assured us that this will not be the case; that it is her intention to continue to follow up with her interviewees to ensure that they are well-placed and succeeding in their jobs. Apparently\, RWA participants can select the Placement Agency\, if they have worked with a particular agency previously\, or if they feel a given agency has more experience working with ASD individuals. It was also pointed out that the Employment Placement Agency is a vehicle for facilitating the job\, and that an individual is not required to register for any other of the placement agency’s services. \nTwo common drawbacks of many of the jobs presented to ASD individuals through many existing Employment Placement agencies are:1) the prevalence of unskilled entry level jobs\, and\, of the jobs directed to ASD individuals 2)the predominance of technology sector jobs. One of our members encouraged that RWA look beyond these two sectors in seeking employers for the program. \nIt was noted during the meeting that\, within RWA\, disclosure of a disability was a non-issue\, as all participating employers will be prepared to be working with people with a developmental disabilities. For some of our audience\, this is clearly a benefit\, as they feel that their ASD “label” has value\, as it helps “others” to quickly gain a broad understanding of some the typical characteristics common to people on the Spectrum\, making it unnecessary for the individual with ASD to explain how & why they are “different”. For others\, their life experiences with disclosure have resulted in their “differences” being seen as “lesser”\, a hurtful experience for anyone. It is the individual’s right to confine knowledge of his or her diagnosis to their direct employer only\, and that the choice of disclosing to others should be entirely up to them. Stacey\, and RWA are unapologetically approaching employers with the attitude that their prospective employees have strengths and abilities which make them desirable employees\, capable of positively contributing in their jobs. Period. \nSeveral points about succeeding in a workplace were made. For example\, the importance of small adjustments to the workplace environment (noise\, lights\, distractions)\, might be able to be made for certain employees. A clear description of tasks\, and/or the prioritization of tasks presented in written or graphic form\, rather than orally\, is often helpful to ASD individuals. Identifying the hierarchy of command\, or better still\, ensuring that the ASD individual is answerable only to one “boss” is also key. Assigning a mentor in the workplace\, to make explicit\, (rather than\, implicit)\, expectations might also be helpful. \nFor many ASD individuals\, their autistic characteristics are only part of their challenge. Many\, through misunderstanding by others\, struggles in comprehending what is expected of them\, and social exclusion\, suffer from anxiety\, low self-esteem\, and depression\, and require mental health supports\, for which there is no financial aid\, past age 19. As well\, there are gaps in their general life and social skills. In an ideal world\, this supplemental care would flow from employment services\, as employment is the key to a sustainable\, adult existence. Some of our members feel that this vision should be the model to hold on to (see “How to find Work that Works for People with Asperger Syndrome”\, by Gail Hawkins\, director of a specialized Employment Agency in Ontario)\, while others feel that we\, in BC\, are so far from realizing this model\, that\, in order to support our individuals now we must provide these mental health and social supports outside of\, and ancillary to\, employment programs such as RWA. \nThe newly revised RWA has the important goals of connecting ASD individuals with the jobs they need to become independent adults\, and of giving them the skills they need to succeed in their jobs and in developing in their careers. Jenna\, Anjela\, & Stacey are knowledgeable about this population\, and are genuine in their commitment to realize these goals. With good communication between them and the Employment Placement agencies and their job coaches\, we hope to make inroads toward achieving more and better employment for our young adults. As this pilot program is in its infancy\, there will\, no doubt be changes made along the way. We wish them every success! URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/meeting-february-18-2016 CATEGORIES:Employment END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20160417 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20160418 DTSTAMP:20211018T234553Z CREATED:20160506T070000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211018T234553Z UID:1146-1460851200-1460937599@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:Sun Run\, April 17\, 2016 DESCRIPTION:  \nCongrats to Nima\, who ran in a blistering time of 43:12! A respectable finish for all – Fred\, 51:27; Mahmoud\, 53:20; Sam\, 1:05 18; Joette\, 1:06; Aaron\, 1:06 55; Laya\, 1:18 21; Sue\, 1:22 26; Alex\, 1:25 42; Janet\, 1:45 47; Janet W\, 1:47 31. URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/sun-run-april-17-2016 CATEGORIES:Fun END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20160416 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20160417 DTSTAMP:20211018T233659Z CREATED:20160506T070000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211018T233659Z UID:1147-1460764800-1460851199@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:Meeting: April 21\, 2016 Community Living BC Funding Eligibility Criteria DESCRIPTION:Our speaker was Douglas Lee\, a clinical behavioral psychologist\, the Clinical Director at Behavioural Solutions Inc.\, who as part of his practice\, also conducts eligibility assessments for Community Living BC (CLBC). \nDr. Lee played a crucial role in developing the eligibility criteria for Community Living BC (CLBC) programs; he was on committees which established the current eligibility requirements that now apply to Developmental Disability\, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder (FASD)\, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD)\, which includes Asperger’s.  Since the inception of the current PSI criteria by CLBC in 2010\, Dr. Lee has been assessing applicants for eligibility for Community Living BC (CLBC) funding and services. He has performed more than 300 of these eligibility assessments. \nSquare Peg Society requested the following: \n\nA clear definition of the eligibility criteria for CLBC funding and the documentation required to receive that funding.\n\n\nHow “level of Adaptive Functioning”\, is defined\, as PSI funding hinges on this term\, and who in our community of high functioning adults is likely to be included or excluded by this definition.\n\n\nIs there any intent to review and/or revise the current CLBC eligibility criteria? If so\, what changes are most likely to be considered?\n\n\nThe number of adults diagnosed with Aspergers\, particularly females\, is increasing. These individuals struggle to find and keep jobs\, and social relationships. Without these key aspects of life in place\, individuals cannot function as typical adults\, yet CLBC funding criteria does not recognize this gap\, or consequently\, the impact of the lack of funds and services for this group. How is CLBC and our provincial government proposing to assist these high functioning individuals in achieving their full potential?\n\nTo receive CLBC funding an individual must meet the criteria for a Developmental Disability\, which includes a variety of conditions\, and an IQ of less than 70. The other route to CLBC funding is through the Personal Supports Initiative (PSI) program.  For this funding\, a diagnosis of either Pervasive Developmental Disorder (PDD) or Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and “significant limitations in adaptive functioning are required. These conditions must have occurred prior to birth\, during birth\, or in early childhood. For PSI\, in addition to a diagnosis of PDD or FASD\, the individual must have an IQ of greater than 70\, but a Level of Adaptive Functioning of 55 or less. Individuals with an IQ of greater than 70 will frequently have a level of Adaptive Functioning that is greater than 55 (more than 3 standard deviations below the mean of “normally functioning “ individuals)\, and this criteria will almost always eliminate individuals with Asperger’s. Dr. Lee told us that\, when the current PSI criteria was developed\, it was intended to include individuals with an IQ of greater than 70\, and a Level of Adaptive Functioning less than 70. However\, in the midst of the economic climate of 2008\, the Level of Adaptive Functioning was required to be lower than 55 to reduce the numbers of individuals who would be eligible for funding. This was entirely an economic decision\, not a decision having anything to do with need for services. This criteria disproportionately discriminates against high functioning ASD individuals\, who are experiencing difficulty in performing effectively in life and work due a lack of natural ability in interpersonal social skills and communication. Douglas Lee does not believe that the exclusion of ASD or FASD individuals is inherent in PSI structure\, but rather that the bar has been set too low to ensure services for those in need. He does not believe that there is any appetite to change these terms; that change can only come through advocacy from the community. \nTo become advocates for change to this criteria and subsequently\, CLBC funding\, we would need to form a committee and assign tasks: \n\nTo gather the facts\nTo form alliances with other groups\, particularly Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder (FASD)\, and service agencies whose clients are also affected by these\nTo gain the ear of media\, CBC’s “Go Public”\, for example.\nTo find a few key supporters in the Provincial Government. (Anyone know of a MLA who has a family who is affected by this issue?) Also\, to determine how to frame our “ask”\, in order to get a positive response.\n\nThe Facts: \nWe need to uncover the original PSI criteria.  Next we would attempt to determine the number of individuals in BC who received Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) funding prior to PSI funding\, and who continued to do so after the institution of PSI\, until they aged out at 19\, say\,  between 2008-2013. We would then compare that number with the number of individuals receiving PSI funding between 2010 -2015. These figures would represent those individuals who were receiving funding until the age of 19\, but who were deemed ineligible for PSI funding as adults. The difference between these two numbers would reveal the number of people dropped from funding after the adoption of PSI funding. These people were not suddenly “cured” – simply\, the criteria was too restrictive to ensure their continued coverage. \nAlliances: \nAs FASD individuals are also “left out in the cold”\, an alliance with this group might increase our visibility. Some of the service agencies are frustrated with the limited provincial funding\, and with repeatedly being contacted by people who they are unable to help; they might be willing to partner with us in this advocacy campaign. However\, Douglas Lee told us that CLBC employees are expressly told that they are not allowed to lobby government. \nThe Ask: \nThe obvious demand would be to raise the Level of Adaptive Functioning bar – to the original less than 70\, rather than less than 55\, in order to capture more high functioning ASD individuals. Perhaps also we should be asking for assessments other than “level of adaptive functioning” to be included in the assessments. Including assessments that evaluate executive functioning would better represent ASD individuals with lower social and verbal communication skills\, and the impact that these deficiencies have on their lives. Asking for inclusion in services already in existence through other agencies\, and tailoring some of these to our needs – for example\, mental health services – might be attainable. Regular workshops on strategies for coping with anxiety and depression\, and on life and social skills would go a long way toward helping our members succeed in work and life. URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/meeting-april-21-2016-community-living-bc-funding-eligibility-criteria CATEGORIES:Advocacy,Life & Social Skills END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20160316 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20160317 DTSTAMP:20211018T233501Z CREATED:20160327T070000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211018T233501Z UID:1145-1458086400-1458172799@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:March 17\, 2016 Meeting: Legal & Financial Planning DESCRIPTION:Halldor K Bjarnason – Access Law Group Barrister and Solicitor Specializing in Disability Trust Planning\, halldor@accesslaw.ca  604.697.0231 \nTina Cheung – Vancity Wealth Planner\nSonesh Chikhlia – Vancity Wealth Planner \n  \nRegistered Disability Savings Plan \nTina Cheung spoke briefly on the federal Registered Disability Savings Plans. RDSPs can be established for your individual with a disability at several Canadian banks\, including VanCity. To be eligible the supported individual: \n\nmust be eligible for the Disability Tax Credit\nmust have a valid Social Insurance Number\nmust be a Canadian resident when the RDSP is opened\nmust be under age 60\n\nAn RDSP augments the contributions made by the person setting up the plan for a person with a disability with government grants. These Canada Disability Savings Grants (CDSG) may be as much as $3500 per year with a lifetime limit of $70\,000\, based on the Beneficiary’s family income. For Beneficiaries over the age of 19\, the Beneficiary’s family income is considered to be the individual’s income together with that of their spouse\, if there is one. Total contributions of up to $200\,000 are allowed and can be made until the Beneficiary turns 59. As well\, the Canada Disability Savings Bond (CDSB) is available to low income beneficiaries\, in amounts up to $1000/year\, with a maximum lifetime limit of $20\,000\, up to the time when the Beneficiary turns 49. The amount paid is based on family income alone (not dependent on contributions). New Beneficiaries\, including an adult who has been diagnosed later in life (assuming that they can provide a doctor’s certificate of their existing condition) can back-date their Plan to 2008 when RDSPs became available. Payment of the RDSP must begin at age 60; however\, withdrawal of contributions are permitted by the Beneficiary at any time\, but will result in the loss of a portion of the grant & bond amounts paid into the RDSP over the previous 10 years. The portion to be repaid is 3 to 1 – that is $3.00 of accumulated grant/bond money for every $1.00 of contribution withdrawn. \nThe topic of eligibility for Community Living BC (CLBC) or Person With Disability (PWD) support was raised but deferred. Douglas Lee\, a psychologist who determines eligibility for CLBC funds and services will speak at our April meeting. However\, Tina mentioned that Vancity works with Equal Futures\, who can assist with obtaining a Disability Tax Credit Certificate for a potential RDSP beneficiary. See Additional Resources below. \n  \nEstate Planning and Disability Trusts \nHalldor Bjarnason has extensive experience in the area of disability inheritance law and has set up many trusts for families with members with disabilities. \nHalldor began his presentation by emphasizing the importance of having a Will. It gives you control over your estate\, in that it permits you to appoint an Executor to manage your affairs\, to appoint a guardian for any minor children\, to distribute your estate in the amounts and to whom you wish\, and to establish Trusts to protect vulnerable Beneficiaries. Without a Will that appoints a guardian for minor children\, custody is given to the Ministry of Children & Families\, and custody of their estate is given to the Public Trustee. \nHalldor provided us with the following definition of a Trust: A relationship where one person (the Settlor) gives assets to a second person (the Trustee) to hold and use for the benefit of a third person (the Beneficiary). A trust within our Will for a family member with a disability makes our wishes clear in a way that is less likely to be legally contested. A discretionary trust is not regarded as an asset\, and therefore\, will not result in a reduction of our Beneficiary’s disability assistance payments\, whereas an inheritance would.  As well\, it allows us to specify a person or persons who will be responsible for ensuring that the inheritance is allocated in the best interests of our family member. For example\, Trust funds can be used to provide the Beneficiary with medical aids\, caregiving or home support costs\, education or training costs\, maintenance or renovations to the Beneficiary’s principal residence\, and rent costs above the allowance for housing in the disability allowance\, without resulting in claw backs of the Beneficiary’s disability assistance benefits. The role of the Trustee(s) is to determine the Beneficiary’s needs\, to responsibly invest the Trust’s assets\, to keep records and to pay taxes. As such\, more than one Trustee\, each with different skill sets\, (3 is good) may be preferred. Aside from selecting the type of Trust\, the number and choice of trustees (including professional trustees)\, what the trust can be spent on\, and how its assets are to be invested\, we also need to consider if there are conflicts of interest for the Trustees (are they personally affected by the disbursement of funds to the Beneficiary?)\, to ensure an ultimate beneficiary (the person to whom the remainder of the trust is paid after the death of the beneficiary)\, and a continuity of Trustees. Halldor noted that Trust agreements are a specialized area of law\, which requires a lawyer who is has experience preparing disability trusts\, and who is able to answer the question\, “How does my family member’s disability status affect my estate planning?” \nAfter the meeting\, we wondered how applicable this is to our Square Peg families\, many of whom do not receive disability funding\, and whose supported person is often capable\, in large measure\, of managing their own affairs. Halldor’s view is that the estate planning should be customized to our circumstances\, and those of our supported individual. For families with a fully mentally competent Beneficiary\, it may be a case of weighing\, or balancing between different options.  For example\, if an estate is small\, a Trust can be set up where the Beneficiary can be their own Trustee – but the Trust is deemed “non-discretionary” and must be $200\,000 or less\, for individuals who are recipients of disability benefits. Over this amount\, it would be considered an asset\, and render the individual ineligible for BC Disability assistance.  Another option is to roll the person’s share of our estate into an RDSP\, also with a $200\,000 contribution limit. However\, if the Beneficiary is younger (under 50)\, a large contribution made at once would mean that the individual would lose access to the grants and bonds. On the other hand\, this approach would not incur the taxes that an inheritance would\, if is rolled over from the parent’s/grandparent’s RRSP/RIF.  To overcome the shortcomings of a large single contribution to an RDSP\, Halldor recommends using a Trust to make annual contributions to the RDSP – which provides the leverage necessary to maximize access to grants/bonds.   For larger estates\, Halldor often recommends both a discretionary trust with an independent trustee (unlimited) and a non-discretionary trust with the beneficiary as trustee ($200K limit) – with the caveat that one needs to  ensure  that the two are not intermingled. \n  \nAs you can see\, care needs to be taken to ensure that the interests of our supported individual are served after our death\, and this is a specialized area of law\, which requires input from an advisor with experience with disability estate planning. \n  \nAdditional Financial Resources  \nIn acknowledgement that CLBC funding is independent of claiming a Disability Tax Credit\, and therefore\, applying for an RDSP: \nThe Equal Futures RDSP program is provided by Ability Tax & Trust Advisors\, supported by VanCity. “It is a social purpose program that provides an easy \, efficient and free service to eligible individuals to learn about\, qualify for\, and open an Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP). As a prerequisite to opening an RDSP\, Equal Futures will assist in determining and applying for a Disability Tax Credit. \nwww.equalfutures.ca   1-855 773-7377  info@equalfutures.ca \n For tax assistance: \nThe Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) is a collaboration between community organizations and the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Community organizations host tax preparation clinics and arrange for volunteers to prepare income tax and benefit returns for eligible individuals who have a modest income and a simple tax situation. \nwww.cra-arc.gc.ca/volunteer/ \n The Disability Alliance of BC’s new Tax Aid program\, see below for details and video: \nwww.disabilityalliancebc.org/ourwork_new.htm \n For those with a more complex tax situation: \nDavid Chiu\, BBA\, CGA\, CFP\, is an accountant and financial planner who specialist in assisting familities with a member with a disability with their taxes and financial planning. \ndavid@davidchiucga.com           604.731-0611 \n  URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/march-17-2016-meeting-legal-estate-planning CATEGORIES:Life & Social Skills END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20160109 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20160110 DTSTAMP:20211018T233257Z CREATED:20160109T080000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211018T233257Z UID:1142-1452297600-1452383999@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:January 9\, 2016 Housing Workshop: Howard Staples\, Facilitator DESCRIPTION:Inclusive Housing Workshop\, hosted jointly by VPTG & BACI \nHoward Staples\, Facilitator \n  \nOn January 9\, 2016 we (Joette\, Louvain\, Laya and Mahmoud) joined a workshop entitled “Building Intentional Housing Communities” organized by the Burnaby Association for Community Inclusion (BACI) and Vancouver Parents Transition Group (VPTG). Most of the parents participating in this roundtable have an adult relative (20-45 years) with special needs. These parents feel that supported co-housing would offer their youth independence & dignity\, while\, at the same time providing them with the emotional and life supports that they require. \n  \nRichard Faucher\, co-executive director of BACI\, described some of BACI’s housing projects. BACI is a well-established non- profit organization working for people with disabilities in Metro Vancouver. It is funded through grants from Community Living BC (CLBC)\, the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD)\, the Fraser Health Authority\, etc.)\, and funds raised from sources such as Gaming. BACI’s annual budget is about 25 million and the organization owns both land and rental buildings in Burnaby. BACI is committed to the development of inclusive housing\, and therefore\, is interested in connecting with like-minded groups in Metro Vancouver. BACI is able to provide property\, and/or  purchase some units in new or renovated buildings  for renting to persons with disabilities. They can also provide\, through their contacts with developers\, banks\, lawyers\, project managers\, and architects\, the expertise required to plan and execute a supported housing project. \n  \nHoward Staples\, co-founder of Windsong Co-Housing\, who also works as community housing consultant\, acted as a facilitator. Howard has lived with his wife and their children at Windsong over 20 years \,along with about 100 other people.  He showed pictures of their co-op and it looked like a tight\, lovely community. \n  \nA Co-housing community may or may not include persons with disabilities. The values\, type of ownership\, and ethnic & demographic mix will vary according to the individuals involved in the proposed community\, and should be defined carefully & clearly at the outset. Generally a co-housing community embraces the idea of living in community\, and will include more shared\, communal space than is typical in a standard townhouse or condominium project. Howard discussed the form and types of ownership of some existing co-housing communities.  He also provided an overview of the typical development process\, beginning with values\, vision\, and risks and financing\, site search and feasibility\, the decision making process\, and legal and governance structures.  These points were outlined in his handout\, entitled\, “The Basics of Getting Your Community Built”. Contact Howard for more information: (howard@windsong.bc.ca). \n  \nThe attendees then identified the features that they believe their intended housing community should  have. Some of these features are as follows: \n\nTo be in Vancouver (metro area)\,\nTo have a mixed population\, of owned & rental units\, with about 20% of the units allotted to persons with special needs.\nTo have some quad units\, with each bedroom having a bathroom\, and with a single\, shared kitchen.\nTo have some units with private kitchens.\nTo share resources.\nTo provide some opportunities for employment or home-based businesses on site.\n\n  \nFour families elected to become core members and agreed to attend mandatory monthly meetings to further develop their plan.  The next meeting is to be February 22. Core members will soon be expected to place a deposit to secure their position to buy into the project when a site is found. Other attendees became non-core members\, and can attend meetings\, and become core members on future projects\, and will pay a nominal membership fee. \n  \nTo summarize\, I found the meeting very informative. BACI has contacts and access to resources\, (capital and property). Howard Staples is interested in becoming the consultant for the project\, though his rates were not specified. There is a motivated team of parents\, but I expect the journey\, even after the property is found\, to be at least a few years long. The cost of this inclusive co-housing project will be likely be the same as market prices\, but co-op living will provide all members with a great opportunity to be part of a caring\, socially connected community. URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/january-9-2016-housing-workshop-howard-staples-facilitator CATEGORIES:Housing END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20160107 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20160108 DTSTAMP:20211018T234358Z CREATED:20160107T080000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211018T234358Z UID:1140-1452124800-1452211199@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:January 7\, 2016 Meeting: Planning 2016 DESCRIPTION:This was a meeting to plan\, for each of us to express our interests\, focus\, and roles for our group moving forward into 2016. \nWe noted that we need to augment our membership; this is important for the following reasons:\n• To meet the need for support for this generally unsupported group of transitioning youth.\n• To effectively advocate for government & other institutional policy changes that would support our youth.\n• To achieve the “critical mass” needed to justify requesting speakers for our meetings.\n• To build rich & diverse social networks for our youth.\nSpeak of our group to your friends and associates\,  distritbute SPS cards\, and refer contacts to our website: www.squarepegsociety.ca. \nFred presented the requirements for becoming a registered non-profit society. This designation is desirable to be able to solicit funding for such things as website hosting\, business cards\, honorariums for speakers\, and activity fees for our youth. The requirements stipulate that we have a Board\, consisting of at least 5 members\, including a Chair\, Treasurer\, and Secretary\, and an address. We will have a 7 member board\, with the positions of Chair\, Secretary & two board members coming available for elected candidates in January 2017\, and the positions of Vice-Chair\, Treasurer\, and one board member coming available for election in January 2018. \nAdditional Work\nWe identified several topics that we would like to delve into further – through Committees\, additional speakers\, and perhaps workshops. They are: \nHousing:\n• To learn more about\, and to look for opportunities for independent\, inclusive housing for our adult children. In keeping with this\, Louvain\, Laya\, Mahmoud\, & Joette attended on Saturday\, January 9\, a Housing seminar hosted jointly by Vancouver Transition Parents and BACI\, with Howard Sample as facilitator.\n• This is an area that Sue also has knowledge & experience of\, through a project that her church is currently engaged with. Sue will share more about this project later this year. \nAdvocacy:\n• Catherine will head this Committee\, working with Nicole – to examine how we might achieve some policy changes that would result in some support for our kids\, and for others coming behind them. These might be changes to the Community Living BC (CLBC) eligibility criteria\, changes in the ways Registered Disability Savings Plans can be used\, changes in the secondary/post-secondary school systems that would better enable our kids to succeed in programs\, access to job coaching\, mental health services.\n• Perhaps we could also join forces with other groups\, for example PLAN\, to identify\, and to develop an action plan to move forward on these issues.\n• Douglas Lee\, a psychologist who assesses individuals for eligibility for CLBC funding will speak at our meeting\, April 21. We hope to be well-prepared to be able to challenge him on the changes needed to better serve our young adults. \nSocial & Life Skills:\n• This is also a topic for a Committee\, but should also include some workshops for our kids. I (Joette) will work on this\, but would like help… Ideas on the table in this category are Toastmasters groups\, PEERS for Young Adults\, Cooking Club\, General Home maintenance Workshop\, Sexuality & Dating\, and Finances\, Credit\, and Budgeting.\n• We have tentatively proposed a meeting on Sexuality & Dating for February 18th\, and a meeting on Finances for May 19th.\n• We are hoping that once the Pacific Autism Family Centre is operational\, programs\, such as a Cooking Club\, PEERS\, etc\, could be run more affordably\, if the Centre could provide the facility and administrative support. \nEducation/Employment:\n• This is a topic that Louvain and Joette will be pursuing further. The Ready\, Willing\, & Able program in BC is now hosted jointly by the Pacific Autism Family Centre (PAFC) and by InclusionBC. The objective of this program is to address the chronic under-representation in the workplace of people with developmental disabilities. It was realized that the program that existed prior to this joint endeavour was not capturing enough of the high-functioning autistic and Asperger’s population. Two positions have been recently created\, a Regional Autism Coordinator\, and an Autism Outreach Coordinator; these roles will be managed by Jenna Christianson-Barker\, at PAFC. The Regional Autism Coordinator is to procure & educate prospective employers\, and the Autism Outreach Coordinator is to connect individuals to the right positions and Employment Placement organizations\, of which PosAbilities is one involved in this project.\n• Our task is to ensure that the jobs procured are not only dead-end entry level jobs. While we recognize that skills are learned from the ground up\, we want the interests\, abilities\, and intelligence of our youth\, not only their employment history\, to be considered in their job placements\, and for them to be seen as candidates for advancement. This might mean identifying additional education or training that they might require. We would like to see the role of the new Autism Outreach Coordinator to include good “matchmaking” of employer and employee\, and discussion about how to best integrate the employee in his or her position\, and about any additional training or course work that might be needed to better fulfill the employment requirements over the long term. On-the-job follow up will most likely be required to ensure a smooth functioning relationship that will mature into long term stable employment. \nMental Health:\n• Anxiety & depression are often secondary diagnoses which affect our youth\, particularly as young adults. The supports and stability that high school provided them\, despite the stress of high school for our youth\, has evaporated\, and they often lack friends\, and confidence about their abilities\, leaving them lonely and unsure of what to do next. They are very aware of their situation\, and feel as though they are being left behind in life.\n• We will look for an opportunity to have mental health service providers speak to our group about what might be available “in the system” for our youth. We would also consider a workshop using cognitive behavioural therapy\, and mindfulness or meditation therapy for coping with depression.\n• Mindfulness based stress reduction lecture/seminar. 1.5 hours\, free\, Saturday\, January 16th\, 10:30AM-noon\, at the Capilano branch of the North Vancouver District Library\, 3045 Highland Blvd. 604.771.0579. See link: http://www.drkasimalmashat.com/\nSocial Activities:\n• We hope to become the best supporters for each other\, parents & youth. I believe that in doing so we will be stronger and more effective (and have more fun\, and last longer) than any support agency. This is best done by finding ways to connect over activities – not everyone will like or want to participate in every activity\, and that is fine.\n• Laya will head this Committee; she may want some help and suggestions.\n• Fred has registered our group for the Sun Run\, for both runners & walkers. To join go to the Sun Run website\, look for “Join an existing group”\, and sign up. $49.00\, if you sign up before February 4th. URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/january-7-2016-meeting-planning-2016 CATEGORIES:SPS Business END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Vancouver:20160102T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Vancouver:20160102T000000 DTSTAMP:20211018T234257Z CREATED:20160102T080000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211018T234257Z UID:1143-1451692800-1451692800@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:January 2\, 2016 Curling DESCRIPTION: URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/january-2-2016-curling CATEGORIES:Fun ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://squarepegsociety.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Image-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20151126 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20151127 DTSTAMP:20211019T044511Z CREATED:20151126T080000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211019T044511Z UID:1141-1448496000-1448582399@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:November 26\, 2015 Meeting: InclusionWorks Family Collectives DESCRIPTION:InclusionWorks! Family Collectives \nPresented by Catriona Johnson \nCatriona is the lead for the family-governed InclusionWorks! Saanich\, is a resource parent for the Family Support Institute\, and is the co-facilitator of Second Wave\, a group of families & professionals exploring promising practices for supporting young adults.  She also worked with the US Senate Committee on Disability & Health legislation. She has a Master’s degree in Special Education from Johns Hopkins University\, and is currently completing a Doctorate in Disability Policy and Practice at the University of Victoria. She also works as a private consultant and as a part-time instructor in the Community Support and Education Assistant program at Camosun College. \nInclusionWorks!Family Collective\, Saanich\,  is a model of collective family governance for families with youth with disabilities  to pool their resources for the 5 year period following high school completion. The goal is to ensure quality individualized programming for their transitioning youth\, as determined by their youth and their families. Inclusion of the young adults in the community is encouraged through the development of mutually beneficial partnerships with local businesses\, and educational\, non-profit and government institutions. This model has been undertaken in four other locations in BC. \n  \nValues \nCatriona described their Family Collective as having been defined by the following values: \n\nSelf-advocates and their families are best positioned to make choices regarding their future\, and with the appropriate opportunities\, training and support\, can make a meaningful contribution.\nCanadian society is enriched by inclusion.\nThe presumption of legal capacity should be upheld through supported decision-making.\nEveryone is entitled to have friends.\nWe adhere to the principle of the “dignity of risk.”\n\nProgramming Principles \nThe above values are supported by the following Programming Principles: \n\nActivities should be in community\, challenging and age appropriate.\nActivities should make provision for each participant’s strengths and capabilities.\nEach participant will have an individualized schedule. Some activities may be with other participants (eg\, for experiential learning and peer support).\nEmployment\, independence and life-long learning are key goals.\nActivities should embed learning opportunities for life-skills and employment.\nParticipants’ physical and mental well-being is essential.\n\nGovernance Model \nTheir Family Collective is maintained by a governance model that assumes that their youth and families: \n\nForm the majority for decision-making on all matters.\nSelect their own workers.\nMake resource allocation decisions.\nPlan for the future.\nVolunteer as able. (This is an important aspect of their model\, providing both actual support and a sense of collective purpose).\n\nConnections & Partnerships \nThe Family Collective felt that their goals would be best served if their youth were participating in activities with in their community\, rather than by having a facility of their own. So\, they sought partnerships with existing programs in their community. Below are some of the activities that their youth are engaged in: \n\nWorking\nSmall Business Development\nVolunteering\nJob training\nBehind-the-Scenes Business Tours\nHealth & nutrition education\nMoney management\nTheir own newsletters\nWeb-site development\nMusic\, Dance & Yoga\nExercising at the gym\nKayaking/canoeing\nSelf-advocacy training\nRelationships workshops\n\nFinancing Their Family Collective \nFamilies pool their individualized funding from Community Living BC and each family also contributes a monthly fee. In addition\, their relationship with South Island Distance Education School during the first two years of their Collective provided significant in-kind programming support. A more recent partnership with WorkBC\, supported by a project grant from the Vancouver Foundation\, provides support for their participants’ employment goals. In addition\, InclusionWorks! groups receive much in-kind and reduced-cost support from their partners. \nWhat Square Peg Society can conclude \nOur transitioning youth have many of the same needs as do the supported members of InclusionWorks! Family Collectives. Our youth want to participate in decisions that affect their lives\, they have the right to learn through doing (through taking measured risks)\, and they are entitled to have friends. For our youth and families\, education\, independence & life-long learning are key goals. Activities for them also\, should be in community\, they should be challenging and age-appropriate\, and should include life-skills and employment training opportunities. However\, we differ in that many of our members do not receive disability funding; funding would have to be provided through our parents’ resources & efforts. But our youth do not require full time support. As with InclusionWorks! Family Collectives\, our resources would go further together\, than separately\, and would also help in building community between members.  What this would look like\, how many supported individuals would be optimum\, and how each individual’ needs can be served within a collective\, would vary according to the individuals the Collective is intended to support and by clear articulation of the goals of the participating families. \n  \nFor more information: www.inclusionworks.ca  Arlene Zuckernick at arlenez@shaw.ca or Catriona Johnson at cationa123@gmail.com URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/november-26-2015-meeting-inclusionworks-family-collectives CATEGORIES:Advocacy END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20151029 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20151030 DTSTAMP:20211025T002552Z CREATED:20151029T070000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211025T002552Z UID:1137-1446076800-1446163199@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:October 29\, 2015 Meeting: Social Circles DESCRIPTION:Building a “Good Life” through Social Relationship Circles \nIn building the notes for this meeting\, I drew heavily on the excellent work done by PLAN: Safe and Secure\, Seven Steps on the Path to a Good Life for People with Disabilities\, Al Etmanski with Jack Collins and Vickie Cammack\, and Friends & Inclusion\, Five Approaches to Building Relationships\, Peggy Hutchison & John Lord with Karen Lord. Many thanks to them for their clear thinking and caring hearts!   -Joette \n(Throughout I will use the letters SP to refer to the Supported Person – the person for whom the circle is being built) \nFundamental Elements of A Good Life \nApplicable to Everyone \n\nIncludes Health\, Education/work\, Housing\, Financial Well-being\, Leisure & Recreation\, Personal Care. (See Worksheet 2 in the PLAN Safe & Secure book; this can be found online)\n\nThis does not imply that any one of us has something “wrong” in their life\, but rather\, that through intentional planning & action\, we can make choices which will lead to a richer\, more textured life. \n  \nWhat is A Good Life for our particular Supported Person? -Clarifying “A Good Life” \nThis will help in building an effective support circle now\, and will serve as directives to our support network after we are gone. \n\nList 10 words to describe a typical day/week for SP – best scenario\n10 words to describe a typical day/week for SP – worst scenario\nYour message for your SP\, after you are gone\nWhat you want your survivors to help your SP with after you are gone\nList 3 priorities that you would want helpers of your SP to know.\n\n  \n A Case for Relationships \nFriendship is a necessity for all of us\, as important and essential to life as food and drink. Caring relationships and friends provide texture and vitality and make all living worthwhile. \n\nPeople with supportive social ties are less likely to become ill\nSocial contact helps us to heal more quickly\nSocial supports affect the sense of control we have over our well-being and improve our ability to stick with healthy behaviour patterns.\n\nIf not surrounded by people who have a genuine interest in their well-being\, our SPs may be at risk of abuse\, neglect and exploitation. \nGood friends support us through good times and bad\, when we are on our best behavior\, and when we are not. We don’t change ourselves to be with friends. Our gifts and our frailties are accepted as part of who we are. Our friends are not expected to fix us. They are just there. \n When we are truly loved and valued\, we gain a sense of belonging. When we feel like we belong\, we change for the better. Our confidence improves as does our self-esteem\, our sense of well-being\, and our quality of life. Life takes on new meaning. \n Friends\, by sharing time with us\, are saying that we are worth the gift of time. \n  \nRelationship Circles Diagram\n \nCircles of Intimacy are one’s closest relationships – the anchors of one’s life. \nCircles of Friendship are the people you draw strength from\, and who you share your dreams with. \nCircles of Participation are the people with whom your share an interest or activity – the people at work\, or in a club\, etc. \nCircles of Exchange are your paid relationships – dentist\, hair stylist\, server in a restaurant\, etc. \nTypically\, our SPs have the same number of relationships in Circle 1 as any other citizen\, have more people in Circle 4\, and have a lot fewer relationships in Circles 2 & 3. \n  \nReciprocity \nThere is no idea more ancient than a circle of friends. And there is nothing more predictable than the discovery by such a circle that the one in need is somehow helping the others. \nJohn Ralston Saul \nFriendships\, ranging from acquaintances to intimate relationships\, are formed by choice. They are freely given\, based on mutual interests. Friendships are not one-sided. They are reciprocal\, a two-way exchange. They are not paid visitors. They are not volunteers. They are not one-to-one workers. \nA PLAN study of a few years ago found that SPs make a real difference in the lives of their friends & supporters\, and that the relationships between SPs and supporters were mutually beneficial. In the context of relationships\, our family members are contributors. \n  \nSuccess in Friendship Building \nParticular learned skills are required in initiating and developing our acquaintances and friendships\, and these skills improve with practice. For most people\, these skills develop through trial and error\, throughout childhood. They learn how to initiate contact with peers\, how to keep the relationship going\, and how to resolve conflict through negotiation\, sharing\, and compromise. \n Fifty percent of the friendship building attempts of preschoolers end in rejection. Apparently\, practice makes perfect. \nSome people\, especially people on the autism spectrum\, do not experience or do not have success with this trial & error process. Others\, through relocation\, accident or injury\, may need to relearn how to make friends. To make matters even more difficult\, they may have tried to make friends\, were rebuffed\, and then became discouraged from trying again. They may lack or have lost confidence. They may believe that no one would want to be their friend. \n  \nIntentional Support Circles \nFriendships only rarely develop by chance. A friend of mine says that you never know how life is going to unfold\, but\, by your actions\, you can manipulate the odds to be in your favour\, to line up with your goals. \nA Circle of Belonging or an Intentional Personal Support Network is a team that comes together by choice\, for the safety\, health\, and well-being of the SP. All members are in touch with each other\, and their involvement is coordinated. \nBeyond services\, the best guarantee of a safe & secure future for a person is the number of caring and committed friends\, family members\, acquaintances\, and supporters actively involved in their life. \nLike a spider’s web\, the strength of these caring relationships is not only in their connection to the SP\, but in their inter-connectedness\, in their connection to each other. \nA Support Circle should deal with all of the ‘functional’ aspects of an individual’s life\, already mentioned – health\, housing\, financial well-being\, and personal care. \nA Support Circle will: \n\nMonitor programs & services\nAdvocate agencies on behalf of our SP\nServe as executors\, trustees\, or advisors\nRespond to a crisis\nSolve unexpected problems\nCarry out the wishes of parents.\n\nFor us\, in this discussion\, I will focus on the social\, intellectual/creative\, and spiritual aspects of life that a support circle can facilitate. \n  \nThe Process of Building a Support Circle \nExploration \nTake lots of time to focus on the interests\, passions\, and possibilities for connections for the SP. Make a long list of possible Circle members. \nDevelopment \nFollow up on all ideas and leads. Extend invitations to prospective members\, and introduce members to each other\, usually over sharing a meal. Develop practical implementation strategies. \nMaintenance \nMeet regularly – at least 3 times per year for the first few years. Introduce new activities to respond to new interests\, and replace circle members as required. It is important that all members feel supported\, and that the support of the SP is a shared privilege and responsibility. \nContributions of Members \nCircle members contribute by: \n\nCreating opportunities for our SPs to express their gifts\nAssisting our SPs in developing their talents\nBy their presence\, letting our SPs know that they are valued.\n\nSupported Persons contribute by: \n\nDoing – Working\, teaching\, volunteering.\nBeing – as with all of us\, by offering their time\, attentiveness\, caring\, inspiration\, pleasure\, loyalty & friendship.\n\nWorksheet 5 – Contribution worksheet.  \n  \nBuilding a Good Life now through Intentional Circles \nSocial Networks Diagram \nLook at Education/Work: \n\nCurrent education and/or work. What did/do they like about it? What don’t/didn’t they like about it?\nDreams about education/work that they would like to explore…\n\nLook at People: \n\n Friends or family from the past that the SP liked connecting with. Significant people in life of SP.\nWhose company do they enjoy the most\, who is most supportive of them?\nFriends\, family or neighbours where relationships could be enhanced.\n\nLook at Activities: \n\nList past social\, recreational\, cultural\, artistic\, and athletic activities. List current…\nIdentify preferred interests & activities from this list. F\nIdentify future possibilities\, perhaps not tried before.\nHow does your SP spend his/her free time? What gives your SP peace\, joy\, Comfort? Favorite possessions?\n\nLook at Inner Life: \n\n What are the SP beliefs & values? Valued customs & traditions? Spirituality? Religion? Links to churches?\n\n  \nCautionary notes \n  Be patient! \n\nIt usually takes about two years to become a smoothly functioning team.\nFocus on what the SP can do\, their gifts and talents\, rather than what they can’t do\, or what is hard for them to do.\nConnections between members are as important as the relationship of individual members to the SP.\nLook for members who are creative\, pragmatic\, and who pay attention to detail.\nLook for members who are good event planners\, and who have good connections in the community.\n\nBe open! \n\nDare to invite people to be part of our support circle. We worry that others may feel obliged or that they will say yes because they feel sorry for us or for our supported individual. This worry speaks to past hurts and makes us forget the gifts our SP has to offer. Often our SPs have brought richness and meaning to others in ways we are unaware of. Often people have wanted to offer help but did not know how.\nMake space or change schedules to permit others to engage with our SP.\nLet go. Allow our patterns & routines to be changed by making room for others to take over some tasks & activities that we\, as parents\, have been doing.\n\nBelieve! – we may have been hurt by the absence of invitations to birthday parties and sleepovers\, and ache for our SP who wants to be included. Our fears block our ability to be open to others\, and to trust in their integrity. URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/october-29-meeting-social-circles CATEGORIES:Advocacy END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20150730 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20150731 DTSTAMP:20211025T002849Z CREATED:20150730T070000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211025T002849Z UID:1138-1438214400-1438300799@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:July 30\, 2015 Meeting: Landmark Forum DESCRIPTION:Collette Millar\, Western Canada Registration Manager for the Landmark Forum\, presented “ A Special Introduction to the Landmark Forum” to The Square Peg Society young adult members and their families. \nIt was a fun-filled evening that provided an opportunity to make a difference in each and everyone’s life. \nThe Introduction to the Landmark Forum was a 3 hour working session.  During the first half of the evening\, Square Peg Society members were offered the opportunity to create a possibility in an area of life that was not working for them\, or not working as well as they would like it to.  The last half of the evening was about what happens at each 3 day and 1 evening Landmark Forum\, and the opportunity to register and reserve a seat at the Landmark Forum\, which is held monthly. \nLandmark offers the following (copyright – Landmark Worldwide\, 2012-2014): \n“Live an extraordinary life \nOpen doors that yield benefits both practical and profound in the quality of your relationships\, your personal productivity\, and in the difference you’re out to make. \nRedefine what’s possible \nGain the power to be effective in the areas that matter most to you\, and a freedom to be at ease in any circumstance. \nCreate a future of your own design \nBring about positive and permanent shifts in the quality of your life.  Experience breakthroughs – not as random\, inexplicable accidents\, but as deliberate\, achievable results.” \nColette Millar led the “Introduction to the Landmark Forum” and brought her adult daughter\, Deb\, with her to the meeting.  Deb has a cognitive disability\, and is high-functioning.  As well\, Deb is a graduate of the Landmark Forum and other Landmark courses.  What the Landmark Forum did for Deb\, was to remove the filters of how she saw herself\, and of how she thought other people saw her.  Before the Landmark Forum\, Deb was extremely shy\, and communicated very little.  Today\, Deb is a highly communicative\, and is becoming a more independent young woman.  Deb now assists at Landmark in the office\, and with the set-up of the rooms for the many programs that Landmark offers to its guests.  Deb is a valued member of the Landmark community and a delight to be around. As for Colette\, she feels that taking the Landmark Forum took away her filters of her daughter as being unable to be anything but dependent upon her and her family forever.  Through the Landmark Forum\, Colette was able to let go of her filters and fears\, to allow Deb to become the wonderful\, active\, outgoing person that she is today. \nJanet Alcee\, an Adult Family Member of the Square Peg Society and high functioning autistic\, is registered to take the Landmark Forum at the end of October 2015.  Janet is excited about taking this program.  It is said that once you register for this program\, the program begins for you.  This has already been seen in Janet.  Janet is exercising and watching what she eats.  She is actively looking for work\, with the assistance of PosAbilities Employment Services.  Janet has also joined Toastmasters through PosAbilities\, and is an active member\, attending bi-weekly meetings.  Today Janet is not afraid to speak up\, is clear on her rights\, and is actively living her life. \nThe effect of the “Introduction to the Landmark Forum” on Catherine Alcee – mother to Janet\, was to make Catherine realize that she has filters when it comes to Janet.  Catherine realized that if her goal is to help Janet to become a totally independent young woman – which Janet wants\, then Catherine must stop over-protecting Janet and allow her the freedom to live her life\, to make her own choices\, and to learn from both her mistakes and her successes. This realization\, and letting go was scary for Catherine.  However\, since the “Introduction to the Landmark Forum”\, led by Colette\, Catherine has been stepping back and not jumping in to help Janet as she had done in the past.  Also\, Catherine is allowing Janet to make her own decisions\, especially in her job search. \nThe event was a success\, and an introduction to new tools that may help some or all of Square Peg Society members and their adult high-functioning family members. \nFor more information: www.landmarkworldwide.ca URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/july-30-2015-meeting-landmark-forum CATEGORIES:Life & Social Skills END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20150528 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20150529 DTSTAMP:20211019T044619Z CREATED:20150528T070000Z LAST-MODIFIED:20211019T044619Z UID:1139-1432771200-1432857599@squarepegsociety.ca SUMMARY:May 28\, 2015 Meeting: PLAN DESCRIPTION:PLAN (Planned Lifetime Advocacy Network) \nTim Ames\, Executive Director of PLAN & PLAN Institute \nTed Kuntz\, Chairman of PLAN \nFinancial and physical security\, employment\, social inclusion\, housing\, and mental and physical health are of concern to all of us. For some of us\, especially those with a disability\, these goals are difficult to achieve without support networks. PLAN provides information\, consultation\, and professional facilitation in building networks to support these individuals and their families. \nPLAN was created twenty years ago by parents who wished to develop a formal agreement which would define the roles and responsibilities of family and friends supporting an individual with a disability. The intention was that the “plan” would remain in place for the individual’s lifetime. Together\, the facilitator\, the supported individual\, and his or her family\, friends\, and support workers work to answer such questions as\, “Who will take an interest in our family member\, particularly after we are gone? Who will love them? Whom will they love? Who will protect and keep them safe? Who will appreciate and nurture their gifts?” \nThe team strives to construct “a good life” for the person\, which includes having a home\, financial security\, and relationships\, especially friends. They believe that it takes as few as 6-8 people in one’s life to be “in relationship”\, and that safety follows from relationships. As well\, PLAN’s criteria includes choice for the supported individual\, in decisions that affect their life; for example in how or who is to care for them. This may involve implementing a Representation Agreement. Finally\, a “good life” would include opportunities for the individual to contribute to their own care\, to their families\, and to the world at large\, in ways that they are able. \nPLAN proposes that implementing the above be done in three phases – Exploration\, Growth\, and Maintenance. \nThe Exploration phase is for the individual\, family and facilitator to explore the person’s interests\, passions\, and possibilities for meeting others. Through the use of relationship circles and social mapping\, a set of objectives is developed\, a time line of activities established\, and a list of potential network members compiled. \nThe Growth phase is for all leads and possibilities to be followed up\, contracts made\, and invitations extended to potential network members. The objectives from the Exploration phase are developed into practical strategies to be implemented. \nThe Maintenance phase is the “fine tuning” that occurs after relationships have been formed and networks have been established\, and settle in for the long term. It is important that this system be dynamic and flexible to respond to change – changes in the interests or abilities of the supported individual and changes in the support network. \nWhat is the relevance of PLAN to Square Peg Society? \nWho does not want a “good life” for their supported individual? And our young adults are very able to participate in the building of their personal networks. It was important to the founders of PLAN that their model be customized to each support network – so that each PLAN would be independent of other agencies and unique to the supported individual and his team. This takes time and resources. Consequently\, for each support network with PLAN\, there is an initial cost\, and monthly fees. \nAny of our member families could certainly elect to employ PLAN. Perhaps there are also issues where we could collaborate with PLAN – to advocate for government policy changes\, for example\, – in eligibility for the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)\, and use of the funding\, in eligibility for other funding\, and in an expanded definition of disability. PLAN was instrumental in the development\, by government and financial institutions\, of the RDSP. PLAN also indicated to us that they would be willing to consult with us on establishing support networks. \nFor more information about PLAN\, contact: http://institute.plan.ca \n  \n  \n  URL:https://squarepegsociety.ca/event/may-28-2015-meeting-plan CATEGORIES:Advocacy END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR