Autism Society Of America Los Angeles Inc

EDUCATION: DISSEMINATION OF INFORMATION, AND EDUCATING COMMUNITY AND PUBLIC. The Self Determination Program (SDP) trainings and Ongoing Support for the Self-Determination Program (SDP), facilitates training to members of the community and professionals who speak English, Spanish and Korean. The primary training includes the areas required by the Self-Determination Law, with a focus on under-served communities, cultural competency and considerations. The secondary support is to the trainees as they develop as Independent Facilitators. Through the SPEAKER SERIES initiative, ASLA provides a platform for speakers to share experiences and knowledge in a range of topics including Fair hearings, SSI, IEP's, Regional Center services, IHSS, adult transition, crisis supports, employment and residential options. In addition, ASLA provides PROFESSIONAL TRAINING for teachers and support staff to assist with techniques for successful inclusion in the classroom and community. And to university students, organizations etc. to create an environment of acceptance and inclusion. Education is ASLA's core competency.

PUBLIC AWARENESS: Efforts to raise public awareness related to autism - publications, website, email blasts etc. ASLA provides trainings in order to increase AWARENESS, ACCEPTANCE and INCLUSION in the community. Since 2006, we have trained over 9,000 officers and other 1st responders through the ASLA safety initiatives. We maintain an education partnership with LAPD Mental Evaluation Unit to educate officers on having positive interactions with the autism community. ASLA helps to improve the outcomes for our community members. The SELF-ADVOCATE SPEAKERS BUREAU provides the opportunity for adults with a disability to speak in front of audiences to create acceptance of differences. This diverse team includes all disabilities and modes of communication. This creates a bridge for employment and inclusion opportunities. Engagement has been in partnership with corporations, schools, conferences, LAPD etc.