Volunteers needed for Christmas toy distribution Dec. 12-15
The Salvation Army is seeking volunteers to distribute Christmas toys at The Venues, 540 S. St. Clair St., Toledo. There are several shifts to choose from between December 12–15. For more information, contact Laura at laura.henthorn@use.salvationarmy.org or 419.241.1138, ext. 105.
Free monthly ‘Sibshops’ program on Dec. 17
“Sibshops” is a monthly program for brothers and sisters ages 8-16 who have a sibling with special needs. At these gatherings, attendees meet other kids whose brothers and sisters have special needs and talk about the good and not-so-good parts of having a sibling with a disability. Sponsored by the Autism Society of Northwest Ohio and Education Service Center of Lake Erie West, gatherings are free and run by a team of people who have a professional and, in some cases, personal understanding of the impact a child’s special needs can have on their siblings. Sibshop activities include fun games, cooking and hands-on activities that keep kids engaged in an energetic way. Gatherings are in person from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Alternate Learning Center, 3939 Wrenwood, Toledo. The next gathering is Saturday, December 17. Spaces are limited! For more information and to register, contact Lucas County Parent Mentor Wendy Smenner at wsmenner@esclakeeriewest.org or 419-214-3066.
Free Special Education Legal Clinic on Dec. 19
Special Education Legal Clinics are offered on the third Monday of each month to provide parents and guardians the opportunity to meet with a special education advocate or attorney to ask questions and discuss specific challenges related to education. Clinic staff members and volunteers help guide parents and guardians through the special education process and provide resources to request and secure special education services. The next workshop is on December 19 and will be on Restraint and Seclusion and Threat Assessments by OCECD, DRO and Albeit Weiker, LLP. Find more information here.
Virtual Parent Advocacy Training series starts Jan. 10
This live virtual training program is designed for parent and professional teams to learn alongside one another and focus on skills that strengthen parents’ ability to advocate for their children in a variety of settings. Participants will enhance their leadership skills and be ready to take on new higher-level roles in the community. Presented by Dr. Mary Murray and Mrs. Lydia Robinson, this free series begins January 10 with an overview of the model and a kickoff of the program, to include discussion about respect and communication. Parent and caregiver participants will receive a $75 gift card upon completion. Participation is limited! Register now with Tammy McKittrick at tamara_mckittrick@mercy.com or 419-251-2469.
2023 LCBDD Winter Pool League starts Jan. 12
The winter session for the 2023 LCBDD Pool League is from January 12 – March 23, 2023. All league nights are Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m. at Miss Cue South on Reynolds Rd. The cost per week is $7.00; be sure to bring extra for snacks/drinks. If you are required to have staff supervision, staff must be on site. The last scheduled night of each session is a party including awards and is at no cost to participants. For more information, contact Joel Alexander at 419-380-5461 or Sara Fulton at 419-380-5170.
2023 Night to Shine registration now open
Night to Shine is an unforgettable prom-like experience for people with special needs ages 14 and over. This event affords guests with a beautiful evening full of fun and excitement, for free! The night includes hair and makeup stations, fancy shoeshines, corsages and boutonnieres, dancing to a live band and a delicious sit-down dinner. Please plan to join us for Night to Shine at Terra State Community College on February 10, 2023. Register to attend or volunteer here.