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Community
Family Fun Nights
What started off as a small regional fundraiser for the FBR H.O.P.E. for Tomorrow Team is now an annual tradition at FBR! Family Fun Nights, now held in the North (Northern Allegheny and surrounding areas), South (Washington and surrounding areas), and East/Central (Westmoreland and surrounding areas) pull in families from several counties who join together for a night filled with festivities, food and fun! 2008 brought about our first Family Fun Day for our families in Bedford and Somerset counties. Our family fun events offer children’s games, arts and crafts, 50/50 raffles, Chinese auctions, plenty of food (donated by generous local businesses as well as FBR staff), and sometimes a mascot or local celebrity appearance, all for a low admission price! 

We would like to take this opportunity thank the staff and families at FBR who helped to make the 2009 Family Fun Nights an incredible success! 

Autism Awareness Night

The first ever Autism Awareness Night was held in 2004, featuring local autism walk chairs (then with the National Alliance for Autism Research) and Dr. Ralph Wilps, clinical psychologist. The goal was to bring together families as well as members of the community as a means of raising Autism Awareness during the month of April. This event has grown tremendously over the past four years - in fact, in 2007 alone, over 350 people attended! 

This annual event brings in immediate families as well as extended family members, neighbors, doctors, teachers, aides, and other paraprofessionals. Each year has a focus or theme; past years have included psychologists, parents of children with Autism, and a speech and language pathologist. Autism Awareness Night is usually held at the end of April. For our 4th Annual Autism Awareness Night, we were proud and honored to host Dr. Nancy Minshew, world-renowned researcher and chief investigator with CeFAR (Center for Excellence in Autism Research), and Jeff Hudale, a self-advocate living with Asperger’s Syndrome. Our focus was the latest advances in Autism research. The 5th Annual Autism Awareness Night, held April 2, 2008 was an incredible event that supported the community during the 1st International World Autism Awareness Day. Ms. Rebecca Klaw, founder of ASK (Autism Services by Klaw), explained to the audience how babies and toddlers learn and process their environment. Her presentation aided parents and professionals in understanding a child's deficits early on, and the role of the adult in development and teaching.

2009 was another record-setting year for Autism Awareness Night. Dr. Diane Williams, PhD, CCC-SLP, assistant professor at Duquesne University and research investigator with the Center for Excellence in Autism Research, presented "Developing Language in Children with Autism: Insights from Neuroscience." Hundreds of families, professionals, educators, and other members of our community joined together on the second World Autism Awareness Day at the Holiday Inn, North Hills. The event was an incredible success.

We would like to thank to the FBR staff who assisted in organizing both the event itself, and the respite care option for children. 

Additionally, thank you to our 2009 Sponsors:

ABOARD
Achieva
Autism Speaks
Center for Excellence in Autism Research
Children's Institute
Communty Care Behavioral Health
HOPE Learning Center
Hotpack Huggies
Nathan Speech Services
PACE School
Rehablitiation Specialists, Inc.
The Safety Sleeper
University of Pittsburgh's Early Intervention Autism Specialization Program

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SAVE THE DATE!
FBR’s 7th Annual Autism Awareness Night
April 1, 2010
6:30PM-9PM
Doubletree Hotel - Monroeville, PA
Keynote Speakers Dr. Nancy Minshew and Dr. John McGonigle will give critical scientific research updates from CeFAR (Center for Excellence in Autism Research) and the Western Region ASERT Center.

Please scroll down to our events listing for more information and learn how to register! 

 

Walk Now for Autism Speaks

Autism Speaks ... and we are listening!

Led by our team captain, Rick Murray, the FBR H.O.P.E. (“Helping Others’ Potential Expand”) for Tomorrow Team is comprised of dedicated staff and families whom together have raised over $219,000 for autism research from 2004-2009. Our team has hundreds of walkers, and grows each year. We are proud to share that for the past three years, the FBR H.O.P.E. for Tomorrow Team has been the #1 service provider team in the region!

The message of “H.O.P.E. for Tomorrow” is for the community to stand united as we struggle to understand the puzzling mystery of autism, and search for the answers that families so desperately seek. We wish to inspire hope in each family we touch – encouraging them to never give up in the fight against autism.

The Walk Now for Autism Speaks is held each year at Heinz Field, usually the first Saturday in June. Visit http://www.walknowforautismspeaks.org/pittsburgh, to learn more about the Walk, or to sign up as a walker, to register a family team, or to join a team. You are certainly welcome join the FBR H.O.P.E. for Tomorrow Team!

We hold a number of fundraisers and “in-house kickoffs” each year to inspire staff and families to support the team. Look for events and opportunities all year long – check our Calendar of Events for details!

Where does all that money go? We're happy to share that with you. In 2007, over $600,000 of the $1.2 million raised in our region returned to the Pittsburgh area for local researchers who work tirelessly to unlock the mystery of Autism! Monies also support other research being conducted around the world, community grants, and family services to name a few ways that your dollars are working. For those unaware, the Family Services committee created its one of a kind "100 Day Kit" for newly diagnosed families. Learn about this and the other efforts of Autism Speaks by visiting their site, www.autismspeaks.org.

Where Else is FBR?
We’re all over the place! Other events that you can find FBR participating in include: 

ABOARD Annual Conference
ABOARD & Autism Help Network's Family Swim Night
ABOARD & Autism Help Network's Family Field Day
ABOARD's Annual Gala
Autism Awareness Day at PNC Park - Co-Sponsored by Autism Speaks, Athletes Against Autism and the Pittsburgh Pirates with support from FBR Bridges to Hope and the Autism Society of Butler County
Butler County Kids FREE Expo
California University of PA's Annual P.E.P. Rally for Autism
Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community (in support of ABOARD)
Kidapalooza
University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg - Annual Health Fair 

You may have seen us in print! FBR has been featured in:

All 4 Kidz Magazine
Daily News - McKeesport
North Hills Monthly Magazine
Observer-Reporter
Pittsburgh Parent Magazine
Tribune-Review & Trib Total Media
Union-Finley Messenger
Valley News Dispatch
Autism Globe

FBR is featured during Autism Awareness Month 2008:
www.pittsburghlive.com/x/tribunereview/s_563228.html
Past Articles:
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/search/s_509774.html
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/s_329928.html
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/s_330156.html

Workshops and Seminars
FBR hosts a number of workshops and seminars throughout the year. Some are hosted through support groups, while others are a separate structure, presented to a larger audience.

 

Past seminars and workshops include:

 

Understanding the Phases of Autism and Implications for Interventions Stages of the Family Grief Cycle Treating the Phases of Autism - It’s All in the Timing!
by Dr. Ralph Wilps, Clinical Psychologist

 

Educational Advocacy 101 – A Workshop for Families
by Rebecca Moyes, Author and Advocate, Founder of AVID Learning Center

 

Dietary Interventions for the Treatment of Autism and Related Disorders (in collaboration with Fighting Autism)
by Karyn Seroussi, world-renowned author and founder of ANDI

 

Their Struggle to Communicate – Helping Children with ASD Find Their Words
By Janice Nathan, CCC-SLP, Founder of Nathan Speech Services
FBR's Consulting Speech and Language Pathologist

Calendar of Events

Do you have questions about our calendar of events? Please contact Cathy Hughes, Family Support Coordinator, at the Autism Services Office, 1-866-4-FBR-ASD or at autismservices@familybehavioralresources.com. We'll direct you to the right contact person(s) for more information!

Are you on Facebook? Another way to receive updates about events is to become a fan of Family Behavioral Resources! "Fan" our page today if you are a member, and you will receive event updates from us.

COMING SOON:

Interactive Calendar of Events - Keep watching for updates!

Monthly Support Groups – Please see our Support Group page for days and times.

Other Events at Family Behavioral Resources:

FBR Somerset's Annual Snowtubing Fundraiser
March 10, 2010
6PM-8PM

Well, if you can't beat the snow, go play in it and do it for a wonderful cause! FBR Somerset's Annual Snowtubing Fundraiser benefits the FBR H.O.P.E. for Tomorrow Team, participating in 2010 Walk Now for Autism Speaks. Get more details by downloading a full color flyer from the Downloadable Brochures section today! See you on the slopes!

FBR Lancaster Presents the Bureau of Autism Services
March 11, 2010
5:30PM-7:30PM

Dr. Lawrence R. Sutton and Ms. Cheryl Kakiel, Regional Managers of the Bureau of Autism Services, will present "Demystifying the PA Adult Autism Waiver" in the FBR Lancaster Office. They will answer questions about the waiver and give updates from the BAS. Light refreshments to be served. Please join us at our new location in Lancaster - we'd love to meet you at this exciting event!


NEW! Toddler Play Group at FBR North Hills
Starts March 15, 2010
10AM-12PM

Introduce your toddler to the social world! Parents can either choose to relive their youth and play with the children, or have some adult conversation with other parents! This group is for children of all abilities. Refreshments provided! For a flyer, visit our "Download Brochures" section of the website. 

FBR Mercer Hosts Open House
March 19, 2010
9AM-5PM

Join FBR for coffee and conversation about community needs, learn about our programs, meet our team, and check out our new location! Learn more by visiting the "Download Brochures" section - download a flyer today!
 
A Spring "FunRaiser" - Brunch with the Bunny!
March 20, 2010
11AM-2PM

Join the FBR Somerset Office for what we anticipate to be an "egg-cellent" day! Admission includes photos with the Easter Bunny, an egg hunt, food, arts and crafts, raffles and more. For a flyer, visit our "Download Brochures" section of the website.

FBR Mercer Hosts Open House for Families and Caregivers
March 24, 2010
11:30AM-6PM

FBR is inviting families and caregivers back for a second open house to offer a venue for open conversations and connection within a relaxed environment! Discuss community needs, learn about our programs, meet our team, and check out our new location! Learn more by visiting the "Download Brochures" section - download a flyer today!

FBR Trauma Services Focus Group
March 31, 2010
6PM-9PM

FBR invites you to join an open and collaborative discussion of the strengths, needs, abilities and preferences of children and families. FBR’s recent focus on trauma and attachment continues its mission of being a provider of quality clinical care. FBR seeks to fulfill a significant need for children who have experienced abuse, neglect, multiple placements and/or other traumatic life events and their families who are struggling to support positive behavioral and emotional development. PLEASE ASSIST US IN GIVING THEM A VOICE! Join us at the Four Points Sheraton in Greensburg, PA with facilitator Jennifer Austad, LCSW, Director of Trauma Services and guest speaker Daniel Hughes, PhD. Due to the sensitive nature of the discussion, we respectfully request that children do not attend. We invite you to download a flyer and also our press release from the "Download Brochures" section to learn more.

7th Annual Autism Awareness Night
From Science to Practice - Autism in Western PA
April 1, 2010
6:30PM-9PM
Featuring John J. McGonigle, PhD and Nancy Minshew, MD


Join us for our signature annual event - Autism Awareness Night - that kicks off Autism Awareness Month at Family Behavioral Resources. This free event, scheduled at the Doubletree Hotel in Monroeville, will offer updates in research as well as the ASERT centers of Pennsylvania. CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS AVAILABLE! Respite care provided, light refreshments served. This event draws record numbers, so reserve your seat today! Call 1-866-4-FBR-ASD or email autismservices@familybehavioralresources.com. Full color brochure and flyer now available within the "Download Brochures" section of this site.

Early Intervention for Minority Populations Impacted by ASD
NEW DATE AND TIME: April 29, 2010
9AM-5PM
Featuring Dr. Cyrus Ellis, Mrs. Fronie McCombs and Mrs. Traci Jackson

Please note the new day and time, as we have moved this event out of respect for the PEAL Center's 4th Annual Inclusive Education Conference, "Building Communities of Peace, Harmony and Respect." We encourage everyone to visit their website,
www.pealcenter.org, to learn more about this opportunity.

This workshop is designed for the community of caregivers of children with ASD. Attendees will be exposed to the science of ASD, ASD signs and symptoms, best practices in treating ASD, and community action activities to illuminate the serious nature of ASD in the African American community.  Full color brochure and flyer now available on our "Download Brochures" section of the web. CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDITS AVAILABLE!

#1 Cochran Saturn of Monroeville

A Tortorice Limousines

Ace Plumbing Service, Inc.

AFSCME AFL-CIO PA Public Employees District Council No. 83

All American Pizzeria

Aramat LLC

Arnold Ison Trust UAD

Ashland, Inc.

Assembly of God

B.T. Johnston Construction, Inc.

Barbara and Jim Stopperich

Bill and Marie Price

Boscov's - South Hills Villiage

Bravo-Cucina Italiana! - Pittsburgh Market

Brown Timber Land Co.

Bulava and Associates

Bushy Run Kennel Club

C Harper Autoplex

Cambria-Rowe Business College

Capelli's Beer and Pop Warehouse

Carmichaels Furniture Company

CD Warehouse

Ceramic Tiles and Sales

Chic-Fil-A

Cogos Express

Comfort Suites - Washington, PA

Copier Corporation of America

Core Network LLC

Corinthian Colleges

Critter Country

Dairy Queen - Alstan Mall

Daniel Clair Insurance Agency

Dave's Terrace Bakery

David Mateer

Davis and Davis

Dr. James Garofalo, DMD

Dr. Judith McKnight Krynski

Dr. Stephen A. Vargo, Jr. DMD

Dr. William Garofalo, DMD

Eastern Refrigeration Supply Co., Inc.

Edwards Family Chiropractic

Elks Homestead Lodge No. 650

Everitt and Hurite

Faith United Methodist Church of Delmont

Falconi Toyota Motors

First Commonwealth Bank of Indiana, PA

Four M Consulting

Four Star Pizza

GDK - DeFurio, etc.

Green Acres Contracting Company, Inc.

Haine School

Hampton Inn and Suites

HD Berkey School

Higbee Insurance

Holistic Therapy

Holly Hope and Family

IbisTek Apparel

Information Service Systems

Information Systems Services, Inc.

Innermark Construction, Inc.

Jane and Lawrence Schichtel

Jay Snyder, LLC

JB's Bright Beginnings

JcPenney's - Washington, PA

Jim Bichsel Roofing

Jim's Auto Mart

Joe and Judy Chapla

Joseph and Judith Macko

Joseph Tomko

Keim Chiropractic

Kline's Income Tax Preparation and Consultation

Koppers

KTB Group, Inc.

Labatt USA

LaSalle Corporation

Lawn Sense

Leisure Publications - Marlene Gentilcore

Lewandoski

Lincoln Property Company - The Waterfront

Local Union 1196 - United Steelworkers

Lorman Educational Services

Maguire Group Inc.

Martha Gumbert(In Honor of Bobby Pallone)

McCory and McDowell LLC

McDowells Dry Cleaning

McMichael Agency

Mid Atlantic Capital Group, Inc.

Miracle Lanes

Mitsubishi Electric Power Products, Inc. (The MEPPI Foundation)

Molyneaux Tile and Carpet

Monte Cello's - Cranberry, PA

Mr. and Mrs. Edward Gonano

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Tomko

Ms. Diane Castor

Ms. Robin St. Antoine

National City Bank

North Star Equipment, LLC

Pamela Wingard

Parker Cycle

Payroll Solutions

Pioneer Hose Company #1

Pizza Joe's

Playtime Care Center

Pluma Restaurant

PNC Bank

Precision Kidd Steel Co., Inc.

Pro Trucking and Auto, Inc.

Process Instruments

PSP Financial Home Mortgage

R James McMichael Agency

Raeann's Creations-Johnna Sleith

Relex Software Corporation

Rhodes Carpet

Right Ascension, Inc.

Riverside Medical of Ohio

Robert and Jennifer Pallone

Ron Klink and Associates

Rosebud Mining Co.

S&U Coal and Oil

SAVE-MOR Beer and Pop Warehouse

Six and Save Corporation

Smail Company, Inc.

Sonoma Grille

Southwestern PA RN Club

Springhill Suites - Washington

St. Ferdinand's Church - Men's Club

Steel Storage and Transfer (Superior Stainless)

Stefano's Printing

Steidl and Steinberg

Stephen M. Otto - Attorney at Law

Super Suppers

TelCove

The Arroyo-Uzyak Family

The Bichsel Family

The Hardy Family Trust

The Kertis Family

The McLaughlin Family

The Pallone Family

The Rauscher Family

The Tanning Depot

Timber Ridge Golf Club

Tomko and Sons

Total Respiratory Care

Tri County Engineering

Valley Middle School

Versa Matic

Walmart #1885

Walmart #2059

WalMart Foundation

WAMO-FM

Wano Chiropractic

Washington Total Fitness

West Hills Open MRI

White Valley Athletic and Social Club

White Valley Park

Willco Inc.

Yurechko Auto