NEWS
NOVEMBER 2024
2024 FALL FESTIVAL FUN!
At ATC, our commitment to supporting individuals with autism extends beyond direct care services. We’re dedicated to raising awareness and promoting inclusion within our community. One of the ways we do this is through events like our 2nd Annual Sensory-Friendly Fall Festival, which took place at our San Antonio campus this October. The event was a hit, with attendees enjoying a variety of fun activities including a petting zoo, pumpkin patch, pumpkin decorating station, a special trunk-or-treat experience, and a hot dog truck provided by our generous partners at Order of Alhambra, Alamo Caravan 269 - adding even more fun to the festivities. A special *thank you* to our incredible sponsors: H-E-B, Frost Bank, Gordon Hartman Foundation, and Ron Botello for helping make this event possible! These events are more than just enjoyable outings—they are vital in creating an inclusive space where individuals with autism and their families can participate in community activities in a sensory-friendly environment. By promoting awareness, compassion, and understanding, we strive to build a more supportive, welcoming community for everyone.
CRAFTY VISITORS
We were excited to have a few visitors to the Dallas Program recently. Jackie (3rd-year Clinical Psychology doctoral student) and Prynce (2nd-year Clinical Psychology doctoral student) from the University of North Texas stopped by with a fun project for our students. Jackie and Prynce, who both have experience working with children with autism, led a fun clay project that allowed the kids to explore their creativity and express themselves in new ways. We’re so grateful for their time, energy, and thoughtfulness. It was an unforgettable day for everyone!
OCTOBER 2024
2024 ROUNDUP FOR AUTISM - On September 21st, the Fort Worth Stockyards came alive with excitement as we celebrated the 37th Annual Bobby Norris Roundup for Autism Gala, presented by Winch Ranch. This year’s event broke both attendance and fundraising records, all in support of the children, families, and adults served by the Autism Treatment Center.
Guests were treated to an inspiring evening filled with heartfelt stories, including a touching account from Miss Texas, Annette Addo-Yobo, who shared her brother’s journey with autism. The evening was made even more special with a surprise donation from actor Barry Corbin, who contributed a unique belt buckle from his private collection for the live auction. The Maddox Family was honored with the inaugural Barry Corbin Award for Grit and Generosity, a fitting tribute to their dedication to the cause. Bobby Norris also took the stage to highlight the impactful work of ATC, presenting the prestigious 2024 Spirit Award.
Thank you to everyone who made this year’s gala such a tremendous success! Together, we are making a difference in the lives of those affected by autism. Learn more at www.roundupforautism.org
SEPTEMBER 2024
In July 2019, Julian embarked on a new chapter of his life by moving into an ATC group home. At that time, Julian was facing significant challenges, including untreated hearing loss that severely impacted his ability to communicate. However, the supportive environment at ATC, combined with our comprehensive school and therapy programs, marked the beginning of a transformative journey for Julian.
Dr. Carolyn Garver, our dedicated Dallas Program Director, played a crucial role in securing the appropriate hearing aids Julian needed. This pivotal intervention significantly enhanced his communication and overall quality of life. With these improvements, Julian thrived, making impressive strides in both functional and behavioral skills. Julian’s hard work and determination led to a successful transition back to public school, culminating in his graduation from South Garland High School in May 2024. His achievements continued to shine as he was selected as one of only nine students for the Garland ISD MACS Program (Meeting and Catering Service Vocational Training Experience). This year-long training program allowed him to develop valuable skills in cooking, cashier duties, and event space setup. As Julian approaches his 21st birthday this September, he eagerly anticipates celebrating with a special dinner with his sister, who recently graduated from the Police Academy. This milestone marks a new and exciting chapter in Julian’s life. 
We had a very special visitor last month! We were honored to have Miss Texas 2024, Annette Addo-Yobo, visit for a tour of our Dallas programs.
Annette, who has a personal connection to autism through her 23-year-old brother in Ghana, is a passionate advocate for the autism community. With her experience as an ABA therapist during her time at UT Dallas and her ongoing commitment to advocacy, she truly understands the importance of supporting those on the spectrum. We're so excited that Annette will also be joining us at the 2024 Roundup for Autism in Fort Worth on September 21st! Learn more about the event at www.roundupforautism.org Thank you, Annette, for your incredible support and dedication! 
AUGUST 2024
A Journey of Growth & Joy
Since 2016, Elijah has been a cherished member of the ATC family, attending both our school and clinics. Initially enrolled in the local public school, Elijah faced challenges in having his unique needs met. It was through ATC's dedicated services that Elijah began to thrive in ways his family had always hoped for. Elijah’s journey at ATC has been transformative, particularly in his communication skills. Through speech therapy, Elijah has made remarkable strides in expressing himself with greater ease. His father has noted a significant improvement in family interactions, as Elijah can now share his thoughts and feelings more effectively. “Elijah is always excited to go to school each morning, and he loves Ms. Clair!” his father shared. In addition to his progress in communication, Elijah has benefited from Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy. Elijah’s ABA therapists have provided valuable solutions to challenging behaviors, further enhancing his daily life and interactions. Outside of his accomplishments at ATC, Elijah has a vibrant personality. He delights in Filipino food and pizza and finds baths to be incredibly calming. His family’s summer tradition of traveling to Destin, Florida, brings Elijah so much joy as he loves standing in the waves. Elijah’s father is deeply grateful for the support ATC has provided. “I don’t know where Elijah would be today without ATC’s school and clinics,” he remarked, reflecting on the profound impact our programs have had on his son’s life. None of this would be possible without the generosity of our donors. Your contributions make it possible for ATC to continue offering these life-changing programs that support children like Elijah in reaching their full potential. Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey and for helping us make a difference in so many lives. JULY 2024
Meet Demetri.
Demetri, an ATC resident, was born in Beijing, China while his parents were based there for work. His parents noticed behavioral issues when Demetri was about 4 years old. Programs for neuro-divergent students were nonexistent in China at that time and physicians recommended that they continue Demetri’s education only until age 12, and then consign him to a life of labor in the fields. Instead, his family moved back to the United States when Demetri was 8 years old. Although the American public school system offered more support, his parents struggled to find a program that was well suited to Demetri’s needs. His behaviors escalated as a teenager, and after trying seven different facilities, his parents made the decision to move Demetri to an ATC group home when he was 15 years old. ATC’s wrap-around services of tailored housing and targeted therapy provided Demetriwith the perfect environment of safeguards and motivation to enable him to progress both academically and socially. He enjoys living with his housemates and loves outings such as going to movies! Demetri recently graduated from Lake Highlands High School and plans to attend Richland College in the Fall. In addition to his studies, he works at Whataburger and Dave & Buster’s which allows for positive interactions with members of the community. Demetri’s father believes his son’s tremendous success can be attributed to ATC’s exemplary programs and dedicated staff. His father said, “ATC has been a Godsend. It literally saved Demetri’s life. ATC’s programs have provided him with the tools to live an independent and joyful life.” ATC’s staff is incredibly proud of Demetri’s many accomplishments!
Joshua brought these insights to his position at ATC where he works with kids who are often experiencing anxiety and aggression as a result of their autism. He helps the children at the ABA Clinic to find stress-reducing techniques so that they can progress academically, emotionally, and socially, and live a life filled with joy.
Joshua is currently working towards his Master's degree in the ABA Research Department with the Chicago School of Professional Psychology and ultimately plans to pursue a Doctorate degree. ATC is so fortunate to have dedicated and compassionate employees like Joshua. JUNE 2024
Congrats Grads!
We're so proud of our ATC Dallas graduates! These four students worked hard in their classes at the ATC Dallas Day School and completed their studies. Each student has an individualized curriculum which includes academic studies as well as a focus on communication and daily living skills. Ian's father said “ATC has been the absolute best place for Ian’s development.” (Ian shown in second photo proudly displaying his certificate) At the end of May students, teachers, and families gathered inThe Great Room of our Dallas campus to celebrate at our 2024 Graduation Ceremony.
This was 7-year-old Lily Moreno’s second year to participate in Art for Autism. Her mother, Kathy, says that Lily loves to draw and, while she loves to show people her drawings, she can get overwhelmed in social situations. Lily displayed her art only the first year because she didn’t want to part with any of her drawings. It was such a positive experience that she decided to sell her art this year. Her therapists worked to prepare her by asking questions about her art and helping her practice responses.
“Everyone that stopped by her booth this year complimented her drawings and interacted positively with her,” says Kathy. “We could tell this really boosted her confidence.” Lily made enough from the sale of her art to buy new acrylic markers and two stuffed toys. “She is so excited for next year and is already preparing new pieces!” Kathy adds. MAY 2024
In 2022, Elliott began Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) at ATCs Fort Worth clinic through a special program that makes this therapy affordable for families without insurance or those who cannot afford their deductibles or copayments. Kathy has seen significant improvements in his behaviors and abilities, especially in the last year. He can now communicate with picture cards and will look at her when she calls his name. If she tells him it is time for school, he runs to get ready. He has even learned to ride the bus to school, a new routine he adjusted to in just a week. He is doing better at school, too.“Because his behaviors have decreased so much,” says Kathy, “he is able to learn better.”
Kathy credits Elliott’s team of ATC therapists with his progress, especially Jena Nickerson, the Board Certified Behavior Analyst for the Fort Worth clinic. When Kathy wanted Elliott’s school district to provide ABA therapy as part of his education plan, Jena attended the meeting with her and provided data to back up the request. “Jena supports parents even when children are not in active therapy. She and her staff have been wonderful.” We are proud to be a part of Elliott's journey and helping him discover a brighter future together.
APRIL 2024MARCH 2024
Eddy’s sister, Tammy, who was two years older, became his guardian at the age of 23 and spent the next two years trying to get him moved into a community setting. She was able to get him placed in a group home in 1995 but within a few weeks he had to be moved back to the state hospital. Desperate to find a place for Eddy that understood autism, she contacted our staff at ATC. Amazingly, the person she spoke to remembered Eddy from years before and was able to move him into an ATC group home in San Antonio within a few weeks.
Today, Eddy is 52 and still calls ATC home. He enjoys drawing, dancing, gardening, and listening to all kinds of music. He shares chores with his housemates and is particularly good at sweeping, remembering to take out the trash, and doing dishes. Eddy likes to exercise and takes daily walks through his neighborhood with ATC staff. He rarely has behaviors and is generally considered quiet and calm by his caregivers and peers. As for Tammy, she now has peace about her brother’s future. “Eddy is in a great place,” she says. “He loves it there.” FEBRUARY 2024
JANUARY 2024
Sandra, a single mother who only speaks Spanish, didn’t have a lot of support or resources. She started Dylan in Speech therapy shortly after his diagnosis, but knew there must be more she could do. Sandra learned about ATC from another mother at Dylan’s school and was able to get him enrolled in the Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy program that uses positive reinforcements to increase desired behaviors and decrease harmful ones. The changes for Dylan and his family have been dramatic.
Dylan (now 9 years old) has learned to communicate using a device, is now potty-trained, and is able to go shopping and out to eat with his family, things Sandra never thought could happen. Sandra's advice to other parents is, "Don't give up. With help, children can reach independence. We have to keep fighting for them." Sandra was surprised by the kind of support she and Dylan have received at ATC. "Everyone has been supportive. Even those who don't speak Spanish have found ways to communicate with me and have been kind." We're so proud of Dylan and grateful to be able to support both Sandra and Dylan on their autism journey.
We had a Rock-n-Roll good time at our annual Elvis Birthday Bash!
Elvis fans in San Antonio helped raise over $10,000 in support of the Autism Treatment Center. Thank you to the Rick Cavender Band for bringing the tunes and the rockin' vibe, all our guests, volunteers, and to our amazing sponsors for making this event possible! 
|
Join ATC's Autism Allies by becoming a monthly donor!
Joining the Autism Allies, our treasured community of monthly donors, is the easiest most effective way to support children and adults with autism who need your help. |
