Memorial Bike Run Group calls for Autism Family Mini Grant Applications
Bikers' funds offer families help at the holidays


YOUNGSTOWN-The Autism Society of Mahoning Valley is pleased to announce the availability of the Mike Hull Memorial Family Mini Grant. These grants, up to $500, are to support children and adults with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and families that include an individual with ASD. The grant cycle runs November 1 through November 22, 2017.

A focus of this project is to reach out and serve individuals and families that are not able to access existing support systems for various reasons (for example: eligibility criteria, age, waiting lists). To qualify, the family must be residents of the Mahoning, Trumbull or Columbiana counties in Ohio,

The term "family" may include an immediate family member or other relative, a person providing foster care or a legal guardian or custodian, but does not include a person or entity who acts in a paid employment capacity.

These grants are funding opportunities that will only be offered once a year and are time limited.

The Family Mini Grant with proceeds from the Annual Mike Hull Memorial Poker Run for Autism are held annually in August. More than 60 motorcyclists took part in the ride in 2016 (and the event continued in 2017) in honor of Mike Hull, a beloved husband, father, brother and grandfather with a cherished granddaughter on the autism spectrum. The all-day event featured a 70-mile poker ride that visited establishments in the region, kicking off with a Breakfast & Bike Blessing, ending with a live concert and offering an afternoon of free bowling for individuals living with a disability. Dates for the Summer 2018 event will be announced in early 2018.

Grants are available for up to $500. The grant cycle runs November 1 to November 22, 2017.

What's covered?
The purpose of this Grant is to help children or adults with an Autism Spectrum Disorder who are in need of financial assistance to pay for the following:
  • Therapy (Occupational, Physical, Speech, ABA, Recreational, social skills groups)
  • Biomedical Treatments (DAN! doctor visits, lab tests, supplements, treatments)
  • Camp
  • Equipment (Medical, augmentative communication devices, therapeutic)
  • Registration fees for disability conferences or trainings, transportation/lodging fees for disability conferences
  • Respite Care/Child Care
  • Outstanding medical bills related to the disability
  • Respite care
  • Summer recreation and skill development programs
  • Autism or advocacy related conferences, workshops or training opportunities
  • Community programs such as karate lessons, swimming lessons, dance classes, art classes, cooking classes, private driving lessons
  • Safety modifications or adaptations for home and/or community integration. For example: door locks, alarms, fencing or other items to increase or ensure a person's safety
  • Gym memberships
  • Adaptive bicycle, trampoline or other physical fitness related items
  • Improved technology (Ipads, etc)

What is NOT covered:
  • Rent/mortgage
  • Utility payments
  • Phone bills
  • Trips/vacations
  • Tax
  • Shipping

What other qualifications are there?
  • Must be a resident of the Mahoning, Trumbull or Columbiana counties in Ohio
  • Must be diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder.
  • Must completely review this information and send complete application.

How much money can I request?
Grants have a cap of $500. Due to the number of grant requests and the balance of funds, you may only receive a portion of what you requested. First consideration will be given to those who have never received funding.

How are grant funds dispersed?
Purchases are made by the committee and delivered to the family personally. If applicable, payment can be made directly to the provider or reimbursed to the family upon proof of payment, up to the award amount. Grant committee meets once a year. You will receive notification of acceptance only. First priority is given to families that have volunteered with the Autism Society at past events.

How do I apply?
If you meet the application criteria and complete a GRANT APPLICATION. Incomplete Grant applications will not be considered. For more information call Autism Society of Mahoning Valley at 330-333-9609.



Mahoning Valley Office
330-333-9609
autismmv@gmail.com
http://autismmv.org