Fall always seems to bring with it a little bit of nostalgia mixed with wistfulness. Maybe it is the changing leaves, the cooler mornings, or simply the feeling that another year is moving along. It makes me think about times gone by, how quickly life changes, and what the future might hold.
The passage of time is a crazy thing. One day, you are a high school senior with big hopes and dreams of your own. Then, before you know it, you are raising your own children and wondering where all those years went.
When you have an Autistic loved one, that passage of time can bring a lot of different emotions. There are the achievements you celebrate, milestones missed, the moments that make you proud, the ones that make you heavy-hearted and still there are times of excitement watching your child grow. Throughout this journey, there exists both hope and uncertainty. You wonder what comes next as you believe for the best. It is hard to try to plan for the future, when you are not quite sure what that future will look like. I understand that. I know how much we all want to feel like we have it all figured out, and I also know that sometimes life has a way of changing that plan.
That is one of the reasons I am so committed to making ASMV a place where families and individuals know they have somewhere to turn. Whether you are facing a new diagnosis, navigating the sometimes difficult years of puberty with your Autistic loved one, or trying to help them take those next steps toward adulthood, you should not have to figure it all out on your own. We may not always have all the answers, but we can listen. We can help you find resources. We can connect you with people who understand. We can absolutely walk alongside you as things change.
September was a full month for ASMV and our Information and Referral Helpline stayed busy throughout the back-to-school season, helping families navigate new needs and find resources as routines and schedules changed. Now, as we settle into October, we are already looking ahead to what is next.
We are excited to launch a new Moms’ Night Out in Warren, led by Kesha Lampley, giving moms in the Warren area another opportunity to connect, talk, laugh, and simply spend time with other moms who understand. Social Connections continues to grow, creating opportunities for Autistic teens and adults to build friendships and enjoy time together. Our Annual Family Portraits event has time slots available, giving families the chance to capture a special moment together.
We are also collaborating with Logan’s Landing to support AATAP’s Annual Fall Festival and Resource Fair. Partnerships like this are so important because they remind us that creating welcoming and accessible communities is something we can all work on together.
As we move through Autumn, I invite you to stay connected with us. Join us at an upcoming event. Reach out when you need a resource or simply need someone to talk to. Share what your family needs and what you hope to see in our community. If you know another family who may be looking for support, invite them to connect with us, too.
Whatever the next season brings, ASMV will be here, and I personally invite you to find YOUR place with us!
Warmly,
Jodi Glass
Executive Director