Autism Delaware

💙 Quote of the Day 💙

"Everyone has a mountain to climb and autism has not been my mountain, it has been my opportunity for victory."
— Rachel Barcellona

Every journey comes with challenges, growth, and triumphs. This powerful reminder from Rachel Barcellona encourages us to focus not on barriers, but on the strengths, achievements, and possibilities that make each person's path unique.

Today, we celebrate the resilience, determination, and accomplishments of autistic individuals who continue to redefine what success looks like and inspire others along the way.

💙✨

🛼✨ Roll Into Fun at Autism Delaware's Sensory-Friendly Skate! ✨🛼

Join Autism Delaware for a sensory-friendly roller skating event at the Dover Skating Center on Sunday, July 26 at 10:30 a.m.!

Enjoy a comfortable and inclusive skating experience with: 💙 Dimmed lights
💙 Reduced noise levels
💙 A welcoming, sensory-friendly atmosphere

🎟️ Admission is just $5 per person and includes skate rental!

Please note: Admission is required for all guests, and tickets will not be sold at the door.

Don't miss this chance to spend the morning skating, socializing, and having fun with family and friends in a supportive environment.

📍 Dover Skating Center
📅 Sunday, July 26
⏰ 10:30 a.m.

Register today to reserve your spot! 🛼🎉 https://pro.gofundme.com/event/sensory-friendly-roller-skating-in-dover/e590286

*OUTSIDE STUDY*

📢 Participants Needed for Section 504 Research Training Study

A new research opportunity from Vanderbilt University and the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA) is seeking participants to help improve education and awareness around Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Section 504 is a federal civil rights law that protects students with disabilities from discrimination and helps ensure equal access to educational programs and services in schools that receive federal funding. Through a five-year grant from the Administration on Community Living, Vanderbilt University and COPAA are conducting research to better understand access to Section 504, explore the experiences of individuals with disabilities and their families, and develop effective training and support resources.

Researchers are looking for 160 participants to take part in an online training study designed to educate individuals and families about Section 504 rights and protections.

✅ Who can participate? • Family caregivers of a child who currently has a Section 504 plan at school • Individuals with disabilities who currently have a Section 504 plan at school

✅ What does participation involve? Participants will be randomly assigned to either: • Begin the online training the week of September 28, 2026, or • Receive written training materials and complete the training beginning the week of May 10, 2027

The study includes: • 1.5-hour weekly training sessions over seven weeks • Pre-, post-, and follow-up surveys • Feedback and evaluation activities to help shape future training opportunities

This is a valuable opportunity to learn more about Section 504 while helping researchers create resources that better support students with disabilities and their families.

🔗 Register today: https://redcap.link/ywd99oaq

📧 Questions? Contact Meghan Burke at [email protected] or 615-343-1014