The Navigating Neurodiversity Program provides in-depth advocacy and guidance to parents new to the autism diagnosis or in need of help navigating the very complex system of care required for children with developmental disorders. The mission of this program is to help families step-by-step on choosing the right treatment path for their child, getting connected with the correct governmental, educational and community support structures, and building a personalized plan of action to ensure a successful future for their child and family.
What is offered through this program?
In partnership with McGowan Advocacy Group, Autism Tree offers sponsored access to:
- Access to Autism Tree parent mentors, resource referrals, & over 200+ annual events designed to improve the confidence, behavior and social communication skills of autistic individuals and provide their families with a supportive community
- Free registration to 12 Monthly "Conversation with an Advocate" event series on Zoom (Spanish sessions included)
- Access to 1-hour online training modules detailing how to navigate the benefits and services offered through the San Diego Regional Center, IHSS, California State and Federal Early Intervention Programs & School Supports and Services
- One-on-one direct services with a special education advocate (hours provided on an individualized need basis)
One-on-One advocacy services offered by McGowan Advocacy Group on an individualized need as applicable:
- Applying for life changing state and federal programs that allows one parent to stay home and care for the child without adding a financial burden on the family (assisting with Medi-cal and/or IHSS application, initial San Diego Regional Center (SDRC) client application process, SSI, Early Start, First Five, Head Start, KidStart)
- Securing Medical Evaluations (reviewing medical and educational records)
- Securing Therapeutic Services (speech, ABA, OT, physical, etc)
- Securing Regional Center Services
- Educational & Social Supports for the child (identifying development and educational needs, advocating at first initial IEP meeting and any additional supports and services to be provided by the School District, tutoring, IEP processes)
Who is this program for? Families who:
- Have received an autism diagnosis within the past 6 months
- Are seeking an autism diagnosis
Is there an income requirement?
No, but families who have a financial need will be given top priority. If participants find value in this program, we would love for them to "pay-it-forward" by making a donation of any amount to the grant fund.
How do I apply for this program?
To find out if you qualify, contact RebeccaB@autismtreeproject.org for an application. Either Rebecca Barron, Director of Autism Tree Operations or Michelle McGowan of McGowan Advocacy Group will contact you if you are accepted into the program.
Do YOU or your company want to sponsor this program? Click here to download our sponsorship package.
