Polly Surhoff Receives Ravens Community Quarterback Award Polly Surhoff was among several outstanding Maryland volunteers saluted on December 7, at the Redskins vs. Ravens game at M&T Bank Stadium. During a pre-game reception, Surhoff was presented with a commemorative plaque in honor of her outstanding dedication to Pathfinders for Autism and the entire autism community in Maryland. Pathfinders for Autism received a $2,500 grant from the Ravens in her honor. Polly Winde Surhoff has worked tirelessly in Maryland to support families coping with autism spectrum disorder. She was instrumental in establishing Pathfinders for Autism in February 2000. Since that time, she has served as an active member of the Board of Directors, and has been influential in shaping its vision for the last nine years. In addition, Polly has been Chair of several Special Events Committees, key fund raising roles integral to the success of the organization. As Special Events Committee chair, Polly raised over a quarter of a million dollars for research in the early years; funds to establish the Pathfinders for Autism Resource Center; nearly $1 million dollars through the Pathfinders for Autism Golf Tournament; and most recently nearly $120,000 through “An Evening of Celebrity Fashion and Fun,” all to further Pathfinders’ mission of improving the lives of individuals with autism. Polly’s dedication to Maryland’s autism and disability community goes beyond Pathfinders, having served as the 2005 Cure Autism Now walk Co-Chair, raising over $496,000 for autism research. She and her husband, B.J. Surhoff, are active supporters of Kennedy Krieger’s Festival of Trees and ROAR and the Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge which benefits Special Olympics. Polly enjoys partnering with other organizations and community leaders to help further the mission of Pathfinders for Autism and, most importantly, tries to help as many individuals with autism as possible. She is singularly focused on helping families coping with autism, with her drive and determination providing a firm foundation for the organization. She is an inspiration to the over 7,000 Maryland families coping with autism spectrum disorders in Maryland. Baltimore Ravens Community Quarterback Awardees from left Polly Surhoff, Rev. Jack Sharp and Lindsay Chetelat SPRING 2009 • VOLUME 8, NO.1 Pathfinder The HIGHLIGHTS PFA Resource Center Expands 2 Pilot Autism Screening Program 4 Autism Insurance Coverage 5 Koplos Appointed To e DD Council 6 Improving the lives of individuals with autism – and their families – through resources, referrals, and training since 2000
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Polly Surhoff Receives Ravens Community Quarterback AwardPolly Surhoff was among several outstanding Maryland volunteers saluted on December 7,at the Redskins vs. Ravens game at M&T Bank Stadium. During a pre-game reception, Surhoff was presented with a commemorative plaque in honor of her outstanding dedication to Pathfinders for Autism and the entire autism community in Maryland. Pathfinders for Autism received a $2,500 grant from the Ravens in her honor.
Polly Winde Surhoff has worked tirelessly in Maryland to support families coping with autism spectrum disorder. She was instrumental in establishing Pathfinders for Autism in February 2000. Since that time, she has served as an active member of the Board of Directors, and has been influential in shaping its vision for the last nine years. In addition, Polly has been Chair of several Special Events Committees, key fund raising roles integral to the success of the organization. As Special Events Committee chair, Polly raised over a quarter of a million dollars for research in the early years; funds to establish the Pathfinders for Autism Resource Center; nearly $1 million dollars through the Pathfinders for Autism Golf Tournament; and most recently nearly $120,000 through “An Evening of Celebrity Fashion and Fun,” all to further Pathfinders’ mission of improving the lives of individuals with autism. Polly’s dedication to Maryland’s autism and disability community goes beyond Pathfinders, having served as the 2005 Cure Autism Now walk Co-Chair, raising over $496,000 for autism research. She and her husband, B.J. Surhoff, are active supporters of Kennedy Krieger’s Festival of Trees and ROAR and the Maryland State Police Polar Bear Plunge which benefits Special Olympics.
Polly enjoys partnering with other organizations and community leaders to help further the mission of Pathfinders for Autism and, most importantly, tries to help as many individuals with autism as possible. She is singularly focused on helping families coping with autism, with her drive and determination providing a firm foundation for the organization. She is an inspiration to the over 7,000 Maryland families coping with autism spectrum disorders in Maryland.
Baltimore Ravens Community Quarterback Awardees from left Polly Surhoff, Rev. Jack Sharp and Lindsay Chetelat
spring 2009 • VOLUME 8, nO.1
PathfinderThe
highlightSPFA Resource Center Expands
2Pilot Autism
Screening Program
4Autism Insurance
Coverage
5Koplos AppointedTo The DD Council
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improving the lives of
individuals with autism –
and their families –
through resources, referrals,
and training since 2000
You’re InvIted to PFA’s resource center oPen HouseTuesday, March 31 3:00 – 7:00 PM • Wednesday, April 1 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Both days will feature tours of the center, product demos, information from local agencies, guest speakers and light refreshments. For more information and to register visit www.pathfindersforautism.org
or call 443-330-5370. Pre-registration for the Speaker sessions is required.
Regular hours are Monday-Friday 9AM - 3PM. Additional hours by appointment.
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The Pathfinders for Autism Resource Center to Expand
2009 brings yet another expansion to the Pathfinders for Autism Resource Center – a walk-in facility opening in March. The Center will offer computer workstations and on-site previewing and demonstrations of autism-specific products. The Center will provide caregivers and professionals the opportunity to preview and/or use products such as picture exchange and scheduling software and sensory products. The space also offers a play area (complete with TV) to entertain children while visiting the Center. The Center will also offer a “Resource Exchange” – enabling families to donate gently used items with others.
Pathfinders is looking for feedback from individuals with autism, parents, caregivers and professionals on products you would like to see offered for use and/or demo. In addition, we are accepting donations for the Resource Exchange. To offer suggestions or to donate, please contact Shelly McLaughlin, Resource Center Coordinator at [email protected] or 443-330-5341.
Children playing in the new Pathfinders for Autism Resource Center play area.
The Pathfinders for Autism Resource Center assists parents, caregivers and individuals with autism in finding resources and information. “We wanted to make the process of getting information easier for parents”, says Polly Surhoff, founding board member of Pathfinders for Autism. “Our family struggled for years trying to discover the right therapies and providers and felt there had to be an easier way for other parents to get the information they need”. The Resource Center officially opened in 2003 offering caring knowledgeable staff to answer calls and field e-mails. In 2005, the Resource Center offered an improved user-friendly website with a searchable database, enabling parents and caregivers to find resources any time from any where across the state – and even the world. Our website now averages 10,000 visitor sessions each month.
You do such a fine job for parents of autism-related children...Seems like my entire past 38 years have been dedicated to searching information…for my son Joe (sixth child)…thanks again and blessings in your commitment. — Mom of 38-year-old son, Harford County This was my first experience with contacting Pathfinders, I wish I had contacted [the Resource Center] sooner. The service coordinator for my daughter had no information for my area. However, Pathfinders did. — Mom of child with autism
SEEking nEw And gEnTly uSEd iTEmS foR ouR RESouRCE
CEnTER And RESouRCE ExChAngE
If you have items you no longer need – such as software, curricula, DVDs, sensory products and toys
– please consider donating them to Pathfinders for Autism for use in our new walk-in center or to be donated
to a family in need. To make a donation please call 443-330-5341.
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AwAReneSS And OutReACHPathfinders for Autism now offers two monthly e-newsletters: News and Updates, which includes event invitations and news from the autism community; and our latest publication Parent Tips which explores topics such as Surviving the Holidays, Rolling Access Funds and Camps. Each e-mail provides links to resources and additional information. If you have ideas or suggestions on future issue topics, we would love to hear from you. Both newsletters are distributed through e-mail and are available on our website. You may sign up to receive the e-newsletters on our website or by e-mailing us at [email protected]. We understand that not everyone has internet access and we will provide printed copies of our e-newsletters upon request. Please call 443-330-5370.
Program highlights
FASHIOn SHOwThe Pathfinders for Autism Celebrity Fashion Show raised more than $119,000. Many thanks to our sponsors, including Bob davidson Ford Lincoln Mercury and Geppi’s entertainment Museum. In addition, a tremendous amount of thanks goes to the outstanding planning committee and the fashion show director, Vanessa Pivec, for planning and executing such a unique, fun and lively event. Of course, we can not forget the event’s main attraction, our celebrity models.Olympic medalists Michael Phelps, Katie Hoff and Jessica Long, Baltimore Oriole Brian Roberts, Lesly Sajak, Kendel and Bob Ehrlich, Mary Beth Marsden and 98 Rock DJ “Stash” were among the local personalities who strutted down the catwalk modeling the latest fashions from local retailers Panache, ETC, L’Apparenza, Red Garter and J.S. Edwards, in front of a standing room only crowd. The “stars” shined even brighter decked out in strands of diamonds, platinum and gold provided by Radcliffe Jewelers.
The auction brought much excitement, with guests bidding on items such as an autographed portrait of Michael Phelps by Baltimore artist Kevin Charles, which sold for $6,000. Some of the other hot ticket items were a trip for two to New York City to meet renowned fashion designer Nicole Miller and an autographed guitar by pop culture sensation The Jonas Brothers. All proceeds from the event will be used to provide training and information to professionals, parents and caregivers and to raise awareness about Autism.Mark your calendar. The next “evening of Celebrity Fashion and Fun” will be hitting a Baltimore runway in October 2010.
ThAnk you fAShion Show SPonSoRS: Bob Davidson Ford Lincoln Mercury, Geppi’s Entertainment Museum, MD State Police Polar Bear Plunge, WBAL – TV, WBAL Radio, Radcliffe Jewelers, Laura Black Photography, Marlo, McCrystal and Jones Florist, Print Graphics Planning Committee: Kendel Ehrlich, Honorary Chair, Polly Winde Surhoff, Co-Chair, Rebecca Faye Smith Galli, Co-Chair, Marianne Banister, Sheila Cosgarea, Pat Dayton, Mindy Geppi, Pam Gillin, Susan Kamauff, Dawn Koplos, Allyson Lestner, Mary Beth Marsden, Kari Mutscheller, Desiree Pilachowski, Vanessa Pivec, Margie Riehl, Rebecca Rienzi, Alisa Rock, Julie Wagner.
FAMILY Fun eventS – GYMJAMPathfinders for Autism partnered with Gymjam in OwingsMills to offer several free family playtime sessions in December, January and February. The feedback from parents was so positive that we hope to offer more sessions this spring.
“Pathfinders has allowed not only my child on the Spectrum but my typical children to enjoy and experience so many activities, as a family we appreciate every opportunity given to us.” — Marlo Lemon, Mom of Joshua, Matthew & Victoria Many thanks to Dawn Carey and Kathryn Wolfe local Occupational Therapists who volunteered their time to offer suggestions and guidance to staff and families at the December play date.
Photo Courtesy of Laura Black Photography
Gymjam Photo Provided by Marlo Lemon
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For six years, the Pathfinders for Autism Resource Centers
improved Early detection of Autism and developmental delays
In May 2005, HOUSE BILL 579/SENATE BILL 834 PILOt PROGRAM tO IMPROve SCReenInG FOR AutISM (introduced through Pathfinders for Autism’s efforts) was signed into law. Specifically, the Pilot Screening Program established a 3-year Program to:
4 study and improve screening practices for Autism Spectrum Disorders;
4 assess and identify screening instruments;
4 develop training materials and written information;
4 train 30 pediatric practices in those best practices;
4 and facilitate communication between pediatric practices and the Maryland Infants & Toddlers Program to ensure the introduction of early intervention services as soon as possible for those children identified with a developmental disability. dr. Raymond Sturner and dr. Barbara Howard were selected as the consultants to administer the program and have reported the following outcomes in their Final Report to Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) (presented January 2009):
✦ 38 practices have begun screening for autism and developmental delays. Of these, 27 are very successful in screening the majority of the children at appropriate age intervals. Twenty-two of these are using CHADIS pre-visit online screenings and five of these are using paper screening tools. Eleven additional practices have been recently trained and are gradually increasing the percentage of their patients being screened. Nine additional practices are currently being trained. Twenty-six other practices have signed on as interested in being trained.
✦ 2,561 children have been screened for autism specifically and 162 had a positive result.
✦ 6,595 children were screened for “developmental delays” using either the Ages & Stages Questionnaire or the Infant Development Inventory. 1,741 had an abnormal result in some domain of functioning.
The most common comments reported by pediatricians as to what they have learned through participation in the PILOT:
1. Resources for children with autism.
2. How to differentiate children with autism from children with language problems.
3. Genetics of autism.
4. Legal rights and advocacy for children with autism.
5. How to help families with expected stresses.
6. Medication management.
PAtHFIndeRS FOR AutISM eARLY SCReenInG tRAInInGS Concurrent with Drs. Sturner and Howard’s work, Pathfinders for Autism, in partnership with the Maryland Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (MD-AAP), has completed its first series of training sessions at pediatric grand rounds (continuing medical education workshops held at local hospitals) in five counties across the state.
To-date, 205 medical professionals representing 64 pediatric practices were trained by Dr. Virginia Keene, President of the MD-AAP and Dawn Koplos, Pathfinders Executive Director. The training covered the importance of developmental screening, the use of standardized tools, changes to Medicaid billing/reimbursement procedures, referral options, and finding resources for families, caregivers and professionals.
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AwAReneSS And OutReACH
maryland Public Policy update
FROM tHe exeCutIve dIReCtOR…
Dear Friends,
As you know, Pathfinders for Autism is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with autism and their families. Our Resource Center offers knowledgeable, caring staff to answer calls, a website and on-line database of more than 900 searchable listings and now a walk-in-facility (to open in March 2009.) Our referral service is FREE and serves thousands of families, caregivers and professionals each year.
At Pathfinders for Autism, we are feeling the impact of these difficult economic times through the families we serve – families who now seek housing assistance, foreclosure advice, mental health counseling, and jobs – in addition to their daily struggle to find resources to help loved ones with autism. I am writing to ask that if you have found valuable services and support through Pathfinders for Autism and would like to ensure these services are available for others, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution – either by signing up as a member or by sponsoring our 8th Annual Pathfinders for Autism Golf Tournament.
Membership Categories$10 • Individual $20 • Professional$15 • Family $100 • Contributing Member We know times are tough. I hope you are able to make a donation, of any amount, that will help us continue to offer information, resources and referrals to Maryland’s families – especially now – when the number of individuals impacted by autism has never been greater or their needs more profound. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
Dawn Koplos Executive Director
Delegate Kirill Reznik (District 39 Montgomery County) along with more than 30 co-sponsors has introduced Autism Insurance Coverage legislation this session. The Bill will ensure that private insurers cover autism services, including Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy and prescription medications, which are currently excluded in Maryland. For more information, please contact Delegate Reznik’s office at 301-858-3039 or 410-841-3039 or visit the Pathfinders for Autism websitewww.pathfindersforautism.org under Public Policy.
foR AuTiSm inSuRAnCE CoVERAgE
• The American Academy of Pediatrics and the U.S. Surgeon General have reported that with essential treatments and services, the vast majority of children with autism spectrum disorder improve.
• In the absence of coverage for these evidence-based treatments, families often pay out-of-pocket for treatments. In the process, many risk their homes and the educations of their unaffected children – essentially mortgaging
their entire futures.
• This Bill requires insurers, nonprofit health service plans and health maintenance organizations to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders.
• Coverage will be provided to individuals under the age of 21.
• Coverage under this bill is subject to an inflation adjusted maximum benefit of no less than $50,000 annually.
• Coverage of treatments will be provided when prescribed, provided, or ordered for an individual diagnosed with autism by a licensed physician or a licensed psychologist who determines the care to be medically necessary.
• Eight states, including Indiana, South Carolina, Texas, Arizona, Florida, Louisiana, Pennsylvania and Illinois, have recently enacted legislation requiring insurers to cover evidence-based treatments for autism spectrum disorder.
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Announcements and updates
APRIL AwAReneSSApril brings rain showers, baseball, Earth Day and Autism Awareness. What are you doing for Autism Awareness month? Here are some ways you can participate:
• Get your FREE Pathfinders bookmarks and brochures to distribute at your office, school and in your community. To order go to www.acteva.com/go/pathfinders or call 443-330-5370.• Attend an event. Many local support groups, schools and providers host events to get the word out or to raise resources. • Plan an event in your community. Pathfinders for Autism will post your autism-related events on our on-line calendar. (Note: With a few exceptions, Pathfinders does not post fund raisers for other organizations).
Pathfinders is partnering with several organizations on awareness campaigns and special events. We will once again distribute information through the local library systems and through media outlets around the state. Check out the calendar (right) and our on-line calendar for up-to date information on events in your area.
KOPLOS APPOInted tO MARYLAnd deveLOPMentAL dISABILItY COunCILGovernor Martin O’Malley has appointed Dawn Koplos, Executive Director of Pathfinders for Autism, to serve on the Maryland State Planning Council on Developmental Disabilities (The Council) for a term of five years. Housed under the Maryland State Department of Disabilities, The Council advocates policy and practices that promote the full inclusion of persons with developmental disabilities in community life. To this end, the Council funds projects through grants to provide opportunities and support in Maryland’s communities. Projects include employment, child care, education, early intervention, recreation, health, housing, self-advocacy, transportation, and community supports. The Council’s appointed members include people with developmental disabilities, family members, service providers, state agency representatives, representatives of Maryland’s protection and advocacy systems and the University Center on Developmental Disabilities. The Council believes that all people, regardless of how complex or severe their disability, belong in the community with the support they need to maximize independence, be productive, and lead the lives they choose. Koplos, who has served as Executive Director of Pathfinders for Autism since 2005, was honored by the appointment. “I am eager to begin working with the members and staff of The Council to represent the needs of thousands of individuals and families in Maryland,” says Koplos, “It is inspiring to be included among some of Maryland’s most tireless advocates working on behalf of individuals with developmental disabilities, their families, and caregivers.”
SAVE ThE dATE!
AuTiSm nighT AT ThE wAfflE houSEThursday, March 19
2512 Pulaski HighwayNortheast, Cecil County
A portion of the proceeds to benefit Pathfinders
BAnd TogEThER foR AuTiSmSaturday, April 4
Port Deposit VFW HallCecil County
For Tickets call Kathy at 443-553-4524
PAThfindERS RESouRCE CEnTER oPEn houSE
Tuesday, March 313:00 – 7:00 PM &Wednesday, April 1
10:00 AM – 2:00 PMBaltimore County
SCiEnCE CEnTER ViSiTSunday, April 261:00 – 5:00 PMBaltimore City
Registration required
mAin STREET TowER golfFriday, June 26
The Wetlands, Harford County
mT. wAShingTon TAVERnChARiTy ChAllEngE
Wednesday, October 21Baltimore City
AquARium ViSiTNovember 2009
Details Coming SoonBaltimore City
Details on these and other events can be found on Pathfinders’ on-line calendar
at www.pathfindersforautism.org
The following Sponsorship Opportunities are 100% tax-deductible:• Dinner Sponsor $5,000• Lunch Sponsor $3,000• Golf Cart Sponsor $2,000• Refreshment Sponsor $2,000• Auction Sponsor $1,000• Tee Signs $300 each• Patrons Banner $100 per listing
Donations of any amount will be recognized in Event Program
Payment Options:By Mail: Please use the enclosed envelope and make your check payable to “Pathfinders for Autism.”By Phone: To use Visa or MasterCard, please call 443-330-5370.On-line: Visit www.acteva.com/go/pathfinders (additional fees apply, Visa and Master Card only.)
P a t h f i n d e r s f o r A u t i s m8thAnnualGolfTournament
May4,2009
HillendaleCountryClub
Sponsored by:BOB DAVIDSON FORD LINCOLN MERCURY
Sponsorship Opportunities:■ Premium Foursome • $5,000 Tax-deductible portion: $4,200■ Foursome • $3,000 Tax-deductible portion: $2,200■ tickets to attend dinner and auction only (does not include golf ) • $75.00 per person Tax-deductible portion: $25 per ticket
Alisa RockPresidentB.J. SurhoffVice PresidentBruce L. SchindlerTreasurerRebecca Faye Smith GalliSecretaryPolly Winde SurhoffLinda Carter-FerrierH. Bradley DonovanMichael R. FordStephen A. GeppiJohn W. KamauffRick OpferStuart SpielmanDavid L. WilliamsHonorary Board MemberMichael Phelps
your donation makes a difference!Please consider a contribution to Pathfinders for Autism – a great gift idea to honor a loved one or colleague. See the enclosed envelope for details. Thank you!
Board members
Pathfinders for Autism Resource CenterhElP linE: (443) 330-5341
