Sherwood Autism Center

Autism Acceptance Month is almost here! This April, Sherwood Autism Center will be out in the Kansas City community to promote autism acceptance and celebrate neurodiversity. Our Sherwood Autism Center leaders including Kia Walsh, CEO; Rachel Kronewitter, Board-Certified Behavior Analyst; and Staci Gonzalez, Director of Special Education and Transition Services, will be sharing insights on "Neurodiversity in the Workplace" with the SHRM of Greater Kansas City Together, we'll explore the benefits of embracing neurodiverse talent, strategies for fostering inclusive workplace environments, and practical approaches to supporting employees with diverse cognitive profiles. Let's create inclusive workplaces that uplift and empower neurodiverse talent! Register now for the April 8 event >> https://loom.ly/sIUOP3Y

Do vaccines cause autism? ? No, they don't. Misinformation is everywhere, but knowledge is power. This article breaks down the science proving vaccines *do not* cause autism. Stay informed, make confident choices for your family, and help spread facts! https://lnkd.in/g-hBezBd #SherwoodAutismCenter #AutismAwareness #AutismSpectrum #AutismCommunity #KansasCityNonprofit #KansasCity

Happy International Women's Day! Sherwood Autism Center is proud to be a woman-founded and woman-led organization. Today, we celebrate the incredible women and girls in our community — students, clients, staff, and supporters. Your expertise and impact make an impact every single day. #SherwoodAutismCenter #AutismAwareness #AutismSpectrum #AutismCommunity #KansasCityNonprofit #KansasCity

Meet Jessica Thomas, Adult Day Services Manager! When you enter Sherwood Autism Center, you’re greeted by Jessica at the front desk. Her role is multifaceted, connecting parents/guardians, service coordinators, clients, and more to the resources they need at Sherwood. “Sherwood is always evolving,” she says. “We are always looking for ways to be better. That will keep us growing.” ?? Her Background: Jessica has a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology, and she began her career as a paraprofessional at Fort Osage School District before transitioning to a program coordinator role, managing ISLs for adults with disabilities. After years in office and accounting management, she brought her 20+ years of experience to Sherwood as our ADS Manager. ??Joy Outside of Work: Jessica loves watching her kids play their sports. She’s also a big fan of the beach and cherishes her time there when she gets to be at one! ??Sherwood’s Strength: “The individuals are the BEST part of Sherwood,” she says. “The individuals are all special in their own way, just as we all are. It’s always fun to help show them the things they are capable of, especially when they don’t know they can do it!” Thank you, Jessica, for being just an integral part of the Sherwood community. Our staff, clients, and families greatly appreciate all that you do!

?? Wednesday March 5th ?? Again? Yep, we can’t believe it either. Winter is really overachieving this year, so Sherwood’s campus will be closed today. Please Note: Both, Sherwood Special Education and Adult Day Services will be closed. #SherwoodAutismCenter #AutismCommunity #KansasCityNonprofit #KansasCity #AutismSpectrum #Anothersnowday

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month! When people with developmental disabilities have access to education, employment, and full participation, they contribute to their local community like everyone else. People with developmental disabilities are our neighbors, friends, and coworkers. Let's celebrate their contributions this Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and commit to "We're Here All Year!" #WeReHereAllYear #NACDD #DDAwareness

Did you know? Sherwood Autism Center is in our ?50th? year of impact. Last fall, we unveiled our new brand identity. Our leaf symbol represents being “rooted in growth,” and the role of learning for students and clients. Inside the leaf you will find the letters S-A-C, which are the initials for Sherwood Autism Center. It also represents Students, Adults, and Community united for the mission. Thank YOU for being a part of our mission. Together, we can create a more inclusive Kansas City for all abilities. #SherwoodAutismCenter #AutismAwareness #AutismSpectrum #AutismCommunity #KansasCityNonprofit #KansasCity

We are LOVING this warmer weather this week. Who else is excited for the sunshine? ?? Pictured here is our Sherwood students and clients creating Valentine's Day crafts and art earlier this month. After all the snow and cold, we're happy to be back together continuing to learn, create, and have fun. #SherwoodAutismCenter #AutismAwareness #AutismSpectrum #AutismCommunity #KansasCityNonprofit #KansasCity

?? Update for Thursday (2/20)?? ?? Winter wins again! ?? Sherwood will be closed on Thursday, February 20th. Stay safe, everyone! Please note: Both programs will be closed.

#BlackHistoryMonth Join Sherwood Autism Center CEO Kia Walsh as she speaks with Camille P., The Color of Autism Foundation founder. You'll hear: ? Camille's journey and about the foundation ? The importance of addressing stigma in communities of color ? Authentic representation in media and more! https://lnkd.in/gPxRRcBu