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2011 Archives
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 Introducing
CSAAC "Marvel Mats"
As part of their occupational therapy and pre-vocational
skills services at CSAAC's Community School of Maryland,
many of our students are now making these colorful, sturdy
door mats - and selling them to produce extra funds for
various programs at our school. These 16" x 22" mats are
made from heavy flexible vinyl links, wired together in a
wide range of patterns and colors. They are long-lasting,
weather-proof and nearly indestructible. The open design
allows water and snow to drain through, leaving a textured
surface for wiping off shoes.
Click here for more information
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CSAAC is ready for winter
CSAAC operates 52 homes in Montgomery County, providing community
living for children and adults with autism. Part of CSAAC's
emergency preparedness plan is to have an emergency bin in
each home for
Shelter-in-Place
emergencies. Each bin has a
three
day supply of
meals, snacks and drinks
for each person at the home
- individuals and support staff.
Every two years, CSAAC replaces the supplies to ensure
that no items are beyond their “best used by” date. This January
2012, all 52 residential homes had their emergency
preparedness supply bins replenished
with the assistance of
individuals from the Vocational Program
who helped coordinate the
purchases and loaded the bins with the correct amount of supplies needed for
each house. A special thank you goes to Janet Knapp, CSAAC's Nutritionist, for leading this project.
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 CSAAC
Annual Holiday party
On Friday, December 16th, children and adults supported
through the CSAAC Residential Program participated in our
annual Holiday Party held in the gym at CSAAC’s Community
School of Maryland. CSAAC's own Executive Director,
Ian Paregol
(a.k.a.
“Santa”)
delivered gifts and posed for pictures with everyone. Philicia
Gainous-Jones, Therapeutic Recreation Coordinator for CSAAC
and her team of volunteers did a wonderful job turning the
gym into a winter wonderland. DJ Michael Cruz from Bialek’s
Music kept everyone dancing and a great time was had by all.
Click
here to view the slideshow
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 Horse
Show for CSM
On September 27, 2011, Community School of Maryland students
were involved in a very special event at Oatland Stables. In
partnership with CSM, members of the Howard County Horse
Show Association's Junior Board of Directors put on a horse
show for the school students participating in the weekly
therapeutic horseback riding program. Part of the
Association's mission is to "pass on the values of
horsemanship, sportsmanship, mentorship, and community
service." Each year, the young adults of the Junior Board
develop a project which supports these values and the local
equine community. This year, they decided to bring the
benefits of a horse show to students who might not normally
be able to experience such an event.
During the show, CSM students had a chance to mount their
favorite horse and ride around an enclosed ring,
demonstrating one or more skills that they have been working
on in the horseback riding program. Students not yet ready
for riding held the reigns and guided their horse around the
ring. All participants were judged by Evan Crierie of the MD
Horse Show Association, who volunteered her time to
participate in this project. After their ride, each student
was presented with a medal for their accomplishments.
Students also enjoyed getting an official t-shirt,
refreshments, and positive feedback from the judges and
attendees. The young board members really enjoyed
organizing the show, and are already looking to get more of
their peers involved in putting together another great event
next year.
Click here to view the slideshow
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 CSM
Life Science Fieldtrip
During the month of October, the students at CSM studied
life science / animals in science class. What is better
than seeing some live animals to reinforce what you have
learned? On October 28, 2011, the CSM students went on a
field trip to National Aquarium in Washington, DC.
Photos show that everybody
enjoyed the trip including some parents who chose to join
us. We ended the field trip with a nice lunch at the Ronald
Reagan building across from the aquarium. Our next field
trip will be to Port Discovery Children’s Museum in
Baltimore on November 15th for our younger students.
Click here to view the slideshow
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 MAFCU
Volunteers Make a Difference
On Friday October 21, 2011,
volunteers from the Mid Atlantic Federal Credit Union, a
not-for-profit financial cooperative managed for their
members
volunteered their time at
CSAAC’s Brookeville Campus of the Community School of
Maryland by giving the school a painting makeover! This
effort was coordinated by Craig Pardini, Asst. Director for
Building Facilities at CSAAC, and Michael Richardson at
MAFCU. The volunteers painted four rooms around the school
campus. Thank you to everyone on the MAFCU Team for making
this possible.
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 Halloween
is so much fun at CSM
Halloween is so much fun at CSM!!! This year on October
31st, students, teachers, parents and staff had great time
at our annual party. The students enjoyed different
activities in each classrooms led by the teachers and the
related service providers and also a great costume parade in
the gym. Jacob, Samantha, Kurt, Jori, Elizabeth, and Tommy
won the best costume awards for their classrooms. Cedric won
the best costume award for the entire school. Thank you very
much to all the parents who came to share the fun with us. Click
here to view the slideshow
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 CSAAC
Annual Picnic
On Saturday, September 17, 2011, 250 children, adults,
family members and staff enjoyed a drizzly, but fun day at
our Community School of Maryland Brookeville Campus at the
annual CSAAC picnic. The CSAAC Diversity Committee planned,
organized and hosted the event. Flags from all over the
world were displayed to recognize diversity. Students and
families from the Intensive Early Intervention (IEI) program
kicked things off with children’s activities, including a
moon-bounce, face painting, arts and crafts, and interactive
games. A fabulous barbecue was prepared by Fine Cuisine
Caterers, along with handmade pizza from Ledos. There was
even an ice-cream truck provided by Fresh Associates serving
frozen treats for dessert. Owen C from the adult
residential program operated his social enterprise business
called 'Owen's Popcorn' by selling his freshly popped
popcorn. Owen is donating a portion of his sales to the
Kiwanis Aktion Club of CSAAC.
This year, awards were given out to recognize excellence.
The employees that were honored were: Residential
Counselors, Philomena Evoa, Mabel Kenu, Rachel Abdul, Edith
Nda, Gladys Amissah, Christine Ngouamb, Jessica Kokovei
Amazou, Line Flore Soh-Koudjou-Kengne, Miata Bryant, Angela
Asiamah & Coordinator, Cleo Ajavon for their total
team efforts at Rockville Square. Counselors, Ebenezer Arhim and
Ekaete Ufot were specifically identified as exceptional
counselors in their respective houses. Teacher, Rebecca
Frick and TAs Florence Esehngome, Jude Arwo, Nicholas Yevoo, Chris
Chiatoh & Paul Boakye were honored for the smooth operation
and student instructional progress in their classroom at CSM.
Job Coaches, Aaron Deke & Evelyn Owusu were recognized in
Supported Employment along with Employment Manager,
Jackie Nah for their efforts at job sites. Stacey Shober was
also recognized for her work as a CSAAC IEI and pre-school
teacher. Congratulations to these award recipients and to
everyone working at CSAAC for their efforts in supporting
Maryland's children and adults with autism.
Click here to view the slideshow
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 CSAAC
sponsored its first ever Sibling Art Event
On
Saturday, September 3, 2011, CSAAC sponsored its first ever
Sibling Art Event. Lead by artist and CSAAC parent, Cheryl
Disson, individuals and their siblings worked together to
create acrylic paintings on canvas. These beautiful pieces
will be featured at our 6th Annual Honors Gala on
November 11, 2011. We would like to give a big thank you
to Cheryl for sharing her wonderful talent with us. Due to
the success of this event, we will be offering it again
during our annual picnic on Saturday, September 17,
2011 at the Community School of Maryland, Brookeville
Campus located at 21515 Zion Road, Brookeville, MD 20833.
Siblings and individuals wishing to participate should wear
clothing which can be discarded if paint stained and prepare
to have fun together. Please contact
Brandi Best at 240-912-2269 to register.
Click here to view the slideshow
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 The
Kiwanis Aktion Club hosted Karaoke Idol night
On Thursday, July 21st The Kiwanis Aktion Club hosted
Karaoke Idol night at East Village as a fundraiser for local
charities in the community. Ian Paregol, Executive Director
of CSAAC, donated his talents as KJ (Karaoke Jockey).
Kiwanis members Betty Figlure and Marv Jackson served as
judges for the event and Arlene Hale and Liz Jackson served
up donated Ledo’s Pizza, chips and soda in the kitchen.
Thank you to all of the staff who participated and made it
possible for the individuals to have a fantastic time. The
house was packed as more than two dozen different singers
impressed the judges. Our 2011's Winner was Hans B, with
Eileen C and Gary R coming in 2nd and 3rd, respectively.
The evening’s MVP (Most Valuable Performer) was Kim C. The
dancing category was won by Nora F and Donald G. T.
Congrats to all.
Click here to view the slideshow
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 Community
School of Maryland 4th Annual Field Day
On June 30, 2011, the Community School of Maryland presented
its 4th annual Field Day. The purpose of this event is to
encourage physical fitness, sportsmanship, competition, and
expecting athletes’ personal best. It is hoped that this
event will contribute to the improvement of students’
self-confidence and positive self-image. Competition was
lively. Students demonstrated courage and enthusiasm. They
appeared to enjoy the rewards of team spirit and friendship
while discovering new abilities and talents. Everyone
enjoyed the catered lunch. The event concluded with the
awarding of Olympic – like medals to the athletes. Special
thanks goes to CSM’s Occupational Therapist Wayne Tart,
Assistant Director Joshua Sarracino, all the academic staff,
and teacher assistants.
Click here to view the slideshow
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 Community
School of Maryland Graduation
On June 24, 2011, the Community School of Maryland’s Class
of 2011, participated in commencement exercises in
Brookeville Gymnasium. Uchenna A., Ariel D., Kevin D.,
Matthew E., Edward G., Matthew L., Anthony L., Ryan M.,
Brendan M., and Meir Y. received certificates of High School
Completion. Boy Scout Troop 264/American Legion Post 68
presented the colors and led the Pledge of Allegiance. This
past school year, has been a terrific year for all the
students at CSM. Students Stephanie T., Nicholas S., and
Mauricio L. received student achievement awards. George
Moore from Montgomery County Public Schools delivered the
keynote address. The ceremony ended with the traditional
“turning of the tassels” to signify the official transition
from school to adult living. We wish all the graduates and
their families the best of everything for their future
years.
Click here to view the slideshow
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 Deloitte
Volunteers make a difference
On Friday, June 10, 2011, approximately 40 employees of
Deloitte, a worldwide leader in financial advisory services,
volunteered their time celebrating Deloitte’s annual “Impact
Day” at CSAAC’s Brookeville Campus of the Community School
of Maryland by giving the school a painting makeover! This
is the fifth consecutive year that Deloitte has selected
CSAAC a beneficiary of its organization-wide community
service projects. This effort was coordinated by Craig
Pardini, Asst. Director for Building Facilities at CSAAC,
and Vicki Henry at Deloitte. The volunteers painted several
areas around the school campus. Thank you to everyone on
the Deloitte team for making this possible.
Click here to view the slideshow
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 4th
annual golf event to raise funds for CSAAC
On Wednesday, June 8th, 130 golfers participated in this 4th
annual event to raise funds for CSAAC. The heat did not
keep devoted golfers from turning out for the cause at Blue
Mash Golf Course in Laytonsville, Maryland, and
participating in on-course competitions such as "Beat the
Pro" and a "Mega Putt," won by Don McGlynn, who donated his
winnings back to CSAAC Foundation. 32 Teams particpated in
the Tourney. First Place (-14) went to the team of Thomas
Ransom, Ed White, Adam Deal and Dan Shea. 2nd place (also
at -14) went to Team CSAAC/Insurance Exchange which included
Ian Paregol, Don Rodrick, Kevin Rosenberg, and Jeremy
Welsh. Jennifer Whitford won the Women's Closest to the Pin
and Fred Billig won Men's Closest to the Pin. The Longest
Drive winner for the men was Ed McNamara, and for the women
is was Anne Woodward. Beverage carts sponsored by Victor
Muzzatti of Confidence Title and MAFCU raised additional
dollars. Raffle prizes included a stay at Pinehurst Resort,
NC, donated by
Dog Den Golf, pearl
jewelry donated by
Jhennie's Jewels,
designer "Maui Jim" sunglasses donated by Maria Maestros of
Moda Optic in
Rockville. CSAAC also thanks Platinum Sponsor Sandy Spring
Bank and Gold Sponsors - PEPCO Holdings, Inc.; Danya
International; and Ernst & Young.
Click here to view the slide show on
the CSAAC website.
To
copy your own pictures to your desktop,
click here to view them
using
Picasa
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 Fashion,
Music, and Art for Autism
On Saturday, June 4th, CSAAC Foundation was the beneficiary
of an event entitled "Fashion, Music, and Art for Autism"
held at the historic City Tavern Club in Georgetown,
Washington, D.C. Guests enjoyed couture fashions for the
everyday woman by Maggie Burges of CAS Boutique (www.casboutique.com)
and a fantasy collection by DC artist Don Patron (www.donpatronarts.com).
ALCO Pharmacy (www.alcopharmacy.com)
was the Silver Sponsor for this outstanding event.
Click here to view the slide show
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 Community
School of Maryland Prom
On Friday, May 13, students at CSAAC’s Community School of
Maryland enjoyed a “Hollywood” themed Prom Night along with
their proud parents, families and staff. The Class of 2011
has ten graduates - an all-time record at CSM. A night
filled with food, music and fun for everyone was a fitting
celebration of the accomplishments of these graduates. CSM
students, Eddie and Nora, were crowned 2011 Prom King and
Queen.
Click here to view the slide show
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CSAAC In The News During April, Autism Awareness Month
Click these links to view recent media coverage mentioning
CSAAC.
Celebrating more than 30 years of
helping people with autism
CSAAC Photographers on WTOP Radio
Website
CSAAC Photographers on FOX TV
CSAAC Mentioned in Parade Magazine
Ian Paregol featured on WTOP Radio
with WTOP's Reporter Evan Haning
Video about CSAAC on Patch.com
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 Happy
Hour for Autism
CSAAC concluded a very busy national autism awareness month
with its “3rd Annual Happy Hour for Autism”
benefit fundraiser for CSAAC Foundation was held K Street
Lounge in Washington, DC. The event raised nearly $10,000
for CSAAC Foundation. Guests enjoyed great food, drink
specials, silent auction, and live auction with special
guest auctioneer Doug Hill, Emmy-award winning meteorologist
from ABC 7/WJLA-TV.
Click here to view the slideshow
Click here to view the Biznow event
story
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 The Art Soiree-InFocus Cherry Blossom Exhibit Event
On Thursday, April 7, The Art Soiree and L2 Lounge partnered
with CSAAC Foundation in celebrating the work of the InFocus
Photographers at an event for the grand opening of the
InFocus Cherry Blossom Project exhibition at L2 Lounge in
Georgetown. Over 200 attended the event which raised funds
for CSAAC Foundation.
Click here to view the event slide
show
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 CSAAC
"InFocus" Photographers Photograph the National Cherry
Blossoms
On Monday, March 28th, the CSAAC "InFocus" Photographers,
Brian, James, Joe, Matt and Jimmie, along with class
instructor and CSAAC's Asst. Director for Building
Facilities, Administration and IT, Craig Pardini and
Executive Director for CSAAC Foundation Ayda Sanver visited
the Tidal Basin, home of the annual National Cherry Blossom
Festival in Washington, DC to capture the beauty of the
cherry blossoms through the lens of autism. The photos
taken by the group will be on display at "The Art Soirée -
The InFocus Cherry Blossom Project" a viewing and awareness
event scheduled for April 7th at L2 Lounge in Washington,
D.C. Click
here to view event information. Sandro Keresa, Founder
of TheArtSoiree.com, also followed the class throughout the
day to film a documentary of the photo shoot. CSAAC’s
“InFocus Project” enables individuals with autism to find
their ability to create art and to build business-venture
skills as well as assisting with packaging and mailing their
photographic art as gifts for donation.
Click here to view profiles of the photographers or to
learn more about the InFocus Project.
Click here to view photograph of their
day downtown
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 Baltimore
Symphony Orchestra visits the Brookeville Campus
Students at the Community School of Maryland
had the opportunity to experience the joy of music, through
a program that brought two musicians from the Baltimore
Symphony Orchestra to the Brookeville campus. Students
enjoyed the beautiful sounds of the oboe, as the musicians
play several classic pieces and some familiar modern tunes
as well. The students also got an exciting lesson on the
origins of the oboe as well as the many different types of
oboes used by musicians in the Baltimore Symphony. The two
oboists even took special music requests from students and
were more than willing to answer any questions about their
instruments.
The Community School of Maryland would like to extend
special thanks to Michael and Sandy from the Baltimore
Symphony Orchestra for the program. Also, CSM thanks
Richard Spero, Community Liaison for the BSO, for helping
arrange this special event. Hopefully, this was the first
of several annual visits from our friends with the Baltimore
Symphony.
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 Autism
Pioneer Jane Salzano: Founder of CSAAC
Autism pioneer Jane Salzano founded
CSAAC (Community Services for Autistic Adults and Children)
in 1979 after the diagnosis of her eldest son. CSAAC, a
private, non-profit agency, provides services to those with
autism across the lifespan. In this 6 minute video, Jane
talks about the inspiration for her efforts in spearheading
the establishment of CSAAC, as well as its ongoing legacy in
helping those with autism.
A
Model Me Kids® production.
Click here to see the 6 minute video
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 Valentine’s
Day Celebration
On Friday, February 18, children and
adults in the CSAAC Residential Program celebrated
Valentine’s Day with a dinner dance at CSAAC’s Community
School of Maryland Brookeville campus gymnasium.
Click here to view photographs
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