January 2018
We're Celebrating Our 25th Anniversary All Year Long!
Dear ,

Happy New Year!

2018 marks the 25th Anniversary of The Autism Alliance of MetroWest. It's hard to believe that what started as a small support group in a  church basement all those years ago is now a non-profit autism support center, serving more than 1,400+ families and professionals. We will be celebrating this milestone all year long, by giving back to YOU -- the heart and soul of our agency. Check out all the exciting opportunities and giveaways that will be a part of our 25th Anniversary celebration.  

This month, we are also introducing a Coffee and Book Conversation event, which will allow families and professionals the opportunity to look through our extensive book collection. Please drop by.

A big thank you to everyone who so generously donated to our Annual Appeal. We would not be able to provide the array of supports and programs currently in place without your support. We know that there are numerous charities requesting donations this time of year and we are truly grateful for your generosity.

Your Co-Directors,
Upcoming Events
February Vacation Events

Thanks to the generosity of the Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation, we will once again host three, free February school vacation events.
 
Fun, Friends & Family Zumba, Ages 16+

January 13th from 12:30-2:30pm. Licensed Zumba® Fitness instructor, Jayne Carney will lead an hour-long Zumba class, with light refreshments and time to socialize to follow.

A Full Life Ahead: Adult Family Care & Shared Living - What to Know

February 8th from 6:30-8:30pm in Framingham. Join us for a discussion about Adult Family Care (AFC) and Shared Living. We will discuss the benefits, differences, and eligibility requirements for both residential options.
 
Learn More.

SibShop Event

We are hosting our third, free SibShop event on March 3rd, from 10am-1pm for siblings ages 7-12. Click on the link below for details and registration information.
 
Learn More.
On-Going Programs
January Swim Sessions

Sensory Swim Sessions begin on January 9th in Framingham with 8 weekly classes. Space is limited - register now.
 
Ages 4-8.

* NEW* Monthly Book Talk

January 22nd - Join us for a cup of coffee and peruse our new selection of autism-related books, generously donated by Linda Olsen. All are welcome. No registration necessary.

Sunday Open Gym

Our Sunday Open Gym program operates weekly through the end of March. $5 per family - your first visit is free, come check it out!
 
Learn More.
Family Support Clinics

By appointment, addressing any issues or needs that your family may have relating to supporting a loved one with autism.
 
Learn More.
Support Groups
Just For Dads Support Group

Thursday, January 4th from 7:00-8:30pm. A group for fathers raising children on the autism spectrum. No registration needed - just stop by!
 
Learn More.

Parent Support Group
  
Wednesday, January 10th from 7:00 - 8:30pm. 
Self Regulation: what does it mean and how we can help our children with sensory tools, strategies and environmental changes to promote it? We will also explore the "Zones of Regulation" which is a framework to help kids define how they are feeling and help build regulation skills. No registration necessary - just stop by.
Portuguese Speaking Support Group

January 29th at 6:30pm in Framingham. 
Information and support group for Portuguese speaking families that have children with autism. Come learn about what programs and services are available to you and your child.
 
Learn More.
Quick Resources
Autism Alliance | (508) 652-9900 | AutismAlliance@Advocates.org | www.AutismAlliance.org
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