Read the latest updates from our Autism Research and Engagement Core and People On the Go Maryland.
Autism Research and Engagement Core
The Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities (MCDD) Autism Research and Engagement Core team members are consultants to SPARK (Simons Powering Autism Research), a long-term study of autism spectrum disorder. Those members include Cheryl Cohen, MS, director of online and community programs; J. Kiely Law, MD, MPH, research director; Alison R. Marvin, PhD, research manager; Marina Sarris, MA, web content administrator; and Jaimie Toroney, MHS, research manager.
Sarris recently contributed a series of insightful articles to SPARK’s website, each offering valuable perspectives on autism. Her October 16 article, “What Menstrual Products Do Autistic Youth Prefer?” explores the unique challenges autistic individuals may face in managing menstruation. She offers practical tips and resources to help families navigate this sensitive topic with greater ease and understanding.
In her article posted on October 30, “Understanding Research: An Autism Researcher Answers Your Questions,” she breaks down complex scientific concepts and addresses common questions about autism research while making the information accessible to families and individuals seeking to understand the science behind autism. A third article, “Daily Living Skills: A Key to Independence for People With Autism,” posted on November 5, discusses the importance of building practical skills for greater autonomy and provides strategies to help individuals with autism gain confidence and independence in everyday tasks.
The Autism and Research Engagement Core recently produced two new SPARK Research Match Summary Reports, which offer valuable insights into critical topics related to autism. The first report—“What Has Genetic Testing of Autistic People Revealed?”—explores findings from studies on genetic testing and its implications for individuals with autism and their families. It highlights the practical benefits and challenges associated with genetic testing and offers a deeper understanding of its role in autism research and support. The second report—“What Menstrual Products Do Autistic Youth Prefer?”—delves into research on the experiences of autistic individuals with menstruation. It examines how sensory sensitivities and other challenges can affect the use of menstrual products and provides practical takeaways for families and individuals navigating this aspect of daily life.
People On the Go (POG) Maryland
People On the Go Maryland (POG) continues its advocacy efforts by providing training, collaborating with disability-focused organizations and participating in local events. POG team members include Griffin Clabaugh-Bareford, social media coordinator; Cody Drinkwater, public policy assistant; James Orman, program coordinator; Mat Rice, executive director; and Tracy Wright, deputy director and director of training.
The last few months were filled with meaningful engagements for POG team members, as they actively participated in various events to promote disability acceptance and advocacy. On October 20, Orman, Rice and Wright gave a presentation about the history of disability advocacy at The Arc Maryland’s Partners in Policymaking® orientation class. On October 29, Orman gave a presentation at Neurodiversity in the Workplace, a national, collaborative conference, “Neuro-Inclusion and Neuro-Sensitivity in the Workplace: Achieving Equity and Increasing Productivity Through Inclusion and Understanding.” He discussed how workplaces often prioritize productivity over employee well-being, which can create barriers for neurodivergent employees, and how targeted accommodations can enhance success and satisfaction for all. Also on October 29, Rice and Wright gave a presentation about ableism at the Maryland Association of Community Services 2024 CEO and Leadership Conference.
On November 4, Wright gave a presentation about supported decision-making at the Association of University Centers on Disabilities 2024 Conference. On November 6 and November 20, Orman, Rice and Wright led a supported decision-making training session for parents of individuals with disabilities, which focused on how to help foster independence by supporting decision-making skills. The training was conducted in partnership with The Parents’ Place of Maryland. On November 13, Rice gave a presentation to individuals with disabilities at Towson University about disability history and communication. Orman and Wright attended The Arc Maryland’s SpArc Tank Ig-Nite event on November 21. This gathering provided an opportunity for participants to showcase their achievements, connect with peers and promote inclusive practices.
As part of Kennedy Krieger Institute’s advocacy curriculum, Rice spoke to trainees on December 10 about POG and the importance of self-advocacy. Also on December 10, Orman and Wright gave a presentation to staff members from N. Burton Consulting; Service Coordination, Inc.; and Brown, Goldstein & Levy. The presentation, “Roles, Responsibilities and Rights of Person-Centered Planning,” focused on clarifying the key elements of person-centered planning and how these principles can guide professionals in supporting individuals with disabilities to make informed decisions about their lives and services. On December 19, Wright attended the Disability Services’ 50th Anniversary Gala, hosted by the Prince George’s County Department of Parks and Recreation.
POG members have shared many insightful presentations at recent POG member meetings. On October 18, the biweekly member meeting featured a presentation about voting and a trivia game. On October 21, Orman gave a presentation at the monthly member meeting about neuro-inclusion and neuro-sensitivity in the workplace. During the biweekly meeting on November 15, staff members from the Self-Directed Advocacy Network of Maryland gave a presentation about the self-directed service model. These presentations have contributed to the ongoing learning and engagement of POG members.