We are proud to share this podcast with you, as it provides insight into the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) Program for the state of New Mexico. The conversation focuses on how this program has expanded trainees’ knowledge and experience regarding public policy, legislative advocacy and so much more even beyond graduation. The shared purpose of graduates is to continue to make a valuable advancement in advocacy. This podcast essentially highlights how graduates of the LEND Program go on to make a difference in their community. If you are interested in participating in this life-changing program and you live outside of New Mexico, there are 60 LEND programs in the United States. We encourage you to seek a LEND program near you!

Resources:

New Mexico LEND Flyer

During this conversation, you will learn about the foundation and history of the New Mexico Access to Behavioral Health for Children Program (NM-ABC). In 2004, it was recognized that there was a massive shortage of pediatric mental healthcare specialists in the country and, specifically, the State of New Mexico. The staff of NM-ABC has been incredibly effective in making a difference. The discussion includes how the NM-ABC staff offers consultations, training and resources, which connect primary care providers with specialists that are experts in the field of mental healthcare. There are 49 of these state programs, two tribal nation programs, five U.S. territory programs and one in Canada. Our hope is that pediatricians from all over the world are able to connect with their own version of this network of Pediatric Mental Healthcare access programs. We are confident that you will agree that your mental health is just as important as your physical health.

Resources:

Transcript

NM-ABC Consultation Service Flyer

NM-ABC Training and Professional Development Flyer

This conversation focuses on numerous ways to support people with disabilities to have access to voting, which is a privilege for all Americans. Enjoy the conversation while learning about the ease of registering to vote, absentee ballot requirements, and accommodations that have been made available online through the local Poll Workers’ guide. Many accommodations were discussed in detail including adaptive voting machines, curbside voting, and transportation to the polls. Specific requirements have also been made available to ensure that voters have privacy and autonomy. All of these amenities are provided so that everybody can insert their ballot to be read and counted. Remember that your voice matters and your vote counts!

Links:

How to Vote in New Mexico

Voting Resources

What do you do if you or a loved one with autism and other mental health needs comes across a situation that is we talk with the lead team of New Mexico START. A New Mexico evidence-based, community crisis prevention and intervention service that provides the necessary supports for individuals to successfully manage challenging life experiences due to mental health conditions.

Join us as we go in-depth with the team’s backstory on what they do to provide services in the disability community. Get personal insights and successes they have encountered through NM START. We believe this conversation will encourage you to reach out if you need a strong support system.

Links:

NM START Referral Flyer

This is a special recording of a panel discussion of the Imagine Autism Virtual Workshop that focused on Adult Life, which was hosted by the Autism Programs at the UNM Center for Development and Disability. Six autistic adults share their own experiences about their diagnosis of autism; life with friends, family and general social relationships. The conversation touches on employment and housing, and what would have been helpful to know when younger.

Getting a job is an exciting process for anyone. It is the beginning of a new chapter in a person’s life, as individuals get out into the community and build life skills. Autonomy includes making money and being able to manage it towards short/long term goals. Being able to access things that you desire and/or need gives you a sense of gaining independence. For individuals with autism, it can be exciting, overwhelming and scary at the same time.

Our facilitator has an incredible discussion with three autistic self-advocates. Listen to how they share their personal insights and wisdom regarding the process of getting a job, and the obstacles they faced along the way.

Please join us in this discussion and learn about the ups and downs we all face when it comes to getting a job, and the responsibilities associated with the process whether or not you have autism.

On this episode of Autism Conversations, our facilitator leads an incredible discussion with three fathers who share their perspectives and share advice regarding their child’s journey. In this podcast, the fathers discuss the diagnosis of autism and how they have navigated service systems. They share heartfelt discussions on how they received valuable support along the way from their loved ones. The support was necessary to get them through the challenging times, as well as sharing in the celebration of triumphs. The information the fathers share on how to be a successful advocate for your autistic child is beneficial in supporting those making the same journey. We believe you will enjoy this podcast that is full of hope and encouragement. Please take a listen and join us in this beautiful conversation of a father’s perspective of their family’s autism journey.

We proudly present our latest podcast, which addresses transitioning into adulthood. We all go through transitions in life. Let’s listen to the personal journeys of four autistic self-advocates who share things they wish they knew, as they themselves transitioned to adulthood. While uniquely their own, together, their stories will offer insights and opportunities for learning, and we hope that this conversation will support you on your own journey.