| To our Advance LA Community,
April brings with it more than just blooming flowers and warmer weather; it is a time of celebration, understanding, and acceptance. As April marks Autism Acceptance Month, we recognize the strides made in navigating independence and embracing the unique paths of neurodivergent young adults.
In this month’s blogpost, we are proud to introduce you to Advance LA alumni, Emma Belgard. Emma is a talented composer, pianist, and now, a thriving professional in the world of film, TV, and music composition. Emma joined Advance LA (ALA) and connected with life coaches that helped her through weekly meetings, workshops, career goal setting, and practical and social skills development. in the post, Emma reflects on her ALA experience and impact it had on her life. From learning to trust herself and her ability to succeed in school and her career, to building deeper connections with the world around her, we are so proud to see Emma continue to grow and thrive.
Advance LA’s mission is to help our clients advance to independent adulthood. Our Life Skills Coaches meet with their clients remotely, or in person, to provide support and guidance in areas including academics, executive functioning, time management, organization, social/dating skills, job/internship obtainment and maintenance, and independent living skills.
Please contact us at advancela@thehelpgroup.org for more information.
Jeri Rochman, JD, MS
Program Coordinator |
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Navigating Success for Neurodivergent Youth
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Written by Jeri Rochman
Meet Emma Belgard. A talented composer, pianist, and now, a thriving professional in the world of film, TV, and music composition. A few years ago, Emma was navigating the ups and downs of life as a neurodivergent young adult attending college. Her dad, Steve, who works as a job developer and employment specialist at the Bridgeport Vocational Center, suggested that Emma apply for the Advance LA program at The Help Group. Emma joined Advance LA (ALA) and connected with life coaches that helped her through weekly meetings, workshops, career goal setting, and practical and social skills development. |
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Event Spotlight – Mark Your Calendar!
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| Thursday, May 9, 2024 | 9 am – 12 pm | Sherman Oaks, CA
Join The help Group and Lumina Counseling as we honor Lisa Wong, LACDMH Director and learn more from leading mental health and wellness experts Audra Langley, Danielle Farmer and Stephen Hydson on fostering resilience and promoting best practices in assessment, prevention and intervention in our schools and communities. Earn up to 2.5 CE’S. |
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Rethinking Potential for Autistic Youth – WEBCAST
Wednesday, April 17, 2024 | 10-11 AM Join us as we examine the concept of limitless potential in autism, identifying and celebrating our children’s unique strengths, accomplishments, and personal growth, as well as fostering an environment that supports their individual journey towards a fulfilling life. Gain insights into the power of presuming competence, explore practical strategies for nurturing your child’s passions and interests, and discover the impact or recognizing and leveraging their strengths to unlock their potential and develop personal growth. |
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Join us for a free, one-of-a-kind art exhibit!
Sunday, April 14, 2024 | 12-3 PM | Burbank, CA. 91401The Help Group proudly presents I See the World, The World Sees Me, a celebration of neurodiversity featuring three captivating exhibitions by Help Group student artists. This event is generously sponsored by Bear Givers and the EmpowerArt program, a New York-based nonprofit dedicated to spreading happiness to children and adults in need. FREE Admission for Help Group families and the community. Reserve your spot today! |
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Have you RSVP’d to The Help Group’s Special Needs Resource Fair?
Sunday, April 28, 2024 | 11 am – 2 pm | Sherman Oaks, CA The Help Group’s Special Needs Resource Fair connects LA’s special needs community with a wide range of resources and services. This FREE event includes a variety of exhibitors, expert discussions, family-friendly activities, sensory stations, and much more. Don’t miss this invaluable experience! Register today! |
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Looking for a Specialized Summer Program for Young Adults?
June 10 – July 3, August 5 – 9 | 9:30 am – 2:30 pm | Sherman Oaks, CA Join Advance LA’s exciting social-recreational summer program, specifically tailored for young adults between the ages of 18-22 with mild to high support needs. This summer, we’re introducing three new tracks. Participants will be thoughtfully matched to cultivate appropriate peer connections. These offerings aim to bolster confidence, hone social and essential life skills, and foster independence, all within a fun atmosphere conducive to forming lasting friendships! |
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club la RV Arcade Night!
Wednesday, April 24 | 6-8 pm PT
Show off your gaming skills at a fun club l.a. event! Join new friends and good friends for an evening of fun, friendship, and video games. Don’t miss out – register today! For neurodivergent young adults ages 18-29. Fee: $35
RSVP |
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Parent-to-Parent Support Group
Thurs, April 4th and 18th | 6-7 pm PT
Free online sessions for parents to connect, share stories & learn from one another. Meetings take place on the first and third Thursday of each month. Our parent support group is a safe space to share information, resources, and friendship.
RSVP |
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Dating & Relationship Coaching
Available now!
Advance LA now offers dating and relationship coaching for neuro-divergent young adults who are interested in learning the social skills involved in dating, as well as the communication skills required to maintain a romantic relationship. To learn more, contact Jeri.
CONTACT |
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Life Skills Coaching
Virtual coaching available for academic, vocational, social, and independent living skills support (individual or group sessions).
LEARN MORE |
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Lumina Counseling
Lumina offers insurance and private pay for individual, couples, and family therapy to people of all ages throughout the Los Angeles area. Lumina believes that everyone has the right to be heard and to be guided to live their best possible life. For more info, please call 818-779-5100.
LEARN MORE |
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ABOUT THE HELP GROUP’S ADVANCE LA:
The Help Group offers innovative, educational, therapeutic, residential, community and vocational advocacy and support to empower children and young adults to live with dignity, hope, opportunity, and love. Advance LA, a specialized program of The Help Group, provides clients with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, executive functioning difficulties and learning differences, the experiences and opportunities necessary to lead a fulfilling adult life. Our specialized program provides coaching services and support groups, as well as workshops and conferences for young adults, parents, and industry professionals, answering one of the most frequently asked questions by parents of those with special needs, “What happens next?” LEARN MORE
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