November 4-5, 2026 The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) is requesting presentation proposals for its 19th annual Pennsylvania Autism Training Conference (PATC). The conference will be held virtually with an interactive schedule on November 4th and 5th of 2026. PATC invites professionals, clinicians, autistic self-advocates, and their families/caregivers to learn from leading experts in
Governor Josh Shapiro recently signed an official proclamation declaring April 2026 Autism Awareness Month. Please join us in recognizing and celebrating the unique skills, qualities, and characteristics of individuals on the autism spectrum. The governor's full proclamation can be read here. Some highlights include: WHEREAS, autism affects 1 in 31 children, including
In this special mini-series kickoff episode, Isabel talks with co-host Kel about puzzles, board games, and the important role special interests play in autistic identity and self-expression. Together, they explore how interests can bring comfort, focus, joy, and connection and talk about why celebrating them matters. This conversation sets the stage for
Breaking Barriers and Building Futures May 6-16, 2026 The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) invites you to register for its Everyday Lives 2026 Virtual Conference! The 2026 Everyday Lives Conference will include ODP’s annual Dual Diagnosis Conference as a pre-conference event jointly hosted with the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse
What does it really mean to feel at home? In this episode of Autism Unmasked, an autistic self-advocate shares their experience living in a group home and how it shaped their understanding of independence, routine, and belonging. We explore the realities of shared living environments and how housing needs and goals can change
The latest episode of ASERT’s Autism Unmasked podcast is now available. The helps autistic individuals, caregivers and family members navigate emergency room visits to manage the high stress environment. Emergency medical visits can feel overwhelming, especially for autistic individuals and their families. In this episode of Autism Unmasked, we talk with emergency
Governor Josh Shapiro recently signed an official proclamation declaring March 2026 Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. The governor's full proclamation can be read here. Some highlights include: WHEREAS, this month is an important time to recognize and honor the abilities, talents, and contributions of individuals with developmental disabilities; and WHEREAS, individuals with developmental
The latest episode of ASERT's Autism Unmasked podcast is now available. The latest episode encourages us to reframe our self-perception when it comes to goal-setting. The start of a new year often comes with pressure to change or reinvent ourselves, but what if January could be about curiosity instead of expectations? In this episode
Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council (PADDC) is seeking public input on goals and objectives for its next 5-year plan (2027-2031). Over the past 14 months, Council has gathered public feedback on barriers and concerns that impact the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families in Pennsylvania; Distributed surveys and conducted listening
Pennsylvania ASERT has introduced its new podcast series Autism Unmasked. Autism Unmasked is a conversational podcast focused on empowering our listeners by exploring complex and sometimes overlooked topics through open, inclusive conversations. Featuring a mix of neurodivergent and neurotypical voices, each episode offers real stories, thoughtful insights, and meaningful dialogue on everything
