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
Communicating goals in a tangible way National Vision Board Day is celebrated annually on the second Saturday of January and inspires individuals to live the life they’ve always dreamed of with the aid of a vision board. A vision board is a pictural representation of goals and dreams through the use of
Shared Wellness of Horsham, PA shares their stories of wellness with ODP! Shared Wellness is a provider agency that centers its mission around community participation and wellness. "As a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), we are committed to making movement fun, meaningful, and accessible for
