In this episode, Penny shares her love for drawing, sewing, and hands-on creativity. She talks about how making art and crafts helps her relax, express herself, and create things that feel meaningful and personal. From textures and colors to the joy of finishing a project, Penny reminds us that creativity can be
The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) requests your assistance sharing the attached communication, ODPANN 26-028 Update - Updates to the Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Service (PUNS). The purpose of this communication is to distribute the updated Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services (PUNS) Manual and the revised DP1055 – PUNS
May 19-20, 2026 The Arc of Pennsylvania is hosting its 3rd Annual Disability Health Action Summit from May 19-20, 2026, in Camp Hill, PA. This is an in-person only event, taking place at the Penn Harris Hotel & Convention Center, with no option to attend virtually. Building on themes of health equity
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
The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) requests your assistance sharing the attached communication, ODPANN 26-040 Now Available Updated SPeCTRUM Training. The purpose of this communication is to announce the updated SPeCTRUM training is now available on MyODP, outline completion requirements, and provide guidance regarding documentation, transition timelines, and prior version applicability. This announcement
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
The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) requests your assistance sharing the attached communication, ODPANN 26-039 Performance-Based Contracting 2026-2027 Residential Pay-for-Performance Details Now Available. The purpose of this communication is to provide details about the Residential Performance-Based Contracting (PBC) Pay-for-Performance (P4P) initiatives for Fiscal Year 2026-2027. Please review the announcement for more details. ODPANN
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
The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) requests your assistance sharing the attached communication, ODPANN 26-037 Updated Incident Management (IM) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Document Now Available. The purpose of this communication is to announce the release of the updated Incident Management (IM) Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document on MyODP. This FAQ has