The Help Group Hosts Task Force on Early Identification and Intervention for California Legislative Blue Ribbon Commission On Autism

Sherman Oaks, CA (PRWEB) November 17, 2006 -- The Help Group hosted the first of three task force meetings on Early Identification and Intervention for the California Legislative Blue Ribbon Commission On Autism at The Help Group's Sherman Oaks Campus. The meeting was led by Blue Ribbon, Vice Chair and Task Force Chair Dr. Barbara Firestone, President & CEO, The Help Group, and Dr. Lou Vismara, Policy Consultant to the Senate President Pro Tem, Don Perata. This task force, was convened to determine the most pressing issues related to early identification and intervention for children with autism and their families; and to consider public policy solutions to address these issues. Blue Ribbon Commissioner, Eleni Tsakopoulos-Kounalakis serves as Task Force Vice Chair.

The meeting was called to order by Dr. Firestone who stated that "The Commission and its task forces have the critical responsibility of charting a course for change that has the potential to positively impact the lives of individuals with autism and their families throughout California, and to serve as a model with national implications." Dr. Firestone acknowledged the "bold efforts" of Senate President Pro Tem Don Perata and Assembly Speaker Fabian Nuñez in providing the innovative vision and leadership to tackle the autism crisis that is impacting children and families throughout California. This Commission, Chaired by State Senator-Elect, Darrell Steinberg, was established with a legislative mandate to identify gaps in programs, services and funding related to the early identification of autism spectrum disorders and provide recommendations to close the identified gaps. These findings will be presented to the Legislature and Governor by fall 2007.

The five-hour meeting was attended by task force members, representatives of elected officials and others from the general public. The members identified the most critical issues in early identification and intervention. Public policy change to address these needs will be identified at the next meeting to be held in December.

ABOUT THE HELP GROUP
Founded in 1975, The Help Group is the largest, most innovative and comprehensive organization of its kind in the United States serving children with special needs related to autism, Asperger's disorder, learning disabilities, ADHD, mental retardation, abuse and emotional problems. The Help Group's six specialized day schools offer pre-K through high school programs for more than 1,200 students. The Help Group's wide range of mental health and therapy services, child abuse, foster family and residential programs extend its reach to more than 5,000 children and their families each year. With over 700 staff members, The Help Group's state-of-the-art schools and programs are located on four major campuses in the Los Angeles area. Through its professional training programs and efforts at the state and national levels, The Help Group touches the lives of children with special needs across the country and in other parts of the world. At the heart of its effort is its commitment to helping young people fulfill their potential to lead positive, productive and rewarding lives. For more information about The Help Group, please call 818-779-5212 or visit www.thehelpgroup.org.

Media Contact:
Lisa Manafian
(818) 779-5327

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