| Hello Kaleidoscope Community!
As we welcome the blossoms of April, we’re also embracing a time of reflection – honoring and celebrating diversity in all its forms. This month, Kaleidoscope is proud to shine a spotlight on Autism Acceptance Month and the Day of Pink.
Autism Acceptance Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the unique perspectives and contributions of individuals on the autism spectrum. It’s about embracing a broader understanding, acceptance, and inclusion for every member of our community, regardless of neurodiversity. At Kaleidoscope, we believe in celebrating the beautiful spectrum of human experiences, and that includes the diverse experiences of our autistic community members.
In addition to Autism Acceptance Month, today, April 10th marks the Day of Pink – a day dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of bullying and discrimination, particularly in the LGBTQIA+ community. It’s a day to stand up against bullying in all its forms and to promote a culture of kindness, acceptance, and respect.
We invite you to join us in celebrating the richness of diversity within our community and in standing up against bullying and discrimination. Together, let’s create a world where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued for who they are.
As always, please feel free to send any questions to: kaleidoscope@thehelpgroup.org and make sure to follow us on @kaleidoscopelgbtq and KaleidoscopeLGBTQ to keep current on our clubs and groups, as well as special events.
With Pride,
The Kaleidoscope Team |
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Jay Baldwin, Program Director
They, them, theirs pronouns
jbaldwin@thehelpgroup.org |
Laurie Stephens, Ph.D. PSY 18520 Sr. Director, Autism & LGBTQ+ Programs
She, Her, Hers pronouns
lstephens@thehelpgroup.org |
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| * For general inquiries, contact us at kaleidoscope@thehelpgroup.org. |
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| By Jay Baldwin
April marks Autism Acceptance Month, dedicated to fostering ongoing support, empathy, and kindness for the autistic communities. Providing acceptance and affirmation is a significant component of Kaleidoscope’s mission as we offer services for youth across the LGBTQ+ spectrum, with a special focus on neurodiverse youth. This month holds particular significance for us as we celebrate these youth who are on the autism and LGBTQIA+ spectrums. |
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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 of recognizing and leveraging their strengths to unlock their potential and develop personal growth. |
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Upcoming LGBTQIA+ Events, Services & More
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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. Make sure to stop by our table and say hello!
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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, PhD, UCLA Semel Institute & DMH + UCLA Prevention Center of Excellence, Danielle Farmer, MSEd, LCSW, DMH + UCLA Public Mental Health Partnership, and Stephen Hydon, EdD, MSW, USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work, on fostering resilience and promoting best practices in assessment, prevention and intervention in our schools and communities. This FREE event provides an opportunity to earn up to 2.5 CE’S.
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National Volunteer Week
April 21 – 27
Kaleidoscope is looking for volunteers for our LGBTQ+ youth social events. Have a few extra hours to spare or on an ongoing basis? Do you have a special skill you’d like to share with LGBTQ+ youth? Are you a member of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally at least 21 years of age? Become a volunteer at our monthly social events!
VOLUNTEER TODAY |
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Specialized Day Camps
June 10 – July 3, August 5 – 9
9 am – 2 pm
Kids Like Me’s summer camps provide a safe and enriching environment for 6-17-year-olds across the autism spectrum to engage, experience, and explore. Campers are matched to ensure an appropriate peer group for learning and fun. Siblings are welcome! We are vendored with Regional Centers and accept Self-Determination funds. Contact your service coordinator today or visit our camps page to learn more! For Teens on The Go, we’re adding bus pick-ups for our westside residents from our Culver City Campus.
APPLY TODAY
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Summer Program for Young Adults
June 10 – July 3 , August 5 – 9
9:30 am – 2:30 pm
Join Advance LA for a fun social-recreational summer program for young adults ages 18-22. This program is specially designed for those with mild to intensive support needs who face challenges with learning, language, attention, social interaction, or sensory processing. We are vendored with Regional Centers and accept Self-Determination funds. Contact your service coordinator today or visit Advance LA’s summer programs to learn more!
APPLY TODAY |
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Mental Health Services
Kaleidoscope offers individual & group therapy as well as psychiatric care in a safe & affirming environment at affordable rates. We accept insurance, Medi-cal, and offer sliding-scale rates based upon annual income.
CONTACT US |
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Individual Coaching
Coaching available for LGBTQIA+ youth & young adults who need assistance with identifying goals, taking next steps, & establishing healthy connections in community settings.
CONTACT US |
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Training & Presentations
We offer training, education & presentations to parents, administrators, and the community to provide LGBTQIA+ youth with the affirming support that they need to thrive.
LEARN MORE |
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ABOUT THE HELP GROUP’S KALEIDOSCOPE:
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. Kaleidoscope, a specialized program of The Help Group, is dedicated to empowering LGBTQ+ youth and young adults to realize their unique and full potential. Through a focus on mental health services, family training and support, strong social connections, allyship development, and obtaining essential life and coping skills, Kaleidoscope strives to pave the way for self-acceptance, family understanding, and community support to build confidence, resilience and provide the care needed for LGBTQ+ individuals to thrive.For more information, please visit:
www.thehelpgroup.org
www.kaleidoscopelgbtq.org
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