I am quite privileged to be speaking about the subject of Self-Advocacy, which is credited for all of my greatest successes in life.  Perhaps some of the lessons may be able to help you and/or your loved ones fight the good fight.  I would like all of you to consider coming tonight to this SANYS event from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM when I am going to be speaking about my journey on the autism spectrum for approximately half-an-hour. I would like to show my sincere appreciation to Cynthia Gilchrist and Dianne Richardson for putting this together in such a diligent and professional manner. I will try my best to give everyone an inspirational talk and hoping that many of you will be able to attend tonight. Let it be known that Self-Advocacy (in my opinion) is asking what you want in this life. In my life, it is also fixing problems before they even become problems. Explaining the difference between constructive criticism and downright bullying. It is also understanding that nobody has the right to make your life miserable, put their hands on you, or threaten your safety. But it is also accepting that it is never meant to be perfect. Despite all of the progress that has been made, it is typical to encounter people who despise me with a passion or find some ridiculous reason why it is not possible to give me a fighting chance. "If you encounter people who do not like you, it means you are doing something right!" Below you will find all of the information needed to sign on at 6:00 PM! Self Advocacy Association of NYS Monday, April 10th, 2023 6:00PM – 7:00PM Welcome   Let's Talk Autism presented by Jesse Saperstein in celebration of Autism Awareness Month Volunteerism is What I Do (Tamelia Fritz) Topic for Next Meeting Next Meeting Date:  Monday, May 8th, 2023

Self Advocacy Association of NYS 500 Balltown Road Bldg 12 Schenectady, New York 12304 518-382-1454 drichardson@sanys.org