The Brightside: Lower Shore Autism Community
DELMARVA – The Lower Shore Autism Community (LSAC) is growing and continues to be dedicated to advocating for individuals on the autism spectrum.
LSAC a relatively new organization has a passion for advocating for families who need it most. “We’re just trying to bring more outreach, more understanding, more awareness like hey we’re here,” says Jayme Delvecchio, the LSAC outreach coordinator.
President of LSAC, Clay Belgie tells us, that years ago they began to notice there were limited resources for families who have autism. “Every step of the way there are certain challenges whether it’s school or work and getting along with others, there’s a lot to consider.” He adds, “You can’t always just look at a child and say oh they have autism, autism comes in many shapes, sizes and it’s not always recognized by just looking at a child.”
Delvecchio was previously a first responder, and more recently a mother of two children with autism. Being on both sides, she saw the lack of understanding in first responder cases dealing with autism, and needing more resources and community support for her children. “It’s good to be able to connect with someone you might be able to relate to, you might be able to guide them,” she says.
By facilitating those connections, LSAC has been able to better find resources for these families, whether through community events or getting to know first responders in case of emergencies. “It’s really important for our first responders to understand that it may be necessary to dive deeper into a child that may need help.” Delvecchio adds, “I’m just so happy it’s growing, training is becoming more prevalent and out there so that our first responders know how to act efficiently.”
Beyond earning a presence in the community, they host monthly support group meetings, and social groups, find local medical providers, and even help with school intervention plans. We’re told it’s all in the hopes of finding and helping more families right here on the shore. “I just encourage other families to reach out to us, we’re here for you, a comfortable and a safe place,” says Delvecchio. Belgie adds, “We don’t have all the answers but we hope we can point people in the right direction.”
LSAC will host their first Social Club for Teens and Young Adults on the Spectrum on Tuesday, April 23rd, from 6:30 to 8:00 PM at the Dove Pointe Children’s Building.
To find out more about the organization, visit their Facebook page or head to their website.
