142 episodi
Isaac's Autism in the Wild Holly Bahme-Lytle
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- Infanzia e famiglia
On February 8, 2007, Holly Bahme-Lytle suffered a tremendous loss when her son Isaac, diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder, unexpectedly passed away just six weeks short of celebrating his fourth birthday. Determined to turn her personal tragedy into an opportunity to help families similar to her own who were struggling with the hardships of having a loved one affected by autism, Holly channeled her grief and founded the ISAAC Foundation in July of 2007. This was no easy task as the year following Isaac’s death Holly gave birth to her youngest son, Caleb, who was later diagnosed with high functioning autism.
Through it all, Holly never allowed personal hardship to derail her desire to provide services for families in need. In the early years, the ISAAC Foundation provided financial support to hundreds of children in the region diagnosed with autism so that they could receive critical therapy interventions that were not covered by their insurance. She later broadened the scope of ISAAC Foundation’s mission to include emotional support programs for parents and siblings, educational programs for parents, teachers, employers and regional first responders, and a weighted blanket program that hand-makes and distributes over 200 weighted blankets and lap pads per year to individuals in need in Eastern Washington and North Idaho.
The needs of each family is different which is why the ISAAC Foundation provides a very diverse set or programs and services. Sometimes a family’s greatest need is emotional support, which is why the foundation hosts monthly mom, dad and sibling support groups and produces a weekly podcast on autism related topics.
The ISAAC Foundation has an extremely loyal and dedicated network of supporters in the region. Its supporters consist of local organizations and families who have often experienced first-hand the quality of services the ISAAC Foundation provides to the community. It’s through these experiences, both the good and the bad, that they are able to form strong bonds that keeps them connected throughout the family’s autism journey.
The ISAAC Foundation is more than just a foundation providing programs and services to the autism community. It has become the glue that connects a diverse tribe of individuals, families, and organization that together impact the lives of thousands of individuals touched by autism throughout the region.
To learn more about The ISAAC Foundation, follow us on Facebook or visit its website at www.theISAACfoundation.org.
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Technology and Neurodivergent Teens by SPD Ed Richardson
Technology can be an excellent tool for kids with special needs, but it’s essential to be aware of the risks involved. Preparing for safe online interactions is necessary, and it is critical to examine the particular risks and issues that youth with disabilities face online.
The Isaac Foundation, along with Ed Richardson of the Spokane Police Department, will present tips and strategies to help guide your child to use technology and digital media safely and responsibly.
Tips include:
Recognize/identify the signs of cyberbullying.
Talk with your youth about online predators.
How to teach your youth about online safety.
Use of parental controls. -
#140 | Overlooked Organizations
In this podcast I have my son, producer Tyler, join me. Tyler has been the only person who has been with me as long as the ISAAC Foundation has been in existence and can appreciate the evolution of what is accomplished under this roof and the difference it has made in the lives of families touched by autism.
This podcast is a bit of a vent at being overlooked along with many other organizations doing good work in the community. -
Understanding the World of Special Education
Maria and Holly talk about the confusing world of special education. In this episode, we share our own IEP experiences (the good and not so good), and why it’s acceptable and encouraged to advocate for goals that are meaningful for your child – not necessarily settle for goals that are proposed by your teacher.
To connect with Maria for further questions about your child’s IEP, email: Maria@theisaacfoundation.org -
Salty Sister Kelly Lytle
In this episode my youngest daughter shares some of our recent struggles with her oldest brother with autism. We talk about the term glass sibling. Tune in to find out more.
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Tracks to Success by Skils'kin
Saturday, March 11
9am -1pm | Open House
4004 E Boone Ave. Spokane, WA 99202
Are you or someone you know living with a disability?
Are you confused about employment options, benefits, or finances?
Attend this event for answers! We will have on-site solutions from:
* DDA and DVR Case Managers (Service sign-up and Q&A)
* Mary McDirmid of Special Abilities Network (ABLE accounts and financial planning)
* Community Work Incentive Counselors (how work will impact benefits)
* Skils’kin Staff (job opportunities, resume building, and post-graduation concerns)
visit this link to learn more and register!
https://bit.ly/3ZqZOwP
Also, referenced in this podcast is Deb Skalabrin and her amazing online group called Parenting Beyond Defiance. Go check them out at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3095960987308432 -
#136 | Adaptive Fire Safety Eduction for Individuals with Disabilities
In this episode Holly and John Goodman share their experience doing Adaptive Fire Safety Education through the ISAAC Foundation and how the program builds skills that:
(1) helps individuals with disabilities learn the skills needed to survive a home fire – no matter their level of function and ability; and
(2) addresses risk for potential fire starting behavior.
Learn more:
Watch a special news segment featured by KHG Local News
https://www.khq.com/news/local-non-profit-helps-neurodivergent-kids-learn-about-fire-safety/article_c355c3a6-485e-11ed-9e72-9ffe3f482e9f.html
https://theisaacfoundation.configio.com/page/fire-safety-learning