Written by Grace Koh
On Wednesday, February 11, a group of Axis' volunteers and affiliates gathered for a Volunteer Workshop focusing on working with young children with Autism led by Ms. Colleen Shinn from Easter Seals. This event was intended to be an educational workshop for volunteers currently working with children with autism in schools and other community organizations.
Ms. Shinn (right) is currently the Training Specialist and Manager of the Autism Program (TAP) Service Centers for Chicago and Rockford. She was also a sign language interpreter for LADSE (LaGrange Area Department of Special Education) and a Program Coordinator for West Suburban Special Recreation before joining Easter Seals.
She is fluent in sign language and is a Board Certified and Licensed Occupational Therapy Assistant. Colleen has presented at both the local and national levels on many topics related to Autism Spectrum Disorders, and her primary area of focus has been in the field of Inclusion, Special Education, and Early Intervention with an emphasis on children with ASD.
Ms. Shinn provided valuable information regarding the history and diversity of ASD, and her colleague Mr. Maurice Snell (left) shared his personal account of living with autism. Volunteers were able to ask questions and discuss their experiences working with students, children, and family members with autism. Both Axis and Easter Seals look forward to working together to advance awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Grace Koh is a fourth year majoring in Political Science. She is co-founder and current co-president of Axis UChicago.
