The University of South Alabama Regional Autism Network (USARAN) is set to host an in-person autism workshop for families and professionals in Monroeville, offering valuable resources for those navigating autism diagnoses and services.

The workshop, scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 15, will run from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Monroe County Board of Education's central office boardroom at 109 Rosenwald Dr.

This free event will provide participants with essential tools and strategies for managing autism through three key sessions. Michelle McDaniel, M.Ed., USARAN director, will lead a presentation on community resources for autism, highlighting available local and state services. Dr. Jordan Albright, from the University of South Alabama's Department of Psychology, will cover behavior management strategies for children on the spectrum. Finally, Christina Norris, senior case advocate with the Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program, will discuss Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and special education services, offering guidance on how to advocate for students with autism in the school system.

The training is designed to equip families and professionals with practical, evidence-based strategies to support individuals with autism. Attendees will learn about community resources, effective behavioral management approaches, and how to navigate the special education system. McDaniel emphasized the importance of these workshops, particularly for rural communities where access to autism-related services can be limited.

"Parents and caregivers can quickly become overwhelmed when trying to navigate the next steps for their child after receiving a diagnosis of autism and as their journey continues throughout school and beyond," McDaniel said. "The Regional Autism Network provides community workshops such as this to support individuals diagnosed with autism, their families and professionals throughout the community, and serves as a resource for anyone needing autism-related information."

The CDC estimates that approximately 1 in 36 children are diagnosed with autism, making access to reliable information and support critical for families across Alabama. McDaniel noted that this workshop is a direct response to requests from caregivers and professionals seeking guidance on how to best support individuals with autism.

"We know that access to training and resources in rural areas can be challenging for families and professionals." McDaniel said. "We're excited to be able to offer this workshop, as it will help connect the community with practical strategies, information and services so that we can improve outcomes for children diagnosed with autism across Alabama."

The event is sponsored by USARAN, the University of South Alabama, the USA Department of Psychology Cosma Lab and the Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program. To reserve a spot at the workshop, email usaran@health.southalabama.edu or contact USARAN at (251) 410-4533 for more information.