"October is the month of painted leaves.

Their rich glow now flashes round the world.

As fruits and leaves and the day itself

acquire a bright tint just before they fall,

so the year near its setting.

October is its sunset sky;

November the later twilight."

Quote by Henry David Thoreau

The Holidays Are Coming! Submit Your Artwork Today!

We’re excited to announce a contest to feature your artwork on this year’s Eiros Group holiday cards! Enter for a chance to win a gift card and have your design showcased on our 2024 holiday greetings. Deadline for artwork submission is Nov. 13th!

To participate, simply click here to upload your artwork! ... Submit Here >>

Confidence & Lifestyle Coaching with Joseph Rozell!

There's No Place Like Home

by Jean Marie Hanna, Supports Broker

This is a success story that not only shares Noah’s dream of living on his own but what he instilled in me through his journey.

Noah, like any other young adult, juggles work, daily activities, doctor’s appointments, and time with friends and family, but he never stopped searching for the apartment that would help him feel at home. Noah’s most endearing comment when faced with a disappointment concerning a potential rental was “patience.” Noah realized his positive comment “I must have patience” would eventually lead him to the right apartment at the right time.

In July, Noah’s application was accepted and today, he is the proud tenant of a one-bedroom apartment. He is enjoying the excitement of setting up his furnishings, and spending time getting to know his neighbors and the local area he moved to.

The lesson I take to heart, which Noah has taught me, is a healthy attitude of “patience” helps one persevere and make more positive decisions often leading to success!

Noah, you are a success and are wished nothing but the best of all of your tomorrows.

Love, Peace, Happiness and most of all…continued success.

When Changes Begin to Happen...

At the beginning of October, a new "documentary romantic comedy" began airing on Hulu, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September.

The film is a powerful testimony for disability marriage equality in its depiction of a loving relationship filled with warmth and laughter but limited by the harsh realities of money, ableism and politics.

This film has also gotten the attention of the SSA, which, in a recent update from Commissioner Martin O'Malley, "All of us at the Social Security Administration want to recognize Patrice Jetter, Garry Wickham, and everyone involved in Patrice: The Movie, a documentary that focuses on the couple’s concerns about losing their disability benefits if they got married."

He goes on to say, "While only Congress can make some changes, to the extent possible by law SSA is taking steps to update SSI policies administratively to simplify rules, reduce burdens, and better support people with disabilities." Read the full statement here

Read the article from NJ.com describing Patrice and Garry's story and about the movie.

Congratulations to both of them, as they help to join the fight for change for the disability community!

Eiros Group

Anniversaries & Birthdays!

October, we want to wish Happy Birthday to Jeremy A., Colleen A., Jenn B., Vicki L., Walter M., Marita P., and Sonia R.!

We also want to wish Happy Eiros Group Anniversaries to Ryan B., Tori B., Stephanie D., Coby H., Heidi K., Kristen M., Patricia M., and Katelyn S.!!

Thank you to all of you for being a part of our amazing group!!

Nurturing Growth: A Journey of Connection and Healing

By John McGee

Gentle Teaching has always been at the heart of our approach, recognizing that who we are is deeply rooted in our personality, upbringing, life story, and culture. Each individual’s unique journey shapes their past, influences their present, and foreshadows their future moral development. In the spirit of Gentle Teaching, John J. McGee shares profound insights on the transformative power of relationships in the healing process.

John emphasizes that the key to healing a broken heart lies in our relationships and connectedness with others. Rather than viewing behaviors as consequence-driven, he advocates for understanding them as relationship-driven. Creating a safe and loving environment is the foundation for facilitating healing, starting with the individual’s capacity to feel secure within a circle of friends.

Acknowledging that fear and deep-seated hatred may be significant hurdles, John offers a compassionate approach. Caregivers, he suggests, can initiate the healing process by gently entering the individual’s space for brief encounters throughout the day. This gradual approach communicates a fundamental message: we are here not to burden, but to offer our presence momentarily. The process begins with physical proximity, followed by a quick farewell, and then a gradual increase in the duration of these interactions.

In the face of profound challenges, caregivers persistently show that they do not demand anything from the person but their momentary presence. The objective is clear—to teach that the caregiver’s presence is not a demand, but a source of comfort. Through these early encounters, marked by patience and understanding, individuals start to experience a shift. Moments of waiting for the caregiver’s return become an indication that connection and closeness are desired.

The crux of this transformative process is entering the person’s space on their terms, respecting their boundaries, and avoiding the imposition of external demands. John emphasizes the importance of recognizing that the central aspect of all learning is the acceptance and longing for human contact. As the initial brief encounters evolve into longer periods of connectedness, individuals gradually learn that the mere presence of caregivers is a positive and comforting force.

In essence, Gentle Teaching teaches us to approach healing with patience, understanding, and a commitment to building connections based on mutual respect. John J. McGee’s insights remind us that fostering growth and healing is a journey, one that begins with acknowledging and respecting the unique stories and spaces of each individual.

New Sensory Room Unveiled at Yankees Stadium!

On October 4th,  members of the New York Yankees, One World Middle School, RAIN Total Care, Inc., and former NYC Schools Chancellor Dr. Meisha Porter unveiled the newly designed Sensory Room at Yankee Stadium, which opened to the public beginning with the Game 1 of the AL Division Series for the Yankees. The space, located on the 300 Level behind home plate, ensures that every fan can be comfortable enjoying the game.

Would you like to attend the New Jersey Self Direction Conference with Eiros Group on November 1st?

We are excited to offer scholarships to cover the cost of the registration for you and your supporters.

We look forward to supporting your journey of Self-Direction! For any questions, please contact Tara Hintz at tarah@eiros-group.com.

Simply complete the form below to apply. Please submit your attendance request by October 18th.

"Action is the Foundational Key to Success"

Quote by Pablo Picasso

by Desiree Coyle, Supports Broker

Success is defined by the individual. It is different for each person and is shaped by one’s unique goals, values, and priorities.

For Perry, success has been about his journey in securing two volunteer opportunities with the assistance of his Support Broker. Perry’s opportunity to meet with Jane and Kate and learn more about their non-profits along with how he can assist their company, led him to sharing his knowledge, skills and abilities. Jane and Kate offered Perry the opportunity to utilize his skills which set him on a path for SUCCESS!

Perry volunteers, remotely, for each organization, attends zoom meetings and assists in responding to emails and text messages. Perry is excited to take on a new project or task when it is presented to him. Perry acted and responded to the opportunity and is excited for next steps.

What is your SUCCESS Story?

Jane:

“Perry has been instrumental in helping us maintain our donor database. He is involved in entering donations and updating contact information. He even goes above and beyond, and notices duplicates or inconsistencies in the contacts which I did not ask him to do but he has taken the initiative to do. He is extremely bright and tech savvy. I feel very confident in asking him to work on our donor database. For a non-profit organization, having an updated donor database is extremely valuable so we are very happy that Perry is able to help us with it.”

Kate:

“Over the past month, Perry has been instrumental in assisting with data management entry through Salesforce for our expanding volunteer program. Perry has been prompt, attentive, reliable, and efficient in capturing important data from summer programming, as well as corporate service days. Perry's contribution allows for time to focus on recruitment, retainment and orienting volunteers as the upcoming school year is quickly approaching. In addition, this crucial data is important for grant reporting as our small organization looks to seek new funding opportunities. I'm grateful for Perry's time, energy, and support in helping with data management tasks.”

42nd Annual

Autism NJ Conference

October 24 & 25, 2024
Harrah’s Waterfront Conference Center | Atlantic City

Autism NJ's Conference promises to be an outstanding experience, uniting top experts, professionals, caregivers, and advocates from diverse backgrounds.

With attendance numbers expected to exceed 1,200, the Annual Autism Conference has a long-standing reputation for being a vibrant and engaging gathering. You definitely won’t want to miss out on this one-of-a-kind experience! Learn more and register today>>

This year’s program will feature:
2 keynotes; 50+ top-notch workshops; with evidence-based information for all ages and support needs; 100+ exhibitors
from across the state and beyond. Countless networking opportunities to build relationships; CEUs for behavior analysts, psychologists, social workers, and speech-language pathologists

No matter your connection, our conference is for you!
Questions? Email conference@autismnj.org

Transition Tuesday Group Led by Eiros Group's Founder Jenn Brown

At the end of October, we are excited to present "Transition Tuesdays", a working support group led by Eiros Group's founder and CEO, Jenn Brown. The intention of this group is to help assist youth who are approaching the transition into adulthood. The kick off meeting will be at the Page One Resource Center on Tuesday, October 29, led by and facilitated by Eiros Group. If you have any questions, or would like to participate, please contact Kristen Mathews at kristenm@eiros-group.com or Kelly Milazzo at kelly.lee.milazzo@gmail.com

Friday, November 15, 2024 | The Palace at Somerset Park

333 Davidson Ave., Somerset, NJ

Please join our workshop presentation during the annual SHA Conference, an educational and networking opportunity for housing and service providers, community planners, housing developers, public officials, families/consumers, and those interested in promoting and advancing supportive housing for people with special needs. Addressing state, regional, and national issues, the conference draws an average of 300+ attendees.

Now in its 26th year, the New Jersey Supportive Housing Conference, “Breaking New Ground; Success Begins with Home,” continues our theme expressing the innovation that fuels our industry and the recognition that a safe, affordable, and accessible home is the foundation from which all success is built.

SHA's conference will focus on how the supportive housing community is breaking new ground and forming new connections to increase funding, craft new programs, and share resources to create ground-breaking supportive options. Our conference will focus on the interests and experiences of NJ providers while also exploring how other states effectively respond to the needs of people with disabilities and barriers in housing.

For more information and to register, follow this link: https://www.shanj.org/conference-2024/

Vacation Memories: Disney World!

By Sherry Cameron, Manager of Supports Brokerage

One of my Favorite places to go on vacation, especially when I want to get my creative juices going is The Happiest Place on Earth, you guessed it, Disney World!!

My family and I have been going since it opened and enjoy it all, the parks, the music, beautiful resorts and grounds, but we really enjoy the mind-blowing creativity that goes into everything you see. The Imagineers who created Walt’s vision and continue to build on his dreams have brought a beautiful landscape for all to enjoy no matter what their interests.

Some of our favorite times to visit Disney are during the Spectacular festivals they put on. They are all wonderful, and one of our faves is the Festival of the Arts festival which encompasses all forms of creative expression and showcases artists and their work throughout the park. Chalk artists bring their creations to life on the pathways in Epcot and the concert series brings down the house daily with their Broadway showstoppers.

There are hands-on art activities for all ages, galleries showcasing talented works by artists from all over, and the yummiest art of all, the Food offering around the showcase. My kids loved meeting the artists that worked on several of their favorite Disney movies such as the Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, Dory, and the Little Mermaid and learned how to draw many of their favorite characters and workshops they held.

My favorite festival of the year is the Flower and Garden show held in the Winter/Spring months Epcot. I am a Master Floral Designer and avid gardener and have learned so much throughout the years about gardening, conservation, and all the innovative solutions there are for all people, regardless of where they live, to enjoy the art of gardening in many forms.

The park puts on quite a show with magnificent topiaries, exquisite gardens, and spectacular Butterfly exhibit where you will find many species of winged beauties flying around and putting on a show. It is truly amazing at the end of the day to pick a favorite spot in the park, grab a snack, and listen to some great tunes being offered by some great bands performing in the evening.

To say we’re enthusiasts of Disney is probably an understatement. My kids are grown now and still want to go back every year, though now we bring friends and family to share our joy and let them experience that Disney Magic for themselves. We have made so many precious memories there over the years and look forward to making even more at next year’s Flower and Garden Festival, unless I get there sooner.

Upcoming events throughout NJ

JOIN US FOR OUR FREE  LUNCH AND LEARN SERIES
12:00-1:00pm
 
November 13, 2024: Your Childs Right to Special Education in New Jersey, Presented by Denise Rekem, Esq. To RSVP CLICK HERE
 
December 11, 2024: Accessing Non-traditional Special Needs Services: Goods and Services, Classes, Remote Instruction, Presented by Lisa McCauley Parles, Esq. To RSVP CLICK HERE
 
January 8, 2025: Creating an Effective IEP and What to do When Things Go Wrong, Presented by Judith Weinstock, Esq. To RSVP CLICK HERE
 
February 12, 2025: Orton-Gillingham and the Dyslexia Puzzle, Presented by Alexis Greenberg, Esq. To RSVP CLICK HERE
 
For past Parles Rekem webinars CLICK HERE.

Below are upcoming fun things to do throughout New Jersey! If you are hosting a similar type of event, and would like it included in our newsletter, please send to info@Eiros-Group.com

*Please allow 2 weeks or more advance notice. Thanks!

NORTH:

Fall Festival
October 12/13, 19/20 26/27 and November 2/3

Nyack Street Fair
October 13 at 10am

Art Show
October 19-20: 10am-5pm

Tenafly Fall Fest
October 20: 12pm-5pm

Pumpkin Illumination
October 26: 5pm-7pm

Diwali Fest NJ
October 27: 3pm-6pm

Shake Rattle and Roll Dueling Pianos
October 29: 7pm-10pm

CENTRAL:
Columbus Day Festival
October 11 through 13

Lambertville Porchfest
October 13: noon-6pm

Harvest Arts Festival
October 19: 11am-5pm

Oktoberfest
October 20: 11am-5pm

Hudson County Halloween Fest
October 26: 12pm-5pm

1830’s All Hallows Eve - Trick or Treating Celebration
October 27: 11am-4pm

SOUTH:
Greek Agora Festival
October 10 through 13

Mt. Laurel Fall Festival
October 12: 10am-3pm

Annual Mullica Hill Fall Festival
October 12: 10am-5pm

Medford Apple Festival
October 12: 9am-4pm

Harvest Festival
October 19: 10am-4pm

Exit Zero Jazz Festival
October 25 through 27

If you are hosting a similar type of event, and would like  it included in our newsletter, please send to info@Eiros-Group.com

*Please allow 2 weeks or more advance notice. Thanks! Please note, we are relaying information found on other websites or through other organizations, and doing so as a service. Please confirm event details and information directly.

Free events in New Jersey:

Sayen Botantical Gardens
155 Hughes Drive Hamilton Township

Princeton University Art. Museum
Elm Drive Princeton
Tuesday-Sunday

Howell Living History Farm
70 Wooden Lane Hopewell Township

Drumthwacket
354 Stockton Street Princeton
Reservation can be made for free guided tours.

Mercer County Library- Museum Passes

New Jersey State Museum
205 W. State Street Trenton
Admission free- fee for planetarium

Art and Coffee Break
Second Thursdays 5:30-7:30pm
Annex Gallery-Historic Smithville
803 Smithville Road Eastampton

Cape May Zoo and Park
707 Route 9 N. Cape May
Free- donation’s accepted

Heritage Glass Museum
25 E. High Street Glassboro

The Center for Contemporary Art
202 Burnt Mills Road Bedminster Township
Admission free- suggested $5 donation, fee for classes

Twin Lights Historic Site
2 Light House Road Highlands

The All-Star Sports Museum
8 Burt Street Bridgeton

Presby Memorial Iris Gardens
474 Upper Mountain Ave Montclair

Empty Sky, 9/11 Memorial
Liberty State Park
1 Audrey Zapp Drive Jersey City

Please be sure to click the links in the above to verify days/times prior to planning your day. These listings may have specific limitations, and are provided for informational purposes only. Be sure to confirm prior to attending.