Portland Aspergers Network

Portland Aspergers Network (PAN) was established in Portland, Oregon in 1997 to support families affected by Asperger’s Syndrome (AS). In its infant state it was a small group of parents in a hospital meeting room or a private home who came together to discuss how this little known disorder impacted the lives of other families. There was a strong desire to become educated. There was a humane instinct to support. Furthermore there was immediate relief in the idea that our families and our children were no longer alone.

In the past six years PAN has assisted an ever-expanding number of households with a wide range of services. We exist in goodwill to support families whose daily lives are affected by a diagnosis of Asperger’s Syndrome.

Our mission has been one of reward and success and it is that which validates the necessity of our continued presence in the community and the need to exercise the trust earned therein. We are excited to find ourselves on the leading edge of an important cause and we are ready to take our commitment to the next level.

ASPERGERS NETWORK PROGRAMS:

Online Community
This is a moderated Internet chat group comprised of parents from around Oregon and SW Washington.

Game Night
A monthly event where Aspergers kids, ages 5 to 18, can be themselves while engaging in activities they love. They eat great snacks, play video games and board games and trade Pokemon cards all night long. Meets monthly.

Parent Support Group Meetings
Meetings feature guest speakers that provide professional services to the Aspergers community. Meetings are also a chance for informal interactions between parents, who share information and experiences. Meetings are 4 times a year (Jan, Apr, July, Oct).

Teen Club
Twice monthly activities for teens 13 and older are held at various locations: LaserTag, rock wall climbing, movies, LAN Parties, and a chance to meet others in an accepting environment.

Resource Directory
We host this helpful guide created and maintained independently by one of our members. It includes support groups, social skills groups, workshops, events, doctors, summer camps, books, web sites and more.

Text from the Portland Aspergers Network site.

TriMet LIFT Recertification Efforts Forthcoming – Public Comment Period Open through 09/17

Earlier this year, TriMet announced plans for changes to its LIFT eligibility process beginning in February 2010. Public workshops have been held and there have been efforts to ensure public input.

You can read their most recent transmittal here.

Some things to keep in mind as 2010 approaches:

  • TriMet LIFT is establishing a recertification every three years for everyone, regardless of disability. The exact language is “While a person’s disability may be permanent, other factors which impact the determination of eligibility may change over time.”
  • Existing active LIFT riders will be recertified over an initial three-year period starting in 2010.
  • Public comment period is currently open August 17th through September 17th.
  • LIFT Riders may be asked to complete a functional assessment evaluating their mobility skills. All riders will have to fill out a new application and most riders will be expected to participate in in-person interviews and in-person recertification meetings.

Check out TriMet’s recent statement for information on public comment contact information and detail on their process thus far.