Connecting the Dots – Rethinking Special Needs

Different is MORE

Grant Manier is Tori’s mentor and illustrator of her first book going into publication as co-author with Julie Coy.  The children’s book on dyslexia and activity books in design are focused on reading for the love of culinary arts.

Emerging as one of the most notable young artists of the new millennium, Grant Maniér (maun-yay), a young talented Eco-Artist combines his two worlds: autism and art. His obsession with paper became his form of art therapy.      

Read more:   http://www.jigsawgrant.com

    

 

Kulture City

Kulture City is designed to rethink accessibility to create acceptance and inclusion for all individuals with unique abilities.  Their initiatives include creation and training support for sensory friendly venues, Lifeboks program to prevent dangers of autistic wandering, tablets for communication needs, Embrace International Ambassador Program promoting acceptance in developing nations, and a Toys Across America Program with toys designed for autism needs such as fine motor skills, sensory development, and coordination needs.  We were proud to serve the weekend of the Kulture Ball Gala with the Temple Grandin who revolutionized the cattle industry and is a renowned autism advocacy leader.

Read more:   https://www.kulturecity.org/ 

   

Normal to Be Fit

Normal to Be Fit is a program of adaptive physical training for special needs fitness.  The founders Tina Chandler and Carl Ducena are proud mentors of Tori Rash and are celebrating her UIL powerlifting successes.

Read more: https://www.facebook.com/normaltobefit/ 

 

      

Miss Amazing

The Texas Miss Amazing pageant is inspirational.  For the cost of donated items, our ladies with disabilities participate in a pageant where there is more than being treated to hair/makeup and celebration.  It’s an important organization that connects the special needs families that are making a difference.  They have gatherings through the year and develop strong bonds and supports.  Ashley Christian and Laura Garcia make sure every girl feels special on their day to be celebrated.  Tori is was proud to co-emcee the last pageant.  And, she and her friends had a blast being buddies to the contestants.

   

Read more:  https://www.facebook.com/missamazingpageanttexas/

Night of Superstars

…is a grand “Oscar-like” charity event that draws numbers of local celebrities and high-profile personalities, mass media attention and hundreds of guests; all to celebrate the accomplishments of 20 of the most amazing kids in the area who are affected by varying types of disabling conditions; yet reach far beyond their adversities excelling in areas such as academics, athletics, the arts and community service!  Tori was a 2017 Houston winner and they provided amazing mentors that led to incredible accomplishments under their guidance.  It’s an event to remember.  We also are so proud of out Miss Amazing National winner Reaghan Velasquez for her 2018 award!  She’s a trailblazer!!!

 

Read more:  http://www.nightofsuperstars.org/2018-houston-superstars/

We See Abilities

We See Abilities transform lives through the joys of sports and community activities everywhere everyday by highlighting their abilities in life.

Thanks to Mythiquer and his work with the sports community, Tori had the fascinating opportunity to spend the Super Bowl at Top Golf with many Super Bowl Heros, and in connection with Haley’s nomination, Tori won the NFL backed STEM Award in mathematics as well as a congressional certificate of achievement. Go team!

 

Read more:  https://www.weseeabilities.org/ 

StandUP LD

StandUp LD (learning disability) is a non-profit support network for parents and educators seeking educational resources to support and inspire children with learning differences.  Tori was delighted to be a keynote speaker at the annual conference with a message of success beyond obstacles.

 

 

Read more:   https://standupld.org/ 

Lauer IEPHelp.com/Student Education Decoder System

Dr. Vaugh Lauer has been an influential mentor and guide through the special education system.  His consulting and guidance have fostered a collaborative relationship with the school district and helped to target interventions.  He is a master of interpreting special education test results and his new software helps bring the picture to life so the team can get a clear picture of the student.

Read more: 

https://specialeducationdecoder.com/resources/, http://www.iephelp.com/