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October 2024

Dear Sherwood Families,

Earlier today, we gathered together with friends, advocates, families and supporters in celebration of Sherwood Autism Center's 50th anniversary. As we commemorate this milestone, it's important to look back on where we've been, and look forward to our bright future.


Sherwood began in 1974 by two dedicated UMKC psychology students who worked tirelessly with an autistic boy named Henry at a local hospital. After eight months of care, they discovered there were no suitable schools for him upon discharge. Determined to make a difference, they founded the Sherwood Center for the Exceptional Child in a humble church basement, starting with just six students in need. Today, Sherwood Autism Center remains committed to providing specialized education and support services, helping children and adults with autism in the Kansas City area realize their full potential. 


As we celebrate this milestone, you may notice something different about this newsletter … We are proud to introduce the new Sherwood Autism Center brand and website. 🎉 This refreshed look represents Sherwood's commitment to being rooted in growth. Inside our new leaf logo, you will find the letters “S-A-C” which represent our organization’s initials and students, adults and the community united for our mission. We designed our brand with inclusion integrated throughout. Autism-specific design research informed our choices of a high-contrast, low-stimulation color palette, accessible typefaces, and layout hierarchy for comprehension. Our new brand reflects Sherwood’s leading and innovative role in autism services with inclusion at our core.


As we enter this next chapter in our organization’s history, I want to express my gratitude to you. You are the heart of what makes Sherwood special. Here’s to another 50 years of legacy, together.



Gratefully,

Kia Walsh

Kia Walsh

Chief Executive Officer

ceo@sherwoodcenter.org

Shopping with Sherwood


Our Adult Day Services clients have been out window shopping at local stores, including Ward Parkway Mall and Price Chopper. These outings help build and expand on many important skills, including social interactions and boundaries. They also encourage confidence and responsibility.

Pop-Up Coffee Shop


Sherwood Special Education students and staff recently set up and ran a pop-up coffee shop, thanks to our ongoing partnership with Crows Coffee Red Bridge. The pop-up shop featured relaxing music, a comfy place to take a seat, and the best baristas in town! Sherwood staff enjoyed stopping by for a warm cup of coffee and yummy treats.

Support neurodiversity! We'd love you to join us as a monthly giver! Just $5/month helps Sherwood create unforgettable experiences for our trailblazers. Thank you!

Meet Natalie!

Meet Natalie Hawkins, Sherwood’s Music Therapist.


Natalie is a board-certified music therapist with experience in special education, early childhood, and family consultation. Owner of Meaning Through Music, a private practice music therapy company, Natalie has empowered our students and individuals through music since November 2023. 


  • Day in the life: Natalie serves as music therapist to all students and individuals at Sherwood. "I encourage groups to work on a wide range of skills through music interventions, including instrument playing/improvisation, drum circles, singing, and songwriting."
  • Joy outside of work: Natalie loves to travel, spend time outdoors, and eat good food! "I love hanging at home with my fiancé, Jacob, and our sweet dog, Angel. We are getting married in November, so we are very busy wedding planning. I also enjoy playing music just for fun!" 
  • Sherwood in one word: Natalie points to the collaboration found at Sherwood. “Since the moment I began providing music therapy groups at Sherwood, I have felt a deep sense of belonging and a willingness to collaborate from the staff and students. The teachers and classroom staff are so engaged with music therapy sessions and always willing to collaborate!"



Thank you, Natalie, for being a source of joy and making a lasting impact at Sherwood! 


Check out all the Sherwood latest on Facebook >>



Article: Study Bolsters Evidence that Autism Runs in Families


A recent article in Disability Scoop states that siblings of children with autism are about seven times more likely than others to have it too, according to new research. Read the full article >>


Photo credit: Disability Scoop

Podcast Resource


The Autism Science Foundation (ASF) broadcasts weekly science podcasts highlighting and examining the latest autism research news stories with ASF Chief Science Officer Alycia Halladay. Explore all podcast episodes >>


Photo credit: Autism Science Foundation

Día de los Muertos at The Nelson-Atkins


This free, fall tradition is back on November 3 at the Nelson-Atkins. Enjoy a celebration and commemoration of the rich and beautiful Mexican culture with your family. Activities include art, entertainment, Mexican food and more.



Photo credit: The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

Night at the Overland Park Arboretum


Experience the magic of Night at the Arboretum during the New Moon phase on November 15. Operation Wildlife will present "falcons," and the KC Astronomical Society will have telescopes for viewing. 


Photo credit: Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

Shop our Amazon Wishlist!


Would you like to make a simple, tangible impact for students at Sherwood? Shop our Amazon Wishlists! It's easy, and items will be delivered directly to Sherwood. Thank you for your generosity!



"Believe you can and you're halfway there."


— Theodore Roosevelt

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