Champion Autism Network
We believe in a world where all people living with autism CAN live, work, and play without judgment, guilt, or worry.
by becky
by Alexx Altman-Devilbiss – Tuesday, September 20th 2022
MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WPDE) — Families at Myrle Beach Bowl were able to enjoy a sensory-friendly family birthday bash Sunday.
The lights were turned on, the music was turned down and the fun was turned up!
Families with the Champion Autism Network (CAN) were able to enjoy $1 bowling games, $1 shoe rentals and $3 food specials.
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by becky
Tuesday, September 20, 2022
One of the biggest hurdles for a family living with autism is going on a family vacation. The overstimulating nature of this experience can serve as a stressor for those families simply trying to have fun in a new environment. For this reason, we have partnered with Champion Autism Network (CAN) to help ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all of our guests and their families at Grand Palms Resort. Our main goal is to provide exceptional vacation experiences for EVERYONE. “We are excited…
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https://www.grandpalmsresortmb.com/post/grand-palms-resort-partners-with-champion-autism-network-can
Surfside Beach, SC, August 10, 2022: We are thrilled to announce Grand Palms Resort is now supporting people living with autism and has joined the CAN Card Club at the Champion level.
As a CAN Card Club Autism Champion level business, in addition to the service and enrollment in the online autism awareness training program, the location must have an on-site walkthrough and Safety Plan developed should there be an episode. Grand Palms Resort will offer CAN Card Club members complimentary late check-out or early check-in.
“We are excited to partner with CAN and look forward to the opportunity to create an even more exceptional vacation experience for our autistic guests and their families,” states Andy Wolfe, General Manager of Grand Palms Resort.
Becky Large, Champion Autism Network Executive Director, says about the participation of Grand Palms Resort, “having places for our people living with autism to go to without judgement, anxiety or worry is the CAN vision and mission. We are so grateful to Grand Palms Resort for their support and inclusion.”
About Grand Palms Resort:
Located just south of Myrtle Beach in Surfside Beach, Grand Palms Resort provides luxurious hotel rooms, 1, 2, or 3 bedroom condominiums, wonderful amenities and unparalleled service – everything you need for an unforgettable vacation.
About Autism:
Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders – Autism Spectrum Disorders. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by communication difficulties, social and behavioral challenges, and repetitive behaviors making unfamiliar environments triggers for tantrums and meltdowns. An estimated 1 in 44 children in the U.S. is on the Autism Spectrum and that number is increasing.
About Champion Autism Network:
Champion Autism Network’s mission is to educate and empower communities, businesses, and organizations to create supportive and judgment-free experiences that enhance the quality of life for people living with autism.
To learn more go to www.championautismnetwork.com or Champion Autism Network on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChampionAutismNetwork/
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Horry County, SC, August 1, 2022: Horry County Police Department is enrolled in the First Responders Autism Awareness Training to better understand and support people living with autism.
The officers and staff of the Horry County Police Department will participate in training modules and exercises that provide information about how to issue spot and handle encounters with autistic individuals. Developed with ABA service providers, families of people with autism and autistic individuals, the training is informative and engaging.
Horry County Police Chief, Joseph Hill states, “We are excited and appreciative of this opportunity to better educate and equip our officers to serve all who live in and visit Horry County.”
Becky Large, Champion Autism Network Executive Director, says about the Horry County Police Department’s involvement, “We are so grateful for the support and interest of the Horry County Police Department for people and families living with autism. Much of the training that police officers receive is counter-intuitive to dealing with some people with autism. We hope by spreading more autism awareness among more and more police departments and first responders, that there will be fewer escalations and better understanding between police and those with autism.”
About Horry County:
Horry County is the easternmost county in South Carolina. As of the 2020 census, its population was 351,029. The county seat is Conway. It is the central county in the Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach, SC-NC Metropolitan Statistical Area.
About Autism:
Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders – Autism Spectrum Disorders. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by communication difficulties, social and behavioral challenges, and repetitive behaviors making unfamiliar environments triggers for tantrums and meltdowns. An estimated 1 in 44 children in the U.S. is on the Autism Spectrum and that number is increasing.
About Champion Autism Network:
Champion Autism Network’s mission is to educate and empower communities, businesses, and organizations to create supportive and judgment-free experiences that enhance the quality of life for people living with autism.
To learn more go to www.championautismnetwork.com or Champion Autism Network on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChampionAutismNetwork/
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Myrtle Beach, SC, July 20, 2022: We are delighted to share Angelo’s Steak & Pasta has a sensory friendly dining room for CAN Card holders–the first on the Grand Strand.
The dining room has doors that are closed to the adjoining dining area and its own entrance. Reservations are required. When arriving, if needed, the party can call the restaurant and a hostess will greet them outside and walk them to the entrance of the dining room.
In addition, as a CAN Card Club Autism Supportive business, Angelo’s Steak & Pasta offers a 10% discount (excluding alcohol) to CAN Card holders.
Angelo Antonucci, owner of Angelo’s Steak & Pasta says, “autism is not a choice. It happens, and by understanding the disorder, we can provide a comfortable dining experience with the privacy and support people living with autism can enjoy.”
Becky Large, Champion Autism Network Executive Director, says about the participation of Angelo’s, “The commitment to and support of people living with autism by Mr. & Mrs. Angelo Antonucci and the team at Angelo’s Steak & Pasta continues to deepen. It is the kind of growth of awareness, acceptance and support the autism community needs and dreams of. Thank you, Angelo, thank you!”
About Angelo’s Steak & Pasta:
Located at 2311 South Kings Hwy in Myrtle Beach, Angelo’s Steak & Pasta is an Italian Restaurant with an All-You-CAN-eat Italian buffet and the greatest steaks in the universe.
https://angelosteakandpasta.com/
About Autism:
Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders – Autism Spectrum Disorders. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by communication difficulties, social and behavioral challenges, and repetitive behaviors making unfamiliar environments triggers for tantrums and meltdowns. An estimated 1 in 44 children in the U.S. is on the Autism Spectrum and that number is increasing.
About Champion Autism Network:
Champion Autism Network’s mission is to educate and empower communities, businesses, and organizations to create supportive and judgment-free experiences that enhance the quality of life for people living with autism.
To learn more go to www.championautismnetwork.com or Champion Autism Network on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChampionAutismNetwork/
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Surfside Beach SC, July 7, 2022: We are thrilled to announce that Mightier has chosen to support Champion Autism Network and has joined the CAN Card Club at the Accepting level.
As a CAN Card Club Autism Accepting business, the business is required to provide a discount or service to CAN Card Club members. Mightier will offer CAN Card Club members 10% off any subscription to their service.
Becky Large, Champion Autism Network Executive Director, says about the participation of Mightier, “It is so important to have creative and innovative resources for our kids and people living with autism. Mightier’s dedication to helping with emotional regulation by using game play is a great concept and we’re thrilled to have them involved in our program.”
About Mightier:
Mightier is a program designed to help kids learn emotional regulation and coping skills. By playing specially designed video games kids learn how to better recognize their emotions and how to overcome feelings of frustration and meltdowns. Learn more at https://www.mightier.com.
About Autism:
Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complex developmental brain disorders – Autism Spectrum Disorders. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, by communication difficulties, social and behavioral challenges, and repetitive behaviors making unfamiliar environments triggers for tantrums and meltdowns. An estimated 1 in 44 children in the U.S. is on the Autism Spectrum and that number is increasing.
About Champion Autism Network:
Champion Autism Network’s mission is to educate and empower communities, businesses, and organizations to create supportive and judgment-free experiences that enhance the quality of life for people living with autism. To learn more go to www.championautismnetwork.com or Champion Autism Network on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChampionAutismNetwork/
Myrtle Beach, SC, June 6, 2022: We are thrilled to announce SkyWheel Myrtle Beach is now supporting people living with autism and has joined the CAN Card Club at the Champion level.
As a CAN Card Club Autism Champion level business, in addition to the discount or service and enrollment in the online autism awareness training program, the location undergoes an on-site walkthrough and evaluation to develop a Safety Plan that provides direction to the staff should there be an episode. SkyWheel Myrtle Beach will offer CAN Card Club members 10% off and to the head of the line if there is a wait.
“SkyWheel® is an iconic attraction accessible to all ages and abilities. This certification from Champion Autism Network allows us to create an enjoyable and relaxed environment for our guests with autism and their families. Our team looks forward to seeing many happy family memories made on the SkyWheel® as everyone CAN fly,” states Sean Bailey, SkyWheel Marketing Assistant.
Becky Large, Champion Autism Network Executive Director, says about the participation of SkyWheel Myrtle Beach, “Having the continued support of the iconic Myrtle Beach Skywheel is wonderful for CAN and our CAN families. Thank you!!”
About SkyWheel Myrtle Beach:
Located on the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, at 1110 North Ocean Boulevard, SkyWheel Myrtle Beach is an Observation Wheel with 42 gondolas that seat 1 to 6 people.
Surfside Beach, SC, May 27, 2022: We are thrilled to announce Food Lion #2239 is now supporting people living with autism and has joined the CAN Card Club at the Supporting level.
As a CAN Card Club Autism Supportive participating business, the establishment is must provide a discount or service to CAN Card Club members and enroll in the online autism awareness training program specific to their industry. Food Lion #2239 will offer their Private Mobile Checkout service for CAN Card club holders.
Becky Large, Champion Autism Network Executive Director, says about the participation of Food Lion #2239, “we are so grateful for the continued commitment by the business community in supporting people living with autism. It helps us to continue our vision to create a world where all people living with autism CAN live, work, and play without judgment, guilt, or worry.”
About Food Lion:
Conveniently located at 1610 Highway 17 S. in Surfside Beach, SC, Food Lion is an Easy, Fresh & Affordable Grocery Store.
By Rebecca Jeffreys
There is a very special reason for autism families to travel in the United States and that is because of the copious autism friendly resorts owned by Bluegreen Vacations. Bluegreen Vacations has 5 resorts in Myrtle Beach waiting to host your family and provide a vacation like no other!
With the guidance of Champion Autism Network, Bluegreen Vacations has learned how to support your family and help you have a fantastic time! All of the staff, including restaurant staff, is trained with your child’s safety in mind. Accommodations begin right at check in. As an autism family, you will not be required to visit the sales desk right away. There is a bathroom and a designated room so the kids can relax while you check in or give you space to address a meltdown. The staff at all Bluegreen Vacations have been trained to be aware of high danger areas for your kids such as paths to the ocean or gates leading to the pool. Additionally, they have in place an elopement plan should you need help recovering a child who has run off. Because of this training, all staff have a deep understanding of autism and the many ways it can present itself. Before you arrive, be sure to give Bluegreen Resorts a call to get your room set up as you need it. You can let your fears of judgment dissolve away and relax at these resorts! On a recent visit to Shore Crest Vacation Villas I and II, we encountered an adult with autism who noticed our Champion Autism Network T-shirts and declared, “You’re autism people like me!” That made our hearts sing knowing he could stay here and be treated with respect and support.
There are 5 resorts between Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach. Each one has its own special personality and location. Harbor Lights is located on the beautiful intracoastal waterway. You can watch boats speeding past, dine at The Boathouse Restaurant that holds live concerts along the waterway, take a your kids on an adventure with Black Beard’s Pirate Cruise, bike or walk the trails right outside your door, fish in a nearby pond, swim in their numerous pools (including a kiddie pool and hot tub), or enjoy the wrap around low country porch at the club house. And for a delicious meal and a show, be sure to try Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament which is just down the street. If that’s not enough, the sixty miles of pristine beach and all the attractions are just minutes away.
If you prefer to be right in the middle of the action, Seaglass Tower puts you there. Located on North Ocean Blvd in the heart of Myrtle Beach, Seaglass Tower puts everything at your fingertips. The beach is on one side and the attractions are on the other. The famous boardwalk, with SkyWheel Myrtle Beach, LLC, waterfront dining, and amusements, are right outside your door. (The SkyWheel is particularly fond of autism families and if you show your CAN card, you will get to skip the line.) The units in the Seaglass Tower have full kitchens which can be helpful for those with specialized diets. And of course pools are available here as well. My personal favorite place for dining is RipTydz Oceanfront Grille & Rooftop Bar which gives you a beautiful bird’s eye view of the beach and a great meal.
Carolina Grande provides a quieter and more relaxed option. Their swimming pool is on the sixth floor, transporting you away from the hustle and bustle of Ocean Blvd. Their suites also have full kitchens and the resort is conveniently located to any attraction you may want. Broadway Grand Prix for speed lovers, Broadway at the Beach® for shopping and entertainment, and Myrtle Waves Water Park are right nearby.
Shore Crest Villa I and II are in North Myrtle Beach. They are so close to the beach that you’ll be torn between the pools and the beach. Either way, you’ll enjoy that sea air! These rooms were recently renovated and comfortably fit a family. The pool area can get pretty busy but, if you need a quieter, less populated pool, there is an indoor pool that is also right next to the activity center. I heard from one young man with autism that his favorite place to eat out is Lulu’s Fun, Food and Music at Barefoot Landing which has a ropes course, beach arcade, live music, and more for a whole lot of fun! Visit their website to get on their waitlist for a table before you head over.
Horizons at 77 lands between true North Myrtle Beach and Myrtle Beach proper. I have personally stayed here and really enjoyed it! I found the kitchen to be quite adequate for cooking all the meals I needed and the grocery store is minutes away. The beach is very easy to access, and on this stretch of beach you can view condo towers or go north and admire the many mansions and their beautiful gardens. I feel this location is quieter and more secluded than the others. Each balcony has a stunning view of the ocean and the furnishings are beautiful. There are restaurants at the base of the building and many more a few blocks away.
When you decide to come visit us, be sure to check out the autism friendly events hosted by us. Details are on our events page at Champion Autism Network on Facebook. As a CAN member you can get discounts and special services at many attractions. You can get your CAN card through this website or by visiting the Chamber of Commerce. We love hosting families from out of town so Come Play With US!Ⓡ
No matter where you choose to stay, you can be confident that autism families are welcomed and supported at Bluegreen Vacations!
Myrtle Beach, SC, April 22, 2022: We are thrilled to announce Food Lion #427 is the first grocery store to support people living with autism and has joined the CAN Card Club at the Supporting level.
As a CAN Card Club Autism Supportive participating business, the establishment is must provide a discount or service to CAN Card Club members and enroll in the online autism awareness training program specific to their industry. Food Lion #427 will offer their Private Mobile Checkout service for CAN Card club holders.
“Towns & cities are at the heart of what we do everyday! We take care of Mrs. Johnson in a very unique way! We are glad to be supportive in this cause and becoming one of the first grocers in the area to recognize Myrtle Beach & Surfside as the first autism friendly destinations in the country and promoting autism awareness in our day to day operations. Our customers and Autism families can count on Food Lion every day,” states Store Manager, Dusty McCracken.
Becky Large, Champion Autism Network Executive Director, says about the participation of Food Lion #427, “we are so grateful for the continued commitment by the business community in supporting people living with autism. It helps us to continue our vision to create a world where all people living with autism CAN live, work, and play without judgment, guilt, or worry.”
About Food Lion:
Conveniently located at 3890 South Kings Hwy in Myrtle Beach, Food Lion is an Easy, Fresh & Affordable Grocery Store.
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