Megan and Simon are joined by Amy Bixler Coffin, program director of the Autism Center at OCALI and program manager of the Multi-System Navigation Center at OCALI. It’s a big and bittersweet moment as Amy retires after a 20-year career at OCALI and 35-year career in education. We share a lot of laughs, a few tears, but mostly we commemorate and celebrate all that her two centers have accomplished over the years while we look forward to the next chapter of their work, services, and offerings.

Resources:

• Autism Center at OCALI
• Multi-System Navigation Center at OCALI
• Autism Internet Modules
• ASD Strategies in Action

In this episode of Connecting the Dots from the Autism Center at OCALI, hosts Megan Trowbridge and Simon Buehrer sit down with long-time friend and autism expert Jim Taylor from Stirling, Scotland. With over 45 years of experience in the field of autism, Jim shares his insights on learning, reflection, and fostering community. A regular attendee of OCALICON since 2007, Jim explains how Columbus, Ohio, has become his second home—highlighting the importance of place in cultivating his professional growth and personal connections. Jim leaves listeners with the inspiring message that change happens when we reflect, engage, and rethink.

Resources:

• Jim Taylor Knows Autism
• Celtic FC Accessible Fan Facilities
• Oldham Athletic Community Trust Sensory Packs | Carlisle United Sensory Packs
• Accessibility at Wrexham AFC
• Google Notebook LM (used to create the virtual podcast featured in this episode)
• United Kingdom Active Streak Running List (Run, Jim, run!)
• Autism Center at OCALI

Join us for the debut of Connecting the Dots, a new podcast series from the Autism Center at OCALI, aimed at raising awareness about autism and empowering communities. In our first episode, we explore how the 2024 Ohio State Fair is advancing inclusivity through its Sensory-Friendly Morning. Now in its fifth year, this special event lowers noise and lights to create a more accessible environment for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Through conversations with families attending the fair and insights from key partners like the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities and the Autism Society of Central Ohio, we highlight how these efforts are making the fair more inclusive and enjoyable for everyone. Discover how small changes can make a big impact in creating events where everyone feels they belong.

Resources:

Autism Center at OCALI

Sensory-Friendly Morning at the Ohio State Fair

Autism Center Grab and Go Resource Gallery of Interventions

Access + Belonging = Community Event Guide