In-Pact Inc.

01/09/2026

For parents in Hammond area!!

01/07/2026

We urge families with special needs loved ones to apply for post high school graduation scholarships. Some of our loved ones are not "classical" college-bound people. However, some may be going to independence skill programs or trade schools. They need community support also! Talk to Rotary, or local foundations or other of our many, wonderful local groups who encourage teens with post high school scholarships and ask if your special loved one may apply.

01/07/2026

FROM THE CROWN POINT COMMUNITY FOUNDATION:
Our scholarship program is rooted in the idea that the ability to access college scholarships will pave the way for a stronger community. Because of the incredible generosity of local donors, we have the privilege of administrating over 100 unique scholarships to students of all ages, income levels and academic aspirations based on criteria such as field of study, college/university choice, academic achievement, and graduating high school.

• Scholarships close for applications at 11:59 p.m.
on March 1, 2026.

• Eligibility criteria vary greatly. All students are encouraged
to complete the 2026 Universal Scholarship Application for Graduating High School Students, Current College/Trade School Students, and/or Adult Learners (non-traditional students, 21
and over) on our Scholarships Portal.

For complete application details, a listing of all available scholarships,
and eligibility requirements, please visit our website.

If you have any questions, please reach out to Katie Sly, Program Director, at katiesly@thecpcf.org.

12/31/2025

All Abilities is hosting a Grinch party on Friday, January 9, 2026 at Harding Elementary School, 3211 165th Street, Hammond, IN. All ages and abilities are welcome! Reservations necessary: Heiser.rachel@gmail.com or 219-680-6901.
DJ, DANCING, GAMES, FOOD, PRIZES AND PHOTOS WITH THE GRINCH!

12/31/2025

ATTENTION PARENTS IN PORTER COUNTY! The next Parent Autism Support Group meeting will be at 10 a.m., Saturday, Jan. 10 at the Portage Y. This group is run by Joyce Russell. All parents are welcome, regardless of where you live. Stacey Spence, an ABA therapist, will be the guest.
Joyce Russell
Community Outreach & Communications Coordinator
Portage Township, Porter County
3484 Airport Road | Portage, IN 46368
P. 219.762.1623
C. 219.238.4425

12/25/2025

The individuals of In-Pact were blessed with an outpouring of love, kindness and generosity this year. We extend a sincere thank you to Sts Constantine & Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral, The Little Pink Shop, Crown Point National Honor Society, and everyone who wrapped, donated and helped deliver gifts. I cant wait to see all the smiling faces when gifts are opened.

Merry Christmas ❤️💚❤️

12/22/2025

12/22/2025

Things for those of us who live with autism at home or at work to remember this year:

👉 https://christmascountdown.uk/autism-christmas-poem/

12/22/2025

Dear Community Members,
My name is Felicia Grimmer, and I work with individuals with developmental disabilities at In-Pact’s Day program. I am reaching out to kindly ask for your support in helping us create engaging, inclusive, and healthy movement opportunities for the individuals we serve.
Physical activity plays an important role in supporting overall health, emotional regulation, confidence, and independence. We are currently looking to expand our exercise and movement resources and are seeking donations of new or gently used exercise equipment that can be safely used by individuals of all ability levels.
Items we are especially looking for include (but are not limited to):
• Resistance bands
• Light hand weights
• Yoga mats
• Stability or exercise balls
• Balance boards
• Hula hoops
• Soft medicine balls
• Small step platforms
• Treadmill
• Stationary bike
All donated items will be used for structured fitness activities, sensory-friendly movement sessions, and adaptive exercise programs designed specifically for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Your generosity-whether through donating equipment or sharing this request with others-would make a meaningful impact. Every contribution helps us promote healthy habits, inclusion, and joyful movement for the individuals we support.
If you want to donate or would like more information, please feel free to contact Susan Moreno at smoreno@in-pact.org. Thank you so much for your time, kindness, and consideration.

12/19/2025

WHETHER YOU CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS, HANUKKAH, KWANZAA OR ANOTHER WINTER HOLIDAY AT THIS TIME OF YEAR, WE WISH YOU HEALTH AND HAPPINESS!

12/19/2025

This is derived from information from The Autism Society: www.autismsociety.org
Holiday Tips from the Autism Society
🧠 Plan & Prepare Ahead
• Prepare your child for upcoming events by talking about what will happen, when, and where — using words they understand.
• Use social stories, visual schedules, or pictorial calendars to help them anticipate changes or new experiences.
• Practice the event ahead of time if possible, so things feel familiar rather than surprising.
This kind of preparation can reduce anxiety around unfamiliar holiday routines. Autism Society
🎁 Manage Sensory Overload
• Holidays are full of sights, sounds, and smells that can be overwhelming.
• Be mindful of bright lights, loud music, crowded spaces, and strong scents.
• Bring sensory supports like noise-canceling headphones, sunglasses, preferred toys, or fidget tools.
• At home, you might decorate gradually or keep decorations minimal if your child is sensitive to change.
Setting aside a quiet break space at home or events can be a lifesaver when things get overwhelming. Autism Society+1
📆 Maintain Routines Where You Can
• Holidays can disrupt normal schedules — sleep, meals, and play.
• Try to keep consistent routines or have a flexible schedule that still includes comforting predictability.
• If traveling or visiting others’ homes, bring familiar items ( blankets, favorite snacks or toys) to maintain a sense of comfort. Autism Society
🤝 Social Situations & Family Gatherings
• When attending gatherings, arrive early to give your child time to acclimate to the environment.
• Teach and practice simple phrases or role-play expected social interactions beforehand.
• Let family members bring or engage with your child in ways that respect their needs.
• If things become too much, don’t hesitate to step away or take a brief break. autismsd.org
🛍️ Shopping & Outings
• Holiday shopping or crowded events can be stressful.
• If you go out, plan ahead — go early before it gets too busy, bring snacks, and consider rewards for positive participation.
• Have a helper or another adult along if possible to help manage sensory or behavior needs. autismsd.org

We create connections, empowering everyone in the Autism community with the resources needed to live fully.

12/12/2025

Triumphant Transitions, Inc is hosting a Diapers and More Community giveaway to bless single moms and families affected by the recent government shutdown and SNAP delays.

The event will take place
Saturday December 13, 2025
from 11:00a.m -1:00p.m.
Thea Bowman Leadership Academy
3401 W. 5th Ave
Gary, Indiana

The goal is to serve at least 100 people while supplies last!

Sponsorship opportunities are still available. To become a sponsor, contact triumphanttransitions@gmail.com.