Help Group Conference Brings Attention to Learning Disabilities

More than 450 professionals and parents participated in The Help Group Summit 2006, held Oct. 20 and 21, at the Skirball Cultural Center in West Los Angeles.

Featuring more than 20 of today's leading experts in autism, learning disabilities and ADHD, the conference, co-sponsored by First 5 LA, helped raise awareness about the latest research and treatment of developmental delays.

The Help Group is the nation's largest and most comprehensive nonprofit organization serving children with special needs related to autism, Asperger's disorder, learning disabilities, attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder, mental retardation, abuse and emotional problems.

During the luncheon program, Barbara Firestone, president and CEO of The Help Group, introduced The Help Group National Autism Foundation's public service announcement campaign, designed to promote autism awareness, early identification and intervention, education and treatment of autism spectrum disorders.

Firestone also presented the Champion for Children Award to California State Assemblymember Fran Pavley of the 41st District for her support of individuals with developmental disabilities.

On behalf of KCET, President and CEO Al Jerome accepted the Media Excellence Award for the innovative daily television series, website and extensive outreach of the program "A Place of Our Own," which is co-sponsored by First 5 LA.

A special Lifetime Achievement Award was given to summit co-chair, Paul Satz, in recognition of his significant contributions to understanding neuro-developmental disorders and to the progress of treatment.

For information about The Help Group, visit www.thehelpgroup.org.