Burlington County To Host Autism Symposium in Westampton

Members of the Burlington County community are invited to attend the Burlington County Autism In My Shoes symposium. The free, full-day event will take place in Westampton on Saturday, April 25, from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. It's designed to connect families with resources and support services.

Organized by the Burlington County Special Services School District (BCSSSD), in partnership with the Burlington County Commissioners and Willingboro Township, the symposium targets families affected by autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in South Jersey.

Registration is required for all to attend, and the event is free and open to the public. Interested individuals can register to attend online.

According to a South Jersey Local News report, program highlights include a keynote by Jamiel Owens, the family relations coordinator at the Center for Autism Research at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and the founder of the Autism Fathers Conference. Additionally, panels will focus on transitioning to adult care, guardianships, and accessing Division of Developmental Disabilities services. Guests can also enjoy interactive workshops and a resource fair.

Attendees will be able to engage in interactive workshops and visit a resource fair with state, county, and local agencies.

Presenters will include Burlington County Surrogate Brian Carlin and staff, presenting on adult guardianship and court procedures; Stuart Altshuler of Disability Navigators; and Virtua Health nurses on early identification programs and supports.

“We are building a stronger, more inclusive community for our students and neighbors by working together,” said BCSSSD Superintendent Dr. Ashanti Holley in a media statement. “At BCSSSD, our autism program is rooted in the principles of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), ensuring every student receives individualized support in communication, social skills, and daily living. This symposium extends that work beyond our classrooms to support families across the county.”

The BCSSSD Westampton campus is at 20 Pioneer Blvd. in Westampton.