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As we come to the close of another year, we want to take a moment to send our warmest holiday wishes to you and your loved ones.
We are deeply thankful for your trust, partnership, and support throughout the year. It is an honor to walk alongside you and your families, and we remain inspired every day by the resilience, joy, and strength of the individuals we serve.
May this season bring you moments of peace, warmth, and connection, and may the year ahead be filled with health, happiness, and continued growth.
With heartfelt gratitude and best wishes,
The Balance Autism Team
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In Clive, one of our amazing clinic staff members took the initiative to organize a food pantry and Giving Tree this year for our Balance Autism community to support one another. At a time when families and individuals are facing increased financial stress, participating in these acts of kindness are a powerful reminder that even small efforts can make a BIG difference! By coming together to give whether through food, gifts, or simple acts of kindness- burdens ease and we reinforce compassion which is at the heart of our mission. Join Clive in their efforts to spread joy and holiday cheer to all by donating pantry items or participating in the Giving Tree. All 32 families who signed up will be receiving gifts this wonderful holiday season!
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Success Stories of the Season
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A BCBA in our Clive location shares an incredible story of growth, independence and self-expression this holiday season.
A child we serve has always relied on a communication device and had never used vocal language. In the beginning, learning to use the device was incredibly hard for him—he wanted nothing to do with it, and every step forward required patience, encouragement, and persistence.
But something remarkable has happened. Recently, not only has he shown genuine interest in his device, he has flourished with it. He has expanded his ability to request from just one or two items to over ten, opening up a whole new world of independence and expression. Even more inspiring, he has begun using his device to communicate with his peers—asking for turns, initiating interactions, and doing so with minimal support. His classmates have responded with such kindness and enthusiasm, creating even more opportunities for connection.
His family has also noticed beautiful changes. They’ve seen him voluntarily joining peers during community activities and engaging with visitors at home in ways they hadn’t seen before.
This is truly extraordinary progress for this child—proof of his resilience, his growing confidence, and the power of communication to open doors. What an incredible journey to be part of!
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Balance Autism tried something new this year - we decorated our first Festival-of-Trees tree! Our “It’s a Sensory Celebration” tree was decorated in coordinated blues, greens, and many sensory-related items and then donated to a local family.
This annual event is the largest fundraiser for Blank Children's Hospital, and one worth visiting if you ever find yourself in central Iowa over the Thanksgiving holiday.
The 42nd Annual Festival of Trees & Lights features beautifully decorated trees, special performances from local music and dance groups, visits with Santa, a scavenger hunt, fun crafts and activities, and the chance to be inspired by impactful stories of children cared for at Blank Children's.
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Medical Insurance Reminders
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Many employers are currently holding open enrollment periods as the end of the year approaches, and this is an important time for families to review their health benefits. We encourage parents to take a close look at their insurance plans, as well as FSA and HSA options, to ensure they are maximizing available tax advantages for the upcoming year. Careful planning now can help families better manage the cost of medical and ABA services, avoid unexpected gaps in coverage, and make the most of resources designed to support their child’s care.
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As the year comes to a close, we invite you to be part of the heart of our mission. An end-of-year, tax-deductible gift helps ensure the individuals and families we serve continue to receive the care, support, and hope they deserve—today and in the year ahead.
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