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• Connect Online Social Networking

  • Start
    Thursday, January 04, 2024
  •  
  • End
    Thursday, December 05, 2024
  •  
  • Schedule
    12 sessions
  • Location
    Online via Zoom

  Register

  
  AutismTN Connect Online Social Networking is a welcoming community for Autistic adults (18+). To learn more about Connect, visit https://autismtn.org/connect.

  This group typically meets on Zoom on the first Thursday of each month from 6:30 P.M. - 8:00 P.M. CT.

  If you have questions about Connect, please contact Casey Davis, the Connect Facilitator, at casey@autismtn.org.
  
  Note: AutismTN Connect also meets In-Person!  If you'd like to attend, please register HERE.

  A special thanks to Alonso Calderón Guzmán for designing the Connect image!

  
  

  
  

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• The Spectrum Connection: Togetherness Tuesdays 2024

  • Start
    Tuesday, January 09, 2024
  •  
  • End
    Tuesday, December 10, 2024
  •  
  • Schedule
    12 sessions
  • Location
    Online via Zoom

  

  The Spectrum Connection (TSC) is a social networking group for LGBTQIA+ autistic adults and is member-led with the support of a queer AutismTN employee. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for community building through social networking, education, activities, resource-sharing, and conversation. TSC hosts one Zoom meeting and one in-person meeting each month.

  Togetherness Tuesdays are an opportunity to check in with your fellow TSC members, get and give support, and discuss upcoming events. We meet on Zoom the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. CT.

  If you are interested in The Spectrum Connection, Click this link to fill out The Spectrum Connection Interest Form and schedule an orientation.

  If you have questions, please contact leah@autismtn.org.

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• Unveiling Autistic Identity

  • Start
    Wednesday, January 10, 2024
  •  
  • End
    Wednesday, December 04, 2024
  •  
  • Schedule
    12 sessions
  • Location
    Online via Zoom

  Register

  
  AutismTN's Unveiling Autistic Identity community group provides a welcoming space for adults who are discovering their Autistic identity later in life. As professional and public understanding of autism continues to improve, many people are becoming aware that they are Autistic in adulthood, either through a professional diagnosis or self-identification, often as a result of seeking mental health support or when their children are diagnosed. This group fosters inclusive and supportive conversation and connection for late-identified Autistic people to share experiences and offer mutual support, explore their newfound identity and examine what it means for their lives, share in the self-discovery process, and empower each other to embrace their Autistic identity and become self-advocates.

  This group typically meets on Zoom on the first Wednesday of each month from 6:30 P.M. - 8:00 P.M. CT.

  If you have questions about Unveiling Autistic Identity, please contact Casey Davis, Adult Program Director, at casey@autismtn.org.

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• Connect In-Person Social Networking

  • Start
    Thursday, March 14, 2024
  •  
  • End
    Thursday, December 12, 2024
  •  
  • Schedule
    8 sessions
  • Location
    The address for each event will be included in monthly communication from the Connect Facilitator and in reminder emails.

  Register

  
  

  AutismTN Connect In-Person is a welcoming community for Autistic adults (18+). To learn more about Connect, visit https://autismtn.org/connect.

  This group meets in-person on the second Thursday of each month 6:30 P.M. - 8:30 P.M. CT in Nashville, TN. On some months, we meet at a centralized venue, and on other months, we meet at different locations out in the community. The address for each event will be included in monthly emails from the Connect Facilitator and in automated reminder emails. For any events requiring a headcount, you will receive an email with a link to register.

  If you have questions about Connect In-Person, please contact Casey Davis, the Connect Facilitator, at casey@autismtn.org.
  

  A special thanks to Alonso Calderón Guzmán for designing the Connect image!

  
  

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• Volunteer Opportunity! AutismTN AfterBash

  • When
    Thursday, April 25, 2024
  • Location
    Riverside Revival 1600 Riverside Dr Nashville

  Register

  
  

  Are you able to volunteer at the AfterBash?

  Date: Thursday, April 25, 2023
  
  Time: varies by volunteer position
  Where: Riverside Revival: 1600 Riverside Dr., Nashville

  The AfterBash is AutismTN's spring fundraiser that supports the annual Birthday Bash, our Birthday Club, as well as the general programming of AutismTN. 

  For those who may not know, Birthday Bash is a special program that gives autistic individuals the opportunity to celebrate their birthday in a safe, inclusive, and comfortable environment.

  Creating an event like this takes a lot of resources and effort, which is why we need your support. By volunteering at AfterBash, not only will you have a great time, but you'll also be contributing to a truly meaningful cause.

  Let's make sure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy the special moments that come with birthdays. We hope you'll consider volunteering at the AfterBash!

  
  

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• AfterBash

  • When
    Thursday, April 25, 2024
  •  
    6:30 PM - 9:30 PM
  • Location
    Riverside Revival - 1600 Riverside Dr, Nashville, TN 37216

  
  

  AutismTN is inviting all Birthday Bash Sponsors and supporters to the AfterBash! This is your chance to celebrate the autistic community of Middle Tennessee while supporting the work of AutismTN. Attendees will enjoy a fun-filled evening with heavy hors d’oeuvres, open bar, music, a 50/50 raffle, and silent & live auctions.

  All proceeds will support our local autism community and the exceptional work of AutismTN.

  
  

  Can't make it in person?  You can still participate in the Silent Auction, 50/50 Raffle, and by making a donation!

  After-Bash Info
  

  
  

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• Volunteer Opportunity! Egnite Fitness Autism Ability 5k/10K/15K/Walk

  • When
    Sunday, April 28, 2024
  •  
    5:30 AM - 11:30 AM
  • Location
    Percy Warner Park, Nashville, TN

  Register

  
  

  Egnite Fitness is hosting the Autism Ability 5k / 10k / 15K / 1 Mile Fun Run on Sunday, April 28th and proceeds will benefit AutismTN.  They need your help for this event to be a success and are looking for volunteers to help out at the aid stations, event day registration, and directing runners.  If you are able to help, please sign up using the link below.

  Volunteers that sign up before March 1st will receive a free event t-shirt from Egnite Fitness!  

  Thank you for your help!! 
  (link will take you to an external event page)

  Sign Up HERE

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• عوال عربيه لعنايه الخاصه لاطفال (AutismTN Spectrum Families Group for Arabic Speakers)

  • When
    Tuesday, April 30, 2024
  •  
    7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    Online via Zoom
  • Registered
    Be the first

  Register

  

  An AutismTN Spectrum Families Group
  English
  

  بسبب وجود تعارض، نقوم بتعديل موعد الاجتماع إلى 30 أبريل.
  

  مجموعة الأسر العربية للأطفال المصابين بالتوحد 
  

  تجتمع هذه المجموعة  عبر الإنترنت يوم الثلاثاء الرابع من كل شهر الساعة 6:00 مساءً. و يتيح للآباء و مقدمي الرعاية للأشخاص المصابين بالتوحد الفرصة لبناء شبكة دعم.

  الزمان: الثلاثاء الرابع من كل شهر 

  الوقت: ستة مساءً- سبعة و نص مساءً(سبعة مساءً-ثمانية و نص مساءً بتوقيت شرقت الولايات المتحدة)

  اين: اونلاين 

  سيتلقى المسجلون رابط Zoom في رسالة تاكيد التسجيل عبر البريد الإلكتروني

  تقديم: ريمة حاتم 

  هذا الحدث مفتوح للآباء او مقدمي الرعاية الذين ليسوا أعضاء في AutismTN. يرجى مشاركة المعلومات حول المجموعة مع اي من الآباء او مقدمي الرعاية الذين قد يستفيدون من مشاركتك.
  
  يرجى الاتصال بنا على outreach@autismtn.org إذا كانت لديك أية أسئلة

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• Spectrum Families of Wilson County

  • When
    Monday, May 06, 2024
  •  
    6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
  • Location
    Online
  • Registered
    2 registrants

  Register

  
  

  Stay Connected!

  Spectrum Families of Wilson County meets online on the first Monday of each month an opportunity to network and discuss ways to strengthen the autism community in Wilson County.

  Date: Monday, May 6th, 2024

  Time: 6:30 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.

  Location: Meeting link will be provided in your RSVP reminder email

  If you have suggestions or questions that yo would like to discuss at the meeting please email us at valeriehoagland@gmail.com, or outreach@autismtn.org.

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• Connect In-Person Special Event | Creating Authentic Connection: A Dating Workshop

  • When
    Thursday, May 09, 2024
  •  
    6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    Nashville, TN

  Register

  
  

  Join us for this AutismTN Connect In-Person Special Event:
  
  Creating Authentic Connection: A Dating Workshop

  When: Thursday, May 9, 2024 from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. CT
  Where: Nashville (address will be shared in email confirmation after registration)

  Workshop Details:

  If you want create to a meaningful connection with someone special, and you’re looking for ideas about where to begin, this workshop is for you! Mixed-neurotype married couple Lesley Patterson-Marx (Autistic) and Jonathan Marx (neurotypical) will help you navigate some common questions around dating, including:

  • expressing interest in someone and asking them out
  • how to figure out whether someone might be interested in you
  • using dating apps
  • authenticity and unmasking
  • making conversation and interpreting conversational cues
  • fun dating ideas
  • maintaining your physical and psychological safety

  This workshop is inclusive of all genders and sexualities. The workshop will include a Q&A, and Lesley and Jonathan will facilitate an open, honest conversation about the opportunities and the challenges of dating.

  AutismTN Connect In-Person is a welcoming space for Autistic adults to come together in-person and share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. 

  If you have questions about Connect In-Person, please contact admin@autismtn.org.
  

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• Game Day

  • When
    Saturday, May 11, 2024
  •  
    12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
  • Location
    Nashville, TN (address provided in your confirmation email)

  Register

  

  Join AutismTN for a few hours of fun and games!
  
  Game Day is a great opportunity to make friends in a relaxed environment. We'll have a variety of games to play, including classic favorites like Connect4 and Scrabble, as well as newer games like Catan. Light refreshments are provided.

  Game Day is appropriate for children, teens, and adults on the autism spectrum. Parents/caregivers and siblings may join too. Bring a friend or come and make new ones – everyone is welcome! 

  If you have any questions, please reach out to Ashley Lira-Rivera: ashley@autismtn.org. 

  ¡La facilitadora del día del juego de AutismTN, Ashley Lira-Rivera, habla inglés y español! Comuníquese con ella si tiene preguntas o necesita ayuda para registrarse.
  

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• ACE'ing The Spectrum: Mastering Budgeting and Financial Preparedness

  • When
    Thursday, May 16, 2024
  •  
    6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
  • Location
    Online via Zoom and In-Person at 955 Woodland St. Nashville, TN 37206
  • Registered
    9 registrants

  Register

  This ACE'ing The Spectrum discussion will cover the basic concepts necessary for financial savvy and is intended for anyone starting to manage their own finances and their support networks. This event is being held both online via Zoom and in-person.
  

  During this discussion, we will cover:

  • Understanding Paychecks and Salary: Learn why paychecks are often smaller than expected due to deductions such as taxes and Social Security contributions.

  • The Importance of Savings: Explore the significance of saving for emergencies and retirement to secure your financial future.

  • Insights into Insurance: Gain a comprehensive understanding of insurance, its purpose, and how it works to protect your assets.

  • Effective Planning and Budgeting: Discover practical strategies and tools to plan and budget effectively, preparing for financial stability and growth.

  • Q&A Session

  Additionally, there will be information provided on retirement planning tailored for individuals closer to retirement. In this "What Matters Most" segment, an overview of Social Security will be provided, including information about retirement planning for those contemplating their next steps.

  Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your financial knowledge and take control of your financial well-being. 
  

  Presenters

  Kevin Wilson is a financial planner with over 30 years of risk management experience.
  Tim Stauffer is a Prudential Regional Vice President, specializing in retirement planning.

  
  

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• Spectrum Families of Southeast Nashville (Online Networking Group)

  • When
    Monday, May 20, 2024
  •  
    6:30 PM - 7:30 PM
  • Location
    Online via Zoom
  • Registered
    2 registrants

  Register

  
  

  
  

  Spectrum Families of Southeast Nashville meets online and aims to provide parents/caregivers with social interactions and an opportunity to create a supportive network. 
  

  
  

  When: Monday, May 20, 2024

  Time: 6:30 - 7:30 PM CT

  Where: Online via Zoom

  Registration is required for each monthly event.  

  This event is open to parents/caregivers who are not AutismTN members.

  
  

  Click here for frequently asked questions!

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• EmployME - Small Group Classes

  • Start
    Monday, June 03, 2024
  •  
  • End
    Monday, June 24, 2024
  •  
  • Schedule
    4 sessions
  • Location
    Online via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    8

  Register

  
  

  The EmployME Job Seeker Program is designed specifically to empower and support Autistic self-advocates in their journey towards meaningful employment. AutismTN's EmployME program is strengths-based and centers neurodiversity by celebrating and embracing the diverse and unique perspectives of Autistic people.

  AutismTN is offering EmployME small group sessions which include a series of four sessions taking place weekly over the course of one month. This series is offered in a hybrid format (in-person in Nashville and via Zoom).

  • Session 1: Understanding Your Autistic Strengths and Beginning Your Job Search
  • Session 2: Designing Your Professional Profile: Resumes, Cover Letters and Job Applications
  • Session 3: Decoding the Interview Process
  • Session 4: Navigating the Workplace as a Self-Advocate

  Participants will receive AutismTN's Job Seeker Resource Guide, which will be linked in your confirmation email and discussed over the course of the four sessions. Your registration confirmation email will also include a link to a closed EmployME Peer Support Facebook group to connect and share experiences and support with other participants.

  Participants will also have the option to schedule a one-hour one-on-one coaching session to delve deeper into the discussed topics, receive guidance on specific job opportunities, or receive personalized career advice.

  Facilitator
  EmployME Job Seeker small group sessions are facilitated by Casey Davis, Adult Program Director at Autism Tennessee. As a seasoned professional with over a decade of leadership experience and a background in managing teams, hiring staff, and coaching individuals, Casey brings a wealth of experience to EmployME participants. At the Boston-based public media station WGBH, Casey managed a team of up to eight staff, where she also directed multiple federally funded fellowship programs. As an adjunct professor at LSU, she regularly guides students in their career development. Casey has also provided mentorship to Autistic adults through the Lurie Center for Autism's Aspire internship program. Casey became aware that she is Autistic at the age of 33. She is particularly passionate about supporting fellow Autistic community members in pursuing and realizing their personal and professional goals and to helping create truly inclusive workplaces where everyone feels like they belong.

  Cost (total for the full series of four sessions):
  AutismTN Members : $75
  (Members includes Self Advocates and all Family member levels)

  Non-Members: $100

  • Please confirm that you can attend all four classes before registering.
  • We charge a registration fee for EmployME to help cover our organization's costs in developing the curriculum, running the small group sessions, and offering the one-on-one coaching meetings. If the cost of EmployME is a barrier for you that would prevent your participation, please reach out to us at admin@autismtn.org, and we can discuss options.
  • Zoom Sessions will be recorded for program training and improvement purposes.  You will be asked to complete a survey upon completion of the program.  
  • If you are a service provider and have questions about EmployME, please contact Casey Davis, Adult Program Director, at casey@autismtn.org. 

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• ACE'ing The Spectrum: Navigating Healthy Relationships & Wellness for Autistic Adults & Adults with IDD

  • Start
    Wednesday, June 05, 2024
  •  
  • End
    Wednesday, July 17, 2024
  •  
  • Schedule
    6 sessions
  • Location
    Online
  • Spaces left
    25
  • Registered
    4 registrants

  Register

  

  Are you an autistic adult, an adult with IDD or a caregiver of a person 16 years of age or more, seeking to empower yourself or your loved one with the knowledge and skills to navigate healthy relationships, understand consent, set appropriate boundaries, grasp social norms in dating, and prioritize safety? If so, then AutismTN's Navigating Health Relationships & Wellness for Autistic Adults & Adults with IDD might be for you. 
  

  
  This six week course is adapted from Equal Voices: a course led by a health educator that provides a comprehensive sex education adapted to meet the needs autistic people and individuals with IDD. This program prioritizes the safety and well-being of participants and fosters a deep sense of self-empowerment by exploring key topics:
  
  Understanding Consent: Participants will develop an understanding of the importance of consent, boundaries, and how to identify unhealthy relationships. Participants will be able to recognize abuse, and know who to contact for help.
  
  Puberty & Anatomy: Participants will increase their knowledge of the changes that happen in the body during puberty, the importance of maintaining proper hygiene, and appropriate behavior in public and private places.
  
  Navigating Social Norms in Dating: Gain insights into the often complex world of dating, equipping you with the tools to navigate social expectations and communicate effectively.
  
  Staying Safe: Participants will discuss tips for how to stay safe when online, including what is okay and not okay to share online. Participants will also review what cyberbullying is, and what someone can do if they are experiencing cyberbullying.

  
  Awareness Matters

  It's important to acknowledge that autistic individuals and those with IDD have an increased risk of being sexually assaulted or becoming victims of human and sex trafficking. Data from the Justice Department paints a concerning picture: people with disabilities, both women and men, are the victims of sexual assault at rates more than seven times higher than those without disabilities. We are committed to addressing these concerns and empowering our community to stay safe. 

  
  Event Details

  Who: Appropriate for people ages 16+
  Dates: Meets weekly from June 3rd to July 17th (Please note that in observance of Juneteenth there's no session on June 19th)
  (Attendance at all six sessions is expected for a complete learning experience)
  Time: 3:00 - 4:00 PM CST
  Location: Online via Zoom
  Cost: AutismTN Members - $10 per person | Non-Members - $20 per person

  ***Sessions will not be recorded

  Course Facilitator

  Jordan Herrera is a Heath Education graduate from Cal State Chico. Previously working as an Autism Specialist for the Department of Education and Health in Hawaii, Jordan understands the importance of providing sexual reproductive health education to youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Now, as a Health Educator with Planned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties, Jordan oversees Special Programs and is committed to educating and empowering youth and adults through the Equal Voices program.

  
  Articles to explore

  UD professor explains how systemic shortcomings enable sexual assault against disabled individuals

  The Sexual Assault Epidemic No One Talks About
  The Extent and Nature of Autistic People’s Violence Experiences During Adulthood: A Cross-sectional Study of Victimization
  The Disability Community & Sexual Violence

  
  

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