• Support Group for Partners of Autistic Individuals

    This group meets on the second Monday of the month and is for the neurotypical individual married to or in partnership with someone who is Neurodivergent. Advanced registration is required.

    $10
  • How to Talk to Your Doctor

    Being a family caregiver can be a very difficult journey and many find it emotionally, physically, and financially taxing. What can come as an unpleasant surprise to some is the first encounter with the health care system as a family caregiver. You may find the experience has left you frustrated, confused, and with a feeling of the system being very impersonal.

    How to Talk to Your Doctor will help you to:
    -understand the current realities of the health care experience
    -identify and use more effective communication techniques with health care professionals
    -learn and practice powerful communication tools and techniques in order to be a better advocate for the person you are caring for and yourself

    Free
  • Social/Support Group for Young Adults (19-23)

    Recurring

    AANE is offering an 8-week virtual group for Autistic or Neurodivergent young adults aged 19-23. This group is designed to provide young adults navigating the transition between teenage years and adulthood a safe space to feel connected to and engage with each other while practicing their social skills in a facilitated setting. The group will be developed based on the interests and needs of the members.

    $100
  • Support Group for Gay Men

    Are you a gay man in the AANE community? Have you ever wanted to share your thoughts and experiences with other Autistic gay men? Join us! Advanced registration is required.

    $10
  • Jackbox Game Night for Adults

    Join us for camaraderie and fun! We will be playing a variety of Jackbox games that we will select as a group! Most games fit about 8 participants, but are still a blast to watch! We rotate through both games and players to have a great time together! Advanced registration is required.

    $10
  • Let’s Get Away, Together! Learn More About the Music of the Military

    This series is comprised of interactive sessions with each week focusing on a new place or cultural activity, while incorporating storytelling, music, poetry writing, and/or a simple craft. Each session will include a follow-up message filled with tips, activities, and recipes for families to continue to enjoy after the virtual trip. The focus of each group is to explore a new world, experience a variety of engaging opportunities, and enjoy a sense of camaraderie and community.

    Free
  • Social/Support Group for Teens (17-19)

    Recurring

    AANE is offering an 8-week virtual group for Autistic and Neurodivergent teens aged 17-19. This group is designed to provide teens with a safe space to feel connected to and engage with each other while practicing their social skills in a facilitated setting. The group will be developed based on the interests and needs of the members.

    $180
  • Family Empowerment Series- Starbridge

    Recurring

    The Family Empowerment Series is multi-session workshop part of Starbridge’s Signature Series offered each year. This series of workshops prepares families and caregivers to better advocate within the educational system for their children and to be a resource for other families of students who have disabilities in their communities.

    Free
  • Discipline & Suspension: Understanding the Rights of Students with Disabilities

    Did you know there is a difference between general discipline procedures and discipline procedures for students who have disabilities? Children who have disabilities have specific rights under state and federal laws when it comes to suspensions and school discipline. This webinar will provide an overview of these rights and the process used for discipline and suspensions. Join Jane Gabriele, Esq, from Legal Assistance of Western New York to learn about school suspension and understand your child’s rights related to discipline. Registration is required.

    Free
  • Addressing suspension and early dismissal for your student with disabilities

    Although commonly used, studies show that suspensions are largely ineffective in addressing challenging behaviors and often hinder academic learning and skill-development. This workshop will inform parents about the requirements districts must follow when suspending students and provide advocacy strategies to support student engagement at school.

    If an ASL interpreter is required, please notify webinars@pacer.org at least 48 hours prior to the workshop. We will do our best to accommodate your request. Registration is required.

    Free
  • The Role of Medical and Clinical Information in Special Education Evaluation and IEP Development

    School districts are reporting an increase in "prescriptions" for Special Education coming from medical professionals. While medical information and diagnoses can be helpful. it does not automatically result in a student qualifying for an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Families and educators will become familiar with how medical information can be used and what impact it may have on the evaluation and IEP development process.

    Free