• Advancing Employment Webinar: The Arts and Entertainment and Careers

    Georgia has a robust arts and entertainment sector, and of course, lots of job opportunities are contained within our state’s storytelling businesses. From feature films and podcasts to theatre and live music, there exist opportunities for creative employment throughout the state.

    The feature speaker at this event is Marsha Hallager, known for The Color of Pain: Invisible Disabilities, Renegades (2021), and Love Unexpected (2023). She will talk about her work, careers in entertainment, and disability as a vital part of making art. This will serve as a kickoff event for NDEAM 2025!

    Free
  • Support Group for Women (18-35)

    Recurring

    This multi-session support group is designed for Autistic women (18-35). Through this support group, women (18-35) can build an ongoing connection with a small group of other women. AANE multi-session support groups for women also give women an opportunity to voice their concerns and frustrations. It also lets them acknowledge hard-won and unexpected victories. Common topics of discussion are:

    Masking/camouflaging
    Sensory sensitivities/overloads
    Relationships
    Self-care
    Empathy

    $100
  • Social Group for Queer Adults

    This is an hour-long social group for Neurodivergent queer folks. This is a safe space to socialize, share stories with, or gather support if needed from others with similar experiences. This group hopes to provide community, comfort, and fun. The group is facilitated by a Trans person on the spectrum. No autism (or related) diagnoses are required, nor is certainty about your queer identity. This is a safe space to explore all those things.

    $10
  • Transition to Adulthood Workshop

    Transitioning from high school to adulthood can be a complex journey for students with disabilities, often requiring extra planning and support. While it may feel overwhelming at times, this journey can be incredibly rewarding as goals are reached and dreams are realized.

    Join us as we explore the many paths students can take toward life after high school. We'll discuss key topics in transition planning and explore how self advocacy empowers youth to shape the future they envision.

    Free
  • Employment for Adults

    This support group is for Autistic adults (18+) who are post k-12. Through this support group, members can connect with a variety of participants on the topic of employment. Whether you’re currently working, looking for a job or recuperating from burn out, this group is a chance to receive support, share what works for you and learn from each other, on all things related to employment.

    $10
  • P2P-GA & IDA-GA Outreach for Parents: High-impact Early Literacy Routines at Home

    What are simple high-impact early literacy activities and routines that parents and caregivers can do with their young readers to support and strengthen their growing literacy skills at home? Join IDA-GA, Parent to Parent of GA, host Ashley Evans, and guest Dr. Brennan Chandler on October 9 and walk away with ideas to implement right away!

    Free
  • Team Trivia Night for Adults

    Please join us for a virtual trivia event. We will be playing trivia together by joining a live virtual event outside of AANE. We have historically done very well and no matter what, we have a good time.

    $10
  • Upcoming: You Can Never Be Too Prepared: Pediatric Disaster and Emergency Preparedness

    Children have unique medical, emotional, and developmental needs during disasters, and preparing to meet those needs is essential for effective response and recovery. This is even truer for children with a serious medical condition.

    This event will provide a platform for learning and sharing best practices to create an actionable plan that prioritizes the safety and care of children in times of crisis. And include action items you can take now as the caregiver to make sure you are always prepared for the unexpected.

    Free
  • Autism Parenting Summit

    Why Attend The Autism Parenting Summit?
    The Summit connects autism experts with special needs families, offering effective strategies on key topics to support your child, such as:

    Behavior Solutions
    Speech & Communication
    Social Skills
    Sensory Solutions
    Transitioning to Adulthood

    Picky Eating

    Executive Function & Motor Skills
    Special Education
    Dealing with Transitions
    Mental Health & Anxiety
    Self-care for Parents
    And much more...

    Free
  • Support Group for Adults Over 50

    Come join other adults age 50+ with autism or similar Neurodiverse profiles in an atmosphere of support and understanding. The group meets on the second Friday of every month.

    $10
  • Sip & Share Group

    Share Groups are free, monthly support groups for parents and primary caregivers, meeting from September through May in various locations across Metro Atlanta. These gatherings provide a welcoming space to connect with other parents, exchange practical tips, and share both the challenges and joys of parenting. As the very first program offered by FOCUS, Share Groups remain a cornerstone of our support services. Led by dedicated parent volunteers, each meeting is designed to be positive, constructive, and uplifting.

  • Support Group for Teens (15-19)

    This group meets on the second Saturday of the month and is for individuals (ages 15-19) who are Autistic or who suspect they are. All AANE-facilitated support groups provide information, connection, and community where participants can share similar issues and concerns and celebrate successes. Groups are designed for the teens only – parents and other family members should not attend the groups.

    $10