• 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
  • Introduction to Autism for Adults

    A presentation and discussion for Autistic adults to come and explore their understanding of autism through a neurological lens. We will discuss common misconceptions, the Autistic identity, and common Autistic traits, strengths, and challenges. This presentation is given by an Autistic adult and a Neurodivergent ally. You might enjoy this presentation and discussion if you are newly diagnosed, considering whether you may be autistic, or if you have only explored autism through a deficit lens in the past.

    Free
  • Autism and the IEP for Caregivers of Autistic Children/Teens/Young Adults

    Join AANE for a 90-minute workshop with Q&A for parents and guardians on the ins and outs of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for autistic students. Learn what our staff look for when conducting IEP reviews. This workshop is not state specific. Topics include::

    Autism-specific considerations for the parent input statement
    Evaluations
    Accommodations
    SMART goals
    Services
    Post-secondary transition planning

    Please note: This workshop is NOT state specific

    $25
  • 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
  • Parent Workshop: What Happens To My Special Needs Child When I Pass Away?”

    This question often weighs heavily on the hearts of special needs parents and caregivers. In this informative and compassionate session, Attorney and Judge DJ Jeyaram will guide families through the legal steps and planning tools available to help ensure that our children are cared for, protected, and supported after we pass away. As a long-time FOCUS dad to a child with special needs, DJ will not only share his legal expertise, but practical, real-world experiences on how to thoughtfully plan for your child’s future.

    Free
  • Multi-Session Support Group for Women (40-60)

    Recurring

    This support group is designed for Autistic women (40-60) looking to build an ongoing connection with a small community of other women. This multi-session support group also gives women an opportunity to voice their concerns and frustrations and lets them acknowledge hard-won and unexpected victories. Common topics of discussion are:

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

    $100
  • Support Group for Adults

    Recurring

    This multi-session support group is for Autistic adults (18+) who are post k-12. Through this group, members can build an ongoing connection with a small community. AANE support groups give members an opportunity to celebrate successes and support each other through difficulties. Common topics of discussion are:

    Masking/camouflaging
    Sensory sensitivities/overloads
    Relationships
    Self-care
    Disclosure
    Work/jobs
    Intersectionality

    $100
  • Family Guide to Transition Planning: Preparing Students with Disabilities for Life after High School – Starbridge

    The purpose of the Family Guide to Transition Planning—Preparing Students with Disabilities for Life After High School is to assist families in understanding the transition planning process specifically from high school to life after high school. When families are knowledgeable about the transition process and invited to participate by Educational Organizations (EOs), students with disabilities experience improved post-school outcomes in the areas of employment, postsecondary education, and independent living. Presented by the Mid-West Family & Community Engagement Center.

    Free
  • Tool Time Tuesdays

    Recurring

    10/7/25: Reimagining Support: A New Way to Learn and Transform Lives for Medically Fragile Kids - We will take a look at the new media channel for Advocates for Medically Fragile Kids NC and see how this tool can put more information into the hands of parents. Presented by Jenny Hobbs
    10/14/25: Virtual Meetings 101 - Virtual IEP meetings are occurring more and more frequently. In this webinar, we will explore how to navigate virtual meetings while still maintaining communication and collaboration. Join us for some tips and tricks as well as supporting resources. Presented by Anastacia Newton, Parent Educator
    10/21/25: From Incident to Insight: Actively Participating in a Manifestation Determination Review (MDR) - Your guide to a successful Manifestation Determination Review: prep, participation tips, and ECAC’s MDR Checklist. Presented by Mandy Sonnenberg, PTI Manager
    10/28/25: What is the Prior Written Notice and why does it matter? - Other than the Individualized Education Program (IEP), the Prior Written Notice (PWN) is one of the most important documents in the special education process. We will go through the PWN form and discuss why it is critical to make sure that it is accurate. We will also touch on other places where IEP team decisions are documented. Presented by Doreen Byrd, Lead Parent Educator

    Free
  • What, Wait! You Want Me to Talk About Sexuality?

    Healthy relationship boundaries are an important skill for us all. We are seeing more and more examples of those who have crossed lines in our culture. Even though people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are sexual beings, just like everyone, they also need the information and skills to navigate these waters and learn what's okay and not okay in various settings.

    This webinar will explore tips and tools for addressing sexuality one-on-one with the individuals you work with. We will explore why this topic can be difficult to approach and useful tools that will help you become more comfortable and confident and communicate about this sensitive topic.

    Free