• 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!

    $10
  • Introduction to Autism for Families

    This 90-minute workshop will address common misconceptions, investigate Autistic identity, and explore Autistic traits, strengths, and challenges. This presentation will provide insights into your child’s neurotype, preparing you with an informed mindset for raising an Autistic child. Parents, family members, and caregivers of individuals who are potentially Autistic are also encouraged to attend.

    Free
  • Building Bridges, Breaking Down Walls: Transforming Conflict in the Care of Medically Complex Children

    Conflict often emerges when navigating the medical, emotional, and relational complexities of caring for medically complex children. This session examines why conflict happens, how it escalates or de-escalates, and introduces practical approaches for transforming conflict in ways that preserve relationships, honor diverse perspectives, and center what matters most.

    This event will take place on Monday, April 13th at 8:00 pm ET (7:00 pm CT, 6:00 pm MT, 5:00 pm PT).

    Learning objectives:

    Identify common sources of conflict when caring for medically complex children, including differences in values, goals, communication patterns, and perspective.
    Recognize the dynamics that escalate or de-escalate conflict, including the role of power, trust, communication dynamics, and emotion.
    Explore approaches for navigating conflict in ways that honor relationships, create space for difficult conversations, and focus on what matters most.

    Please see below for continuing medical education (CME/CEU) credit information.

    Free
  • 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!

    $10
  • Support Group for Women (40-60)

    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 BIPOC Adults

    This is our support group for Autistic people of color (18+). These spaces are peer-led and provide an opportunity for participants to explore how their multiple identities show up and address their specific needs, by sharing experiences and offering support to one another. We are running these meetings through the winter and then will determine the next steps for future programming based on interest and feedback.

    Free
  • Q&A with PACER advocates on inclusion: What is it and why does it matter?

    It’s a common experience for parents of students with disabilities to have concerns about their child’s inclusion in a variety of settings at school. Drop in for a conversation with PACER advocates to learn helpful strategies that can maximize inclusion opportunities at school for your child. Your questions will guide the conversation; no question is too big or small.

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

    Free
  • Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the ADA

    This workshop focuses on the right to services and accommodations for students with disabilities and special health/emotional needs who may not be eligible for services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) for special education.

    Free
  • Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Overview

    Training Objectives
    This session is designed to help parents and families
    1. Gain a clear understanding of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and how it can support children with communication needs.
    2. Explore the different types of AAC and discuss how families can use these supports during everyday routines at home, in the community, and in school.
    3. Understanding what AAC is, how it works, and how it can help their child’s communication