What we’re about
I am creating this site for my 30 year old son who has Autism - Connor - who wants to have friends of his own.
Being social, meeting new people and trying new things has been hard for Connor since high school ended. I have tried these a couple times to create a social network for him and hoping this works out! This is a group for folks on the spectrum that are over 21, for some like Connor who also have Intellectual challenges, for the families and caregivers of folks with ASD who are over 21, and for people who may not have autism but would perhaps be students or professionals who are interested in working with this group. It is pretty much open to anyone with an open mind about autism and who is over 21.
Depending on the interest level, we would like to have face2face meet-n-greets once a month. That just makes it easier to identify the group when we are doing an outing.
Here are some ideas for group activities:
- Meet at Anthem in Point Ruston for coffee or snack, then walk the waterfront
- Gladd dances in South Tacoma are back on once a month - how cool would it be to go to a dance as a group!!!
- Take a train up to Seattle's little international district and try out some of the really great eating spots and shops - Uwajimaya is awesome!
- Of course MOVIES!!!
- Maybe meet at Frieghthouse Square for a lunch
- The Glass Museum used to have a free night
- There are also a lot of free things that folks can do if they have an EBT card - such as get into the EMP up at the Science Center (I know it changed its name but not sure what to)
- I know Square Pegs does a game night for something called Magic The Gathering - maybe if someone knows how, they could help us learn it?
And any other ideas anyone has.
This could also be a great way for caregivers and family to share info while our folks are making friends and hanging out! I know I always have more questions than answers for what is available and how others get things done! And I have been asked in the past if someone below 21 can join. I have set that as the age group because the folks in this group are considered adults, and may want to do an adult meetup, but someone over 18 can come along to other adventures. The hard rule is 18, it just has to be because of any legal issues.
Please reach out to me so we can set our first meet-n-greet. Don't worry about feeling shy, Connor is shy as well! The first time doing something new is always the hardest, but the payoff could be worthwhile!
Can't wait to meet our new friends!
