The Autism Housing Network of Alberta (AHNA) have assembled a panel of autistic individuals and parents of autistics to help guide a virtual discussion on Preparing for Independent Living.

You’re invited to join in Wednesday, February 28 at 6:30 p.m. In-person in Edmonton and Calgary or online throughout the rest of the province.

Whether independent living is your goal or you are simply trying to create an environment to live as independently as possible, learning from others is key. The more we discuss, the more we realize that with the path to independent living is within our grasp.

The panel will explore and discuss things like:

• How do we skill build as an Autistic individual?
• How do Autistic individuals learn and grow?
• What tools and resources should we use to compliment our journey?

If you are in Calgary, join the watch party in-person at The Sinneave Family Foundation (300, 3820 24 Ave NW) starting at 6:20 p.m.

To reserve your spot, click on the words Calgary Watch Party and secure your free ticket.

If you are in the Edmonton area, join the watch party in-person at Autism Edmonton’s office. 11720 Kingsway NW starting at 6:20 p.m.

To reserve your spot, click on the words Edmonton Watch Party and secure your free ticket.

To attend the virtual event, click the words Virtual Panel Discussion to secure your free ticket.

AHNA is looking for autistics and their support networks to share their stories. Please submit your 2-5 minute video! Telling stories of lived experiences is a great way to share great ideas that can help others take steps towards their goals. For example, what is one approach that you took that worked to move you or your loved one closer to independent living?

Please submit your video to Drewe at housing@autismedmonton.org

Meet our panelists:

Kim Fox is a parent of 21-year-old with complex needs living on the spectrum. She is a past Director of the Autism Society of Alberta and was a part of the Housing Advisory Committee for the Sinneave Family Foundation. She is also the moderator for the Connecting CommUNITY Facebook group. Life planning and preparedness for independence have become a focal point in her journey supporting her daughter.

Debbie Bocian is the parent of an Autistic 36 year-old who is also challenged with OCD. She is a retired Special Education teacher. As an Elder in her Church, she became involved with the St. Albert Independent Living Association. Debbie seeks to create “a wonderful, supportive place where Adults on the Autism Spectrum can live very happy, social, independent lives.”

Kyle Lobb is the Vice President of the Autism Independent Living Association (AILA). He is an Autistic adult who is preparing for independent living. Kyle attends Grant MacEwan University and works part-time. He intends on moving out when his finances align with his educational aspirations and has been working towards independent living in the interim.