Sinneave Foundation

Your Time, Your Way
2026-03-18 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-03-19 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-03-24 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-03-25 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-03-26 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-03-31 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-04-01 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-04-07 17:00 - 19:30 (America/Edmonton) and 5 more dates | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9, Canada
Many individuals can benefit from what is often referred to as a “third space”—a place separate from home or work or school where there is no obligation to spend money on food or beverages. So we’re opening our doors to members of our community.

We invite you to drop in and use our space to help you unwind or recharge—with no pressure to engage in structured activities. We have several rooms and spaces available–a quiet lounge, computer desks, hang out sofas–you choose. It’s your time to use your way.

Our space provides flexible seating options, focus tools, and adjustable lighting options as we strive to make our space more welcoming and inclusive to those who wish to spend time in it.

Our drop-in hours are 5:00 – 7:30 p.m.

Here are some suggestions of things you may like to do, but this is not an exhaustive list:

Socializing: Chat with others, make new connections, or catch up with friends

Using Computers: Access the internet, complete personal tasks, or explore hobbies online. Use our computers and wifi or bring your own device and connect via our network

Relaxing: Sit quietly, read, listen to music with headphones, or just enjoy the calm space

Independent Work: Bring personal projects, homework or studying you may need to do, or use the time to focus on tasks

Unstructured Activities: puzzles, sketching, journaling, or engaging in other personal hobbies

Exploring Resources: Learn about other programs, events, or services Sinneave offers

Simply Being: Spend time in the space without any specific activity, just enjoying the presence of others without any expectations to engage

To ensure a welcoming and safe space for all users, please read over the Rules of the Space before you arrive:

Check-In is Required: Everyone signs in upon arrival

No Alcohol or Drugs: This is a substance-free space for everyone’s safety and comfort

Respectful Content and Behavior: No engagement with explicit content and all interactions should be respectful

Noise Levels: Keep volume moderate to accommodate diverse activities

No formal supervision provided: Attend and engage independently

The Housing Continuum Series: Affordable Housing
2026-03-23 18:30 - 19:15 | Online via Sinneave Connects
The Housing Continuum Series is a 7-part virtual learning series. The housing continuum is the range of housing types typically available in a community. It represents an assortment of housing options and types, each critically important for different people at different times.

This session will focus on affordable housing. Affordable housing is defined as stable home rental or ownership that costs no more than 30% of a household’s gross income. Affordable housing is a broader category that includes both Community Housing and private sector developments. Affordability is maintained through various mechanisms and may include moderate-income households as opposed to strictly low-income residents.

Participants attending these sessions will strengthen their knowledge of the housing options in their community and understand how each part of the housing continuum works. They will also increase their understanding of how different types of housing can be welcoming, accessible, and inclusive for Autistic and neurodivergent people.

Monday, March 236:30 – 7:15 p.m.Online via Sinneave Connects There is no cost to attend.

This series will walk participants through each part of the housing continuum and provide real examples within Calgary. The sessions are designed to help people build their understanding of how housing works, what options exist, and how different housing environments can support Autistic and neurodivergent adults to live well in their communities.

Please note: Advance registration is required through Sinneave Connects, our online learning hub.

If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, just log in as usual. If you have not registered yet, it’s easy! Click the button that says, “Sinneave Connects” to access the hub and follow these steps:

Create a user name

Create a password

Select “Register”

Choose “The Housing Continuum Series: Affordable Housing” event

Click on the, “Enroll” button, and then press Confirm.

Sinneave Connects

About the Presenter: Amy Tatterton is the Director of Learning and Connection at The Sinneave Family Foundation. Amy has a degree in Disability Studies and a Master of Education in Educational Research. She has worked in the disability services sector for over 15 years is passionate about systems-level changes that promote more neuroinclusive communities.

If you have questions, reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call 403-210-5000. We’re here to help.

The Employment Classroom: Creating a Career Plan and New Job Expectations
2026-03-25 10:00 - 12:00 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9, Canada
Are you interested in learning more about all the stages of the employment journey and the steps you can take to lead you on a path to success? We offer a series of workshops that cover many topics related to finding a job, keeping a job, and thriving in the workplace.

In our next Employment Classroom, participants will learn all about how to create a career plan, what you can do to advance your career, and navigating the expectations of a new job.

Attendees will learn:

Why it’s important to have a career planning outline

Choosing a career that is practical for you

The challenges you might encounter in a job search and in the job market

Navigating first-job jitters – things like social skills, unwritten workplace expectations

and more!

Wednesday, March 2510:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)

This workshop combines classroom instruction and time to practice what you’ve learned with support from the facilitators, if needed. Attendees to these workshops must be able to participate independently.

Please note: These classes are limited to 12 attendees. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Register quickly to avoid disappointment.

To Register:

If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, just log in as usual. If you have not registered yet, it’s easy! Click the button that says, Sinneave Connects to access the learning hub and follow these steps:

Pick a username

Pick a password

Choose The Employment Classroom: Creating a Career Plan and New Job Expectations and click on the enroll button

Sinneave Connects

About our Facilitators:

Ryan Elkanah and Sherry Taylor, members of the Sinneave employment team, are committed to empowering Autistic and neurodivergent individuals on their journeys towards meaningful employment and career success.

If you have questions, reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call our office at (403) 210-5000. We’re here to help!

Social Communication Workshop: Understanding Communication Beyond Words
2026-03-26 18:00 - 19:30 | Online via Sinneave Connects
Much of our everyday communication involves the use of non-spoken cues and unwritten social rules. Non-spoken cues can include things like facial expressions, posture, eye contact, hand gestures, and tone of voice.

These are often used to emphasize a particular point that the communicator is trying to make. They may also be used to change the meaning of the words being spoken. For example, using sarcasm.

Not everyone uses or understand these cues or rules, yet it is often assumed that everyone knows what they are and what they mean. Thankfully, they can be explored, practiced, and adapted in ways that support everyone’s understanding.

In this session, you will have the opportunity to:

Develop greater understanding of non-spoken cues and how they impact shared communication.

Discuss strategies for noticing, interpreting, and responding to non-spoken cues.

Receive tips to support effective non-spoken communication across different social situations.

Thursday, March 266:00 – 7:30 p.m.In-person @ The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)There is no cost to attend

Our Social Communication workshops are designed to provide Autistic and neurodivergent individuals opportunities to learn and practice a variety of social communication skills in a safe and welcoming setting. Participants will be provided with information, tips, and strategies that they can choose to apply in common day-to-day social situations.

Advance registration is not required, however, if you want to sign up, our team can contact you in the event of any last minute changes or cancellations. Click the button that says “Sinneave Connects” to enroll in the course.

If you have not created a free Sinneave Connects account yet, you will need to do that. Just follow the prompts on the sign-in page.

Sinneave Connects

About the Presenter:

Kristen Coglon is a Life Skills Coach at The Sinneave Family Foundation. She has been working with Sinneave for more than 4 years and has had a career in the Human Services field for over 10 years. Her experiences have been working with individuals across the lifespan, and she has gained valuable skills and knowledge that contribute to her daily work. Kristen is a passionate and empathetic person who is happy to be a listening ear, supportive coach and an advocate for Autistic and neurodivergent adults.

If you have questions, reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call 403 210-5000. We’re here to help.

Celebrating Autism
2026-04-02 16:00 - 17:00 | Online via Sinneave Connects
There’s no better day to celebrate the Autistic individuals we know and have the privilege of working with than World Autism Awareness and Acceptance Day. You’re invited to join us virtually as we celebrate the positives of being Autistic & Awesome!

Thursday, April 24:00 – 5:00 p.m. Online via Sinneave Connects

In this session, we intend to shift the narrative around autism, beginning with celebrating the many positive traits and characteristics common among Autistics and empowering those individuals to embrace who they are and what they have to offer.

We will also highlight the vibrancy of Autistic culture and learn ways we can support inclusion in our communities.

Participants will create a self-portrait that shows their uniqueness and celebrates who they are as individuals.

To reserve your spot and access the virtual link, click the button that says, “Sinneave Connects.” You will need to log in with a Sinneave Connects account, which is free and easy to set up. Follow the instruction on the sign-in page.

Sinneave Connects

About the presenter:

Sherry Taylor has more than 15 years of experience in the not-for-profit industry. She is currently the Program Coordinator for EmploymentWorks at Sinneave. She is passionate about developing engaging curriculum and content for Autistic youth and adults through a strengths-based lens, focusing on the strengths, characteristics and positive traits that Autistics bring to their communities.

The Housing Continuum Series: Market Housing (Rentals)
2026-04-06 18:30 - 19:15 | Online via Sinneave Connects
The Housing Continuum Series is a 7-part virtual learning series that introduces and discusses the range of housing types typically available in a community. The housing continuum represents an assortment of housing options and types, each critically important for different people at different times.

This session will focus on market housing, specifically rentals. Market Housing is defined as stable private rental and homeownership housing where prices are determined by landlords, developers, and real estate markets without direct subsidies or affordability mandates. Costs fluctuate based on supply, demand, and economic conditions.

Participants attending these sessions will strengthen their knowledge of the housing options in their community and understand how each part of the housing continuum works. They will also increase their understanding of how different types of housing can be welcoming, accessible, and inclusive for Autistic and neurodivergent people.

Monday, April 66:30 – 7:15 p.m.Online via Sinneave Connects There is no cost to attend.

This series will walk participants through each part of the housing continuum and provide real examples within Calgary. The sessions are designed to help people build their understanding of how housing works, what options exist, and how different housing environments can support Autistic and neurodivergent adults to live well in their communities.

Please note: Advance registration is required through Sinneave Connects, our online learning hub.

If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, just log in as usual. If you have not registered yet, click the button that says, “Sinneave Connects” to access the hub and follow these steps:

Create a user name

Create a password

Select “Register”

Choose “The Housing Continuum Series: Market Housing (Rentals)” event

Click on the, “Enroll” button, and then press Confirm.

Sinneave Connects

About the Presenter: Amy Tatterton is the Director of Learning and Connection at The Sinneave Family Foundation. Amy has a degree in Disability Studies and a Master of Education in Educational Research. She has worked in the disability services sector for over 15 years is passionate about systems-level changes that promote more neuroinclusive communities.

If you have questions, reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call 403-210-5000. We’re here to help.

Social Communication Workshop: Communication and Miscommunication
2026-04-07 18:00 - 19:30 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9, Canada
Communication can feel effortless one moment and confusing or frustrating the next. Many different factors can make conversations run smoothly (or lead to misunderstandings).

In this workshop, participants will learn why miscommunication happens and feel more confident navigating it.

Together, we’ll discuss:

What is really happening when we communicate

Common reasons for miscommunication

Recognize how autism, non-spoken “language”, and unwritten social rules affect our communication

How to anticipate and prevent misunderstandings

How to address and repair miscommunication when it happens

Tuesday, April 76:00 – 7:30 p.m.In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)There is no cost to attend this drop-in workshop.

This workshop is designed to provide Autistic and neurodivergent individuals with opportunities to learn and practice a variety of social communication skills in a safe and welcoming setting. Participants will be provided with information, tips, and strategies that they can choose to apply common day-to-day social situations.

Advance registration is not required, however, if you want to sign up, our team can contact you in the event of any last minute changes or cancellations. Click the button that says “Sinneave Connects” to enroll in the course.

If you have not created a free Sinneave Connects account yet, you will need to do that. Just follow the prompts on the sign-in page.

Sinneave Connects

About the Presenter:Yonatan Tesfagiorgis is a Life Skills Coach at The Sinneave Family Foundation and has been working with neurodivergent and Autistic individuals for more than 8 years. He offers skill-building strategies using a neuro-affirming framework and provides an inclusive space for all individuals.

If you have questions, reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call 403 210-5000. We’re here to help.

The Employment Classroom: Knowing yourself and your employment goals
2026-04-08 10:00 - 12:00 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9, Canada
Are you interested in learning more about all the stages of the employment journey and the steps you can take to lead you on a path to success? We offer a series of workshops that cover many topics related to finding a job, keeping a job, and thriving in the workplace.

In this Employment Classroom session, participants will spend time learning about themselves, their personality, skills, interests, and understanding their values and motivations. Having a good understanding of who you are and what you want is important for setting realistic and fulfilling employment goals, which can lead to a more satisfying career journey.

Wednesday, April 810:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)

This workshop combines classroom instruction and time to practice what you’ve learned with support from the facilitators, if needed. Attendees to these workshops must be able to participate independently.

Please note: These classes are limited to 12 attendees. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Register quickly to avoid disappointment. *If the course is full, you will be added to a waitlist. Please do not attend until your registration has been confirmed by our staff.

To Register:

Click the button that says, Sinneave Connects to access the learning hub. If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, just log in as usual. If you have not registered yet, it’s free and easy. Just follow the instructions on the Log-in page.

Sinneave Connects

About our Facilitators:

Ryan Elkanah is a late-diagnosed AuDHD adult and professional relationship builder who brings curiosity, empathy, and lived experience to every space they enter. Having navigated masking, burnout, loss, and the ongoing work of reclaiming agency, they approach their work with humility, intention, and care. Ryan creates spaces where people can show up fully, where reflection and authenticity meet courage and growth. Grounded in a neuro-affirming, trauma-informed, person-centered, and strengths-based approach, they walk alongside others in the lifelong practice of becoming.

Marcela Montes-Lobos is an EmploymentWorks online facilitator at the Sinneave Family Foundation and is a late-diagnosed Hispanic neurodivergent adult who has embraced her unique diversity as well as her family’s. Having lived experience in language barriers, as well as other barriers that many neurodivergent folks face in life, she decided mid-life to return to school, leaving a career in the airline indjustry and becoming an Addiction and Disability Support Worker. She is passionate about creating safe spaces, always encouraging participants’ autonomy, curiosity and empowering them on their journey.

If you have questions, reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call our office at (403) 210-5000. We’re here to help!

The Joy of Cooking: Cooking Skills for Independent Living
2026-04-13 17:00 - 20:00 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9, Canada
Whether you live independently or it is one of your future goals, being able to confidently navigate your way around a kitchen and cook healthy meals are important life skills.

Preparing your own meals helps you to save money, control portion sizes, and make choices that match your nutritional needs. Most importantly, being able to cook for and feed yourself (and others!) builds self-sufficiency, confidence and can even be a creative outlet or social activity.

If learning to cook interests you, join us for the Joy of Cooking:

Monday, April 135:00 – 8:00 p.m.In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)

While cooking dinner together, participants will learn:

The importance of good hygiene

Cleanliness in the kitchen and the importance of preventing cross-contamination

The proper use of utensils

How to properly measure and prepare food, and

How to work well with others in a team environment

As there is only light support provided by staff, participants need to be able to follow instructions and be willing to work in a small group to prepare the meal. All supplies will be provided. Participants are expected to help with clean up after the session.

This session is limited to six participants. If there are no spots available, you can sign up to be placed on a waiting list and a member of our team will reach out to you if spots open up.

To register, click the button that says, “Sinneave Connects.” If you don’t have a free Sinneave Connects account yet, you will need to create one. Follow the prompts on the log-in page.

Sinneave Connects

About the Presenter:

Nathaniel Anderson is a 26-year-old cook from Calgary, where he has lived his entire life. He is a former participant of the Launch + Skills program, which he found extremely valuable. As a way of giving back, he hopes to use his skills and experiences to support others who may also need help.

Nathaniel began cooking at the age of 14 and has been working professionally for three years. During this time, he has gained experience in nearly every aspect of the job, including prepping ingredients, making cold salads, grilling, sautéing pastas and other dishes, and plating meals for both events and regular service. Outside of work, he enjoys playing video games and has a strong interest in history and music.

If you have questions, reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call 403 210-5000. We’re here to help.

Women's Group: Peer Support for 18+
2026-04-14 18:00 - 19:30 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9, Canada
Women often face unique experiences as Autistic and neurodivergent individuals, including how we socialize, societal expectations, and how Autism is understood and expressed.

We’re thrilled to offer a group designed specifically for Autistic and neurodivergent adults (18+) who identify as women or who connect with experiences of womanhood.* This is not a therapy group, but rather, a supportive, non-clinical space to discuss and share ideas, lived experiences, and connect meaningfully with others.

The content and resources shared in this group are informed by both lived Autistic experience and research as they intersect with gendered experiences in society.

In this session, we’ll talk about different aspects of being Autistic and what that means and looks like in daily life. Participants are welcome to share lived experiences and discuss strategies that have been helpful for them.

Topics may include:

Strategies for regulation

Communication strategies

Lifestyle changes

Sensory-friendly accommodations

Leaning into interests

Finding neurodivergent community and support

*This group is intended for Autistic and neurodivergent folks who identify as women or who connect with experiences of womanhood, inclusive of non-binary and other 2SLGBTQ+ identities and expressions. This boundary ensures that participants can share openly without explanation, justification or judgement.

Please also note: During this session, Sinneave staff, guest presenters, and attendees may share information about community resources. Some information provided may not be accurate, up-to-date, or reliable for everyone. Attendees are also encouraged to be critical consumers of information available on the internet. Providing information about a community resource is not endorsement, and Sinneave does not assume any risk for the outcome of using the information shared during this session.

Tuesday, April 146:00 – 7:30 p.m.In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)There is no cost to attend.

Registration is appreciated, but not required. If you sign up in advance, our facilitators are able to contact you in the event of a last-minute change in plans. Drop-ins are also welcome.

To register, log in to Sinneave Connects. If you don’t have a Sinneave Connects account yet, it’s easy! Click the button that says, Sinneave Connects to access the learning hub and follow these steps:

Pick a username

Pick a password

Select “Register”

Choose the Women’s Group: Peer Support for 18+ workshop and click on the enroll button

Sinneave Connects

About the Presenters:Kristen Coglon is a Life Skills Coach at The Sinneave Family Foundation. She has been working with Sinneave for more than 4 years and in the Human Services field for more than 10 years. Her experiences have been working with individuals across the lifespan, and she has gained valuable skills and knowledge that contribute to her daily work. Kristen is a passionate and empathetic person who is happy to be a listening ear, supportive coach, and an advocate for Autistic and neurodivergent adults.

Alexandra (Ali) Skeet is a Learning and Connection Associate at The Sinneave Family Foundation. She delivers the Information and Navigation service where they have the pleasure to meet with Autistic and neurodivergent individuals one-on-one to provide consistent, person-centred information and navigation to Sinneave programs and services, and/or community-based resources. Ali has both professional and lived experience navigating identity, and the intersectional impact of societal expectations/beliefs on neurodivergent individuals. They bring over a decade of experience in the field of mental health, and a passion for person-centered care and intersectional inclusivity.

If you have questions, reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call (403) 210-5000. We’re here to help.

Self-advocacy Workshop: Knowing Yourself
2026-04-14 18:00 - 19:30 | Online via Sinneave Connects
You’ve probably heard the word “Self-advocacy” before, but do you know what it is and how to do it?

Self-advocacy is expressing your needs and preferences in a way that ensures your voice is heard in the decisions that impact your life. An important first step to self-advocacy is understanding the barriers you face and the strengths you bring to each situation.

In this session, you will learn what self-advocacy is and how it can benefit you. It will also help you understand your strengths and some of the barriers you face, which will enhance your ability to self-advocate.

Tuesday, April 146:00 – 7:30 p.m.Online via Sinneave Connects

This session is one of 3 workshops designed to provide Autistic and neurodivergent individuals opportunities to learn about self-advocacy and practice skills that will help build confidence in speaking up for yourself.

Advance registration is not required, however, if you want to sign up, our team can contact you in the event of any last minute changes or cancellations. Click the button that says “Sinneave Connects” to enroll in the course.

If you have not created a free Sinneave Connects account yet, you will need to do that to access the online link. Just follow the prompts on the sign-in page.

Sinneave Connects

As these sessions build on each other, attending all three is recommended, but not required. Other sessions in this series are:

Part Two – Starting the Conversation – Tuesday, April 28This session will provide tips and strategies for you to practice communicating your needs with others, as well as how you can effectively start conversations about your needs.

Part Three – Finding Your Voice – Tuesday, May 12This session will provide practical tips and strategies to help negotiate and discuss how you can have your needs met in your current environment. We will also have an opportunity to summarize and apply everything we have learned up to this point.

If you have questions or if you need help navigating Sinneave Connects, email info@sinneavefoundation.org or call 403-210-5000. We are here to help!

Social Communication Workshop: Neurodivergent and Neurotypical Communication
2026-04-16 18:00 - 19:30 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9, Canada
Do you know communication can vastly differ between neurodivergent and neurotypical people? Without some understanding of these different communication styles, some interactions can be confusing and misunderstandings can occur. But, a little knowledge can go a long way.

In this social communication workshop, participants will gain the skills and knowledge to:

Describe how communication can differ between neurodivergent and neurotypical people

Recognize how communication across neurotypes is a form of cross-cultural communication

Identify their own authentic communication preferences and needs

Evaluate the benefits and challenges of using authentic communication in different settings

Practice expressing or requesting their communication preferences and needs

Thursday, April 166:00 – 7:30 pmIn-person @ The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)There is no cost to attend

Our Social Communication workshops are designed to provide Autistic and neurodivergent individuals opportunities to learn and practice a variety of social communication skills in a safe and welcoming setting. Participants will be provided with information, tips, and strategies that they can choose to apply in common day-to-day social situations.

Advance registration is not required, however, if you want to sign up, our team can contact you in the event of any last minute changes or cancellations. Click the button that says “Sinneave Connects” to enroll in the course.

If you have not created a free Sinneave Connects account yet, you will need to do that. Just follow the prompts on the sign-in page.

Sinneave Connects

About the Presenter:

Yonatan Tesfagiorgis is a Life Skills Coach at The Sinneave Family Foundation and has been working with neurodivergent and Autistic individuals for over 8 years. He strives to offer skill building strategies using a neuro affirming framework and provides an inclusive space for all individuals.

If you have questions, reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call 403 210-5000. We’re here to help.

Navigating Bullying and Neurodivergence
2026-04-16 18:15 - 19:45 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9, Canada
This workshop series is for Autistic and neurodivergent individuals who want to build practical skills to understand, respond to, and help prevent bullying.

Together, we will explore why bullying happens, how to recognize it in different settings (including online and in the workplace), and how it uniquely affects neurodivergent people. These interactive sessions offer hands-on activities to practice strategies in a supportive, inclusive environment.

Please note: This is a skill-building series and not a bullying support group, or a substitute for professional mental health or crisis support. If you need immediate assistance, please visit Alberta.ca for resources.

Attendance at all the workshops is not mandatory, but we strongly encourage you to attend all three to most benefit from the content.

In Session 1, we will discuss:

The different types and places bullying happens

Why bullying happens

Autism and bullying

Bullying vs. conflict, harassment and discrimination

How bullying affects people

Thursday, April 166:15 – 7:45 p.m.In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)There is no cost to attend this workshop

Space in these sessions are limited, and advance registration is required through Sinneave Connects, our online learning hub. Click the button that says “Sinneave Connects” to enroll in the course.

If you have not created a free Sinneave Connects account yet, you will need to do that. Just follow the prompts on the sign-in page.

Sinneave Connects

About the Presenter:

Kristen Coglon is a Life Skills Coach at The Sinneave Family Foundation. She has been working with Sinneave for over 4 years and has had a career in the Human Services field for more than 10 years. She has worked with individuals across the lifespan, and gained valuable skills and knowledge that contribute to her daily work. Kristen is a passionate and empathetic person who is happy to be a listening ear, supportive coach and an advocate for Autistic and neurodivergent adults.

If you have questions, reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call (403) 210-5000. We’re here to help.

The Housing Continuum Series: Market Housing (Ownership)
2026-04-20 18:30 - 19:15 | Online via Sinneave Connects
The Housing Continuum Series is a 7-part virtual learning series that introduces and discusses the range of housing types typically available in a community. The housing continuum represents an assortment of housing options and types, each critically important for different people at different times.

This session will focus on market housing, specifically ownership in the market. Market Housing is defined as stable private rental and homeownership housing where prices are determined by landlords, developers, and real estate markets without direct subsidies or affordability mandates. Costs fluctuate based on supply, demand, and economic conditions.

Participants attending these sessions will strengthen their knowledge of the housing options in their community and understand how each part of the housing continuum works. They will also increase their understanding of how different types of housing can be welcoming, accessible, and inclusive for Autistic and neurodivergent people.

Monday, April 206:30 – 7:15 p.m.Online via Sinneave Connects There is no cost to attend.

This series will walk participants through each part of the housing continuum and provide real examples within Calgary. The sessions are designed to help people build their understanding of how housing works, what options exist, and how different housing environments can support Autistic and neurodivergent adults to live well in their communities.

Please note: Advance registration is required through Sinneave Connects, our online learning hub.

If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, just log in as usual. If you have not registered yet, click the button that says, “Sinneave Connects” to access the hub and follow these steps:

Create a user name

Create a password

Select “Register”

Choose “The Housing Continuum Series: Market Housing (Ownership)” event

Click on the, “Enroll” button, and then press Confirm.

Sinneave Connects

About the Presenter: Amy Tatterton is the Director of Learning and Connection at The Sinneave Family Foundation. Amy has a degree in Disability Studies and a Master of Education in Educational Research. She has worked in the disability services sector for over 15 years is passionate about systems-level changes that promote more neuroinclusive communities.

If you have questions, reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call 403-210-5000. We’re here to help.

Your Time, Your Way - Earth Day, Your Way
2026-04-21 17:00 - 19:30 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9, Canada
Many individuals can benefit from what is referred to as a “third space”—a place separate from home or work or school where there is no obligation to spend money on food or beverages. We open our doors to members of our community every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 5:00 – 7:30 p.m.

We invite you to drop in and use our space to help you unwind or recharge—with no pressure to engage in structured activities. We have several rooms and spaces available–a quiet lounge, computer desks, hang out sofas–you choose. It’s your time to use your way.

Tuesday, April 21 we’re honouring Earth Day in a calm, welcoming, and flexible way! Join us between 5:00 and 7:30 p.m. and participate as much or as little as you want:

Contribute in your own way to a collaborative mural representing elements of the earth that support regulation, comfort and sensory well-being.

Contribute at your own pace by helping assemble the tree puzzle, then add a leaf expressing something in nature you are grateful for.

Engage in earth-themed “Would You Rather” questions, try earth bingo, or explore facts and myths about the earth.

The space remains open for people who don’t want to participate in structured activities. We provide flexible seating options, focus tools, and adjustable lighting options in an effort to make our space more welcoming and inclusive to those who wish to spend time in it.

Suggested activities:

Socializing: Chat with others, make new connections, or catch up with friends

Using Computers: Access the internet, complete personal tasks, or explore hobbies online. Use our computers and wifi or bring your own device and connect via our network

Relaxing: Sit quietly, read, listen to music with headphones, or just enjoy the calm space

Independent Work: Bring personal projects, homework or studying you may need to do, or use the time to focus on tasks

Unstructured Activities: puzzles, sketching, journaling, or engaging in other personal hobbies

Exploring Resources: Learn about other programs, events, or services Sinneave offers

Simply Being: Spend time in the space without any specific activity, just enjoying the presence of others without any expectations to engage

To ensure a welcoming and safe space for all users, please read over the Rules of the Space before you arrive:

Check-In is Required: Everyone signs in upon arrival

No Alcohol or Drugs: This is a substance-free space for everyone’s safety and comfort

Respectful Content and Behavior: No engagement with explicit content and all interactions should be respectful

Noise Levels: Keep volume moderate to accommodate diverse activities

No formal supervision provided: Attend and engage independently

Social Communication Workshop: Understanding Communication Beyond Words
2026-04-21 18:00 - 19:30 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9, Canada
Much of our everyday communication involves the use of non-spoken cues and unwritten social rules. Non-spoken cues can include things like facial expressions, posture, eye contact, hand gestures, and tone of voice.

These are often used to emphasize a particular point that the communicator is trying to make. They may also be used to change the meaning of the words being spoken. For example, using sarcasm.

Not everyone uses or understand these cues or rules, yet it is often assumed that everyone knows what they are and what they mean. Thankfully, they can be explored, practiced, and adapted in ways that support everyone’s understanding.

In this session, you will have the opportunity to:

Develop greater understanding of non-spoken cues and how they impact shared communication.

Discuss strategies for noticing, interpreting, and responding to non-spoken cues.

Receive tips to support effective non-spoken communication across different social situations.

Tuesday, April 216:00 – 7:30 p.m.In-person @ The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)There is no cost to attend

Our Social Communication workshops are designed to provide Autistic and neurodivergent individuals opportunities to learn and practice a variety of social communication skills in a safe and welcoming setting. Participants will be provided with information, tips, and strategies that they can choose to apply in common day-to-day social situations.

Advance registration is not required, however, if you want to sign up, our team can contact you in the event of any last minute changes or cancellations. Click the button that says “Sinneave Connects” to enroll in the course.

If you have not created a free Sinneave Connects account yet, you will need to do that. Just follow the prompts on the sign-in page.

Sinneave Connects

About the Presenter:

Yonatan Tesfagiorgis is a Life Skills Coach at The Sinneave Family Foundation and has been working with neurodivergent and Autistic individuals for over 9 years. He strives to offer skill-building strategies using a neuro-affirming framework and provides an inclusive space for all individuals.

If you have questions, reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call 403 210-5000. We’re here to help.

The RDSP and DTC Blueprint: Turning Eligibility into Long-term Financial Security
2026-04-21 18:30 - 19:45 | Online via Sinneave Connects
The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is one of the most powerful—and underused— financial programs in Canada.

Offering up to $90,000 in government grants and bonds, the RDSP has the potential to transform long-term financial security for individuals living with disabilities. Yet, hundreds of thousands of eligible Canadians either don’t have one, or don’t fully understand how to maximize it.

In this webinar, RDSP Educator Trish Van Sickle and Disability Tax Credit (DTC) Specialist Dr. Wayne McLeod walk you through the full journey, starting with the RDSP and connecting it back to the Disability Tax Credit that unlocks it.

Tuesday, April 216:30 – 7:45 p.m.Online via Sinneave Connects

Attendees will learn:

How the RDSP works

Who qualifies

How to maximize government grants, bonds, and long-term growth

Common mistakes families make when opening an RDSP

Key questions to ask any institution before choosing where to open one

The Disability Tax Credit explained

Why DTC applications get denied and how to strengthen them.

This session is education-first and designed to empower individuals, families, caregivers, and professionals with clarity, confidence, and actionable knowledge. There will be an opportunity to ask questions at the end.

Whether you are newly approved for the DTC, considering applying, or supporting someone who may qualify, this webinar will help you understand the full opportunity available—and how to make the most of it. Attendees are encouraged to invite a parent, partner, or support person if they would like someone close to them to learn alongside them.

Advance registration is required. Click on the button that says, “Sinneave Connects” to register.

If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, log in as usual. If you have not yet created an account, it’s free and easy to do. Follow the prompts on the log-in page.

If you are unable to make the April 21 webinar, we are offering it again on Tuesday, May 5. When you log-in, you can register for either session.

Sinneave Connects

About the Presenters:

Dr. Wayne McLeod is a dedicated educator and advocate focused on helping Canadians successfully navigate the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). Through years of experience guiding families, Dr. McLeod understands how overwhelming and confusing the DTC process can be. Many eligible individuals are denied simply due to incomplete applications or unclear medical documentation. His approach centers on education, clarity, and ensuring applications are properly positioned to meet CRA requirements.

As the author of How to Successfully Apply for the Disability Tax Credit, Dr. McLeod provides practical, step-by-step guidance to help individuals, caregivers, and professionals confidently navigate the process and access the financial support they deserve.

His mission is simple: remove barriers, increase awareness, and help families turn DTC approval into long-term financial opportunity.

Trish Van Sickle is a passionate RDSP educator on a mission to ensure no eligible Canadian misses out on one of the most powerful financial programs in the country: the Registered Disability Savings Plan.

Despite offering up to $90,000 in government grants and bonds, hundreds of thousands of eligible Canadians still do not have an RDSP simply because they don’t understand how it works or where to start. That’s where Trish steps in.

She simplifies the complex, breaks down the rules, and focuses on education first. Whether families work with her directly or choose another institution, she equips them with the knowledge, confidence, and the right questions to ask so they can properly set up, manage, and maximize their RDSP.

Her mission is bold and clear: raise awareness, close the education gap, and connect as many Canadians as possible to the financial security they deserve.

If you have any questions, or need technical support accessing Sinneave Connects, reach out to us at info@sinneavefoundation.org or call 403 210-5000. We are here to help.

The Employment Classroom: Matching your strengths to jobs
2026-04-22 10:00 - 12:00 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9, Canada
Are you interested in learning more about all the stages of the employment journey and the steps you can take to lead you on a path to success? We offer a series of workshops that cover many topics related to finding a job, keeping a job, and thriving in the workplace.

In this Employment Classroom session, participants will focus on identifying their strengths and learn how they can help you find the right job for you.

Understanding what your strengths and interests are will help align your job search to industries and roles that are a good match for you.

Wednesday, April 2210:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)

This workshop combines classroom instruction and time to practice what you’ve learned with support from the facilitators, if needed. Attendees to these workshops must be able to participate independently.

Please note: These classes are limited to 12 attendees. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. Register quickly to avoid disappointment. *If the course is full, you will be added to a waitlist. Please do not attend until your registration has been confirmed by our staff.

To Register:

Click the button that says, Sinneave Connects to access the learning hub. If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, just log in as usual. If you have not registered yet, it’s free and easy. Just follow the instructions on the Log-in page.

Sinneave Connects

About our Facilitators:

Ryan Elkanah is a late-diagnosed AuDHD adult and professional relationship builder who brings curiosity, empathy, and lived experience to every space they enter. Having navigated masking, burnout, loss, and the ongoing work of reclaiming agency, they approach their work with humility, intention, and care. Ryan creates spaces where people can show up fully, where reflection and authenticity meet courage and growth. Grounded in a neuro-affirming, trauma-informed, person-centered, and strengths-based approach, they walk alongside others in the lifelong practice of becoming.

Marcela Montes-Lobos is an EmploymentWorks online facilitator at the Sinneave Family Foundation and is a late-diagnosed Hispanic neurodivergent adult who has embraced her unique diversity as well as her family’s. Having lived experience in language barriers, as well as other barriers that many neurodivergent folks face in life, she decided mid-life to return to school, leaving a career in the airline indjustry and becoming an Addiction and Disability Support Worker. She is passionate about creating safe spaces, always encouraging participants’ autonomy, curiosity and empowering them on their journey.

If you have questions, reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call our office at (403) 210-5000. We’re here to help!
