Your Time, Your Way
2026-07-22 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-07-23 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-07-28 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-07-29 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-07-30 17:00 - 19:30 (America/Edmonton) | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9, Canada
Members of our community are invited to drop-in and use our space on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays to unwind or recharge—with no pressure to engage in structured activities. We have several rooms available–a quiet lounge, computer desks, hang out sofas–you choose. It’s your time to use your way.

Each week, we offer a “third space”—a place separate from home, work, or school where there is no obligation to spend money on food or beverages—to members of our community.

We provide flexible seating, focus tools, and adjustable lighting options in an effort to make our space welcoming and inclusive to those who wish to spend time in it.

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 environment 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

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

Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

We honour neurodiversity and strive to create environments that value the many ways people think, learn, and communicate. Our programs, services, and activities are designed to be neuroaffirming, accessible, and guided by the input from the people we serve.

Read our full Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

Handling Disagreements: Strategies for Navigating Difficult Conversations
2026-07-23 18:30 - 19:45 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9, Canada
This engaging workshop is designed to provide Autistic and other neurodivergent individuals (aged 15+) with opportunities to develop tools to effectively address disagreements.

Our hope is that attendees will experience increased confidence in dealing with future disagreements.

In this session, participants will:

Think about their confidence in handling disagreements at both the beginning and end of the session

Learn the difference between disagreement and conflict through realistic, scenario-based examples

Brainstorm with others how emotions are connected to disagreements and conflict

Explore practical strategies for resolving disagreements.

Thursday, July 236:30 – 7:45 p.m.In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)

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 in common day-to-day social situations.

To register:

Click the button that says, Sinneave Connects to access registration through our online 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 the Presenter: Mara Jaffray is an Autistic self-advocate, currently working as a Program Associate at the Sinneave Family Foundation.

Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

We honour neurodiversity and strive to create environments that value the many ways people think, learn, and communicate. Our programs, services, and activities are designed to be neuroaffirming, accessible, and guided by the input from the people we serve.

Read our full Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

Cross-neurotype Communication
2026-07-28 18:30 - 19:45 | Alberta
Did you know? Communication styles can vastly differ between neurodivergent and neurotypical people?

In this 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

Tuesday, July 286:30 – 7:45 p.m.Online via Sinneave Connects

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.

To register:

Click the button that says, Sinneave Connects to access registration through our online 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 the Presenter: Mara Jaffray is an Autistic self-advocate, currently working as a Program Associate at the Sinneave Family Foundation.

Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

We honour neurodiversity and strive to create environments that value the many ways people think, learn, and communicate. Our programs, services, and activities are designed to be neuroaffirming, accessible, and guided by the input from the people we serve.

Read our full Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

Pop-up Job Sampling
2026-07-29 10:00 - 13:00 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9, Canada
Job sampling involves going to different businesses and learning about them from the people that work there.

We are pleased to host a “Pop-up” job sampling session, where attendees will have the opportunity to role-play different job-related scenarios.

In this fun and engaging session, participants will have the opportunity to put into practice their skills in different customer service areas and roles, such as:

Retail (Grocery store) Try both cashier and grocery clerk roles

Food service (Coffee shop) Try cashier, server, and host roles

Call Centre Practice outgoing sales calls and incoming customer support calls

Attendees will have the opportunity to:

Practice social skills,

Reflect on your needs in an employment setting,

Practice self-advocacy for accessing supports in the workplace, and

Learn about the responsibilities of various customer service roles.

Our goal is that participants leave the session feeling empowered to continue on your journey of employment readiness, career exploration, and skill development.

Please note: This activity will be facilitated by volunteers who are former and current EmploymentWorks (EW) participants, with EW staff overseeing the activity and supporting the volunteers.

Volunteers will be given the opportunity to practice their skills in workplace communication, workplace interactions and leadership by coaching participants, managing stations and providing general support.

Wednesday, July 2910:00 am – 1:00 p.m.In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)

Space in this session is limited and advance registration is required.

If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, just log in as usual. If you have not registered yet, it’s free and easy to set up. Click the button that says, “Sinneave Connects” and follow the instructions on the log-in screen.

Sinneave Connects

Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

We honour neurodiversity and strive to create environments that value the many ways people think, learn, and communicate. Our programs, services, and activities are designed to be neuroaffirming, accessible, and guided by the input from the people we serve.

Read our full Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

Navigating Healthcare: From Planning to Follow-Up
2026-07-30 18:30 - 19:30 | Alberta
Navigating the healthcare system can often feel overwhelming—from knowing which provider to see, to preparing for appointments, asking the right questions, and managing follow-up care.

To support individuals in these everyday situations, this 60-minute facilitated session will introduce participants to four micro-eLearning modules, which are available on Sinneave Connects, our online learning hub:

Figure Out Who to See,

Plan for Your Next Health Appointment,

Communicate Effectively During Appointments, and

Take Charge of Follow-Up Care.

In this hands-on session, attendees will learn how these resources can support you in different stages of the healthcare journey, and how to access them for ongoing use.

Wednesday, June 246:30 – 7:30 p.m.Online via Sinneave Connects

This virtual session is hosted on 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 free and easy to set up. Click the button that says, “Sinneave Connects” and follow the prompts on the log-in screen.

Sinneave Connects

About the Presenter:

Alexandra (Ali) Skeet is a Learning and Connection Associate at The Sinneave Family Foundation. She delivers the Information and Navigation service where she has the pleasure to meet with Autistic and neurodivergent individuals one-on-one to provide consistent, person-centred information, and navigate individuals to Sinneave programs and services and community-based resources. Ali has more than a decade of experience in the mental health field and has a passion for person-centred care and intersectional inclusivity.

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

Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

We honour neurodiversity and strive to create environments that value the many ways people think, learn, and communicate. Our programs, services, and activities are designed to be neuroaffirming, accessible, and guided by the input from the people we serve.

Read our full Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

Heritage Day - Office Closed
2026-08-03 00:00 - 23:59 | Alberta

Your Time, Your Way
2026-08-04 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-08-05 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-08-06 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-08-11 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-08-12 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-08-13 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-08-18 17:00 - 19:30, 2026-08-19 17:00 - 19:30 and 2 more dates | Alberta
Members of our community are invited to drop-in and use our space on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays to unwind or recharge—with no pressure to engage in structured activities. We have several rooms available–a quiet lounge, computer desks, hang out sofas–you choose. It’s your time to use your way.

Each week, we offer a “third space”—a place separate from home, work, or school where there is no obligation to spend money on food or beverages—to members of our community.

We provide flexible seating, focus tools, and adjustable lighting options in an effort to make our space welcoming and inclusive to those who wish to spend time in it.

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 environment 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

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

The Employment Classroom: Dealing with Stress and Anxiety at Work
2026-08-05 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 the different stages of the employment journey and the steps you can take to lead you to success?

Our Employment Classroom workshops cover many topics related to finding a job and keeping a job, including employment preparedness, life skills, and soft skills for the workplace.

In this particular session, participants will learn what stress and anxiety are, how they overlap, and how you can deal with them in the workplace. Specifically, participants will:

Discuss tips and strategies for managing workplace stress

Discuss tips and strategies for managing anxiety in the workplace

Explore how to be mentally healthy at work

Receive suggestions for what to do and where to get support if you are experiencing poor mental health.

Wednesday, August 510:00 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 15 attendees. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. *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 register. 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
2026-08-10 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.

The menu for this class is Crispy Adobo Chicken with Roasted Bok Choy and Coconut Lemongrass Rice.

Monday, August 105:00 – 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.

Please note: If you have dietary allergies or restrictions, our staff need to know this in advance of the class. Once your registration is confirmed, please email info@sinneavefoundation.org with details.

This session is limited to six participants. If there are no spots available, you can sign up to be placed on a waiting list. Please do not attend until your registration has been confirmed by our staff.

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 instructions on the log-in page.

Sinneave Connects

About the Presenter:

Kieren Padilla (they/them) is a community-minded trained chef with over 10 years of combined cooking experience in banquet events, high concept hotels and elevated dining. Kieren has learned to work with their needs, building systems for easier neuro-friendly home cooking.

They hope to inspire others to reshape traditional cooking practices into something uniquely their own and transform kitchens into accessible shame-free spaces. Their passion stems from the fact that everyone deserves to eat, no matter what, with a belief that “fed is always best.” If Kieren could be fed with a meal, the ‘best’ would be a comforting bowl of Katsudon Curry.

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

Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

We honour neurodiversity and strive to create environments that value the many ways people think, learn, and communicate. Our programs, services, and activities are designed to be neuroaffirming, accessible, and guided by the input from the people we serve.

Read our full Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

Neuroinclusive Entrepreneurship: Turning Passion Into Profit - Think
2026-08-11 18:00 - 19:30 | Alberta
This 3-part workshop series is designed specifically with neurodivergence in mind and explores how to turn your interests and vision into a viable business idea.

Part 1, Think, considers how executive functioning powers planning, prioritizing, and problem-solving.

Through our CAR Framework – Creative, Analytical, and Reflective Problem-Solving – we’ll explore the link between executive functioning and entrepreneurship, then apply hands-on strategies to real scenarios.

Participants can expect practical tools, visual prompts, and low-pressure collaboration designed for neurodivergent thinkers. Leave with an entrepreneurial problem-solving toolkit that’s tailored to you!

Tuesday, August 116:00 – 7:30 p.m.In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)

Space in this workshop is limited and registration is required.

To register:

Click the button that says, Sinneave Connects to access registration through our online 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

Other upcoming Neuroinclusive Entrepreneurship workshops include:

Prove – Tuesday, August 18Learn how to turn your vision and business idea into an actionable business plan.

Speak – Tuesday, August 25Learn how to talk about your business idea with confidence.

About the Presenter:Raiyana Shams is the developer and facilitator of the Neuroinclusive Entrepreneurship Workshop Series. Raiyana is in her third year in the Bachelor of Design in City Innovation program at the University of Calgary, pursuing a Minor in Management and Society and an Embedded Certificate in Entrepreneurial Thinking. She has designed and led neuroinclusive entrepreneurship programming on campus and collaborates with community partners to make business education more accessible. In her free time, you can find her spending time with her family and friends, exploring the mountains, discovering new restaurants, ideating architectural and urban planning concepts, or connecting with small business owners across Alberta.

Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

We honour neurodiversity and strive to create environments that value the many ways people think, learn, and communicate. Our programs, services, and activities are designed to be neuroaffirming, accessible, and guided by the input from the people we serve.

Read our full Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

Building Your Toolkit for Caregivers: Exploring Employment Options
2026-08-12 18:00 - 19:30 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9, Canada
As young adults are transitioning towards independence and into employment, caregivers are transitioning from the role of Manager to that of Consultant for their young adult.

This transition can be challenging for all parties, and can create tension and feelings of stress and anxiety.

In this strengths-based workshop, we will discuss tools and strategies that can help make space for shared learning and growth within the family and natural support network during this transition.

In addition to connecting with other caregivers and natural supports who may be having similar experiences, attendees will learn about available community resources for caregivers and Autistic and other neurodivergent folks.

In this session, caregivers will gain the skills and knowledge to:

Identify different pathways to employment

Recognize the different options that are available to their young adult

Use strengths-based tools and strategies to help their young adult to identify appropriate employment opportunities

Identify resources in the community that support caregivers and young adults through this transition.

Please note: Caregivers do not need to be parents in order to attend this workshop. Caregivers can be legal guardians, supportive roommates, natural supports, or family members.

Wednesday, August 126:00 – 7:30 p.m.In-person At The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)

Space in this session is limited, and registration is required through Sinneave Connects. If there are no spots available, you will be placed on a waiting list and a member of our team will reach out to you if one opens up.

Click the button that says “Sinneave Connects” and sign in 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. Click the button that says “Sinneave Connects” and follow the instructions on the sign-in page.

Sinneave Connects

About this Workshop:

The Building your Toolkit workshops introduce you to The Sinneave Family Foundation’s Family Work Readiness Toolkit (FWRT), a practical, strengths-based resource designed to help youth explore their interests, skills, values, and preferred work environments. Attendees will learn how to use the toolkit to guide supportive conversations, set goals, and take meaningful action toward employment success. Participants will gain a stronger understanding of how to support your young adult’s transition into the workforce with practical tools, shared insight, and a clear starting point.

About the Presenter:

Stéphanie Chapman is a Bilingual Online Program Facilitator for the EmploymentWorks program. She has 15+ years of professional experience in the fields of education and disability across the lifespan, and personally as a caregiver. Stéphanie is dedicated to creating inclusive spaces for families of all shapes and sizes to learn and grow together.

If you have any questions about these sessions, please reach out by email at info@sinneavefoundation.org OR call us at 403 210-5000. We’re here to help.

Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

We honour neurodiversity and strive to create environments that value the many ways people think, learn, and communicate. Our programs, services, and activities are designed to be neuroaffirming, accessible, and guided by the input from the people we serve.

Read our full Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

Neuroinclusive Entrepreneurship: Turning Passion Into Profit - Prove
2026-08-18 18:00 - 19:30 | Alberta
This 3-part workshop series is designed specifically with neurodivergence in mind and explores how to turn your interests and vision into a viable business idea.

Part 2, Prove, teaches participants how to create a business plan to structure your idea. From your vision to the final product, we’ll walk through every step.

We’ll give you the tools to write and refine your business plan using clear steps and real-world examples. If you’re just starting to develop a business idea, this workshop will give you direction.

Expect collaboration with fellow entrepreneurs, one-on-one support, and guided reflection to make your business plan structured and reliable. Leave with a plan you can use tomorrow!

Tuesday, August 186:00 – 7:30 p.m.In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)

Space in this workshop is limited and registration is required.

To register:

Click the button that says, Sinneave Connects to access registration through our online 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

Other upcoming Neuroinclusive Entrepreneurship workshops include:

Think – Tuesday, August 11Participants will explore how executive functioning drives planning, prioritizing and problem-solving, and have the opportunity to learn how to turn their vision into a business idea.

Speak – Tuesday, August 25Learn how to talk about your business idea with confidence.

About the Presenter:Raiyana Shams is the developer and facilitator of the Neuroinclusive Entrepreneurship Workshop Series. Raiyana is in her third year in the Bachelor of Design in City Innovation program at the University of Calgary, pursuing a Minor in Management and Society and an Embedded Certificate in Entrepreneurial Thinking. She has designed and led neuroinclusive entrepreneurship programming on campus and collaborates with community partners to make business education more accessible. In her free time, you can find her spending time with her family and friends, exploring the mountains, discovering new restaurants, ideating architectural and urban planning concepts, or connecting with small business owners across Alberta.

Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

We honour neurodiversity and strive to create environments that value the many ways people think, learn, and communicate. Our programs, services, and activities are designed to be neuroaffirming, accessible, and guided by the input from the people we serve.

Read our full Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

The Employment Classroom: Disclosure, Accommodations and Self-advocacy
2026-08-19 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 the different stages of the employment journey and the steps you can take to lead you to success?

Our Employment Classroom workshops cover many topics related to finding a job and keeping a job, including employment preparedness, life skills, and soft skills for the workplace.

In this particular session, participants will learn about the pros and cons of disclosing your diagnosis to an employer, as well as how to ask for and discuss accommodations in the workplace.

Participants will have the opportunity to:

Discuss aspects of disability disclosure at work

Learn tips and strategies that will help you request reasonable accommodations for the workplace

Explore information related to self-advocacy and speaking up for yourself in the workplace.

Wednesday, August 1910:00 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 15 attendees. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. *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 register. 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!

Your Time, Your Way: Puzzle Your Way
2026-08-20 17:00 - 19:30 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9, Canada
Our August theme event is all about puzzles! Participants are welcome to drop in, enjoy the space, and engage with a variety of puzzles in the way that works best for them.

The event will feature multiple puzzle stations, offering different types of puzzles and levels of challenge:

Visual puzzles: spot the difference, pattern recognition

Word puzzles: word searches, crosswords, word wheels, rebus puzzles

Number puzzles: Sudoku

Construction puzzles: jigsaw puzzles

Participants are welcome to complete puzzles individually or alongside others, choosing whether to work independently or collaborate at their own pace. There are no time limits, and taking breaks or switching stations is always encouraged.

Thursday, August 205:00 – 7:30 p.m.In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)

Our doors are open to members of our community every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday between 5:00 and 7:30 p.m. Your Time, Your Way hours provide a safe, sensory-friendly space where participants can spend time without the obligation of spending money on food or beverages. It is a time and space where participants may express themselves without judgement and choose to connect with others (if desired).

To ensure a welcoming and safe environment 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

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

Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

We honour neurodiversity and strive to create environments that value the many ways people think, learn, and communicate. Our programs, services, and activities are designed to be neuroaffirming, accessible, and guided by the input from the people we serve.

Read our full Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

Women's Group: Peer Support for 18+*
2026-08-20 18:30 - 20:00 | The Ability Hub, Suite #300, 3820 - 24th Avenue NW, Calgary, Alberta, T3B-2X9, Canada
Our Women’s Group is designed specifically for Autistic and other neurodivergent adults (18+) who identify as women or who connect with experiences of womanhood.*

In this session, we will learn about and explore different experiences with masking. Some topics may include:

What masking is

How to recognize masking, including discussing examples

Some reasons people may mask

The different impacts of masking.

Participants are welcome to share lived experiences and discuss strategies that have been helpful for them as they relate to our discussion topics.

Please note, 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.

*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.

Thursday, August 206:30 – 8:00 p.m.In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)

To register:

Click the button that says, Sinneave Connects to access registration through our online 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 the Presenter: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.

*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.

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

Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

We honour neurodiversity and strive to create environments that value the many ways people think, learn, and communicate. Our programs, services, and activities are designed to be neuroaffirming, accessible, and guided by the input from the people we serve.

Read our full Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

Autism 201: Through a Women's+ Lens and Lived Experience
2026-08-25 11:30 - 13:30 | Alberta
Are you looking to strengthen your understanding of autism and neurodiversity in a supportive and welcoming learning environment?

Join Autism Edmonton for Autism 201: Through a Womens+ Lens, a session designed to build on foundational autism knowledge while exploring lived experience, practical supports, and strategies for creating more inclusive environments.

This engaging session will explore the following:• Expanding your understanding of autism and neurodiversity• Common Autistic characteristics and supportive approaches• Sensory differences and responding to sensory needs• Environmental accommodations that support Autistic individuals• Common co-occurring conditions experienced by Autistic people• Understanding behaviour as communication• Recognizing triggers, understanding Autistic meltdowns, and learning de-escalation strategies

This session is ideal for parents, educators, employers, service providers, community members, and anyone seeking to better understand autism and learn practical ways to create inclusive, accommodating environments.

The information and examples shared throughout this session will be presented through a Women’s+ lens and a lived-experience perspective. This learning opportunity is especially valuable for recently diagnosed female-identifying Autistics, those exploring whether they may be Autistic, or people who feel most comfortable in female-focused spaces.

Tuesday, August 2511:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. (Mountain Time)Online via Autism Edmonton

When you click on the button that says “Register,” you will be redirected to Autism Edmonton’s Eventbrite page where you can reserve your spot.

Register

About Autism Edmonton:

Autism Edmonton is the oldest autism organization in Alberta, serving Edmonton and surrounding communities since 1971. Autism Edmonton provides life-enhancing programs and services that ignite the power and potential of Autistic individuals throughout all stages of life and diagnosis.

Programs and supports include adult discussion groups, LGBTQ+ focused supports, parent and partner groups, respite services, recreational opportunities, learning sessions, and community education initiatives that promote acceptance, understanding, and inclusion.

Vision: All Autistic people have a life full of possibilities.

Mission: To enhance the lives of Autistic people through knowledge, services, and inclusive opportunities.

Together, we can continue building communities where Autistic individuals feel understood, supported, and empowered.

Neuroinclusive Entrepreneurship: Turning Passion Into Profit - Speak
2026-08-25 18:00 - 19:30 | Alberta
This 3-part workshop series is designed specifically with neurodivergence in mind and explores how to turn your interests and vision into a viable business idea.

Part 3, Speak, delves into communicating and pitching your business ideas with confidence using clarity, structure, and storytelling.

Speak teaches you how to combine your lived experience, business model, and authentic voice. Through our PIVOTS Framework – Problem, Impact, Value, Outcome, Trajectory, Story – we’ll help you draft a pitch you actually want to deliver. Expect guided prompts, scripts, visual tone cues, and lots of feedback. Leave with a pitch you believe in!

Tuesday, August 256:00 – 7:30 p.m.In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)

Space in this workshop is limited and registration is required.

To register:

Click the button that says, Sinneave Connects to access registration through our online 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

Other upcoming Neuroinclusive Entrepreneurship workshops include:

Think – Tuesday, August 11Participants will explore how executive functioning drives planning, prioritizing and problem-solving, and have the opportunity to learn how to turn their vision into a business idea.

Prove – Tuesday, August 18Learn how turn your vision into an actionable business plan.

About the Presenter:Raiyana Shams is the developer and facilitator of the Neuroinclusive Entrepreneurship Workshop Series. Raiyana is in her third year in the Bachelor of Design in City Innovation program at the University of Calgary, pursuing a Minor in Management and Society and an Embedded Certificate in Entrepreneurial Thinking. She has designed and led neuroinclusive entrepreneurship programming on campus and collaborates with community partners to make business education more accessible. In her free time, you can find her spending time with her family and friends, exploring the mountains, discovering new restaurants, ideating architectural and urban planning concepts, or connecting with small business owners across Alberta.

Neurodiversity Acknowledgement

We honour neurodiversity and strive to create environments that value the many ways people think, learn, and communicate. Our programs, services, and activities are designed to be neuroaffirming, accessible, and guided by the input from the people we serve.

Read our full Neurodiversity Acknowledgement
