January 15 @ 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
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
Related Events
Related Events
January 14 @ 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
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
Related Events
Related Events
January 13 @ 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
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
Related Events
Related Events
January 8 @ 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
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
Related Events
Related Events
February 10 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Are you interested in the programs and services The Sinneave Family Foundation (Sinneave) has to offer? Are you or your child Autistic or neurodivergent and age 15 or older? This presentation is for you! Join us for a 60-minute virtual information session and Q & A and get to know all about us!
We will talk more about who we are and how we can support Autistic and neurodivergent youth and adults with the major life transitions they are facing. Some of these life transitions are:
- Graduating high school and going to university
- Getting a job
- Moving out and living independently
- And more!
Tuesday, February 10, 2026
12:00 – 1:00 pm
Online via Sinneave Connects
This session is ideal for Autistic and neurodivergent individuals, their support networks, such as parents, caregivers and guardians, as well as local service providers and professionals who may be seeking more information about our programs and services in the Calgary area and beyond.
This virtual session takes place on Sinneave Connects, our online learning hub. If you already have an account, just log-in as usual. If you need an account, it’s free and easy to set up. Click the button that says, “Sinneave Connects” and follow the instructions:
- Create a user name
- Create a password (don’t forget to save it someplace handy)
- Select “Register”
- Choose the Get to know us! Virtual Information Session – February 10, 2026″ session to register for the session and to access the virtual link.
About the Presenter
Jay Monge is the Learning & Connection Coordinator for The Sinneave Family Foundation. She oversees Sinneave’s Information & Navigation service and supports knowledge exchange activities including community engagement, workshops, and presentations. Jay has more than 10 years experience in the disability sector.
If you need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call 403 210-5000. We’re here to help!
Related Events
February 10 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Much of our everyday communication involves non-verbal body language and unwritten social rules. Many Autistic or neurodivergent people find it challenging to navigate social situations because they have a hard time interpreting various forms of non-verbal communication. But these skills can be learned!
In this session, you will have the opportunity to:
- Develop a strong foundation in understanding non-verbal cues in shared communication
- Discuss strategies for understanding non-verbal cues
- Receive tips to improve your non-verbal communication skills
Tuesday, February 10, 2026
5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
Online via Sinneave Connects
There is no cost to attend
If you register in advance you’ll be notified of any last minute changes to the schedule.
This workshop is virtual, via 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 (don’t forget to save it someplace handy)
- Select “Register”
- Choose the Social Communication Workshop: The Art of Non-verbal Communication – February 10, 2026 course to access the virtual link.
- Click on the, “Choose session” button, and then press Confirm.
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.
Related Events
February 9 @ 6:30 pm – 7:15 pm
The Housing Continuum Series is a 7-part virtual learning series offered in 2026. 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.
The second session will focus on transitional housing. 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, February 9, 2026
6:30 – 7:15 p.m.
Online via Sinneave Connects
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.
There is no cost to attend these sessions and you can attend them all, or just the ones that seem interesting to you.
** Space in these sessions are limited, and advance registration is required through Sinneave Connects, our online learning hub. **
Sinneave Connects is free, but you need to register for an account to use it.
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 (don’t forget to save it someplace handy!)
- Select “Register”
- Choose “The Housing Continuum Series: Transitional Housing” event
- Click on the, “Enroll” button, and then press Confirm. Don’t forget to mark your calendar and attend!
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.
Related Events
February 4 @ 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
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, we have developed four new 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 60-minute session, participants will be introduced to each module, learn how these resources can support them in different stages of the healthcare journey, and how to access them for ongoing use. The session is designed to build awareness of the modules and spark interest in applying them when navigating healthcare.
Wednesday, February 4, 2026
6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Online via Sinneave Connects
There is no cost to attend this session. Sinneave Connects is free, but you need to register for an account to use it.
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” and follow these steps:
- Create a user name
- Create a password (don’t forget to save it someplace handy!)
- Select “Register”
- Choose the Navigating Healthcare: From Planning to Follow-Up – February 4, 2026 session.
- Click on the, “Choose session” button, and then press Confirm.
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/or community-based resources.
If you have questions, please reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call 403 210-5000. We’re here to help.
Related Events
January 29 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
AIDE Canada, together with Autism Edmonton, is hosting a free, virtual lunch and learn exploring the intersection of race, autism, and systemic inequities, with a focus on the experiences of Black Autistic individuals in Canada. The session will explore lived experiences and examine barriers to diagnosis, access to care, and educational support.
Participants will discuss how systemic issues such as limited race-based data and a lack of culturally informed practices contribute to misdiagnoses, mistreatment, and disparities in education.
The conversation will also highlight how regional, cultural, and family differences shape experiences within healthcare and education systems.
By drawing on diverse perspectives and emerging research, the session aims to deepen understanding of these complex intersections. The session will emphasize actionable strategies for addressing systemic barriers and improving outcomes for Black autistic Canadians. Participants will leave with tools to advocate for equity, data transparency, and culturally responsive supports.
Registration for this event is via AIDE Canada’s website. You can RSVP by clicking the button that says, “RSVP Here”
About the Presenters:
Jerome Allridge
Jerome Allridge is a Black Autistic self-advocate dedicated to advancing equity in health care and education for Black neurodivergent individuals. He emphasizes the importance of clear communication and honouring each person’s unique needs. Although he can speak, he prefers to connect through written communication, where he can most authentically express his ideas and experiences. Through this panel, Jerome will encourage professionals and communities to build understanding and foster truly inclusive environments for all.
Rosemarie Jordan – Parent & Care Navigator for Autistic Teen
Born in Edmonton, Rosemarie’s world was a blend of many cultures as was her, being biracial—Black and White—her close family friends also came from a variety of backgrounds. In contrast, despite the growing national focus on multiculturalism in the 1970s, Alberta’s provincial make-up remained predominantly homogeneous and white, making it a less welcoming environment for diverse cultures.
Having grown up on the margins, she saw and experienced the world from a different perspective, and this journey of overcoming adversity shaped her ability to be resilient in an often-unforgiving world. These life experiences gave her a unique understanding of the difficulties faced by her son, who also doesn’t fit the standard mold. As such, Rosemarie fell naturally into the role of “Care Navigator”.
Having learned to navigate her own challenges, the expertise and flexibility in her skill development empowered her to navigate through the complex health-care system to overcome barriers in accessing quality care and treatment (e.g., arranging financial support, coordinating among providers and settings) in home, community and education settings. On a micro level, she translates her son’s wishes & needs for support to identify the right services and providers. On a meso level, she collaborates with other care, education and social service providers to provide direction and goal setting. And on a macro level, she has acted to remove barriers to effective care in various types of health services, social care, education and community services laying the groundwork for strategic direction and creating pathways for care and access to resources.
Zalika Scott-Ugwuegbula, BSc (Hons), M.Ed. (she/her)
Zalika Scott-Ugwuegbula, BSc (Hons), M.Ed. (she/her), is an Autistic second-year doctoral student in Psychological Studies of Education – Research at the University of Alberta. Her research examines how the interlocking forces of race, racism, and ableism shape the educational experiences of Black Autistic students. Zalika’s research interests include the intersection of race and disability, Black studies in education, anti-Black racism, and autism and Black identity in education within the Canadian context.
Zalika seeks to understand how colonialism, racial capitalism, ableism, and white supremacy operate in conjunction and are implicated in the systemic inequities that influence the schooling experiences of Black autistic youth. Grounded in intersectionality, her work not only interrogates the systems of power that subjugate and marginalize Black disabled learners but also aims to inform inclusive and culturally responsive educational practices and policy reforms.
Dr. Nonsikelelo Mathe
Dr. Nonsi Mathe is a mum, scientist, and social purpose entrepreneur deeply committed to creating healthcare that truly works for everyone. She is the Scientific Director of Health Equity & Systems Transformation at the Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, and a Senior Atlantic Fellow for Health Equity. Her work spans chronic disease epidemiology, neurodiversity, and systems change—with over ten years of experience blending rigorous research with real-world advocacy and community voices.
Nonsi is also the founder of Gateway Holistic Care, a respite and supported living agency. where her vision comes alive through inclusive, person – centered programs for people with developmental disabilities and autism.
In this panel, Dr. Mathe will discuss her research that explores health care utilization among autistic individuals in Alberta.
Moderator:
Douglas Parsons – Training and Resource Manager, Autism Edmonton
Related Events
January 21 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
AIDE Canada, together with Autism Edmonton, are hosting a free, virtual lunch and learn exploring the connection between Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and autism through the perspectives of individuals who live with both conditions.
The discussion will highlight:
- Helping participants understand the lived overlap of EDS and autism
- Recognizing the shared experiences such as chronic pain, fatigue and sensory sensitivities
- Navigating healthcare and daily life
Dr. Emily Casanova, Thea Brain and Grace Calhoun will also share insights into self-advocacy, research, support strategies, and community inclusion. By centering lived experience, this session aims to foster greater understanding, empathy, and practical awareness of what it means to live at the intersection of EDS and autism.
Registration for this event is via AIDE Canada’s website. You can RSVP by clicking the button that says, “RSVP Here”
About the Presenters:
- Dr. Emily Casanova – Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurology at Saint Louis University School of Medicine
- Thea Brain – Clinical Director of Empowering. All. People. Consulting Inc
- Grace Calhoun – Self-Advocate
Moderator:
- Douglas Parsons – Training and Resource Manager, Autism Edmonton