September 23 @ 5:00 pm – 6:30 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
Tuesday, September 23, 2025
5:00 – 6:30 pm
Online via Sinneave Connects
This session is one of several drop-in workshops we offer that are designed to provide Autistic or neurodivergent individuals opportunities to learn and practice essential social communication skills in a safe and welcoming setting. Each 90-minute workshop covers a different aspect of social communication, providing information, tips and strategies intended to help in day-to-day social situations.
There is no cost to attend these sessions. If you register in advance you’ll be notified of any last minute changes to the schedule, but you can also just drop-in. Attend them all or just the ones that seem interesting to you.
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 below 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 – September 23, 2025 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 any questions about these workshops or if you need help navigating the Sinneave Connects online learning hub, please reach out by email at info@sinneavefoundation.org OR call us at 403 210-5000. We’re here to help.
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September 12 @ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
** Due to reasons beyond our control, the grand opening today had to be cancelled. However, come check out the exhibit starting tomorrow, September 13.**
Join Precision Medicine in Autism, the University of Alberta, CASA Mental Health, Positive Exposure, and The Sinneave Family Foundation for the grand opening of, “Celebrating Our Shared Humanity”. This photo exhibit explores a powerful question people on the autism spectrum in clinic are asked, “What’s your thing?”. We’ve heard about sharks, igneous rocks, clocks, Def Leppard, Star Wars, SpongeBob — each one meaningful in its own way.
Sometimes the answers come from kids and young adults. Other times, from families whose eyes light up as they talk about their loved one’s focused interest — something that brings focus, excitement, and connection.
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September 25 @ 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.
On Thursday, September 25, we’re hosting a special activity during the Your Time, Your Way time.
Drop-in as we play Minecraft Bingo together. Participants will need to bring their own device and have an existing subscription to Minecraft games. If you are interested in playing Minecraft Bingo, please arrive promptly at 5:00 pm so you can be placed in a team as the game will begin at 5:15 pm.
Thursday, September 25
5:00 – 7:30 p.m.
In-person @ The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)
Here are some other suggestions of things you may like to do if you aren’t interested in playing Minecraft Bingo, 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
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September 23 @ 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
During this 90-minute virtual workshop (with breaks) facilitated by the Centre for Sexuality, parents will gain the skills needed to support their Autistic children in building healthy relationships. Parents and caregivers will learn and have an opportunity to discuss:
• Strategies for addressing and supporting common relationship challenges experienced by Autistic individuals
• Sexual health resources
• Tools for starting and sustaining meaningful conversations
• Open discussion and Q&A opportunities
Parents of children of all ages are encouraged to attend this free informative session. We hope to see you there!
Tuesday, September 23, 2025
4:00 – 5:30 p.m.
Online via Microsoft Teams
To attend virtually, please click on the button that says, “Join the webinar”. When you click the button, you will be directed to a Microsoft Teams webinar link hosted by the Centre for Sexuality.
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September 18 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Do you find it difficult to communicate when someone disagrees with you? In this workshop, we’ll talk about conflict and share tips to help you keep your cool when you’re in the middle of a disagreement, as well as provide strategies to help you work through it.
This is one of several workshops designed to provide Autistic and neurodivergent individuals opportunities to learn and practice essential social communication skills in a safe and welcoming setting. Each 90-minute workshop covers a different aspect of social communication, providing information, tips and strategies intended to help in day-to-day social situations.
Thursday, September 18, 2025
5:30 – 7:00 pm
Online via Sinneave Connects
There is no cost to attend these sessions. If you register in advance you’ll be notified of any last minute changes to the schedule, but you can also just drop-in. Attend them all or just the ones that seem interesting to you.
This workshop is virtual, via Sinneave Connects, our online learning hub. If you already have a Connects account, just log in as usual. If you have not registered yet, it’s free and easy! Click the button that says “Sinneave Connects” to access the hub and follow the instructions on the log-in screen.
- Create a password (don’t forget to save it someplace handy)
- Create a user name
- Select “Register”
- Select the “Social Communication Workshop: Handling Disagreements – September 18, 2025” course and enroll.
If you have any questions about these workshops or if you need help navigating Sinneave Connects, please reach out by email at info@sinneavefoundation.org OR call us at 403 210-5000. We’re here to help.
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September 11 @ 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Idioms or confusing phrases are commonly used expressions that have a non-literal meaning, which can often only be understood by using contextual information. People use idioms all the time in everyday conversation, but the literal meaning of the words is almost never the intended meaning. For Autistic individuals who find good communication challenging at the best of times, these phrases can leave you feeling very confused.
The good news is we can help! In this fun and engaging workshop, participants will learn how to identify and understand some common idiomatic expressions, giving them tools to be better able to predict the meanings of these confusing phrases.
Even if it’s raining cats and dogs, plan to attend. It will be a piece of cake and you’ll laugh your head off!
Thursday, September 11, 2025
5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
There is no cost for this workshop and advance registration is not required. We encourage you to bring a friend and just show up. If you have any questions, please contact us at info@sinneavefoundation.org or call us at 403 210-5000.
About the Presenter:
Sherry Taylor has more than 15 years of experience in the not-for-profit industry. She is the EmploymentWorks Program Coordinator at The Sinneave Family Foundation and is passionate about developing engaging content and curriculum that educates and makes learning fun for Autistic youth and adults.
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September 10 @ 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Technology is rapidly changing and advancing. While we embrace the good things it has to offer, it has also introduced many new challenges. In this session, we’ll talk about understanding the different forms of electronic communication that people use to connect with each other. We will also discuss strategies for navigating electronic communication, understanding safety protocols, and boundaries when communicating electronically.
This session is one of several drop-in workshops we offer that are designed to provide Autistic or neurodivergent individuals opportunities to learn and practice essential social communication skills in a safe and welcoming setting. Each 90-minute workshop covers a different aspect of social communication, providing information, tips and strategies intended to help in day-to-day social situations. You can attend the session(s) that interest you the most or we recommend attending them all!
Wednesday, September 10, 2025
5:00 – 6:30 pm
Online via Sinneave Connects
There is no cost to attend this workshop. If you register in advance you’ll be notified of any last minute changes to the schedule, but you can also just drop-in.
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 below 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: Strategies for Using Electronic Communication – September 10, 2025 course to access the virtual link.
- Click on the, “Choose session” button, and then press Confirm.
About the Presenter:
Cedric Nicholson is a Life Skills Coach with The Sinneave Family Foundation where he is passionate about empowering others to set meaningful goals, create effective plans, and take purposeful steps toward personal growth and self-improvement. He is a certified professional life coach with over 20 years of experience mentoring, coaching, and supporting individuals in the developmental disability field.
If you have any questions about these workshops or if you need help navigating the Sinneave Connects online learning hub, please reach out by email at info@sinneavefoundation.org OR call us at 403 210-5000. We’re here to help.
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September 23 @ 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Benefit from connecting one-on-one with experienced professionals who understand neurodiversity and will help you identify your strengths, interests and potential career paths. Our goal is to create an individualized, inclusive and supportive environment where neurodivergent individuals can access resources, gain valuable insights and enhance their employability, confidence and career prospects.
Attendees are encouraged to select from available topics to receive tailored guidance or bring other employment-related concerns they may have. Our employment coaches have experience and expertise in:
- Career Exploration
- Cover Letter Writing
- Disclosure & Accommodations
- Interview Prep
- Job Search Strategies
- Resume Building
- Applicant Tracking System (ATS)
- 1:1 Facilitator guidance* (Maximum 45 minutes)
Tuesday, September 23, 2025
2:00 – 3:30 pm
In-Person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
Attendees must book an in-person 45-minute appointment with one of our three facilitators.
Available times:
3 appointments from 2:00 – 2:45 p.m.
3 appointments from 2:45 – 3:30 p.m.
Appointments can be booked on Sinneave Connects, our online learning hub. When you click the button that says, “Sinneave Connects” you will be directed to the log-in page. If you already have an account, just log in as usual.
If you don’t have an account, it’s free and easy to set up.
- Create a user name
- Create a password (don’t forget to save it someplace handy)
- Select “Register”
- Choose Employment Skills Help Desk Registration – September 23, 2025 and follow the instructions.
Please select a time slot that works for you and click the enroll button. To allow for the greatest participation, participants are limited to ONE time slot per day. If no sessions are available, that means they are all booked. Please choose an available time slot on a different day.
If you have any questions or require assistance with enrolling, please reach out to us at info@sinneavefoundation.org or call our office at 403 210-5000. We’re here to help!
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September 9 @ 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Benefit from connecting one-on-one with experienced professionals who understand neurodiversity and will help you identify your strengths, interests and potential career paths. Our goal is to create an individualized, inclusive and supportive environment where neurodivergent individuals can access resources, gain valuable insights and enhance their employability, confidence and career prospects.
Attendees are encouraged to select from available topics to receive tailored guidance or bring other employment-related concerns they may have. Our employment coaches have experience and expertise in:
- Career Exploration
- Cover Letter Writing
- Disclosure & Accommodations
- Interview Prep
- Job Search Strategies
- Resume Building
- Applicant Tracking System (ATS)
- 1:1 Facilitator guidance* (Maximum 45 minutes)
Tuesday, September 9, 2025
2:00 – 3:30 pm
In-Person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
Attendees must book an in-person 45-minute appointment with one of our three facilitators.
Available times:
3 appointments from 2:00 – 2:45 p.m.
3 appointments from 2:45 – 3:30 p.m.
Appointments can be booked on Sinneave Connects, our online learning hub. When you click the button that says, “Sinneave Connects” you will be directed to the log-in page. If you already have an account, just log in as usual.
If you don’t have an account, it’s free and easy to set up.
- Create a user name
- Create a password (don’t forget to save it someplace handy)
- Select “Register”
- Choose Employment Skills Help Desk Registration – September 9, 2025 and follow the instructions.
Please select a time slot that works for you and click the enroll button. To allow for the greatest participation, participants are limited to ONE time slot per day. If no sessions are available, that means they are all booked. Please choose an available time slot on a different day.
If you have any questions or require assistance with enrolling, please reach out to us at info@sinneavefoundation.org or call our office at 403 210-5000. We’re here to help!
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September 3 @ 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Meeting new people and making friends isn’t always easy. In this session, we’ll share pro-tips and strategies you can practice and use when it comes to making friends and maintaining social relationships.
This will be a great opportunity to:
- Discuss and create strategies for positive social interactions
- Learn and understand the importance of creating social relationships
- Talk about how to get involved within the community to create social opportunities
This session is one of several drop-in workshops we offer that are designed to provide Autistic or neurodivergent individuals opportunities to learn and practice essential social communication skills in a safe and welcoming setting. Each 90-minute workshop covers a different aspect of social communication, providing information, tips and strategies intended to help in day-to-day social situations. You can attend the workshop(s) that interest you the most or we recommend attending them all!
Wednesday, September 3, 2025
5:00 – 6:30 pm
Online via Sinneave Connects
There is no cost to attend this workshop. If you register in advance you’ll be notified of any last minute changes to the schedule, but you can also just drop-in.
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 below 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: Establishing Social Connections – September 3, 2025 course to access the virtual link.
- Click on the, “Choose session” button, and then press Confirm.
About the Presenter:
Cedric Nicholson is a Life Skills Coach with The Sinneave Family Foundation where he is passionate about empowering others to set meaningful goals, create effective plans, and take purposeful steps toward personal growth and self-improvement. He is a certified professional life coach with over 20 years of experience mentoring, coaching, and supporting individuals in the developmental disability field.
If you have any questions about these workshops or if you need help navigating the Sinneave Connects online learning hub, please reach out by email at info@sinneavefoundation.org OR call us at 403 210-5000. We’re here to help.