We’re kicking off Neurodiversity Celebration Week with a celebration of all things Autism and you’re invited!
When we read or search about Autism online, one thing we notice is that a lot of the information uses negative-based and disability-focused language. Words like “inflexible”, “rigid”, “lack of” and “difficulty “are commonly found alongside the definitions of Autism.
However, we know that the medical model of disability which uses those terms doesn’t tell the whole story.
At The Sinneave Family Foundation, we are focused on changing the perception and language around Autism, starting 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.
In this celebration, we will shift the views on Autism towards the positives, amplify the strength and vibrancy of the Autistic culture, and ways we can support Autism inclusion in the workplace and in life. The event will include a short presentation, information sharing, and discussion in a safe and welcoming small group environment.
Tuesday, March 19, 2024
4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24th Avenue NW Calgary, AB) OR virtually via Sinneave Connects, our online learning platform.
If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, just log in as usual. If you haven’t yet opened an account, it’s easy! Click the button below that says, “Celebrating Autism! – Jan 4” to be directed to the portal and follow the prompts.
- Pick a user name
- Pick a password (Don’t forget to record it somewhere safe for next time!)
- Select “Register”
- Choose “Celebrating Autism! – Mar 19” and enroll.
Please note: While advance registration is not necessary for most of our Learning & Connection activities (you are welcome to just pop-in), IF you do pre-register it helps us in our planning AND allows us to notify you in the event of a last-minute change or cancellation. Either way, we’d love to see you!
About the Presenter: Sherry Taylor has over 15 years of experience in the not-for-profit industry. She currently is the Program Coordinator with the EmploymentWorks program at Sinneave. She started working with the EW Online program and made the transition to the in-person program continuously developing curriculum and content for Autistic youth, adults, and persons with disabilities, and professionals.
If you have any questions about this session, please contact us by emailing info@sinneavefoundation.org or calling 403 210-5000.
P.S. Did you know there’s a quick access button to Sinneave Connects in the upper right corner of our Homepage.
If you enjoy playing board games and hanging out with a great group of people, you are invited to join the fun!
The Autism Awareness Club at University of Calgary (AACUC) is hosting its next board game evening Wednesday, March 13.
Mark your calendar and plan to attend – you don’t have to be a U of C student to participate, anyone who enjoys games is welcome.
Wednesday, March 13
5:30 – 7:00 p.m. in the café area at the Child Development Centre
3820 24th Avenue NW Calgary, AB (located at the Southeast corner of the University of Calgary campus, across from the Children’s Hospital and Ronald McDonald House)
There is no cost to attend, however attendees are asked to email autismawarenessucalgary@gmail.com to RSVP so organizers know how many people to expect and prepare for.
If you have any questions about this event, please email autismawarenessucalgary@gmail.com directly.
Other dates this semester are:
Wednesday, March 27
Learn more about EmploymentWorks Online – a program for individuals who enjoy the flexibility and convenience of learning at their own pace and schedule.
You’re invited to join us for a virtual Lunch & Learn hosted by Autism Society Alberta’s Family Resouce Centres.
Monday, March 18, 2024
12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
The online format and user friendly design of EW Online makes the program highly accessible by removing barriers to participation related to location, transportation, or fixed program schedules. To participate, all that is required is access to a computer or tablet, and a reliable internet connection. The program transforms the EmploymentWorks curriculum into a highly engaging learning experience, jam packed with interactive features, tools and resources, and offers a new way for autistic youth, adults and persons with disabilities to prepare for, find and keep jobs.
During the program, individuals can connect with program facilitators as needed to ask questions, discuss program content, and receive optional 1:1 job seeking support. When employment is gained during the program, on-the job supports are available to support integration into the workforce, such as equipment to perform job tasks, job coaching, and a wage subsidy that can be used by employers to help cover onboarding and training costs. Other program benefits include access to on-demand mental health resources and supports, and a unique communication tool to connect with program facilitators.
If you or someone you know is looking to develop essential pre-employment skills, attending this information session is a great way to start.
Reserve your spot today by clicking the button below.
Virtual Presentation – EmploymentWorks Online
Presenter Bio:
Ian Humphreys is a dedicated Employment Advisor at the Sinneave Famly Foundation. With the perspective of a neurodivergent self-advocate, Ian brings a unique outlook to his role. Currently overseeing EmploymentWorks program at The Ability Hub, Ian leads the delivery of in-person and online initiatives, ensuring successful participant outcomes. Ian’s expertise extends to advising the EmploymentWorks National Project, where he provides insights, innovation, and guidance to drive program success nationwide.
Are you or someone you know neurodivergent?
Are you interested in creating a more inclusive community for everyone?
If so, this is the presentation for you!
Join us for a virtual Lunch & Learn Thursday, March 14th from 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
We will start with a brief introduction of who we are and then dive into the 6 Principles that are instrumental in creating environments where everyone can thrive.
These 6 Principles – Communication, Environment, Structure, Flexibility, Emotion and Connection – are informed by and created collaboratively with Autistics themselves. We’ll go over each one, from tackling communication breakdowns to adding structure for success. And guess what? These Principles are not just for neurodivergent folks; they are for anyone aiming to create an inclusive, welcoming space at work or in their community. Towards the end of the presentation, we will open the floor to any questions and discussions! We are all about fostering inclusivity, so let’s create spaces where everyone can shine!
There are a few tickets remaining, so don’t delay. Click the button below that says “6 Principles to Inform Action” to reserve your spot.
About The Presenter:
The Sinneave Family Foundation is an operating foundation that works with individuals, communities, and organizations across Canada to reduce barriers and enhance opportunities in education, employment, and housing for Autistic youth and adults. Our vision is that people live, learn, work and thrive in their communities and realize their desired futures. We are based out of Calgary and serve all of Alberta.
Amy Tatterton is the Director of Learning and Connection for the Sinneave Family Foundation. She provides leadership to knowledge exchange activities and community engagement initiatives that help Sinneave fulfill its mission of reducing barriers and enhancing opportunities for autistic youth and adults. Amy holds a Master of Education in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Calgary with a concentration in Educational Research and has specific interest in neurodivergence and cooccurring mental health concerns. Amy is a born and raised Calgarian with personal and professional experience in a variety of environments that support neurodiverse individuals including sport, post-secondary supports, pediatric behaviour intervention, early childhood learning management and now adulthood transition support. When she’s not working, Amy loves to spend time outside – golfing, skiing, camping and hiking!
Join us for a virtual conversation about secure housing and its role as a social determinant of health.
Tuesday, March 5, 2024
12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Hosted by Autism Society Alberta’s Family Resource Centres.
How does housing security fit into a comprehensive framework of social justice for Autistic people?
Christopher Whelan, an Autistic registered social worker, joins us for a conversation about secure housing and its role as a social determinant of health. This presentation will review the historic and ongoing context of housing insecurity for adult-aged Autistic Albertans, the resulting impacts on health, and policy suggestions for fair and equitable access to housing for Autistic Albertans.
To reserve your spot for this Lunch & Learn event, click the button below that says “Autistic Housing: A Framework for Social Health.”
Autistic Housing: A Framework for Social Health
About the Presenter
In 2020, Christopher Whelan conducted primary research regarding adult-aged Autistic Albertans’ experiences of housing and housing security. The findings of this research, published by the AIDE Canada network and the Sinneave Foundation, informed an actionable understanding of the social issues faced by the Autistic community.
Christopher Whelan has conducted interventions for housing security, addiction recovery, and mental wellness in multiple communities within Alberta and across Canada. They obtained a Master’s degree in Social Work in 2022, and currently perform clinical interventions for people who have lost their homes to climate-related disasters in Atlantic Canada.
Just in time for International Women’s Day! You’re invited to join in our March Women’s Group Thursday, March 7, 2024
In each Women’s Group, we provide timely information on topics that are important to Autistic women. These sessions are intended to provide a safe space for women to connect, ask questions, share stories, and enjoy valuable peer connection.
In this particular session, we will discuss various aspects of being autistic and what that means and looks like in day-to-day life. We will share our lived experiences and some of the coping strategies that can help in certain circumstances. These can include (but are not limited to): stimming, communication, lifestyle changes, sensory-friendly accommodations, leaning into special interests and finding neurodivergent community and support, plus many more.
During this session, Sinneave staff, guest presenters, and attendees may share information about community resources. Information provided may not always be accurate, up-to-date, or reliable. Attendees are 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.
All are welcome no matter how you identify, however, please be aware that information and resources provided are based on female assigned at birth. All gender expressions are welcome.
Join us Thursday, March 7, 2024
4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24th Avenue NW Calgary, AB)
Attending in person is a great way to meet new people and practice essential social skills. However, if getting to The Ability Hub in person is a barrier for you, you can also attend online via Sinneave Connects, our online learning platform.
If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, just log in as usual. If you haven’t yet opened a FREE account, it’s easy! Click the button below to be directed to the portal.
- Pick a user name
- Pick a password (Don’t forget to record it somewhere safe for next time!)
- Register!
- Choose the “Women & Autism – March 7” event to enroll and access the virtual link.
About the Presenters:
The Women’s Group is co-facilitated by two vibrant, Autistic self-advocates, who are passionate about sharing their lived experience and what it means to navigate life as neurodivergent women. Their hope is to create a safe space for autistic and neurodivergent women to learn from and help each other, make valuable peer connections, and have fun in the process.
If you have any questions about this session, or need help navigating Sinneave Connects, please contact us by emailing info@sinneavefoundation.org or calling 403 210-5000. We’re here to help!
Please note: While advance registration is not necessary for most of our Learning & Connection activities (you are welcome to just drop-in), IF you do pre-register it helps us in our planning AND allows us to notify you in the event of a last-minute change or cancellation. Either way, we’d love to see you!
P.S. The quick access button to Sinneave Connects is on the upper right corner of our Homepage.
Our weekly Drop-in Employment Support Workshops continue in March! Attendees will benefit from connecting with experienced professionals who understand neurodiversity and will help identify your strengths, interests, and potential career paths. Whether you have a formal diagnosis or not, if you’re an autistic or neurodivergent individual who is interested in improving your job prospects, consider stopping by.
Tuesdays, March 5, 12, 19, & 26, 2024
1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
There is no formal agenda. Participants are welcome to bring their curiosity and questions, resumes, and cover letters. Our employment specialists will focus on working with you as you identify priority areas for support. This could include developing essential pre-employment skills, such as:
- creating an effective resume
- learning and practicing interview techniques
- job search strategies
Or, working on post-employment support such as:
- workplace communication
- asking for accommodations
- and more!
Receive personalized guidance and learn more about how to successfully navigate the job search journey and the world of work.
Our goal is to create an inclusive and supportive environment where neurodivergent individuals can access resources, gain valuable insights, and enhance their employability, confidence, and career prospects.
There is no cost for these sessions and you don’t need to register in advance, just drop-in. We hope to see you there!
Due to the interactive nature of these sessions, they are currently offered in-person only. You don’t need an appointment or to register, just drop-in between 1:00 and 2:30 p.m.
About the Presenters: Meet the Sinneave Employment Team: Marcela, Sherry, and Ryan. They are a dedicated group of professionals committed to empowering neurodivergent individuals on their journeys towards meaningful employment and cneurodiversitareer success.
Our weekly Drop-in Employment Support Workshops continue in March! Attendees will benefit from connecting with experienced professionals who understand neurodiversity and will help identify your strengths, interests, and potential career paths. Whether you have a formal diagnosis or not, if you’re an autistic or neurodivergent individual who is interested in improving your job prospects, consider stopping by.
Tuesdays, March 5, 12, 19, & 26, 2024
1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
There is no formal agenda. Participants are welcome to bring their curiosity and questions, resumes, and cover letters. Our employment specialists will focus on working with you as you identify priority areas for support. This could include developing essential pre-employment skills, such as:
- creating an effective resume
- learning and practicing interview techniques
- job search strategies
Or, working on post-employment support such as:
- workplace communication
- asking for accommodations
- and more!
Receive personalized guidance and learn more about how to successfully navigate the job search journey and the world of work.
Our goal is to create an inclusive and supportive environment where neurodivergent individuals can access resources, gain valuable insights, and enhance their employability, confidence, and career prospects.
There is no cost for these sessions and you don’t need to register in advance, just drop-in. We hope to see you there!
Due to the interactive nature of these sessions, they are currently offered in-person only. You don’t need an appointment or to register, just drop-in between 1:00 and 2:30 p.m.
About the Presenters: Meet the Sinneave Employment Team: Marcela, Sherry, and Ryan. They are a dedicated group of professionals committed to empowering neurodivergent individuals on their journeys towards meaningful employment and cneurodiversitareer success.
Our weekly Drop-in Employment Support Workshops continue in March! Attendees will benefit from connecting with experienced professionals who understand neurodiversity and will help identify your strengths, interests, and potential career paths. Whether you have a formal diagnosis or not, if you’re an autistic or neurodivergent individual who is interested in improving your job prospects, consider stopping by.
Tuesdays, March 5, 12, 19, & 26, 2024
1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
There is no formal agenda. Participants are welcome to bring their curiosity and questions, resumes, and cover letters. Our employment specialists will focus on working with you as you identify priority areas for support. This could include developing essential pre-employment skills, such as:
- creating an effective resume
- learning and practicing interview techniques
- job search strategies
Or, working on post-employment support such as:
- workplace communication
- asking for accommodations
- and more!
Receive personalized guidance and learn more about how to successfully navigate the job search journey and the world of work.
Our goal is to create an inclusive and supportive environment where neurodivergent individuals can access resources, gain valuable insights, and enhance their employability, confidence, and career prospects.
There is no cost for these sessions and you don’t need to register in advance, just drop-in. We hope to see you there!
Due to the interactive nature of these sessions, they are currently offered in-person only. You don’t need an appointment or to register, just drop-in between 1:00 and 2:30 p.m.
About the Presenters: Meet the Sinneave Employment Team: Marcela, Sherry, and Ryan. They are a dedicated group of professionals committed to empowering neurodivergent individuals on their journeys towards meaningful employment and cneurodiversitareer success.
Our weekly Drop-in Employment Support Workshops continue in March! Attendees will benefit from connecting with experienced professionals who understand neurodiversity and will help identify your strengths, interests, and potential career paths. Whether you have a formal diagnosis or not, if you’re an autistic or neurodivergent individual who is interested in improving your job prospects, consider stopping by.
Tuesdays, March 5, 12, 19, & 26, 2024
1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
There is no formal agenda. Participants are welcome to bring their curiosity and questions, resumes, and cover letters. Our employment specialists will focus on working with you as you identify priority areas for support. This could include developing essential pre-employment skills, such as:
- creating an effective resume
- learning and practicing interview techniques
- job search strategies
Or, working on post-employment support such as:
- workplace communication
- asking for accommodations
- and more!
Receive personalized guidance and learn more about how to successfully navigate the job search journey and the world of work.
Our goal is to create an inclusive and supportive environment where neurodivergent individuals can access resources, gain valuable insights, and enhance their employability, confidence, and career prospects.
There is no cost for these sessions and you don’t need to register in advance, just drop-in. We hope to see you there!
Due to the interactive nature of these sessions, they are currently offered in-person only. You don’t need an appointment or to register, just drop-in between 1:00 and 2:30 p.m.
About the Presenters: Meet the Sinneave Employment Team: Marcela, Sherry, and Ryan. They are a dedicated group of professionals committed to empowering neurodivergent individuals on their journeys towards meaningful employment and cneurodiversitareer success.