September 17 @ 6:30 pm 8:00 pm

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 discuss and explore different experiences with masking. Some topics may include:

  • What masking is and how to recognize it
  • Some reasons people may mask
  • The different impacts of masking.
  • Learning about yourself and sharing strategies

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.

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

September 1 @ 5:00 pm 7:30 pm

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.
The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)

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

August 20 @ 6:30 pm 8:00 pm

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 20
6:30 – 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.

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

July 15 @ 6:30 pm 7:45 pm

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 discuss building, understanding, and navigating workplace relationships. Some topics may include:

  • Relationships in a new job
  • The difference between “friendly” and “friendship”
  • Discovering common interests and building rapport with colleagues
  • Understanding and navigating work-safe topics of conversation, and workplace culture.

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.

Wednesday, July 15
6:30 – 7:45 p.m.
In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)
There is no cost to attend.

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.

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

June 24 @ 12:00 pm 1:00 pm

Late-diagnosed Autistic people have unique experiences, struggles, and strengths. This session will focus on Autistic late-diagnosed women and gender diverse people, sharing learnings from 33 studies that summarize the social experiences of these individuals.

Topics that will be discussed include:

Attendees will be given a chance to share their own experiences with late-diagnosis and discuss how study findings do or do not resonate with their own personal journeys. Individuals with lived experience attending this session may find that they feel a sense of understanding, validation, and connection.

This learning session is brought to you by Autism Edmonton.

Wednesday, June 24
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 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.

About the Presenter:

Dr. Angela Feehan is a Speech-Language Pathologist and Assistant Professor at the University of Saskatchewan in the School of Rehabilitation Sciences. She works closely with Autistic and other neurodivergent people to conduct research that increases understanding of how neurodivergent individuals can thrive in their day-to-day lives. Her current research focuses on facets of late-diagnosis, social experiences, and thriving in Autistic women and gender diverse people. Dr. Feehan also brings lived experience to her work in neurodivergence.

Dr. Feehan has over a decade of experience providing clinical services to children and youth through mental health programs. This includes working with Autism diagnostic teams, collaborating with multidisciplinary team members, and providing speech, language, and communication assessment and treatment.

June 23 @ 6:00 pm 7:30 pm

We’re thrilled to offer a group 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 talk about building, understanding, and navigating workplace relationships. Some topics may include:

  • Relationships in a new job
  • The difference between “friendly” and “friendship”
  • Discovering common interests and building rapport with colleagues
  • Understanding and navigating work-safe topics of conversation and workplace culture.

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.

Tuesday, June 23
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)
There is no cost to attend.

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.

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

June 10 @ 12:00 pm 1:00 pm

What does it really mean to speak up for yourself and feel confident doing it?

Join Autism Edmonton for an honest and inspiring conversation with Jessica Burylo, an Autistic self-advocate whose work is helping change how we understand identity, accessibility, and belonging.

Jessica is a PhD student at the University of Alberta, where she explores Autistic identity and joy. She also works with Elections Canada to reduce barriers so people with disabilities can take part in federal elections, and collaborates with Accessibility Standards Canada to improve how programs and services are designed. Across everything she does, Jessica brings both professional insight and lived experience.

This session is not about having all the answers. It is about learning how to trust your voice and use it.

Together, we will explore what self-advocacy can look like in everyday life, how to build confidence in who you are, and how to navigate systems that were not built with you in mind. Most importantly, we will talk about joy and why it matters.

You will leave with practical ideas, a stronger sense of self, and a reminder that your voice matters.

This learning session is brought to you by Autism Edmonton, with support from the Sinneave Family Foundation.

Wednesday, June 10
12:00 p.m. – 1:00 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.

About the Presenter:

Jessica Burylo (she/her) is an Autistic self-advocate and PhD student at the University of Alberta, where her research explores Autistic identity and joy. She works as an Outreach Officer with the Inspire Democracy team at Elections Canada, supporting efforts to reduce barriers to participation in federal elections for people with disabilities.

She works with Accessibility Standards Canada to help shape national standards for accessible program and service delivery, and serves as an advisor to Proof Positive: Autism Wellbeing Alliance. Her work brings together accessibility and lived experience with a focus on creating spaces where Autistic people can meaningfully participate and thrive.

May 5 @ 3:30 pm 5:00 pm

Talk 2 Me is a free workshop focused on stress and stress management.

While facilitators foster open conversations about mental health and well-being, attendees will have an opportunity discuss the signs, symptoms, and impacts of stress, as well as strategies for coping in healthy ways.

This session is presented by Autism Edmonton in partnership with the YMCA and brought to you with support from the Sinneave Family Foundation.

Tuesday, May 5
3:30 – 5:00 p.m. (Mountain Time)
Online via Autism Edmonton

Registration for this event is via Autism Edmonton’s Eventbrite page. When you click the button that says “Register” you will be redirected to their site.

About the YMCA:

At YMCA, we believe in the power of people. Every day, our dedicated employees and volunteers bring energy, positivity, and inclusivity to everything they do. They are the spark that ignites potential in others – helping individuals grow, thrive, and truly belong.

When people feel connected and supported, communities become stronger, more resilient, and full of life. That’s the impact of people-powered change. Together, we create welcoming spaces where everyone is valued, differences are celebrated, and possibilities are endless. Be the spark. Shine bright. Help others shine too.

May 19 @ 6:00 pm 7:30 pm

We’re thrilled to offer a group designed specifically for Autistic and neurodivergent adults (18+) who identify as women or who connect with experiences of womanhood.*

In this session, we will continue to discuss various aspects of different types of relationships, such as:

  • Relationships with family
  • Workplace relationships
  • Romantic relationships
  • Other casual relationships, and
  • Making friends.

Participants are welcome to share lived experiences and discuss strategies that have been helpful for them as they relate to making friends, building and maintaining relationships, and learning about relationship dynamics.

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.

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

Tuesday, May 19
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)
There is no cost to attend.

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

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

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

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

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

May 7 @ 6:00 pm 7:30 pm

We’re thrilled to offer a group designed specifically for Autistic and neurodivergent adults (18+) who identify as women or who connect with experiences of womanhood.*

In this session, we will discuss various aspects of different types of relationships, such as:

  • Relationships with family
  • Workplace relationships
  • Romantic relationships
  • Other casual relationships, and
  • Making friends.

Participants are welcome to share lived experiences and discuss strategies that have been helpful for them as they relate to making friends, building and maintaining relationships, and learning about relationship dynamics. 

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.

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

Thursday, May 7
6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)
There is no cost to attend.

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

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

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

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

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