December 15 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

In this interactive workshop, participants will learn practical executive functioning skills to better manage and estimate their time. They will learn a variety of strategies for scheduling, prioritizing, and delegation, in a welcoming, neuroaffirming setting.

Attendees will:

  • Learn basic time management strategies
  • Have the opportunity to practice and apply the techniques in the session
  • Learn about other resources that are available to enhance time management skills
  • Understand how being productive can look different for everyone
  • Build the confidence to make your own schedule
  • and more!

While it may push you a little outside your comfort zone, our workshops are a great way to connect and meet new people. You get to decide your level of participation and enagement.

Space is limited and registration is required.

About the Presenter
Mara Jaffray is an Autistic Self-advocate, currently working as a Program Facilitator 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

December 16 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 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 celebrate Autistic and neurodivergent joy, and explore how it ties in to masking, friendships, and other aspects of our personal expression. Some topics may include:

  • Passionate interests
  • Sensory awareness and sensitivities
  • Things that are comfortable and safe
  • Navigating challenges
  • Masking and personal expression, and
  • Celebrating diversity.

Our goal is to help participants to embrace their joy and feel empowered to move through sensory and emotional barriers. 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

December 9 @ 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, this 60-minute facilitated session will introduce participants to four micro-eLearning modules, which are available on Sinneave Connects, our online learning hub:

  1. Figure Out Who to See,
  2. Plan for Your Next Health Appointment,
  3. Communicate Effectively During Appointments, and
  4. 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.

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

December 9 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

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, caregivers will gain the skills and knowledge to:

  • Reflect on and outline their own support needs during the transition to independence with their young adult
  • Identify the natural and community supports that they already have access to, and which supports are missing or needed
  • Reflect on factors that influence their comfort in accessing and leaning into supports
  • Model and implement the use of strengths-based tools and strategies to support themselves and their young adult through the transition to independence

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.

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.

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

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 as they transition into employment. 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 this session, 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

November 17 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

You are invited to join UCalgary’s Autism Awareness Club for a evening of decorating cookies. Have the most delicious kind of fun while connecting with a great group of people.

All are welcome! You don’t need to be a UCalgary student to attend. All ingredients will be provided.

Tuesday, November 17
5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)

This is a drop-in event and registration is not required. However, if you want to help organizers plan accordingly, please email autismawarenessucalgary@gmail.com to let them know you will attend.

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

December 1 @ 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm

*Please note: The Green Room will not be available for group games on Tuesday, December 1, as the Autism Awareness Club is hosting a movie night. All are welcome to attend the movie night, our other spaces will still be available.

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.

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)

Tour Our Space
Whether you are preparing for your first visit or simply curious, we invite you to explore our space using the virtual tour on our website.

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

December 2 @ 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.

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)

Tour Our Space
Whether you are preparing for your first visit or simply curious, we invite you to explore our space using the virtual tour on our website.

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

November 3 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm

You are invited to join UCalgary’s Autism Awareness Club for an art night. This is a great opportunity to flex your creative muscles while connecting with a great group of people.

All are welcome! You don’t need to be a UCalgary student to attend. All materials will be provided.

Tuesday, November 3
5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)

This is a drop-in event and registration is not required. However, if you want to help organizers plan, you can email autismawarenessucalgary@gmail.com to let them know you will attend.

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

November 30 @ 11:00 am – 3:00 pm

Every Monday and Friday, starting November 30, members of our community are invited to visit our space specifically to engage in individual task completion, accessing online resources, and organizational planning. 

We provide a quiet environment, fully equipped with supplies, computer devices, and wifi to foster productivity and empower individuals towards task completion or an effective work session.

It is also a space that supports individuals with enhancing knowledge, expanding skillsets, and exploring new interests or goals through online resources and services.

This opportunity is open to everyone, however, we encourage Autistic young adults and post-secondary students to take advantage of this dedicated space, time, and accountability to advance tasks and priorities.

Here are a few examples of ways you can use the time:

  • Academic resources: Access online educational resources and academic support services needed for completing assignments and exploring new topics related to a field of study that may be of interest.
  • Study and focus space: A quiet space dedicated to studying for different academic assessments.
  • Skillset development: Complete online training and certificate programs needed for employment or expanding general skills sets.
  • Professional responsibilities: Gain access to both fundamental and creative platforms needed for creating required employment documents or completing work-related tasks. 
  • Administrative tasks: Use online assistive administrative services that specialize in budget planning, financial management and providing financial assistance.
  • Schedule-building and Appointments: Organize and designate time for academic or work tasks, personal responsibilities, and important appointments.

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

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

November 19 @ 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm

You are invited to attend a Lunch & Learn hosted by the Cerebral Palsy Association of Alberta (CPAA).

This presentation is focused on helping families navigate changes to the Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped program (AISH) and the Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP) with confidence through practical tools, strategies, and guidance from an experienced disability advocate.

The presenter will provide an overview of the recent changes to the Alberta Insured AISH and ADAP, including who may qualify, how to apply, and what documentation is needed.

In addition, she will share practical tips for navigating the application process, understanding eligibility criteria, and advocating for the supports needed to promote independence, well-being, and financial stability.

This session is open to individuals in the disability community, as well as parents and caregivers.

About the Presenter
Annie VanderLeek has been supporting and advocating for families of children with disabilities in Alberta for over 15 years, together with her husband Gordon. They help families navigate complex support systems and confusing disability-related paperwork, making the process more manageable and less overwhelming.

Through their guidance and expertise, parents feel less alone and more empowered to advocate for their children and access the supports they need.