April 22 @ 5:00 pm – 6:00 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 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 to learn how these resources can support them in different stages of the healthcare journey, and how to access them for ongoing use.
Wednesday, April 22
5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Online via Sinneave Connects
This virtual session is hosted on 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 free and easy to set up. Click the button that says, “Sinneave Connects” and follow the prompts 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 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.
Related Events
April 21 @ 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Many individuals can benefit from what is 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. We open our doors to members of our community every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 5:00 – 7:30 p.m.
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.
Tuesday, April 21 we’re honouring Earth Day in a calm, welcoming, and flexible way! Join us between 5:00 and 7:30 p.m. and participate as much or as little as you want:
- Contribute in your own way to a collaborative mural representing elements of the earth that support regulation, comfort and sensory well-being.
- Contribute at your own pace by helping assemble the tree puzzle, then add a leaf expressing something in nature you are grateful for.
- Engage in earth-themed “Would You Rather” questions, try earth bingo, or explore facts and myths about the earth.
The space remains open for people who don’t want to participate in structured activities. We provide flexible seating options, focus tools, and adjustable lighting options in an effort to make our space more welcoming and inclusive to those who wish to spend time in it.
Suggested activities:
- 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
April 21 @ 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm
The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is one of the most powerful—and underused— financial programs in Canada.
Offering up to $90,000 in government grants and bonds, the RDSP has the potential to transform long-term financial security for individuals living with disabilities. Yet, hundreds of thousands of eligible Canadians either don’t have one, or don’t fully understand how to maximize it.
In this webinar, RDSP Educator Trish Van Sickle and Disability Tax Credit (DTC) Specialist Dr. Wayne McLeod walk you through the full journey, starting with the RDSP and connecting it back to the Disability Tax Credit that unlocks it.
Tuesday, April 21
6:30 – 7:45 p.m.
Online via Sinneave Connects
Attendees will learn:
- How the RDSP works
- Who qualifies
- How to maximize government grants, bonds, and long-term growth
- Common mistakes families make when opening an RDSP
- Key questions to ask any institution before choosing where to open one
- The Disability Tax Credit explained
- Why DTC applications get denied and how to strengthen them.
This session is education-first and designed to empower individuals, families, caregivers, and professionals with clarity, confidence, and actionable knowledge. There will be an opportunity to ask questions at the end.
Whether you are newly approved for the DTC, considering applying, or supporting someone who may qualify, this webinar will help you understand the full opportunity available—and how to make the most of it. Attendees are encouraged to invite a parent, partner, or support person if they would like someone close to them to learn alongside them.
Advance registration is required. Click on the button that says, “Sinneave Connects” to register.
If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, log in as usual. If you have not yet created an account, it’s free and easy to do. Follow the prompts on the log-in page.
If you are unable to make the April 21 webinar, we are offering it again on Tuesday, May 5. When you log-in, you can register for either session.
About the Presenters:
Dr. Wayne McLeod is a dedicated educator and advocate focused on helping Canadians successfully navigate the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). Through years of experience guiding families, Dr. McLeod understands how overwhelming and confusing the DTC process can be. Many eligible individuals are denied simply due to incomplete applications or unclear medical documentation. His approach centers on education, clarity, and ensuring applications are properly positioned to meet CRA requirements.
As the author of How to Successfully Apply for the Disability Tax Credit, Dr. McLeod provides practical, step-by-step guidance to help individuals, caregivers, and professionals confidently navigate the process and access the financial support they deserve.
His mission is simple: remove barriers, increase awareness, and help families turn DTC approval into long-term financial opportunity.
Trish Van Sickle is a passionate RDSP educator on a mission to ensure no eligible Canadian misses out on one of the most powerful financial programs in the country: the Registered Disability Savings Plan.
Despite offering up to $90,000 in government grants and bonds, hundreds of thousands of eligible Canadians still do not have an RDSP simply because they don’t understand how it works or where to start. That’s where Trish steps in.
She simplifies the complex, breaks down the rules, and focuses on education first. Whether families work with her directly or choose another institution, she equips them with the knowledge, confidence, and the right questions to ask so they can properly set up, manage, and maximize their RDSP.
Her mission is bold and clear: raise awareness, close the education gap, and connect as many Canadians as possible to the financial security they deserve.
If you have any questions, or need technical support accessing Sinneave Connects, reach out to us at info@sinneavefoundation.org or call 403 210-5000. We are here to help.
Related Events
May 5 @ 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm
The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is one of the most powerful—and underused—financial programs in Canada.
Offering up to $90,000 in government grants and bonds, the RDSP has the potential to transform long-term financial security for individuals living with disabilities. Yet, hundreds of thousands of eligible Canadians either don’t have one, or don’t fully understand how to maximize it.
In this webinar, RDSP Educator Trish Van Sickle and Disability Tax Credit (DTC) Specialist Dr. Wayne McLeod walk you through the full journey, starting with the RDSP and connecting it back to the Disability Tax Credit that unlocks it.
Tuesday, May 5
6:30 – 7:45 p.m.
Online via Sinneave Connects
Attendees will learn:
- How the RDSP works
- Who qualifies
- How to maximize government grants, bonds, and long-term growth
- Common mistakes families make when opening an RDSP
- Key questions to ask any institution before choosing where to open one
- The Disability Tax Credit explained
- Why DTC applications get denied and how to strengthen them.
This session is education-first and designed to empower individuals, families, caregivers, and professionals with clarity, confidence, and actionable knowledge. There will be an opportunity to ask questions at the end.
Whether you are newly approved for the DTC, considering applying, or supporting someone who may qualify, this webinar will help you understand the full opportunity available—and how to make the most of it. Attendees are encouraged to invite a parent, partner, or support person if they would like someone close to them to learn alongside them.
Advance registration is required. Click on the button that says, “Sinneave Connects” to register.
If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, log in as usual. If you have not yet created an account, it’s free and easy to do. Follow the prompts on the log-in page.
About the Presenters:
Dr. Wayne McLeod is a dedicated educator and advocate focused on helping Canadians successfully navigate the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). Through years of experience guiding families, Dr. McLeod understands how overwhelming and confusing the DTC process can be. Many eligible individuals are denied simply due to incomplete applications or unclear medical documentation. His approach centers on education, clarity, and ensuring applications are properly positioned to meet CRA requirements.
As the author of How to Successfully Apply for the Disability Tax Credit, Dr. McLeod provides practical, step-by-step guidance to help individuals, caregivers, and professionals confidently navigate the process and access the financial support they deserve.
His mission is simple: remove barriers, increase awareness, and help families turn DTC approval into long-term financial opportunity.
Trish Van Sickle is a passionate RDSP educator on a mission to ensure no eligible Canadian misses out on one of the most powerful financial programs in the country: the Registered Disability Savings Plan.
Despite offering up to $90,000 in government grants and bonds, hundreds of thousands of eligible Canadians still do not have an RDSP simply because they don’t understand how it works or where to start. That’s where Trish steps in.
She simplifies the complex, breaks down the rules, and focuses on education first. Whether families work with her directly or choose another institution, she equips them with the knowledge, confidence, and the right questions to ask so they can properly set up, manage, and maximize their RDSP.
Her mission is bold and clear: raise awareness, close the education gap, and connect as many Canadians as possible to the financial security they deserve.
If you have any questions, or need technical support accessing Sinneave Connects, reach out to us at info@sinneavefoundation.org or call 403 210-5000. We are here to help.
Related Events
April 14 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Women often face unique experiences as Autistic and neurodivergent individuals, including how we socialize, societal expectations, and how Autism is understood and expressed.
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.* 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.
In this session, we’ll talk about different aspects of being Autistic and what that means and looks like in daily life. Participants are welcome to share lived experiences and discuss strategies that have been helpful for them.
Topics may include:
- Strategies for regulation
- Communication strategies
- Lifestyle changes
- Sensory-friendly accommodations
- Leaning into interests
- Finding neurodivergent community and support
*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, April 14
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 these steps:
- Pick a username
- Pick a password
- Select “Register”
- Choose the Women’s Group: Peer Support for 18+ workshop and click on the enroll button
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.
Related Events
March 13 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
As part of the broader research initiative Enhancing Service Navigation for Individuals with Neurodevelopmental Disability, we are pleased to host a virtual panel discussion that brings together multiple perspectives, including research, clinical practice, lived experience, and navigation work.
Together, we will examine where healthcare navigation works well, where it breaks down, and where there are opportunities to improve access, continuity, and neuroaffirming care.
Panelists will reflect on topics such as navigation needs at different life stages, the strengths and limitations of peer support and formal navigator roles, and the role navigation can play in helping individuals and families find respectful, affirming healthcare and mental health supports.
This session is designed for researchers, service providers, navigators, educators, caregivers, and neurodivergent individuals interested in building more accessible, connected, and sustainable navigation systems. Participants will benefit from the value of multiple perspectives–including lived experience.
Friday, March 13
12:00 – 1:00 p.m. (Mountain Time)
Online via Sinneave Connects
Advance registration is required. Click on the button that says, “Sinneave Connects” to register.
If you already have a Sinneave Connects account, log in as usual. If you have not yet created an account, it’s free and easy to do. Follow the prompts on the log-in page.
About the panel presenters:
Terri Robinson
Lonnie Zwaigenbaum
Alison Luke
Roula Markoulakis
Alexandra Skeet
Moderated by: Amy Tatterton, Director of Learning and Connection, The Sinneave Family Foundation
This presentation is co-sponsored by the SSHRC-funded study entitled, Enhancing Service Navigation for Individuals with Neurodevelopmental Disability: Towards an Accessible, Efficient and Sustainable Service Navigation Network.
Related Events
February 23 @ 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm
Did you know that engaging in arts and crafts has been found to be an effective practice for managing mental health? The act of creating stimulates the ideal conditions for mindfulness by accessing and engaging different parts of the brain.
That’s an excellent reason to join the Autism Awareness Club at University of Calgary for and Arts and Crafts evening. Materials will be provided.
Monday, February 23, 2026
5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)
All are welcome! You don’t need to be a UCalgary student to attend, you just need to enjoy spending time with great people.
Please RSVP your attendance to autismawarenessucalgary@gmail.com so the organizers know how many people to expect.
Related Events
January 21 @ 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
March 17 @ 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Many individuals benefit from what is referred to as a “third space”—a place separate from home, work, or school where there is no obligation to spend money on food or beverages. To that end, our doors are open every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evening for members of our community to use our space.
Drop-in to work or play, rest and 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.
On Tuesday, March 17, we’re hosting a special activity during Your Time, Your Way. Participants can drop-in between 5:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. for a crafting meet-up.
This promises to be the perfect blend of creativity and community. Spend the evening crafting, chatting, and sharing ideas in a laid-back environment. No experience needed, just a willingness to create and connect. All skill levels are welcome.
Participants can bring their own craft and supplies, however, materials will be provided for people who want to try something new, like origami, painting, key chain and bracelet making and adult colouring.
If you don’t want to participate in the craft meet-up, you are still welcome to use the space; here’s a not-exhaustive list of things you can do:
- 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
March 17 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Women often face unique experiences as Autistic and neurodivergent individuals, including how we socialize, societal expectations, and how Autism is understood and expressed.
We’re thrilled to offer a new group designed specifically for Autistic and neurodivergent adults (18+) who identify as women or who connect with experiences of womanhood.* 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.
In this first session, we’ll discuss:
- Understanding Autism and gender differences
- Understanding how this affects presentation, diagnosis, and the link to stereotypes
- Breaking down barriers and stereotypes
*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, March 17
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 these steps:
- Pick a username
- Pick a password
- Select “Register”
- Choose the Women’s Group: Peer Support for 18+ workshop and click on the enroll button
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.