May 26 @ 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:
- Figure Out Who to See,
- Plan for Your Next Health Appointment,
- Communicate Effectively During Appointments, and
- Take Charge of Follow-Up Care.
Learn how these resources can support you in different stages of the healthcare journey, and how to access them for ongoing use.
Tuesday, May 26
6:30 – 7:30 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 screen.
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 the full neurodiversity acknowledgement on our website.
Related Events
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.
Related Events
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.
Related Events
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.
Related Events
May 19 @ 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Tuesday, May 19, we’re hosting a Yu-Gi-Oh theme night. Join us between 5:00 and 7:30 p.m. and participate as much or as little as you want. Whether you’re new to the game or an experienced player, all skill levels are welcome.
Learn the basics, trade cards, or enjoy casual free play with others in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Participants should bring their own deck of cards to participate.
*Please note: selling cards will not be permitted.
Each week, we offer a “third space”—a place separate from home or work or school where there is no obligation to spend money on food or beverages—to members of our community.
You are invited to drop in and use our space to 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.
The rest of our 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
May 5 @ 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
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.
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.
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.
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
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 the full neurodiversity acknowledgement on our website.
Related Events
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.
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.
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.


