July 23 @ 6:30 pm – 7:45 pm
This engaging workshop is designed to provide Autistic and other neurodivergent individuals (aged 15+) with opportunities to develop tools to effectively address disagreements.
Our hope is that attendees will experience increased confidence in dealing with future disagreements.
In this session, participants will:
- Think about their confidence in handling disagreements at both the beginning and end of the session
- Learn the difference between disagreement and conflict through realistic, scenario-based examples
- Brainstorm with others how emotions are connected to disagreements and conflict
- Explore practical strategies for resolving disagreements.
Thursday, July 23
6:30 – 7:45 p.m.
In-person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)
This workshop is designed to provide Autistic and neurodivergent individuals with opportunities to learn and practice a variety of social communication skills in a safe and welcoming setting. Participants will be provided with information, tips, and strategies that they can choose to apply in common day-to-day social situations.
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:
Mara Jaffray is an Autistic self-advocate, currently working as a Program Associate 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.
Related Events
July 13 @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am
Are you interested in the programs and services The Sinneave Family Foundation (Sinneave) has to offer?
Are you or your child Autistic or neurodivergent and age 15 or older?
This presentation is for you! Join us for a 60-minute virtual information session and Q & A and get to know all about us!
We will talk more about who we are and how we can support Autistic and neurodivergent youth and adults with the major life transitions they are facing. Things like:
- Graduating high school and attending post-secondary
- Getting a job
- Moving out and living independently
- And more!
Monday, July 13
10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Online via Sinneave Connects
This presentation is ideal for Autistic and neurodivergent individuals, their support networks, such as parents, caregivers and guardians, as well as local service providers and professionals who may be seeking more information about our programs and services in the Calgary area and beyond.
This webinar takes place on Sinneave Connects, our online learning hub. If you already have an account, just log-in as usual. If you need an account, it’s free and easy to set up. Click the button that says Sinneave Connects and follow the instructions 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 other neurodivergent individuals one-on-one to provide consistent, person-centred information, and navigate individuals to Sinneave programs and services and/or community-based resources. Ali has more than a decade of experience in the field of mental health, and has a passion for person-centered care and intersectional inclusivity.
If you need assistance, please don’t hesitate to 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.
Related Events
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.
Related Events
July 16 @ 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Join us for a fun and relaxed evening as we test your trivia knowledge!
Trivia games will begin at 5:00 p.m. If you want to be placed on a team, please arrive promptly. Afterwards, we will cool off with a mocktail and enjoy other low-pressure activities, such as board games, origami, or colouring.
Attendees are welcome to drop in anytime between 5:00 and 7:30 p.m. There is no pressure or expectation to join in structured activities. It’s your time to use, your way.
Come for the trivia, stay for the mocktails, or join for any part of the evening.
Please note: Participants will require a wi-fi enabled device, such as a phone, tablet, or laptop computer, to participate in the trivia game.
Our Your Time, Your Way hours provide a safe, sensory-friendly space where participants can spend time without the obligation of spending money on food or beverages. It is a time and space where participants may express themselves without judgement and foster peer connection (if desired).
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.
Related Events
July 14 @ 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
You’ve probably heard the word “Self-advocacy” before, but do you know what it is and how to do it?
Self-advocacy is expressing your needs and preferences in a way that ensures your voice is heard in the decisions that impact your life.
Building on what was covered in the first self-advocacy session (July 7), this session will provide tips and strategies for participants to apply when communicating their needs to others, as well as learn how to effectively start conversations about their needs.
Tuesday, July 14
6:30– 7:30 p.m.
Online via Sinneave Connects
Our self-advocacy workshops are designed to provide Autistic and other neurodivergent youth and adults (age 15+) with opportunities to learn about self-advocacy and practice skills that are essential to learning to speak up for yourself confidently.
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.
Other upcoming self-advocacy workshops include:
The Art of Knowing Yourself – Tuesday, July 7
Learn what self-advocacy is and how it can benefit you. The content will help you understand your strengths and some of the barriers you may face. This knowledge will enhance your ability to self-advocate.
Finding Your Voice – Tuesday, July 21
Learn practical tips and strategies to help negotiate and discuss how you can have your needs met in your current environment. There will also be an opportunity to summarize and apply everything we have learned up to this point.
About the presenter:
Yonatan Tesfagiorgis is a Life Skills Coach with The Sinneave Family Foundation. He has more than a decade of experience working with Autistic and other neurodivergent adults.
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.
Related Events
June 18 @ 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Please note: On Thursday, June 18, the computer lab and the group work space will not be available, due to a prior booking.
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.
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.
Related Events
August 25 @ 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
Are you looking to strengthen your understanding of autism and neurodiversity in a supportive and welcoming learning environment?
Join Autism Edmonton for Autism 201: Through a Womens+ Lens, a session designed to build on foundational autism knowledge while exploring lived experience, practical supports, and strategies for creating more inclusive environments.
This engaging session will explore the following:
• Expanding your understanding of autism and neurodiversity
• Common Autistic characteristics and supportive approaches
• Sensory differences and responding to sensory needs
• Environmental accommodations that support Autistic individuals
• Common co-occurring conditions experienced by Autistic people
• Understanding behaviour as communication
• Recognizing triggers, understanding Autistic meltdowns, and learning de-escalation strategies
This session is ideal for parents, educators, employers, service providers, community members, and anyone seeking to better understand autism and learn practical ways to create inclusive, accommodating environments.
The information and examples shared throughout this session will be presented through a Women’s+ lens and a lived-experience perspective. This learning opportunity is especially valuable for recently diagnosed female-identifying Autistics, those exploring whether they may be Autistic, or people who feel most comfortable in female-focused spaces.
Tuesday, August 25
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 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 Autism Edmonton:
Autism Edmonton is the oldest autism organization in Alberta, serving Edmonton and surrounding communities since 1971. Autism Edmonton provides life-enhancing programs and services that ignite the power and potential of Autistic individuals throughout all stages of life and diagnosis.
Programs and supports include adult discussion groups, LGBTQ+ focused supports, parent and partner groups, respite services, recreational opportunities, learning sessions, and community education initiatives that promote acceptance, understanding, and inclusion.
Vision: All Autistic people have a life full of possibilities.
Mission: To enhance the lives of Autistic people through knowledge, services, and inclusive opportunities.
Together, we can continue building communities where Autistic individuals feel understood, supported, and empowered.
Related Events
July 21 @ 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
Are you looking to strengthen your understanding of autism and neurodiversity in a supportive and welcoming learning environment?
Join Autism Edmonton for Autism 101: Through a Womens+ Lens, an introductory session exploring what autism is and how Autistic individuals may experience, communicate with, and interact with the world around them.
Autism 101 provides a foundational introduction to autism and neurodiversity while offering practical strategies and insights to help create more supportive and inclusive spaces for Autistic individuals across all stages of life.
Participants will gain a basic understanding of:
• What autism is and the common characteristics of autism
• How Autistic individuals may experience and process sensory information
• Why communication and interaction may differ
• How visual supports can help with understanding and communication
• Practical ways to support Autistic individuals in everyday settings
This session is ideal for parents, educators, employers, service providers, community members, and anyone seeking to better understand autism and learn practical ways to create inclusive, accommodating environments.
The information and examples shared throughout this session will be presented through a Women’s+ lens and a lived-experience perspective. This learning opportunity is especially valuable for recently diagnosed female-identifying Autistics, those exploring whether they may be Autistic, or people who feel most comfortable in female-focused spaces.
Tuesday, July 21
11:30 a.m. – 1:30 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.
P.S. If this session looks interesting to you, consider registering for Autism 201: Through a Women’s+ Lens and Lived Experience, which will build on the introductory knowledge provided here.
About Autism Edmonton:
Autism Edmonton is the oldest autism organization in Alberta, serving Edmonton and surrounding communities since 1971. Autism Edmonton provides life-enhancing programs and services that ignite the power and potential of Autistic individuals throughout all stages of life and diagnosis.
Programs and supports include adult discussion groups, LGBTQ+ focused supports, parent and partner groups, respite services, recreational opportunities, learning sessions, and community education initiatives that promote acceptance, understanding, and inclusion.
Vision: All Autistic people have a life full of possibilities.
Mission: To enhance the lives of Autistic people through knowledge, services, and inclusive opportunities.
Together, we can continue building communities where Autistic individuals feel understood, supported, and empowered.
Related Events
Published: June 9, 2026
The National Autism Network is undergoing a leadership transition. We wish to thank Dr. Karen Bopp for her dedication to the community and her foundational role in establishing the Network. The work we’ve done together over the last 15 months has helped inform priorities to support the implementation of Canada’s Autism Strategy. Our organizations remain committed to the Project and carrying out the work as funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada. Thank you for your continued support.
“Throughout my career, I have learned that the best solutions come when people trust and listen to each other, learn from each other, and work together. I remain committed to supporting collaborative efforts that help create a future where Autistic people thrive.”
— Dr. Karen Bopp
“Dr. Karen Bopp has worked to advance systems that are inclusive, community-informed, accessible, evidence-based and centred in lived and living experience throughout her 30+ year career. It has been a pleasure to work alongside her in the establishment of the National Autism Network, and we look forward to continued collaboration.”
— Tanya McLeod, President, The Sinneave Family Foundation, and Dr. Jonathan Lai, Executive Director, Autism Alliance of Canada
Transition du leadership du Réseau national de l’autisme
Publié: 9 juin, 2026
Le Réseau national de l’autisme traverse actuellement une transition de leadership. Nous souhaitons remercier la Dre Karen Bopp pour son dévouement envers la communauté et pour le rôle fondamental qu’elle a joué dans la création du Réseau. Le travail accompli ensemble au cours des 15 derniers mois a contribué à guider les priorités visant à soutenir la mise en œuvre de la Stratégie pour l’autisme au Canada. Nos organisations demeurent engagées envers le projet et la poursuite des travaux financés par l’Agence de la santé publique du Canada. Merci de votre soutien continu.
« Tout au long de ma carrière, j’ai appris que les meilleures solutions émergent lorsque les gens se font confiance, s’écoutent, apprennent les uns des autres et travaillent ensemble. Je demeure engagée à soutenir les efforts de collaboration qui contribuent à bâtir un avenir où les personnes autistes peuvent s’épanouir. »
— Dre Karen Bopp
« Au cours de ses plus de 30 années de carrière, la Dre Karen Bopp a contribué à faire progresser des systèmes inclusifs, accessibles, ancrés dans les réalités des communautés, fondés sur des données probantes et centrés sur l’expérience vécue. Ce fut un privilège de collaborer avec elle à la mise sur pied du Réseau national de l’autisme, et nous nous réjouissons de poursuivre ce travail ensemble. »
— Tanya McLeod, présidente de la Sinneave Family Foundation, et Jonathan Lai, directeur général de l’Alliance canadienne de l’autisme.
—Le message en français précède—
July 7 @ 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
You’ve probably heard the word “Self-advocacy” before, but do you know what it is and how to do it?
Self-advocacy is expressing your needs and preferences in a way that ensures your voice is heard in the decisions that impact your life. An important first step to self-advocacy is understanding the barriers you face and the strengths you bring to each situation.
In this workshop, you will learn what self-advocacy is and how it can benefit you. The content will also help you understand your strengths and some of the barriers you face. This knowledge will enhance your ability to self-advocate.
Tuesday, July 7
6:30– 7:30 p.m.
Online via Sinneave Connects
Our self-advocacy workshops are designed to provide Autistic and other neurodivergent individuals opportunities to learn about self-advocacy and practice skills that are essential to learning to speak up for yourself confidently.
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.
Other upcoming self-advocacy workshops include:
Starting the Conversation – Tuesday, July 14
Learn tips and strategies for you to practice communicating your needs with others and learn how you can effectively start conversations about your needs.
Finding Your Voice – Tuesday, July 21
Learn practical tips and strategies to help negotiate and discuss how you can have your needs met in your current environment. There will also be an opportunity to summarize and apply everything we have learned up to this point.
About the presenter:
Yonatan Tesfagiorgis is a Life Skills Coach with The Sinneave Family Foundation. He has more than a decade of experience working with Autistic and other neurodivergent adults.
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.