October 16 @ 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 or neurodivergent youth and adults with the major life transitions they are facing. Some of these life transitions are:
- Graduating high school and going to university
- Getting a job
- Moving out and living independently
- And more!
Our Learning & Connection team, who deliver our Information & Navigation service, will take you through all the ways we support our community and answer any questions you may have at the end.
This session is ideal for Autistic or 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.
Thursday, October 16, 2025
10:00 – 11:00 am
Online via Sinneave Connects
This virtual session 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:
- Create a user name
- Create a password (don’t forget to save it someplace handy)
- Select “Register”
- Choose the Get to know us! Virtual Information Session – October 16, 2025″ session to register for the session and to access the virtual link.
If you need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out by emailing info@sinneavefoundation.org or call us at 403 210-5000. We hope to see you there!
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October 8 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
As parents, guardians, and caregivers; you play an important part in the successful transition of a young adult into the workforce.
Session: Pick a Suitable Workplace
This in-person session is focused on supporting your young adult to identify their workplace needs and preferences so that they may apply for jobs that are appropriate and supportive. You will use tools, such as sensory inventories, to recognize and understand the different workplace demands which are less obvious when looking at job postings. You will learn how to identify accommodations and supports that are helpful to your young adult when it comes to sensory needs in the workplace. You will also learn how to recognize your own needs in your journey to supporting your young adult through their transition into employment.
In this in-person session, you will help your young adult to:
- Identify their workplace needs and preferences
- Find the right workplace fit, by looking beyond the job tasks
- Identify what accommodations they may need to be successful
Wednesday, October 8, 2025
6:00 – 7:30 pm
In-person At The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
** Space in this session is now full, but we hope you can join us for our next session on October 22. Details are available here. **
This series introduces 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. You will learn how to use the toolkit to guide supportive conversations, set goals, and take meaningful action toward employment success.
Through this series, you will:
- Build confidence in supporting your young adult’s employment journey
- Learn how to apply the FWRT at home to break the process into manageable steps
- Explore community resources that complement the toolkit
- Connect with other parents and guardians navigating similar experiences
By the end of the series, you will have 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 questions, please reach out to info@sinneavefoundation.org or call us at 403 210-5000. We’re here to help.
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October 7 @ 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Benefit from connecting one-on-one with experienced professionals who understand neurodiversity and will help you identify your strengths, interests and potential career paths. Our goal is to create an individualized, inclusive and supportive environment where neurodivergent individuals can access resources, gain valuable insights and enhance their employability, confidence and career prospects.
Attendees are encouraged to select from available topics to receive tailored guidance or bring other employment-related concerns they may have. Our employment coaches have experience and expertise in:
- Career Exploration
- Cover Letter Writing
- Disclosure & Accommodations
- Interview Prep
- Job Search Strategies
- Resume Building
- Applicant Tracking System (ATS)
- 1:1 Facilitator guidance* (Maximum 45 minutes)
Tuesday, October 7, 2025
2:00 – 3:30 pm
In-Person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
Attendees must book an in-person 45-minute appointment with one of our three facilitators.
Available times:
3 appointments from 2:00 – 2:45 p.m.
3 appointments from 2:45 – 3:30 p.m.
Appointments can be booked on Sinneave Connects, our online learning hub. When you click the button that says, “Sinneave Connects” you will be directed to the log-in page. If you already have an account, just log in as usual.
If you don’t have an account, it’s free and easy to set up.
- Create a user name
- Create a password (don’t forget to save it someplace handy)
- Select “Register”
- Choose Employment Skills Help Desk Registration – October 7, 2025 and follow the instructions.
Please select a time slot that works for you and click the enroll button. To allow for the greatest participation, participants are limited to ONE time slot per day. If no sessions are available, that means they are all booked. Please choose an available time slot on a different day.
If you have any questions or require assistance with enrolling, please reach out to us at info@sinneavefoundation.org or call our office at 403 210-5000. We’re here to help!
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October 21 @ 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm
Benefit from connecting one-on-one with experienced professionals who understand neurodiversity and will help you identify your strengths, interests and potential career paths. Our goal is to create an individualized, inclusive and supportive environment where neurodivergent individuals can access resources, gain valuable insights and enhance their employability, confidence and career prospects.
Attendees are encouraged to select from available topics to receive tailored guidance or bring other employment-related concerns they may have. Our employment coaches have experience and expertise in:
- Career Exploration
- Cover Letter Writing
- Disclosure & Accommodations
- Interview Prep
- Job Search Strategies
- Resume Building
- Applicant Tracking System (ATS)
- 1:1 Facilitator guidance* (Maximum 45 minutes)
Tuesday, October 21, 2025
2:00 – 3:30 pm
In-Person at The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Avenue NW)
Attendees must book an in-person 45-minute appointment with one of our three facilitators.
Available times:
3 appointments from 2:00 – 2:45 p.m.
3 appointments from 2:45 – 3:30 p.m.
Appointments can be booked on Sinneave Connects, our online learning hub. When you click the button that says, “Sinneave Connects” you will be directed to the log-in page. If you already have an account, just log in as usual.
If you don’t have an account, it’s free and easy to set up.
- Create a user name
- Create a password (don’t forget to save it someplace handy)
- Select “Register”
- Choose Employment Skills Help Desk Registration – October 21, 2025 and follow the instructions.
Please select a time slot that works for you and click the enroll button. To allow for the greatest participation, participants are limited to ONE time slot per day. If no sessions are available, that means they are all booked. Please choose an available time slot on a different day.
If you have any questions or require assistance with enrolling, please reach out to us at info@sinneavefoundation.org or call our office at 403 210-5000. We’re here to help!
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October 7 @ 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Starting a conversation with someone new or joining in a conversation that is already underway can be difficult. In this workshop, we will learn and practice a few strategies to help you enter into conversations more confidently whether that’s through one-on-one or group conversations.
During the time we have together, you will gain the skills and knowledge to:
- Feel more comfortable and confident in your communication skills
- Explain what is required for good conversation
- Identify ways to find a good conversation partner and show you’re interested in talking
- Practice strategies for starting and continuing conversations
- Prepare a list of future conversation topics
- Practice troubleshooting communication experiences
This session is one of several drop-in workshops we offer that are designed to provide Autistic or neurodivergent individuals opportunities to learn and practice essential social communication skills in a safe and welcoming setting.
Each 90-minute workshop covers a different aspect of social communication, providing information, tips, and strategies intended to help in day-to-day social situations. There is no cost to attend these sessions. If you register in advance you’ll be notified of any last minute changes to the schedule, but you can also just drop-in. Attend them all or just the ones that seem interesting to you.
Tuesday, October 7, 2025
6:00 – 7:30 pm
Online via Sinneave Connects
This workshop is virtual, via 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 easy! Click the button that says “Sinneave Connects” to access the hub and follow these steps:
- Create a user name
- Create a password (don’t forget to save it someplace handy)
- Select “Register”
- Choose the Social Communication Workshop: Strategies for Entering Conversations & Common Interests – October 7, 2025 course to access the virtual link.
- Click on the, “Choose session” button, and then press Confirm.
About the Presenter:
Sanique Denton is a Life Skills Coach at The Sinneave Family Foundation and has been working with neurodivergent and Autistic individuals for over 10 years. She has experience teaching and enhancing communication skills for Autistic individuals across their life span. Sanique is passionate about fostering an inclusive community and supporting individuals to thrive and reach their full potential.
If you have any questions about these workshops, please reach out by email at info@sinneavefoundation.org OR call us at 403 210-5000. We’re here to help.
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“What’s your thing?”
It is a question Daniel Moreno DeLuca would ask people visiting the Precision Medicine in Autism (Prisma) Lab to get them to relax.
The more “What’s your thing” conversations Moreno DeLuca and his team had, the more they realized they were on to something greater than just connecting with clients. They saw first-hand how folks lit up when given an opportunity to talk about their passions.
Click on the button below to read the full story.
September 23 @ 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Much of our everyday communication involves non-verbal body language and unwritten social rules. Many Autistic or neurodivergent people find it challenging to navigate social situations because they have a hard time interpreting various forms of non-verbal communication. But these skills can be learned!
In this session, you will have the opportunity to:
- Develop a strong foundation in understanding non-verbal cues in shared communication
- Discuss strategies for understanding non-verbal cues
Tuesday, September 23, 2025
5:00 – 6:30 pm
Online via Sinneave Connects
This session is one of several drop-in workshops we offer that are designed to provide Autistic or neurodivergent individuals opportunities to learn and practice essential social communication skills in a safe and welcoming setting. Each 90-minute workshop covers a different aspect of social communication, providing information, tips and strategies intended to help in day-to-day social situations.
There is no cost to attend these sessions. If you register in advance you’ll be notified of any last minute changes to the schedule, but you can also just drop-in. Attend them all or just the ones that seem interesting to you.
This workshop is virtual, via 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 easy! Click the button below that says “Sinneave Connects” to access the hub and follow these steps:
- Create a user name
- Create a password (don’t forget to save it someplace handy)
- Select “Register”
- Choose the Social Communication Workshop: The Art of Non-verbal Communication – September 23, 2025 course to access the virtual link.
- Click on the, “Choose session” button, and then press Confirm.
About the Presenter:
Yonatan Tesfagiorgis is a Life Skills Coach at The Sinneave Family Foundation and has been working with neurodivergent and Autistic individuals for over 8 years. He strives to offer skill building strategies using a neuro affirming framework and provides an inclusive space for all individuals.
If you have any questions about these workshops or if you need help navigating the Sinneave Connects online learning hub, please reach out by email at info@sinneavefoundation.org OR call us at 403 210-5000. We’re here to help.
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September 12 @ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
** Due to reasons beyond our control, the grand opening today had to be cancelled. However, come check out the exhibit starting tomorrow, September 13.**
Join Precision Medicine in Autism, the University of Alberta, CASA Mental Health, Positive Exposure, and The Sinneave Family Foundation for the grand opening of, “Celebrating Our Shared Humanity”. This photo exhibit explores a powerful question people on the autism spectrum in clinic are asked, “What’s your thing?”. We’ve heard about sharks, igneous rocks, clocks, Def Leppard, Star Wars, SpongeBob — each one meaningful in its own way.
Sometimes the answers come from kids and young adults. Other times, from families whose eyes light up as they talk about their loved one’s focused interest — something that brings focus, excitement, and connection.
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September 25 @ 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.
On Thursday, September 25, we’re hosting a special activity during the Your Time, Your Way time.
Drop-in as we play Minecraft Bingo together. Participants will need to bring their own device and have an existing subscription to Minecraft games. If you are interested in playing Minecraft Bingo, please arrive promptly at 5:00 pm so you can be placed in a team as the game will begin at 5:15 pm.
Thursday, September 25
5:00 – 7:30 p.m.
In-person @ The Ability Hub (300, 3820 24 Ave NW)
Here are some other suggestions of things you may like to do if you aren’t interested in playing Minecraft Bingo, 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
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September 23 @ 4:00 pm – 5:30 pm
During this 90-minute virtual workshop (with breaks) facilitated by the Centre for Sexuality, parents will gain the skills needed to support their Autistic children in building healthy relationships. Parents and caregivers will learn and have an opportunity to discuss:
• Strategies for addressing and supporting common relationship challenges experienced by Autistic individuals
• Sexual health resources
• Tools for starting and sustaining meaningful conversations
• Open discussion and Q&A opportunities
Parents of children of all ages are encouraged to attend this free informative session. We hope to see you there!
Tuesday, September 23, 2025
4:00 – 5:30 p.m.
Online via Microsoft Teams
To attend virtually, please click on the button that says, “Join the webinar”. When you click the button, you will be directed to a Microsoft Teams webinar link hosted by the Centre for Sexuality.