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• Connect Online Adult Community Group

  • Start
    Thursday, January 04, 2024
  •  
  • End
    Thursday, April 03, 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    16 sessions
  • Location
    Online via Zoom

  Register

  
  AutismTN Connect Online Community Group is a welcoming community for Autistic adults (18+). To learn more about Connect, visit https://autismtn.org/connect.

  This group typically meets on Zoom on the first Thursday of each month from 6:30 P.M. - 8:00 P.M. CT.

  If you have questions about Connect, please contact Casey Davis, the Connect Facilitator, at casey@autismtn.org.
  
  Note: AutismTN Connect also meets In-Person!  If you'd like to attend, please register HERE.

  A special thanks to Alonso Calderón Guzmán for designing the Connect image!

  
  

  
  

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• Unveiling Autistic Identity

  • Start
    Wednesday, January 10, 2024
  •  
  • End
    Wednesday, June 04, 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    18 sessions
  • Location
    Online via Zoom

  Register

  
  AutismTN's Unveiling Autistic Identity community group provides a welcoming space for adults who are discovering their Autistic identity later in life. As professional and public understanding of autism continues to improve, many people are becoming aware that they are Autistic in adulthood, either through a professional diagnosis or self-identification, often as a result of seeking mental health support or when their children are diagnosed. This group fosters inclusive and supportive conversation and connection for late-identified Autistic people to share experiences and offer mutual support, explore their newfound identity and examine what it means for their lives, share in the self-discovery process, and empower each other to embrace their Autistic identity and become self-advocates.

  This group typically meets on Zoom on the first Wednesday of each month from 6:30 P.M. - 8:00 P.M. CT.

  If you have questions about Unveiling Autistic Identity, please contact Andrea Gutierrez, UAI Facilitator, at andrea@autismtn.org.

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• WENBY (Women, Gender Expansive, and Non-Binary Adult Community Group) Connect Online Gathering

  • Start
    Thursday, December 19, 2024
  •  
  • End
    Thursday, April 03, 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    5 sessions
  • Location
    Zoom

  Register

  
  

  Join us for WENBY Connect, AutismTN's new community group dedicated to Women, Gender Expansive, and Non-Binary Autistic adults!

  When: Every month on a Thursday (see specific dates) from 5:00 p.m. - 6:15 p.m. CT
  Where: Zoom

  Event Details:

  WENBY Connect is a new extension of AutismTN's Connect Social-Networking group for Autistic adults in Middle TN and beyond. WENBY Connect is an hour dedicated to Women, Gender Expansive, and Non-Binary Autistic adults to spend time hanging out and exploring new experiences together. This program extension came about after feedback from current Connect group members looking to meet other women and non-binary neurodivergent peers.

  By "Gender Expansive," we mean someone whose gender identity and/or gender expression expands beyond, actively resists, and/or does not conform to the current cultural or social expectations of gender, particularly in relation to male or female. This can include, but is not limited to, people who identify as genderfluid, genderqueer, or agender.

  Some folks who are interested in WENBY Connect may also find community and support in AutismTN's The Spectrum Connection. The Spectrum Connection (TSC) was developed in 2019 to provide support and resources along with a space to connect and build community for LGBTQIA+ Autistic adults.

  If you have questions about WENBY Connect, please contact admin@autismtn.org.
  

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• Familias Latinas Especiales - Un grupo de familias del espectro del Autismo de Tennessee

  • Start
    Monday, January 13, 2025
  •  
  • End
    Monday, May 12, 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    5 sessions
  • Location
    Online via Zoom
  • Registered
    2 registrants

  Register

  
  

  Un grupo de familias del espectro del Autismo de Tennessee

  Grupo de para familias latinas de niños con autismo

  Este grupo se reúne en línea el segundo lunes de cada mes a las 6:30 p. m. y ofrece a los padres y cuidadores de personas con autismo la oportunidad de construir una red de apoyo. 

  Cuándo: El segundo lunes de cada mes.
  Hora: 6:30 P.M. - 8:30 P.M. CT 
  Dónde: En línea

  Los solicitantes de registro recibirán el enlace de Zoom en el correo electrónico de confirmación de registro
  

  Facilitado por: Teresa Lira y Luz Belleza-Binns

  
  

  Este evento está abierto a los padres/cuidadores que no son miembros de AutismTN. Por favor, comparta la información sobre el grupo con cualquier padre/cuidador que pueda beneficiarse de su participación.

  English

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• Spectrum Dads

  • Start
    Tuesday, January 21, 2025
  •  
  • End
    Tuesday, May 20, 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    5 sessions
  • Location
    Online via Zoom
  • Registered
    13 registrants

  Register

  AutismTN's Spectrum Dads is an inclusive online space where fathers and father figures can connect with other parents and caregivers to share experiences, to build relationships that can offer ongoing support and encouragement, and connect with others who understand the unique unique aspects of supporting an Autistic person (of any age).

  Spectrum Dads typically meets online on the 3rd Tuesday of every month. When you register, the Zoom link will be in your confirmation email.

  AutismTN Spectrum Dads: 
  

  Tuesday, January 21, 2025

  Tuesday, February 18, 2025

  Tuesday, March 18, 2025

  Tuesday, April 15, 2025

  Tuesday, May 20, 2025

  
  

  Time: 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. CT

  Location: Online via Zoom

  If you have questions about this group, please email outreach@autismtn.org, or call/text AutismTN's HELPline at 615-270-2077.

  Click here for frequently asked questions!

  
  

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• Game Day

  • Start
    Saturday, February 01, 2025
  •  
  • End
    Saturday, May 03, 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Near Rose Park in Nashville TN (location will be provided upon registration)

  Register

  

  Join AutismTN for a few hours of fun and games!
  Game Day is a great opportunity to make friends in a relaxed environment. We'll have a variety of games to play, including classic favorites like Connect4 and Scrabble, as well as newer games like Catan. Light refreshments are provided.

  Game Day is appropriate for children, teens, and adults on the autism spectrum. Parents/caregivers and siblings may join too. Bring a friend or come and make new ones – everyone is welcome! 

  If you have any questions, please reach out to Ashley Lira-Rivera: ashley@autismtn.org. 

  ¡La facilitadora del día del juego de AutismTN, Ashley Lira-Rivera, habla inglés y español! Comuníquese con ella si tiene preguntas o necesita ayuda para registrarse.
  

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• Volunteer Opportunity! 2025 Birthday Bash

  • When
    Saturday, April 05, 2025
  •  
    8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
  • Location
    The City Forum 2231-T, 2231 Madison St Suite D, Clarksville, TN

  Register

  
  

  AutismTN Birthday Bash! 
  Saturday, April 5, 2024

  We need your help for the upcoming Birthday Bash to be a success! Volunteers are needed to help with setup, checking in attendees, managing the quiet rooms, and teardown and clean up. If you are able to help, please sign up for a volunteer position using the link below.

  Volunteers are needed from 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

  Address is: The City Forum 2231-T, 2231 Madison St Suite D, Clarksville, TN

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• Birthday Bash

  • When
    Saturday, April 05, 2025
  •  
    9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
  • Location
    2231-T, 2231 Madison St Suite D, Clarksville , TN
  • Spaces left
    0

  Registration is closed

  
  

  At AutismTN, we believe that everyone deserves to celebrate and be celebrated.  With this in mind, we are pleased to announce the 6th Annual Birthday Bash, during which participants of all ages will be celebrated in a fun, comfortable, and inclusive way.

  When: Saturday, April 5th  9A.M. - 11A.M.
  Where: The City Forum - 2231 Madison St, Ste D Clarksville, TN

  

  
  

  The City Forum is a family-friendly, indoor, fun center with electric go karts, mini golf, laser tag, arcade games, bowling, and a carousel. There's something for everyone!

  The City Forum will be adjusted to accommodate sensory sensitivities, with reduced lighting and sound levels.  We will also have a designated 'quiet room' available for breaks. This is a great opportunity to experience all the fun The City Forum has to offer in a comfortable and inclusive environment.  
  
  Birthday Bash attendees will have exclusive use of the The City Forum for a two hour period. The doors will open to the public at 11 a.m. Birthday Bash attendees are welcome to stay after 11a.m.
  

  
  Registration is required!  Here are the details:
  

  AutismTN Members enjoy early bird registration to celebrate with us!  Not a member of AutismTN? Join us! Click HERE for more information.
  
  Birthday Bash celebrates Autistic self advocates and your immediate family/supports.  Therefore, we are limiting the number of guests per attendee to 3. (Groups should total 4 people max.)

  Registration will open as follows:

  • Autistic Self-Advocate, Family Premier, and Birthday Club Members: February 21st, 2025
  • Family - Advantage Members: February 28th, 2025
  • Family - Basic Members: March 7th, 2025
  • General Public: March 14th, 2025
    
    
    Registration closes on Friday, March 21st, 2025. Unfortunately, AutismTN cannot accommodate day-of or walk-up registrations for this event.

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• The Spectrum Connection (LGBTQIA+ Autistic Adult Community Group) Catio Cat Lounge Meetup

  • When
    Sunday, April 06, 2025
  •  
    3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
  • Location
    Location Provided Upon Registration

  
  

  Catio Cat Lounge Meetup

  Exclusively for members of The Spectrum Connection (TSC)
  (LGBTQIA+ Autistic Adult Community Group)

  Event Details:

  Date: Sunday, April 6th, 2024

  Time: 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. CT

  The registration form can be found on TSC's private Discord server.
  Location and details will be provided upon registration.

  With funding from the NEXT for Autism grant, this event is FREE for up to 16 TSC members. Tickets are first-come, first-served.

  To join The Spectrum Connection, fill out the interest form HERE or email leah@autismtn.org.

  We look forward to seeing you!

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• EmployME Small Group Classes

  • Start
    Monday, April 07, 2025
  •  
  • End
    Monday, April 28, 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    4 sessions
  • Location
    Online via Zoom
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  
  

  The EmployME Job Seeker Program is designed to empower and support Autistic self-advocates in their journey toward meaningful employment.

  AutismTN's EmployME program is strengths-based and centers neurodiversity by celebrating and embracing the diverse and unique perspectives of Autistic people.

  AutismTN is offering EmployME small group sessions which include a series of four sessions taking place weekly over the course of one month. This series is offered online on Zoom.

  Session 1: Understanding Your Autistic Strengths and Beginning Your Job Search
  Session 2: Designing Your Professional Profile: Resumes, Cover Letters and Job Applications
  Session 3: Decoding the Interview Process
  Session 4: Navigating the Workplace as a Self-Advocate

  Participants will receive AutismTN's Job Seeker Resource Guide, which will be linked in your confirmation email and discussed over the course of the four sessions. Your registration confirmation email will also include a link to a closed EmployME Peer Support Facebook group to connect and share experiences and support with other participants.

  Participants will also have the option to schedule a one-hour one-on-one coaching session to delve deeper into the discussed topics, receive guidance on specific job opportunities, or receive personalized career advice.

  Facilitator

  

  EmployME Job Seeker small group sessions are facilitated by Casey Davis, Adult Program Director at Autism Tennessee. As a seasoned professional with over a decade of leadership experience and a background in managing teams, hiring staff, and coaching individuals, Casey brings a wealth of experience to EmployME participants.At the Boston-based public media station WGBH, Casey managed a team of up to eight staff, where she also directed multiple federally funded fellowship programs. As an adjunct professor at LSU, she regularly guides students in their career development. Casey has also provided mentorship to Autistic adults through the Lurie Center for Autism's Aspire internship program. Casey became aware that she is Autistic at the age of 33. She is particularly passionate about supporting fellow Autistic community members in pursuing and realizing their personal and professional goals and to helping create truly inclusive workplaces where everyone feels like they belong.

  Thanks to a generous grant from the Glen and Dorothy Stillwell Charitable Trust, AutismTN is thrilled to offer the April 2025 series of EmployME free of charge! Please be aware that space is limited to only 15 participants. By registering, you are committing to attend all four sessions. It is crucial that each spot is filled by someone who can fully participate, as not attending deprives another potential participant of this opportunity. If your circumstances change and you cannot commit to all sessions, please inform us promptly so we can offer your spot to someone else.

  Please confirm that you can attend all four classes before registering.

  Zoom Sessions will be recorded for program training and improvement purposes. You will be asked to complete a survey upon completion of the program.

  If you are a service provider and have questions about EmployME, please contact Casey Davis, Adult Program Director, at casey@autismtn.org.

  
  

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• UAI In-Person: Artist Talk and Introduction to Pinhole Photography

  • When
    Sunday, April 13, 2025
  •  
    2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    Nashville (Location Provided Upon Registration)
  • Spaces left
    9

  Register

  
  

  Join us for this AutismTN UAI In-Person Special Event:

  Artist Talk and Introduction to Pinhole Photography with Visual Artist and UAI Community Member Mary Addison Hackett

  When: Sunday, April 13 from 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. CT

  Where: Nashville (address will be shared in email confirmation after registration)

  Event Details:

  Visual artist and UAI Community Member Mary Addison Hackett will discuss pinhole photography in connection with a current project that explores the intersection of photography, neurodiversity, and mental health. Hackett will present pinhole prints from the project, along with cameras she has made from recycled and found objects such as tea kettles and kitchen timers.

  Participants will learn the basics of pinhole photography and are encouraged to bring simple objects they wish to transform into cameras, (cereal boxes, coffee tins, or soup cans). An overview of the darkroom process and resources for those interested in starting their own journey with pinhole photography will be provided.

  

  This event is generously support by a grant from NEXT for AUTISM, which helps us provide free monthly Autistic-led Self-Advocate Community Group gatherings.

  About AutismTN Unveiling Autistic Identity:

  The Unveiling Autistic Identity (UAI) community group provides a welcoming space for adults who are discovering their Autistic identity later in life.

  If you have questions about Unveiling Autistic Identity, please contact Andrea Gutierrez, UAI Facilitator, at andrea@autismtn.org.

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• Connect In-Person at Catio Cat Lounge

  • When
    Thursday, April 17, 2025
  •  
    6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
  • Location
    Catio Cat Lounge - 2416 Music Valley Dr Suite 119, Nashville, TN 37214
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  
  

  Join us for a Gathering at the Catio Cat Lounge!

  When: Thursday, April 17 from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. CT

  Where: Catio Cat Lounge - 2416 Music Valley Dr Suite 119, Nashville, TN 37214

  Join us at Catio Cat Lounge, a cozy, cage-free space where friendly cats roam freely and provide the perfect setting to socialize and hang out with the lounge’s resident (adoptable) kitties. This gathering is a great opportunity to enjoy good company—both human and feline!

  About AutismTN Connect In-Person:

  AutismTN Connect In-Person is a welcoming space for Autistic adults to come together in-person and share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs.

  
  

  This event is generously support by a grant from NEXT for AUTISM, which helps us provide free monthly Autistic-led Self-Advocate Community Group gatherings.

  
  

  If you have questions about Connect In-Person, please contact Casey Davis, the Connect Facilitator, at casey@autismtn.org.

  Want to support AutismTN's mission, so we can host more free and low-cost events?

  Make a donation today at www.autismtn.org/Donate!

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• Celebrate Autistic Artists: Autism Acceptance Month Showcase

  • When
    Saturday, April 19, 2025
  •  
    1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
  • Location
    Green Hills Library - 3701 Benham Ave, Nashville, TN 37215

  Register

  
  

  
  

  Autism Acceptance Month Artist Showcase 

  Saturday, April 19th from 1-3 p.m. CT 
  Nashville Public Library Green Hills Branch - Large Meeting Room

  Join AutismTN and Green Hills Library in celebrating Autism Acceptance Month! AutismTN will be hosting a special artist reception at the library honoring the creativity and perspectives of Autistic artists. This event will showcase artwork that highlights the intersection of neurodiversity and artistic expression. During the reception, featured artists will share insights into their creative process, discuss how their neurodiversity influences their work, and connect with the community.

  Following the reception, the artwork will remain on display throughout April in the library’s display cases, accompanied by artist information. Don't miss this opportunity to celebrate and support Autistic artists!

  For questions or to request accommodations, please email outreach@autismtn.org.
  

  
  

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• Volunteer Opportunity! AutismTN AfterBash

  • When
    Thursday, April 24, 2025
  • Location
    Loveless Barn - 8400 TN 100, Nashville TN

  Register

  
  

  Are you able to volunteer at the AfterBash?

  Date: Thursday, April 24, 2025
  Time: varies by volunteer position
  Where: Loveless Barn - 8400 TN 100, Nashville

  AutismTN seeks enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers to assist with our 4th Annual AfterBash on Thursday, April 24, 2025! This exciting fundraiser supports AutismTN’s mission to create meaningful opportunities for connection and community for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. Volunteers play a vital role in making this event a success, and we need your help!

  Volunteer Roles and Responsibilities:
  

  • Setup: Assist with event preparation, including arranging tables, setting up decor, and organizing materials for a smooth event experience.
  • Check-in: Welcome guests as they arrive, ensure they have the necessary event materials, and provide directions as needed.
  • Auction Assistance: Help with the silent and live auctions, including setting up auction items, assisting attendees place silent auction item bids, and providing guests with assistance throughout the auction process.
  • Post-event Tear Down: After the event, help break down the setup, pack up and load materials.

  Your time and efforts will directly impact the lives of individuals in the autism community by supporting our programs, such as Birthday Bash, Adult and Family groups, and more. We look forward to having you join us for a memorable evening!

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• RESCHEDULED: 2025 Volunteer Open House

  • When
    Saturday, May 24, 2025
  •  
    12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
  • Location
    1125 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN 37203

  Register

  

  AutismTN 2025 Volunteer Open House

  Join AutismTN for a Volunteer Open House to connect with our programs, current volunteers and facilitators, and AutismTN staff to learn more about how to make us a part of your volunteer journey in 2025!

  Date: May 24th, 2025
  Time: 12pm - 2pm CT
  Location: Operation Stand Down TN

  Are you looking for a meaningful way to give back to the autism community in Middle Tennessee? 

  Join us for AutismTN's Volunteer Open House, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about our organization, the impact of our programs, and the many ways you can get involved.

  At AutismTN, we provide essential information and referral resources, operate a dedicated helpline, and offer self-advocate social networking programs. Volunteers play a vital role in helping us fulfill our mission, whether through community outreach, event support, or program-specific assistance.

  Come meet our team, discover the benefits of volunteering, and find the perfect opportunity to make a difference. Whether you’re looking for a one-time commitment or an ongoing role, there’s a place for you at AutismTN!

  Light refreshments will be provided

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