SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA AUTISM COMMUNITY CALENDAR
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Online Events
Online Events
NOTICE: We will continue to update this page to add new webinars and other online events during the coronavirus. Organizers: Please send new listings and event updates to: asasfba@gmail.com.
Also, check out our page dedicated to coronavirus resources and online events:
Thursday, September 24: Emotional Health and Well-Being During COVID19
Time: 6:00-7:30 p.m. *Please note this is a different time than normal
Where: Online: RSVP here.
What: Come learn some new ways to cope with feelings around the pandemic during this challenging time. We will be having a discussion around ways to help promote emotional health and well-being during COVID-19.
Time: 6:00-7:30 p.m. *Please note this is a different time than normal
Where: Online: RSVP here.
What: Come learn some new ways to cope with feelings around the pandemic during this challenging time. We will be having a discussion around ways to help promote emotional health and well-being during COVID-19.
Tuesday, September 29: Online Baby n' Me Music Class
Time: 3:30 p.m.
Where: Online: Coming Soon. Information here.
What: Are you the parent of a child with delays or a disability, aged 0-5 years?
Are you looking for a fun way to play with your child AND connect with other parents?
Come join us for a fun-filled, one-hour session each month, where a small group of parents and children come together to play and connect through MUSIC! We will share activities to strengthen your connection with your child through joyful music-making experiences, and you will have the opportunity to meet other parents of babies, toddlers and preschoolers in a fun, relaxed way!
Time: 3:30 p.m.
Where: Online: Coming Soon. Information here.
What: Are you the parent of a child with delays or a disability, aged 0-5 years?
Are you looking for a fun way to play with your child AND connect with other parents?
Come join us for a fun-filled, one-hour session each month, where a small group of parents and children come together to play and connect through MUSIC! We will share activities to strengthen your connection with your child through joyful music-making experiences, and you will have the opportunity to meet other parents of babies, toddlers and preschoolers in a fun, relaxed way!
Wednesday, September 30: SOS (Saving Our Sanity) - Parent Support During the Pandemic
Time: 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Where: Online. Register here.
What: We are all in uncharted waters and facing stress on many levels. Add in the extra worries that come with having a child who learns and thinks differently and the task can be overwhelming. Yet we need to find the emotional reserves to cope so that we can be there for our children and family.
On Wednesday evenings through December 16, Laura Elizabeth DeHority – LMFT 114979, will lead an online support group for parents/primary caregivers who want to improve their outlook and life as parents of a child with special needs. Each week, Laura Beth will introduce a new topic related to positive parenting and self-care sharing her insights as a marriage and family therapist. There will be time to share and learn from the other members of the group while connecting with others dealing with similarly challenging lives. The focus will be on parents with children any age/any diagnosis.
Time: 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
Where: Online. Register here.
What: We are all in uncharted waters and facing stress on many levels. Add in the extra worries that come with having a child who learns and thinks differently and the task can be overwhelming. Yet we need to find the emotional reserves to cope so that we can be there for our children and family.
On Wednesday evenings through December 16, Laura Elizabeth DeHority – LMFT 114979, will lead an online support group for parents/primary caregivers who want to improve their outlook and life as parents of a child with special needs. Each week, Laura Beth will introduce a new topic related to positive parenting and self-care sharing her insights as a marriage and family therapist. There will be time to share and learn from the other members of the group while connecting with others dealing with similarly challenging lives. The focus will be on parents with children any age/any diagnosis.
Wednesday, September 30: Shupin: Delivered! Science—Register by September 27—5:00 pm
Time: 1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
Where: Online: RSVP here.
What: As part of the Shupin Social (e)Club, this new fun and interactive virtual program delivers everything you need for creative, hands-on activities.
All-inclusive mystery boxes are delivered directly to participants’ homes. Unaware of what the exact activity will be, we will open our boxes together to reveal materials needed to complete arts, science, and culinary projects. Participants are guided through a step-by-step process to complete the activity while enjoying a unique experience and socializing with peers.
Open to young adults, ages 18+ with and without developmental disabilities who need little to no support to participate.Fee: $20 per event*. Limited space available.
If this is your first Shupin (e)Club event, please be sure to fill out our information form first.
Time: 1:00 - 2:30 p.m.
Where: Online: RSVP here.
What: As part of the Shupin Social (e)Club, this new fun and interactive virtual program delivers everything you need for creative, hands-on activities.
All-inclusive mystery boxes are delivered directly to participants’ homes. Unaware of what the exact activity will be, we will open our boxes together to reveal materials needed to complete arts, science, and culinary projects. Participants are guided through a step-by-step process to complete the activity while enjoying a unique experience and socializing with peers.
Open to young adults, ages 18+ with and without developmental disabilities who need little to no support to participate.Fee: $20 per event*. Limited space available.
If this is your first Shupin (e)Club event, please be sure to fill out our information form first.
Tuesday, October 6: Sharing the Journey
Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Where: Online. Register here.
What: Wherever you are in your parenting journey, we offer support from the moment your child has a confirmed or suspected disability diagnosis. This is often confusing and difficult. Together, we will create a plan and explore strategies that will help you, your child, and your entire family thrive.
Time: 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Where: Online. Register here.
What: Wherever you are in your parenting journey, we offer support from the moment your child has a confirmed or suspected disability diagnosis. This is often confusing and difficult. Together, we will create a plan and explore strategies that will help you, your child, and your entire family thrive.
October, starting October 15: Sweetwater Spectrum Replication Symposium 2.0
Time: Weekly sessions begin October 15th at 4:00 p.m.
Where: Online: Register here. Or email here.
What: Join Sweetwater Spectrum for the second year of our Housing Replication Symposium. Learn about how to develop housing for individuals on the Autism Spectrum.
Sweetwater Spectrum is an intentional small community for adults on the autism spectrum or similar disabilities.
Time: Weekly sessions begin October 15th at 4:00 p.m.
Where: Online: Register here. Or email here.
What: Join Sweetwater Spectrum for the second year of our Housing Replication Symposium. Learn about how to develop housing for individuals on the Autism Spectrum.
Sweetwater Spectrum is an intentional small community for adults on the autism spectrum or similar disabilities.
October 17-20: Stanford (Virtual) Neurodiversity Summit
Where: Online: Register here.
What: The theme of this year's Stanford Neurodiversity Summit is "Scaling Up the Neurodiversity at Work Initiative". This virtual summit is a unique conference bringing together neurodiverse/neurodivergent individuals, employers, service agencies, educators and students, parents, and professionals from all areas of the field. We are planning the conference with Universal Design in mind, to maximize accessibility and inclusion; we want neurodiverse individuals to participate. Preliminary schedule available.
Where: Online: Register here.
What: The theme of this year's Stanford Neurodiversity Summit is "Scaling Up the Neurodiversity at Work Initiative". This virtual summit is a unique conference bringing together neurodiverse/neurodivergent individuals, employers, service agencies, educators and students, parents, and professionals from all areas of the field. We are planning the conference with Universal Design in mind, to maximize accessibility and inclusion; we want neurodiverse individuals to participate. Preliminary schedule available.
October 21 – Housing Rights for Families with Special Needs Children
Where: Webinar. Register here.
What: Many parents who advocate for their children’s rights in school and with Regional Centers do not know their children have rights to fair housing as well. Here, we discuss federal and state protections against disability discrimination in the home, such as rights to reasonable accommodation; alteration, repair and maintenance of accessible property features; and assistance animals. We offer concrete methods for getting the alterations and accommodations your child needs to be safe and comfortable at home. Guest speaker: Celia McGuinness, a seasoned disability rights trial lawyer.
Where: Webinar. Register here.
What: Many parents who advocate for their children’s rights in school and with Regional Centers do not know their children have rights to fair housing as well. Here, we discuss federal and state protections against disability discrimination in the home, such as rights to reasonable accommodation; alteration, repair and maintenance of accessible property features; and assistance animals. We offer concrete methods for getting the alterations and accommodations your child needs to be safe and comfortable at home. Guest speaker: Celia McGuinness, a seasoned disability rights trial lawyer.
October 24 – November 16: The Achilles Cup
Where: More information here.
What: As the Fall season approaches, we are incredibly excited to announce an event that celebrates the power of Achilles and the spirit of friendly team competition. Announcing the first ever Achilles Cup! The Achilles Cup is a three-week challenge and team competition that brings together the entire Achilles community. Does your team have what it takes to run the most miles and raise the most funds? Join the Achilles Cup and take the challenge.
Where: More information here.
What: As the Fall season approaches, we are incredibly excited to announce an event that celebrates the power of Achilles and the spirit of friendly team competition. Announcing the first ever Achilles Cup! The Achilles Cup is a three-week challenge and team competition that brings together the entire Achilles community. Does your team have what it takes to run the most miles and raise the most funds? Join the Achilles Cup and take the challenge.
October 26-28: 2020 National Convention
Where: Online: Register here.
What: The Arc's National Convention is coming up October 26 – 28, and this year we are making it possible for you to participate from anywhere!
Join us for three days of inspiring online sessions, announcements, and networking opportunities to learn how others are navigating challenges both old and new.
Where: Online: Register here.
What: The Arc's National Convention is coming up October 26 – 28, and this year we are making it possible for you to participate from anywhere!
Join us for three days of inspiring online sessions, announcements, and networking opportunities to learn how others are navigating challenges both old and new.
Thursdays Bi-Weekly: Facebook Live with the Dream Achievers Band
Time: 12:30 p.m.
Where: Facebook Live: https://www.facebook.com/dreamachieversband
What: LIVE VIRTUAL CONCERTS WITH THE DREAM ACHIEVERS BAND (Performing Artists with Autism). Typically held on Thursdays at 12:30pm (Pacific Time), live streaming on Facebook. As we adjust to life and shelter-in-place, we hope to bring you musical joy while we light it up blue and follow proper social distancing. The band would love to have you join us to bring communities together during this difficult time. Check their Facebook events page for upcoming concert dates and times HERE.
Time: 12:30 p.m.
Where: Facebook Live: https://www.facebook.com/dreamachieversband
What: LIVE VIRTUAL CONCERTS WITH THE DREAM ACHIEVERS BAND (Performing Artists with Autism). Typically held on Thursdays at 12:30pm (Pacific Time), live streaming on Facebook. As we adjust to life and shelter-in-place, we hope to bring you musical joy while we light it up blue and follow proper social distancing. The band would love to have you join us to bring communities together during this difficult time. Check their Facebook events page for upcoming concert dates and times HERE.
Thursdays Weekly: Adults on the Autism Spectrum Support Group
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Where: Zoom Meeting ID: 859-274-680
Zoom link*: https://zoom.us/j/859274680?pwd=N1FQMkRUWHd6SmkvWUN4Q2FDUWN2QT09
*Password protected access. Please e-mail lisa-sun@mentalhealthsf.org to receive the password to join this recurring meeting.
What: A weekly, supportive space for peers who identify as adults on the autism spectrum to share their successes, challenges, and deepen their understanding of autism. Peer facilitated, drop-in support group, no long term commitment, no advanced registration. Presented by Mental Health Association of San Francisco. This is an in-person support group that will be held online through April. To call in rather than Zoom, please use this number: 1-669-900-6833 (San Jose). Enter the Meeting ID and press the password onto the keypad. To mute and un-mute yourself, press *6
Time: 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Where: Zoom Meeting ID: 859-274-680
Zoom link*: https://zoom.us/j/859274680?pwd=N1FQMkRUWHd6SmkvWUN4Q2FDUWN2QT09
*Password protected access. Please e-mail lisa-sun@mentalhealthsf.org to receive the password to join this recurring meeting.
What: A weekly, supportive space for peers who identify as adults on the autism spectrum to share their successes, challenges, and deepen their understanding of autism. Peer facilitated, drop-in support group, no long term commitment, no advanced registration. Presented by Mental Health Association of San Francisco. This is an in-person support group that will be held online through April. To call in rather than Zoom, please use this number: 1-669-900-6833 (San Jose). Enter the Meeting ID and press the password onto the keypad. To mute and un-mute yourself, press *6
Weekly: Facebook Live with Autism Society of America
Time: Various
Where: Facebook Live: https://www.facebook.com/AutismSociety/
What: The Autism Society of America launched a Facebook Live series dedicated to providing relevant, COVID-19 information for the autism community. The weekly broadcast will feature an expert discussing specific topics like mental health, federal emergency funding, and continuing education at home.Additionally, we have partnered with myHana, an organization provided educational programming support for caretakers, to co-host a second Facebook Live series. Experts will be discussing ongoing challenges for caretakers during the COVID-19 crisis. Click here to watch past episodes.
Time: Various
Where: Facebook Live: https://www.facebook.com/AutismSociety/
What: The Autism Society of America launched a Facebook Live series dedicated to providing relevant, COVID-19 information for the autism community. The weekly broadcast will feature an expert discussing specific topics like mental health, federal emergency funding, and continuing education at home.Additionally, we have partnered with myHana, an organization provided educational programming support for caretakers, to co-host a second Facebook Live series. Experts will be discussing ongoing challenges for caretakers during the COVID-19 crisis. Click here to watch past episodes.
Tuesdays in September: Mindful Family Caregiving, Four-Part Online Series
Time: 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Where: Online
What: Presented by the Zen Caregiving Project. This online series will help you: Increase the capacity to cope with discomfort and suffering; Create a plan for maintaining self-care; Establish healthy boundaries in relationships; Deepen and sustain compassion for self and others. This course is designed for family caregivers, and those who have been/will be family caregivers. This course is not free, but accommodations are available to those with limited budgets. Learn more at: https://zencaregiving.org/events/event/mindful-family-caregiving-four-part-online-series/#
Time: 3:00 - 5:00 p.m.
Where: Online
What: Presented by the Zen Caregiving Project. This online series will help you: Increase the capacity to cope with discomfort and suffering; Create a plan for maintaining self-care; Establish healthy boundaries in relationships; Deepen and sustain compassion for self and others. This course is designed for family caregivers, and those who have been/will be family caregivers. This course is not free, but accommodations are available to those with limited budgets. Learn more at: https://zencaregiving.org/events/event/mindful-family-caregiving-four-part-online-series/#
Ongoing Events
NOTE ON CORONAVIRUS CANCELATIONS: Until further notice, please check with the organizer to confirm prior to traveling to any of the events below, as our listing may not reflect the most recent information. We will continue to update this page to add new webinars and other online events during this time. Organizers: Please send new listings and event updates to: asasfba@gmail.com.
Saturdays Weekly: Saturday Drum Circle
CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
Time: 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
Where: Pomeroy Center, 207 Skyline Blvd, San Francisco
What: Drum circles held on the first Saturday of the month from fall 2019 through February 2020. Come share good times with the drum circle hosted by Autism Families Bay Area and Pomeroy Center! This an open community space for children and adults with developmental and other disabilities, as well as neurotypical families, friends, and friends-to-be. No experience necessary -- this is a fun activity accessible to everyone of any level of functionality and skill. Upcoming events will be posted on the AFBA Facebook page. Check the AFBA Facebook page for cancellations or changes.
CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
Time: 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
Where: Pomeroy Center, 207 Skyline Blvd, San Francisco
What: Drum circles held on the first Saturday of the month from fall 2019 through February 2020. Come share good times with the drum circle hosted by Autism Families Bay Area and Pomeroy Center! This an open community space for children and adults with developmental and other disabilities, as well as neurotypical families, friends, and friends-to-be. No experience necessary -- this is a fun activity accessible to everyone of any level of functionality and skill. Upcoming events will be posted on the AFBA Facebook page. Check the AFBA Facebook page for cancellations or changes.
Saturdays Weekly: Dance for All - Inclusive Exercise Class
CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
Time: 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Where: El Camino YMCA, 2400 Grant Rd, Mountain View, CA 94040
What: This weekly class offers a safe and accepting environment where differences are accepted without judgment and special need participants can exercise side-by-side with their family members and other Y members. Attendees participate in a series of dances, choreographed to popular music enjoyed by youth, as well as Pilates-based exercise that exposes them to moves they would find in a number of other Y classes.
CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
Time: 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Where: El Camino YMCA, 2400 Grant Rd, Mountain View, CA 94040
What: This weekly class offers a safe and accepting environment where differences are accepted without judgment and special need participants can exercise side-by-side with their family members and other Y members. Attendees participate in a series of dances, choreographed to popular music enjoyed by youth, as well as Pilates-based exercise that exposes them to moves they would find in a number of other Y classes.
First Fridays Monthly: Movie Night at Northgate Mall
CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
Time: Drop in anytime between 4:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Where: Northgate Food Court, at the tables in front of Subway, 7000 Northgate Mall, San Rafael, CA
What: This program is excellent for socializing, only 1.5 hours of this program is spent in the theater. Come join us in the center of the Food Court at the Northgate Mall to meet a gang of friends, see a movie(or not) and grab dinner at the food court or bring a bag dinner. We encourage healthy meal choices. We will be there to help you pick a movie and get to it on time. This program has little to no supervision; you must be able to get your own dinner, to sit through a movie, leave, and meet your transportation without assistance. People choose different movies and it is arranged that no one has to go alone to a show unless they want to.
More Info: http://recinc.org/programs/Movienight.htm
CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
Time: Drop in anytime between 4:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Where: Northgate Food Court, at the tables in front of Subway, 7000 Northgate Mall, San Rafael, CA
What: This program is excellent for socializing, only 1.5 hours of this program is spent in the theater. Come join us in the center of the Food Court at the Northgate Mall to meet a gang of friends, see a movie(or not) and grab dinner at the food court or bring a bag dinner. We encourage healthy meal choices. We will be there to help you pick a movie and get to it on time. This program has little to no supervision; you must be able to get your own dinner, to sit through a movie, leave, and meet your transportation without assistance. People choose different movies and it is arranged that no one has to go alone to a show unless they want to.
More Info: http://recinc.org/programs/Movienight.htm
(Most) Saturdays: e-dance Dance Class
CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Where: Foster City Rec Center, Spirit Room, 650 Shell Blvd Foster City CA
What: Free, all-volunteer inclusive (typical and special needs) program that teaches children (boys & girls, 6 years old and up) coordination, flexibility and movement with music in a friendly, fun and family-like environment. To join in, come 15 minutes early to register and sign a waiver. Have your child in comfortable outfits and shoes (barefoot is allowed). Class will be in session on: 1/25; 2/1; 2/15; 2/22; 2/29; 3/7; 3/14; 3/21. For more info, email edancefostercity@gmail.com
CANCELED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Where: Foster City Rec Center, Spirit Room, 650 Shell Blvd Foster City CA
What: Free, all-volunteer inclusive (typical and special needs) program that teaches children (boys & girls, 6 years old and up) coordination, flexibility and movement with music in a friendly, fun and family-like environment. To join in, come 15 minutes early to register and sign a waiver. Have your child in comfortable outfits and shoes (barefoot is allowed). Class will be in session on: 1/25; 2/1; 2/15; 2/22; 2/29; 3/7; 3/14; 3/21. For more info, email edancefostercity@gmail.com
Closed Until Further Notice: AMC Sensory Friendly Films
Time: See participating theaters.
What: AMC is proud to partner with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings where we turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! Our Sensory Friendly Film program is available on the second and fourth Saturday (family-friendly) and Wednesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month.
More Info: https://www.amctheatres.com/programs/sensory-friendly-films
Time: See participating theaters.
What: AMC is proud to partner with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings where we turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! Our Sensory Friendly Film program is available on the second and fourth Saturday (family-friendly) and Wednesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month.
More Info: https://www.amctheatres.com/programs/sensory-friendly-films
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What is included in our calendar:
Inclusion in the SFASA events calendar lies in the discretion of the SFASA Communications Committee. Criteria include:
• Event must take place in the Bay Area. We will occasionally list events outside of the Bay Area if they are major events of interest to local families.
• Event must offer beneficial experience or information to autism families and must be in line with our values as an organization.
• Event must be hosted by a nonprofit, or if hosted by a for-profit entity, must be free to participants.
SFASA provides this calendar as a public service, there is no charge for a listing.
Submissions: Please submit your event info (text, not as an attachment) to: info@sfautismsociety.org
Inclusion in the SFASA events calendar lies in the discretion of the SFASA Communications Committee. Criteria include:
• Event must take place in the Bay Area. We will occasionally list events outside of the Bay Area if they are major events of interest to local families.
• Event must offer beneficial experience or information to autism families and must be in line with our values as an organization.
• Event must be hosted by a nonprofit, or if hosted by a for-profit entity, must be free to participants.
SFASA provides this calendar as a public service, there is no charge for a listing.
Submissions: Please submit your event info (text, not as an attachment) to: info@sfautismsociety.org
Please share your event with us. See our criteria above. info@sfautismsociety.org.
The Autism Society of the San Francisco Bay Area provides information but it does not constitute medical or legal information. Referrals provided are suggestions to organizations that might help, but do not constitute a recommendation. The Autism Society cannot be held responsible for consequences that arise from individual dealings with a professional or organization. The Autism Society provides an I&R service but individuals must assume personal responsibility for what they do with the information provided. Inclusion of any organization does not imply endorsement, and omission does not imply disapproval.
The Autism Society of the San Francisco Bay Area provides information but it does not constitute medical or legal information. Referrals provided are suggestions to organizations that might help, but do not constitute a recommendation. The Autism Society cannot be held responsible for consequences that arise from individual dealings with a professional or organization. The Autism Society provides an I&R service but individuals must assume personal responsibility for what they do with the information provided. Inclusion of any organization does not imply endorsement, and omission does not imply disapproval.