Support & Networking Groups
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San Francisco - City and County of San Francisco
South Bay - South Santa Clara County (San Jose, Sunnyvale, Gilroy, Milpitas)
Peninsula - San Mateo County, Palo Alto, Los Altos, Mountain View
East Bay - Alameda and Contra Costa Counties
North Bay - Marin County
Santa Cruz/Monterey - Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Monterey Counties
San Francisco - City and County of San Francisco
South Bay - South Santa Clara County (San Jose, Sunnyvale, Gilroy, Milpitas)
Peninsula - San Mateo County, Palo Alto, Los Altos, Mountain View
East Bay - Alameda and Contra Costa Counties
North Bay - Marin County
Santa Cruz/Monterey - Santa Cruz, San Benito, and Monterey Counties
Region: San Francisco
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AASCEND General Meetings
San Francisco Website: http://www.aascend.org Meeting Times: Third Saturdays, check AASCEND calendar of events for details. AASCEND (Autism, Aspergers Spectrum Coalition for Education, Networking and Development) is focused on the needs of adults on the spectrum. AASCEND hosts monthly general meetings, special events, and community-building special events in San Francisco. The AASCEND Job Club (First Saturdays) is an employment initiative for adults of all ages on the autism spectrum who want to prepare for a job search and employment. |
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UCSF STAR Center for ASD and & NDDs First Steps
San Francisco Website: https://star.ucsf.edu Flyer: https://star.ucsf.edu/sites/star.ucsf.edu/files/First-Steps-flyer-final-feb.pdf Meeting Times: Tuesdays 4:00 - 5:30 p.m. (contact STAR Center to sign up first) STAR offers resources and support for individuals and families of individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). First Steps is a six-week program offering for parents of children under six who have recently been diagnosed with ASD. For more information on any of the STAR Center's many programs or services, call (415) 502-3500 or email STAR@UCSF.edu. Also: PEERS (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relationship Skills) is a 14-week program for teens, or a 16-week program for young adults, which utilizes evidence-based social skills intervention for teens and young adults who are interested in learning ways to build and maintain positive friendships. |
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Support for Families of Children with Disabilities Parent Group
San Francisco Website: https://www.supportforfamilies.org Meeting Times: 4th Tuesdays, 6:30 - 8:15 p.m. Support for Families provides an extensive resource database, support groups, mentor programs, and events for families of children with disabilities. Parent Group meets at Support for Families, 1663 Mission Street #700, San Francisco. Facilitated by Diana Blank, LCSW. Limited childcare is available, RSVP early. RSVP to (415) 920-5040 or email info@supportforfamilies.org. More information in Spanish here, in English here. |
Parent Advocates for Neurodevelopmental Disability Housing in San Francisco (PANDH-SF)
San Francisco
Website: http://www.pandh-sf.org
Meeting Times: First Tuesdays, 6:15 - 8:15 p.m.
This group meets at Support for Families, 1663 Mission Street, 7th Floor, San Francisco, on the first Tuesday of the month, from 6:15-8:15 PM to discuss the autism and DD housing crisis in the city. PANDH works to find solutions for their own children and the broader community. For more information, contact ltung@supportforfamilies.org.
San Francisco
Website: http://www.pandh-sf.org
Meeting Times: First Tuesdays, 6:15 - 8:15 p.m.
This group meets at Support for Families, 1663 Mission Street, 7th Floor, San Francisco, on the first Tuesday of the month, from 6:15-8:15 PM to discuss the autism and DD housing crisis in the city. PANDH works to find solutions for their own children and the broader community. For more information, contact ltung@supportforfamilies.org.
Oakes Children's Center Caregiver/Child Support Group
San Francisco
Website: https://www.oakeschildrenscenter.org
Flyer: https://e5da1c9a-33ae-43e8-98c5-110f23751922.filesusr.com/ugd/0778d4_973e94f558824e71ab1a1eba175d50c4.pdf
Meeting Times: Thursdays, 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Oakes Children’s Center (OCC) offers educational programs for youths and caregivers in the San Francisco area, including therapeutic services, comprehensive assessment, and clinical training, particularly in underserved communities. The Wise Caregiver Group with Child & Youth Play Therapy Group is open to Oakes clients and their families. The group will include sharing and information, and includes dinner for all families. Come tap into your caregiver wisdom, because all families have wisdom to spare, even if they don't know it yet! Contact Oakes for info and to sign up.
San Francisco
Website: https://www.oakeschildrenscenter.org
Flyer: https://e5da1c9a-33ae-43e8-98c5-110f23751922.filesusr.com/ugd/0778d4_973e94f558824e71ab1a1eba175d50c4.pdf
Meeting Times: Thursdays, 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Oakes Children’s Center (OCC) offers educational programs for youths and caregivers in the San Francisco area, including therapeutic services, comprehensive assessment, and clinical training, particularly in underserved communities. The Wise Caregiver Group with Child & Youth Play Therapy Group is open to Oakes clients and their families. The group will include sharing and information, and includes dinner for all families. Come tap into your caregiver wisdom, because all families have wisdom to spare, even if they don't know it yet! Contact Oakes for info and to sign up.
Region: South Bay
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Parents Helping Parents
South Bay Website: www.php.com Based in San Jose, PHP serves over 2,000 families a year impacted by ASD, and offers many opportunities to connect with support, including group meetings, trainings, conferences, and resources. PHP's extensive offerings include the groups listed below: |
Meeting Times: 2nd Thursday of the month, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
For parents, professionals and caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), PDD, or developmental delays in communication, behavior and social skills. Meeting Times: 1st Tuesday of the month, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Improve your ability to participate in the IEP process, meet other parents, and ask questions of PHP education staff. The workshop is based on the book “Wrightslaw: From Emotions to Advocacy”, and covers different sections each month. 3rd Tuesday of the month, 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Support and connection for Vietnamese speaking families. Led by PHP staff and topics relate to interest/concerns of attendees. Meets at Friends Café, SJ.Meeting Times: 2nd Saturdays of the month, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Games, crafts, and discussion for siblings of a brother or sister with special needs. We have 2 groups that meet on different months, 8-12 years old or 5-7 years old. Facilitated by PHP staff and a licensed therapist. Registration available on the website or by calling PHP office.A unique, hands-on support group for parents of children ages 0-5 with delays and special needs. Meeting dates vary; please check website calendar to confirm dates.Meeting Times: 4th Tuesdays of the month, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Parent support and information for those with high-functioning young adults with special needs ages 18-30 and typically living at home. It’s a tricky time for young adults as pieces come together for an independent life filled with employment, healthy activities, and housing options.
Grupo de Apoyo Sobre Autismo for parents and caregivers meets monthly in the evening at the PHP SJ office. Day of month changes, see PHP website for upcoming meeting dates.Meeting Times: First Mondays of the month, 7:45 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Held at and co-sponsored by the Los Gatos JCC. All faiths and disabilities welcome.Social event for adults with special needs who want friends and benefit from support (i.e. those with autism and developmental disabilities.) Attendees should be accompanied, unless they drive alone to the event. Check the PHP events calendar website for upcoming dates and times as the program is expanding this year: www.php.com/the-bff-project/Meeting Times: Meets the 3rd Wednesdays of the month, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Parent support group for those who know or suspect their child may have been affected in-utero by maternal alcohol consumption. The focus is on support for the child/family not the cause.
For parents, professionals and caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), PDD, or developmental delays in communication, behavior and social skills. Meeting Times: 1st Tuesday of the month, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Improve your ability to participate in the IEP process, meet other parents, and ask questions of PHP education staff. The workshop is based on the book “Wrightslaw: From Emotions to Advocacy”, and covers different sections each month. 3rd Tuesday of the month, 10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Support and connection for Vietnamese speaking families. Led by PHP staff and topics relate to interest/concerns of attendees. Meets at Friends Café, SJ.Meeting Times: 2nd Saturdays of the month, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Games, crafts, and discussion for siblings of a brother or sister with special needs. We have 2 groups that meet on different months, 8-12 years old or 5-7 years old. Facilitated by PHP staff and a licensed therapist. Registration available on the website or by calling PHP office.A unique, hands-on support group for parents of children ages 0-5 with delays and special needs. Meeting dates vary; please check website calendar to confirm dates.Meeting Times: 4th Tuesdays of the month, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Parent support and information for those with high-functioning young adults with special needs ages 18-30 and typically living at home. It’s a tricky time for young adults as pieces come together for an independent life filled with employment, healthy activities, and housing options.
- Grupo de Apoyo Sobre Autismo
Grupo de Apoyo Sobre Autismo for parents and caregivers meets monthly in the evening at the PHP SJ office. Day of month changes, see PHP website for upcoming meeting dates.Meeting Times: First Mondays of the month, 7:45 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Held at and co-sponsored by the Los Gatos JCC. All faiths and disabilities welcome.Social event for adults with special needs who want friends and benefit from support (i.e. those with autism and developmental disabilities.) Attendees should be accompanied, unless they drive alone to the event. Check the PHP events calendar website for upcoming dates and times as the program is expanding this year: www.php.com/the-bff-project/Meeting Times: Meets the 3rd Wednesdays of the month, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Parent support group for those who know or suspect their child may have been affected in-utero by maternal alcohol consumption. The focus is on support for the child/family not the cause.
- Selective Mutism Support Group: Coming soon.
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Evolibri Parenting Beyond 18 Support Group
South Bay Website: https://evolibri.com/social-communities/ Meeting Times: First Friday evenings of the month. EvoLibri offers several group programs that provide support, guidance and knowledge in a comfortable environment, including classes for teens and young adults, parent support groups, and social clubs. Please visit the Evolibri event calendar for the most up-to-date information and register for courses. Parents meet at the Parenting Beyond 18 Support Group to discuss the trials and successes of raising a neurodiverse young adult. |
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Mochaa (Mothers of Children with Autism and Aspergers)
Peninsula and South Bay Website: www.mochaa.org Meeting Times: Meeting times and days vary. Contact the group to learn more. A Google Group online support group forum and Facebook group for parents of kids/adults on the spectrum. Mochaa also meets frequently for dinners and gatherings on the Peninsula in the South Bay. Contact Jennifer Flick at mochaamom@gmail.com or text 408-666-5320 for more information or check mochaa.org for info on how to join. Mochaa also offers yoga for moms and teen/young adult social groups. |
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Friends of Children with Special Needs Family Support Gatherings
South Bay and East Bay (Alameda County) Website: https://fcsn1996.org FCSN is a large nonprofit in Fremont serving children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families. Family Support Gatherings are where special-needs children and adults, their families, volunteers, and friends are gathered together for fun activities every Saturday alternating between the Fremont and San Jose locations. |
Jeena
South Bay
Website: https://jeena.org
Jeena is a self-help group of parents dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of parents and individuals with developmental disabilities. Focusing on families from South Asia, Jeena is a volunteer-based organization that aims to provide support services and information to families of children with special needs.
South Bay
Website: https://jeena.org
Jeena is a self-help group of parents dedicated to enhancing the quality of life of parents and individuals with developmental disabilities. Focusing on families from South Asia, Jeena is a volunteer-based organization that aims to provide support services and information to families of children with special needs.
Silicon Valley Moms of Special Kids
Peninsula and South Bay
Website: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1838455623044578/
Join with other mothers of children with autism in the South Bay on Facebook and for meet ups. The Facebook group is private, request to join through Facebook or contact Jan Kasahara at baker_girl13@hotmail.com for more information.
Peninsula and South Bay
Website: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1838455623044578/
Join with other mothers of children with autism in the South Bay on Facebook and for meet ups. The Facebook group is private, request to join through Facebook or contact Jan Kasahara at baker_girl13@hotmail.com for more information.
South Bay Girl Group
South Bay
Meetings Times: Meets monthly. Contact the group for details.
Support group for families of girls meeting monthly in San Jose. E-mail sbgirlsgroup1@gmail.com for details and to connect.
South Bay
Meetings Times: Meets monthly. Contact the group for details.
Support group for families of girls meeting monthly in San Jose. E-mail sbgirlsgroup1@gmail.com for details and to connect.
Valley Church Sparrows Disability Ministry
South Bay
Website: https://valleychurch.org/v/connect/groups/sparrows-disability-ministry/
Meetings Times: Weekly on Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m.
For 18+ years olds and their caregivers. Located at 10885 N. Stelling Rd. in Cupertino. Registration is required. Visit the website or email sparrowsbible@gmail.com with questions.
South Bay
Website: https://valleychurch.org/v/connect/groups/sparrows-disability-ministry/
Meetings Times: Weekly on Wednesdays at 10:00 a.m.
For 18+ years olds and their caregivers. Located at 10885 N. Stelling Rd. in Cupertino. Registration is required. Visit the website or email sparrowsbible@gmail.com with questions.
Bay Area Christian Church Exceptional Children's Ministry (E-Ministry)
Various locations throughout the Bay Area
Website: https://bacc.cc/ministries/special-needs/
Meeting Times: Meetings times and days vary. Connect to the group through their website.
Exceptional Children’s Ministry (E-Ministry) is a family of programs practicing inclusion for typical and special needs children, serving our community.
Various locations throughout the Bay Area
Website: https://bacc.cc/ministries/special-needs/
Meeting Times: Meetings times and days vary. Connect to the group through their website.
Exceptional Children’s Ministry (E-Ministry) is a family of programs practicing inclusion for typical and special needs children, serving our community.
Sunnyvale Presbyterian Special Needs Ministry
South Bay
Website: www.svpc.us/groups/specialneeds.php
Meeting Times: 2nd Tuesdays of every month (Sept. – May) 9:30-11:00 a.m., and 4th Thursdays of September, October, and January from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Coffee, tea and snacks provided. Call 408-739-1892 or contact: donna@svpc.us for additional information.
South Bay
Website: www.svpc.us/groups/specialneeds.php
Meeting Times: 2nd Tuesdays of every month (Sept. – May) 9:30-11:00 a.m., and 4th Thursdays of September, October, and January from 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Coffee, tea and snacks provided. Call 408-739-1892 or contact: donna@svpc.us for additional information.
Addison-Penzak Jewish Community Center Special Needs Parent Support Group
South Bay
Website: https://apjcc.org/preschool-youth/youth/special-needs/
Meeting Times: First Mondays of the month from 7:45 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Located at 14855 Oka Road in Los Gatos, meetings take place in Activity Rm. B, 2ndfloor. Co-sponsored by the Los Gatos JCC and Parents Helping Parents. Jewish wisdom will be used as a framework for discussion prompts; however no Jewish background or affiliation is necessary.) JCC membership not required.
South Bay
Website: https://apjcc.org/preschool-youth/youth/special-needs/
Meeting Times: First Mondays of the month from 7:45 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Located at 14855 Oka Road in Los Gatos, meetings take place in Activity Rm. B, 2ndfloor. Co-sponsored by the Los Gatos JCC and Parents Helping Parents. Jewish wisdom will be used as a framework for discussion prompts; however no Jewish background or affiliation is necessary.) JCC membership not required.
Region: Peninsula
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Mochaa (Mothers of Children with Autism and Aspergers)
Peninsula and South Bay Website: www.mochaa.org Meeting Times: Meeting times and days vary. Contact the group to learn more. A Google Group online support group forum and Facebook group for parents of kids/adults on the spectrum. Mochaa also meets frequently for dinners and gatherings on the Peninsula in the South Bay. Contact Jennifer Flick at mochaamom@gmail.com or text 408-666-5320 for more information or check mochaa.org for info on how to join. Mochaa also offers yoga for moms and teen/young adult |
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Early Support Program for Autism (ESPA)
Peninsula Website: https://med.stanford.edu/espa.html A joint program between Stanford Children’s Health and Children’s Health Council to provide supportive services at no cost to families of children with suspected or diagnosed autism. This includes a four-session parent education program. For more information, call 650-723-3772 or email autismsupport@stanford.edu. |
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Stanford Autism Parent Support Group / Grupo de Apoyo para Padres de Hijos con Autismo
Peninsula Flyer - English Flyer - Spanish Meetings Times: 2nd Mondays of the Month, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. This group is sponsored by the Stanford Autism Center at Packard Children's Hospital and facilitated by parents of children on the autism spectrum. Meets at the Stanford Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Building, 401 Quarry Road, Stanford. |
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Family Resource Center at Community Gatepath Parent Support Group
Peninsula Website: https://www.smcfrc.org/Parent-Groups Meeting Times: First Tuesdays of the month, 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. The San Mateo County Family Resource Center at Community Gatepath has a website dedicated to sharing resources and information for special needs families in San Mateo County. Gatepath's Family Resource Center Coordinators facilitate a number of monthly parent support groups in English and Spanish. Free childcare is available. The Parent Support Group meets at McCarthy Center for Children & Families, 1764 Marco Polo Way, Burlingame, CA. Check the website for contact information and to RSVP. |
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Partners and Advocates for Remarkable Children and Adults (PARCA) Family Support Program
Peninsula Website: http://parca.org/family-support-services/ Through their various programs, PARCA has been enriching the lives of people with developmental disabilities since 1952. PARCA's programs are designed to create a feeling of extended family to help people live as independently as possible and enjoy all that life has to offer. Their Family Support Program includes parent support groups throughout the Peninsula, Spanish translation and childcare are available on request. Call 650-312-0730 x111 for more information o check out the PARCA events page. |
Special Education PTA Redwood City (SEPTAR) Parent Support Group
Peninsula
Website: http://septaror.dot5hosting.com
SEPTAR provides information, support, and opportunities for families and educators to meet and share their experiences and wisdom. SEPTAR also provides microgrants to teachers and organize social nights and family events. SEPTAR's small, supportive groups are open to all parents. Join us for a cup of tea or coffee! Contact Leslie at septarinfo@gmail.com for more information.
Peninsula
Website: http://septaror.dot5hosting.com
SEPTAR provides information, support, and opportunities for families and educators to meet and share their experiences and wisdom. SEPTAR also provides microgrants to teachers and organize social nights and family events. SEPTAR's small, supportive groups are open to all parents. Join us for a cup of tea or coffee! Contact Leslie at septarinfo@gmail.com for more information.
Silicon Valley Moms of Special Kids
Peninsula and South Bay
Website: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1838455623044578/
Join with other mothers of children with autism in the South Bay on Facebook and for meet ups. The Facebook group is private, request to join through Facebook or contact Jan Kasahara at baker_girl13@hotmail.com for more information.
Peninsula and South Bay
Website: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1838455623044578/
Join with other mothers of children with autism in the South Bay on Facebook and for meet ups. The Facebook group is private, request to join through Facebook or contact Jan Kasahara at baker_girl13@hotmail.com for more information.
Donovan's Door - Los Altos Methodist Church
Peninsula
Website: http://laumc.org/children/special-needs/
Meeting Times: Sundays at 10:00 a.m.
Special needs children are invited to join us every Sunday at 10:00 a.m. where they are partnered one-on-one with an aide during Sunday School hour. Each child joins their grade level class to enjoy social, friendship-building time, and to participate in the day’s activity, to the greatest extent they are comfortable.
Located at 655 Magdalena Avenue Los Altos. Check the website for contact information.
Peninsula
Website: http://laumc.org/children/special-needs/
Meeting Times: Sundays at 10:00 a.m.
Special needs children are invited to join us every Sunday at 10:00 a.m. where they are partnered one-on-one with an aide during Sunday School hour. Each child joins their grade level class to enjoy social, friendship-building time, and to participate in the day’s activity, to the greatest extent they are comfortable.
Located at 655 Magdalena Avenue Los Altos. Check the website for contact information.
Redwood Shores Parent Group
Peninsula
Redwood Shores Parent Group is an ongoing support group for parents and caregivers of children and young adults on the Autism Spectrum.
For more information or to join, contact group facilitator Rona Gundrum at ronagundrum@yahoo.com
Peninsula
Redwood Shores Parent Group is an ongoing support group for parents and caregivers of children and young adults on the Autism Spectrum.
For more information or to join, contact group facilitator Rona Gundrum at ronagundrum@yahoo.com
Coastside Parents of Special Needs Children Parent Support Group
Half Moon Bay - Peninsula
Meeting Times: Third Wednesdays, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
The group meets the third Wednesday of every month 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. at Hatch Elementary School in Buena Vista in Portable C. Both Spanish and English is spoken at the meetings. Contact Karen Holmes at 650-726-9064 for more information.
Half Moon Bay - Peninsula
Meeting Times: Third Wednesdays, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
The group meets the third Wednesday of every month 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. at Hatch Elementary School in Buena Vista in Portable C. Both Spanish and English is spoken at the meetings. Contact Karen Holmes at 650-726-9064 for more information.
Region: East Bay (Alameda & Contra Costa)
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Friends of Children with Special Needs Family Support Gatherings
East Bay - Alameda and South Bay Website: https://fcsn1996.org FCSN is a large nonprofit in Fremont serving children and adults with developmental disabilities and their families. Family Support Gatherings are where special-needs children and adults, their families, volunteers, and friends are gathered together for fun activities every Saturday alternating between the Fremont and San Jose locations. |
Berkeley Parents Network
East Bay
Website: https://www.berkeleyparentsnetwork.org/advice/autism-spectrum
Berkeley Parents Network website contains recommendations and advice contributed by Berkeley Parents Network members as well as a parent-to-parent email network for the community of parents in the San Francisco Bay Area.
East Bay
Website: https://www.berkeleyparentsnetwork.org/advice/autism-spectrum
Berkeley Parents Network website contains recommendations and advice contributed by Berkeley Parents Network members as well as a parent-to-parent email network for the community of parents in the San Francisco Bay Area.
AS/NLD Parent Support Group
East Bay
This support group is comprised of parents of teens or young adults with Aspergers Syndrome, High-Functioning Autism, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PDD-NOS, NLD, or similar conditions. Meetings are held monthly in the evening at Springstone School, 1035 Carol Lane, Lafayette. Email as.nldparentgroup@yahoo.com for additional information and to join in the next meeting.
East Bay
This support group is comprised of parents of teens or young adults with Aspergers Syndrome, High-Functioning Autism, Autism Spectrum Disorder, PDD-NOS, NLD, or similar conditions. Meetings are held monthly in the evening at Springstone School, 1035 Carol Lane, Lafayette. Email as.nldparentgroup@yahoo.com for additional information and to join in the next meeting.
CARE Parent Network of Contra Costa County
East Bay
Website: http://www.contracostaarc.com/html/care.html
CARE Parent Network is a family resource center serving families of children with disabilities and special health care needs. The Support Groups and Mentoring page can be found HERE, listing many of the support groups available in and around the East Bay, or contact CARE directly for information: (925) 313-0999; info@careparentnetwork.org.
East Bay
Website: http://www.contracostaarc.com/html/care.html
CARE Parent Network is a family resource center serving families of children with disabilities and special health care needs. The Support Groups and Mentoring page can be found HERE, listing many of the support groups available in and around the East Bay, or contact CARE directly for information: (925) 313-0999; info@careparentnetwork.org.
Region: North Bay (Marin County)
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Marin Autism Collaborative (MAC) Monthly Support Group
North Bay Website: http://www.marinautism.org MAC is a partnership comprised of various providers, agencies, organizations, and families in Marin County who have come together to ensure that those in the area affected by ASD have access to the best services throughout life. MAC facilitates a monthly parent support group in San Rafael, see the website for more information. |
Autism Parent Support Group
North Bay
Meeting Times: First Friday mornings of the month, 9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
Come get support, ideas, resources, and compassion with others who are also raising children with ASD. Meets at 318 Western Avenue, Petaluma 94952. Free support facilitated by autism parent and licensed marriage and family therapist Dominique MacCurtin. Call (707) 343-5152 with questions.
North Bay
Meeting Times: First Friday mornings of the month, 9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
Come get support, ideas, resources, and compassion with others who are also raising children with ASD. Meets at 318 Western Avenue, Petaluma 94952. Free support facilitated by autism parent and licensed marriage and family therapist Dominique MacCurtin. Call (707) 343-5152 with questions.
Matrix Parent Network and Support Group
North Bay
Website: https://www.matrixparents.org
Matrix moderates four closed Facebook support groups for parents to share and learn--one for Marin County families, one for Sonoma County, and one for Solano and Napa counties, and Matrix Grupo de Apoyo en Espanol. Check out https://www.matrixparents.org/connect/support-groups/ to join up.
North Bay
Website: https://www.matrixparents.org
Matrix moderates four closed Facebook support groups for parents to share and learn--one for Marin County families, one for Sonoma County, and one for Solano and Napa counties, and Matrix Grupo de Apoyo en Espanol. Check out https://www.matrixparents.org/connect/support-groups/ to join up.
Region: Santa Cruz, Monterey, San Benito Counties
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SPIN (Special Parents Information Network) Parent Support Group
Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Benito Website: http://www.spinsc.org/default.asp?page=supportgroups.htm SPIN is a parent-to-parent support and information network serving families who have children with disabilities of any age in Santa Cruz and San Benito counties. |
- All Disabilities Parent Support Group (Scotts Valley)
The 'All Disabilities' Parent Support Group is for any parent of a child with any type of disability, and meets on third Saturday mornings at 251 Kings Village Road in Scotts Valley. For more info or to RSVP, please email Heidi Lister at hlister@spinsc.org
- All Disabilities Support Group for Spanish Speaking Families (Watsonville)
Meets at the Head Start Office at 225 Westridge Drive, Watsonville. Contact Elizabeth Chavez at (831) 722-2800 for more information.
- Hollister Bilingual Support Group: Unidos de San Benito (Hollister)
Meets at the Hollister Library, 470 5th Street in Hollister, CA. Please contact Ricardo Cornejo at (831) 406-9030 or rcornejo@spinsc.org for more information.
- Autism Spectrum Support Group (Santa Cruz)
This group is for parents to share space with each other, to support each other and to problem solve challenges together! Meets at Hope Services- 220 Lincoln Street in Santa Cruz. Email Heidi at hlister@spinsc.org for more information.
- Parents of Adults with Developmental Disabilities Meet up (Aptos)
Meets at Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, 7807 Soquel Drive in Aptos. Please contact Sonia Plageman for more information or to RSVP at (831) 423-7713 or email at splageman@spinsc.org.
See also our Resources for Higher Functioning Adults page.
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Abilities United
Peninsula Website: https://www.abilitiesunited.org/ Abilities United's Adult and Family Services assists individuals with developmental or other disabilities to fully participate in their community through employment, educational, recreational, social, and volunteer activities. Visit www.abilitiesunited.org/program/adult-programs/ for a list of day activities, employment services, and independent living skills enrichment. |
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AASCEND Job Club
San Francisco Website: http://www.aascend.org Meeting Times: First Saturdays, check AASCEND calendar of events for details. AASCEND (Autism, Aspergers Spectrum Coalition for Education, Networking and Development) routinely hosts meetings, speakers, and community-building special events in San Francisco. The AASCEND Job Club is an employment initiative for adults of all ages on the autism spectrum who want to prepare for a job search and employment by learning and practicing job search skills, and enhancing executive function processing, social practices, and communication. |
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Evolibri
South Bay Website: https://evolibri.com/social-communities/ EvoLibri offers several group programs that provide support, guidance and knowledge in a comfortable environment, including classes for teens and young adults, parent support groups, and social clubs. Please visit the Evolibri event calendar for the most up-to-date information and register for courses. |
- EvoClubs - A bi-weekly event offering pizza, fun and games.
- PEERS Social Skills Classes - A 14-week class using the evidence-based PEERS material from UCLA STAR center. Tailored classes are offered for teens, another for young adults, and a supplementary web-based class for parents.
- Workplace Adaptability - An 18-week class running continuously through the year to help new workers learn the soft skills they need to get — and keep — a job. Held on Fridays at 10:00 AM in Santa Clara.
- LifeLaunch - A two-week crash course in Independent Living Skills, offered during the summer.
- SpringBoard - A one-week camp that helps get tweens ready for their return to school in late summer.
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Adults on the Autism Spectrum Support Group
San Francisco Website: https://www.mentalhealthsf.org/support-groups/ Meeting Times: Every Thursday 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. 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. |
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Parents Helping Parents
South Bay Website: www.php.com Based in San Jose, PHP serves over 2,000 families a year impacted by ASD. PHP's extensive offerings include the groups listed below: |
Social event for adults with special needs who want friends and benefit from support (i.e. those with autism and developmental disabilities.) Attendees should be accompanied, unless they drive alone to the event. Check the PHP events calendar website for upcoming dates and times as the program is expanding this year: www.php.com/the-bff-project/Creativity workshop for special needs adults that offers fun and community interaction. Meetings happen seasonally on a specific Sunday of the month from 1:30 - 3:00 p.m. Be sure to check the PHP calendar for upcoming dates and RSVP to letgemsshine@gmail.comif attending; limit of 8 participants. https://www.php.com/let-gems-shine/
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Shire House Friday Night Socials
South Bay Website: https://shirehouse.org/ Meeting Times: Friday nights Shire House is an independent living community for adults with Asperger's syndrome. Shire House hosts weekly Friday night socials where young adults (17+) can socialized and meet friends. |
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UCSF STAR Center for ASD and & NDDs PEERS Program
San Francisco Website: https://star.ucsf.edu STAR offers resources and support for individuals and families of individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs). PEERS (Program for the Education and Enrichment of Relationship Skills) is a 14-week program for teens, or a 16-week program for young adults, which utilizes evidence-based social skills intervention for teens and young adults who are interested in learning ways to build and maintain positive friendships. For more information on any of the STAR Center's many programs or services, call (415) 502-3500 or email STAR@UCSF.edu. |
F.R.I.E.N.D.S - Fellowships Resulting in Empowering a Neuro Diverse Society Meetup Group
East Bay
Website: https://www.meetup.com/friends4us/
This Meetup group is appropriate for independent, autistic adults 25+ who are employed or enrolled in higher education. There will be monthly activities to make connections, improve self advocacy, and develop more meaningful relationships with peers.
East Bay
Website: https://www.meetup.com/friends4us/
This Meetup group is appropriate for independent, autistic adults 25+ who are employed or enrolled in higher education. There will be monthly activities to make connections, improve self advocacy, and develop more meaningful relationships with peers.
People First of California
Local Chapters
Website: https://www.peoplefirstca.org/
People First advocates for peer-to-peer inspiration, education, and support for people with developmental disabilities.
Local Chapters
Website: https://www.peoplefirstca.org/
People First advocates for peer-to-peer inspiration, education, and support for people with developmental disabilities.
AUTASTICS (Autistics United Together And Showing They Can Succeed)
San Francisco & South Bay
Website: http://www.autastics.org/
Autastics is a support group for adults with Asperger's Syndrome or high-functioning Autism. Call Adam Pollack at 415-648-8390 for more information.
San Francisco & South Bay
Website: http://www.autastics.org/
Autastics is a support group for adults with Asperger's Syndrome or high-functioning Autism. Call Adam Pollack at 415-648-8390 for more information.
Mochaa (Mothers of Children with Autism and Aspergers)
Online and In-Person - Peninsula and South Bay
Website: www.mochaa.org
Google Group: https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/mochaa
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265080363666764/
A Google Group online support group forum and Facebook group for parents of kids/adults on the spectrum. Mochaa also meets frequently for dinners and gatherings on the Peninsula in the South Bay. Contact Jennifer Flick at mochaamom@gmail.com or text 408-666-5320 for more information or check mochaa.org for info on how to join. Mochaa also offers yoga for moms and teen/young adult social groups.
Online and In-Person - Peninsula and South Bay
Website: www.mochaa.org
Google Group: https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/mochaa
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/265080363666764/
A Google Group online support group forum and Facebook group for parents of kids/adults on the spectrum. Mochaa also meets frequently for dinners and gatherings on the Peninsula in the South Bay. Contact Jennifer Flick at mochaamom@gmail.com or text 408-666-5320 for more information or check mochaa.org for info on how to join. Mochaa also offers yoga for moms and teen/young adult social groups.
Silicon Valley Moms of Special Kids
Online and In-Person - Peninsula and South Bay
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1838455623044578/
Join with other mothers of children with autism in the South Bay on Facebook and for meet ups. The Facebook group is private, request to join through Facebook or contact Jan Kasahara at baker_girl13@hotmail.com for more information.
Online and In-Person - Peninsula and South Bay
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1838455623044578/
Join with other mothers of children with autism in the South Bay on Facebook and for meet ups. The Facebook group is private, request to join through Facebook or contact Jan Kasahara at baker_girl13@hotmail.com for more information.
Meetup Groups
Various online and in-person groups.
Website: Search http://www.meetup.com
Several autism and Asperger's groups around the Bay Area can be found here, including groups for parents of ASD children, and for adults with HFA/Asperger's.
Various online and in-person groups.
Website: Search http://www.meetup.com
Several autism and Asperger's groups around the Bay Area can be found here, including groups for parents of ASD children, and for adults with HFA/Asperger's.
Your help in keeping this an up-to-date resource is greatly appreciated! Please send support group or other resource updates and additions to info@sfautismsociety.org.
We cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information.
We cannot guarantee the accuracy of this information.
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.