The challenges associated with autism are not limited to individuals; they also become a continuous learning process for their families, parents, and society. In this context, the various support and social groups organized by the Autism Society of Oregon (ASO) play a vital role. These groups are held online, offline, and in hybrid modes so that everyone—whether a child, teen, youth, or parent—can join at their convenience. ASO’s primary goal is to provide a safe and accepting environment where autistic individuals and their families can share their experiences, understand each other, and become mentally and socially empowered.
Special Groups for Children and Youth
ASO has created several engaging and interactive online groups for children and youth.
The Friendship Group for Autistic Kids (7–13 years) is held every Monday at 6 p.m., where children connect with each other while playing games like Minecraft and Jackbox. The group aims to strengthen children’s social skills and sense of cooperation.
The Supported Teen and Young Adult Club is held online on the third Saturday of every month from 1 to 2 p.m. This group is for teens and young adults who need support from a parent or caregiver. Members enjoy short films, music, art, and dance videos. The group is led by Danitsa Galvan, who is trained in special education and is also the mother of an autistic youth.
Friendship and Discussion Groups for Adults
ASO has also created several diverse groups for adults that focus on different interests and identities.
The Friendship Group for Women and Non-Binary Individuals is held on the first and third Sundays of every month. Here, women and non-binary autistic individuals over the age of 18 enjoy conversation, relaxation, and self-expression in an accepting environment.
A second Women and Non-Binary Friendship Group runs entirely online and meets every other Sunday from 5:30 to 7 p.m. This group is run by Erica, a non-binary autistic adult herself.
Group for Individuals with Intersectional Identities
ASO’s Intersectional Identity Group is for autistic adults who hold multiple social identities—such as people of color, transgender, queer, or genderqueer individuals. This group meets online every Monday from 3 to 4:30 p.m. The group aims to discuss the complex experiences that come with these multifaceted identities. The group is moderated by an autistic, trans, and queer individual who provides a safe forum for those who share similar experiences.
Special Initiative for Young and Professional Adults
Autistic Young Adults of Oregon is a popular group for young adults aged 18 to 30. It meets on the first and third Mondays of every month—the first Monday online and the third in a hybrid format.
Similarly, the Autistic Professional Support Group for working autistic professionals is held every other Friday from 6 to 7 p.m. This group is for those who want to share experiences and seek advice in their field of work. It provides them with a community where they can openly discuss the challenges of professional life.
Support and Discussion Group for Autistic Adults
ASO has created two main groups—Tuesday Edition and Thursday Edition. The Tuesday group is held online from 3:30 to 5 p.m., and the Thursday group is held online from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Both aim to provide a platform where autistic individuals can freely share their experiences, discuss books and neurodiversity, and openly communicate about social issues.
Group for Relationships and Social Connection
The Empowered Relationships Group is specifically designed for peers with an autistic spouse. This group meets online on the first Saturday of every month and in-person in Salem on the third Saturday. The group is moderated by Crystal Dickinson, herself a partner of an autistic adult.
The Happy Hour Group for adults over 40 is held on the fourth Friday of every month. This group not only provides an opportunity for conversation but also a way to make new friends with similar experiences.
Support Group for Parents and Caregivers
ASO’s Autism Parent Support Group provides emotional support for parents and caregivers. It is held every third Wednesday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Parents share their experiences, discuss school-related challenges, and encourage each other.
Additionally, the Autistic Parents Parenting Group is for parents who are autistic themselves. This group is held every other Thursday, and participants share their parenting experiences and strategies.
Support for Spanish-Speaking Parents and Families
ASO has also created support groups for the Spanish-speaking community, taking into account language and cultural diversity. Grupo de Apoyo para Padres de Autismo is held online on the first Saturday of every month.Online events are held so that Spanish-speaking parents can also easily join.
Contributions from Other Organizations and Partner Groups
In addition to ASO, several organizations such as NAMI Multnomah, Reach Out Oregon, and Autism Empowerment also run various support groups. NAMI Multnomah‘s groups are extremely helpful for those struggling with mental health and trauma. Organizations like AWE (AWEtism We Embrace) bring together all adults on and off the spectrum, fostering an environment of understanding and respect.
Bookwriting, Art, and Game-Based Initiatives
The Literary Writing Workshop* is an excellent platform for autistic writers to encourage creativity. This group connects authors who are already published in literary magazines. Similarly, programs like Gather for Games and Sensory Storytime Live combine mental health, social interaction, and entertainment.
Support for Grandparents and Senior Family Members
Grandparent Support Groups are held twice a month, where grandparents or other relatives caring for children with special needs learn from each other’s experiences and find emotional support.
Summary: Steps Toward a Supportive and Inclusive Community
The Autism Society of Oregon (ASO) and its partner groups are not just an organization but a vibrant community where every person—whether a child, parent, teacher, or professional—can find a place. The goal of these groups is to ensure that no autistic person or their family feels alone in their journey. Every voice is heard, every experience is respected, and every member receives the support they need.
Conclusion:
These support groups organized by ASO are a symbol of hope, support, and empowerment for the autism community. Whether you’re a parent of a young child, a young autistic person, or a caregiver—there’s a group for you that understands your needs, experiences, and identity.
