Autism Connections

03/13/2026

We have wonderful news for those who would love to attend the 34th Autism Conference but may find the cost of general registration a barrier. Autism Connections has been awarded a $7,500 Autism Community Impact Grant by The Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation for Autism. A significant portion of this funding will support a special fund to help families, caregivers and autistic self-advocates attend the event. Because of this support, we're able to offer a limited number of $50 general registration tickets. When registering, select the General ticket option and check off the “Request Financial Support” box on the form: https://hubs.la/Q046NymG0

We want this conference to be accessible to as many people as possible. If you are unable to attend without a fully free ticket, please email us directly at autismconference@servicenet.org.

➡️ A few reasons to join us on April 30: Build community and empower yourself, explore 18 breakout topics, discover resources and supports, and hear from our keynote speaker Daniel Wendler, PsyD, a clinical psychologist, bestselling author, and autistic self-advocate.

03/12/2026

Join Autism Connections for a sponsored Bowling social event exclusively for adult folks 18+ on the autism spectrum. 🎳

Enjoy two hours of unlimited bowling in a welcoming, low-pressure environment that’s all about fun and connection.

Participation is fully paid for by ServiceNet, so all you need to do is register, bring is yourself and be ready for some community action! Food and drink is available for purchase on location.

Register online: https://hubs.la/Q046wQ0C0

03/11/2026

Autism Connections' Rhonda Setkewich and Cat McEachern were both on Mass Appeal earlier today speaking with Priscilla Ress about the Autism Conference happening on April 30!

(MASS APPEAL) – The Autism Connections Conference brings together families, educators, and professionals to share resources, ideas, and support for those impacted by autism. This year’s…

03/06/2026

Date change: The Springfield session was moved to March 26 from its original March 5 date.

Interested in learned how to use Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA)? Public transportation can be a daunting task for many people. We're offering some assistance in better navigating it through two in-person sessions. Both sessions have hybrid options available

📆📍When and Where:
March 12, Autism Connections, 11 Village Hill, Northampton

March 26 at ServiceNet, 220 Brookdale Dr., Springfield

The in-person session features hands-on learning with transit maps, interactive
activities, and a guided bus ride at the end of the presentation. Attending in-person is encouraged when possible, as physical materials and face-to-face support allow us to better address individual needs.

Contact Vivian at vwood@servicenet.org for more information.

Register Here: https://hubs.la/Q045TL5W0

03/05/2026

Educators, join us for a day of learning, connection, and practical takeaways you can use right away in your work with autistic students and their families at this year’s Autism Conference on April 30 in Springfield. Educators who attend have the opportunity to earn 10 Professional Development Points (PDPs) while engaging in expert-led sessions, meaningful discussions, and inclusive, neurodiversity-affirming content.

We’d love to have you with us—both to support your professional growth and to be part of a community committed to better outcomes for autistic individuals. Food is included with registration, as well as an Exhibitor Showcase for resources and supports. Get more details and register at https://hubs.la/Q045KH6L0

Registering early is the best way to save on your ticket and secure your spot before breakout sessions start filling! If you are experiencing financial constraints and are interested in attending at a discounted price, let us know by checking the Request Financial Support box on the registration form.

03/04/2026

Ready to roll for initiative?🎲 We're hosting Dungeons & Dragons for Autistic Adults!🐉

Vivian Wood is hosting games for adults 18+ with Autism. Players must choose from pre-made characters at the beginning of the session, but not to worry, there's plenty to choose from!

Each session is limited to six players, so be sure to sign up early!

📆When: Every 2nd Sunday of the month at 4:45-8 p.m.
📍Where: Lily Library, Florence

Contact Vivian at vwood@servicenet.org for more information and to register.

03/04/2026

The St. Patrick's Day Parade is sensory-friendly this year! This special section of the parade route is designed for individuals and families who prefer a calmer parade experience with reduced noise and sensory stimulation.

NEW for the 2026 Holyoke St. Patrick’s Parade — Sensory Friendly Area

The St. Patrick’s Committee of Holyoke is proud to introduce a Sensory Friendly section along the 2026 parade route — designed to provide a quieter, lower-stimulus experience for those who prefer it.

📍 Location: Appleton Street from Elm Street through Maple Street
(Wind-down begins at Walnut Street)

What to expect in this two-block area:
• No sirens, horns, or revving engines
• No flashing or emergency lights
• String instruments only (no percussion or brass)

Sensory Friendly spaces help reduce loud noise and visual stimulation, creating a more comfortable experience for individuals with sensory sensitivities.

✅ No sign-up or registration required — this area is open to everyone who prefers a calmer parade experience.

🗺️ A parade map and signage will clearly mark the Sensory Friendly Area so spectators can plan ahead.

Because the parade should be welcoming for all. ☘️

Thank you for your support Miracle League of Western Ma and Magic for Maddie

More details:
https://holyokestpatricksparade.com/sensory-street

03/03/2026

Autism Connections is hosting a webinar with Alma Baumwoll, a licensed clinical social worker and teacher. Alma’s experience spans over a decade of teaching high school biology, including in a special-education setting, and several years advocating for children in state custody.

📆When? Wednesday, March 5, 5:30-7:30 PM
ZOOM

This webinar introduces neuroaffirming ideas and then moves to discuss common neuroaffirming approaches, including benefits and challenges. We conclude by practicing how to apply these ideas to a few common at-home challenges shared by participants in the survey during the registration process. Time for questions and discussion will be included.

Neuroaffirming practices are grounded in concepts of autonomy, practicality, empathy/understanding, and the humanity of every person. Creating as much neuroaffirming space in our homes as possible helps Autistic folks feel better about themselves, face challenges, regulate themselves, develop strengths, and usually reduces conflict.

Register HERE:https://hubs.la/Q045mzm70

03/02/2026

Interested in learned how to use Pioneer Valley Transit Authority (PVTA)? Public transportation can be a daunting task for many people. We're offering some assistance in better navigating it through two in-person sessions. Both sessions have hybrid options available

📆📍When and Where:
March 5 at ServiceNet, 220 Brookdale Dr., Springfield

March 12, Autism Connections, 11 Village Hill, Northampton

The in-person session features hands-on learning with transit maps, interactive
activities, and a guided bus ride at the end of the presentation. Attending in-person is encouraged when possible, as physical materials and face-to-face support allow us to better address individual needs.

Contact Vivian at vwood@servicenet.org for more information.

Register Here: https://hubs.la/Q045gfn60

02/26/2026

Last chance for Early Bird priced tickets to the 34th Autism Conference! Sale prices end on Feb. 28. Reserving tickets now will guarantee your spot at the longest-running autism conference in Massachusetts on April 30. Autistic people, their families and friends, community members, professionals and educators, and anyone with an interest in learning more about autism are welcome to attend this day-long event. Save your seat: https://hubs.la/Q044XSbX0

Here are 5 reasons you’ll want to join us:
1️⃣ Build Community and Empower Yourself – Gain insights to advocate for yourself or your loved ones and meet families, self-advocates, and friends who “get it.”
2️⃣ Explore 18 All New Breakout Topics Presented in Three Live Sessions – Discover tips, strategies, and supports that matter to you as well as up-to-date, practical takeaways you can use right away.
3️⃣ Professional Growth – Educators and clinicians can earn 10 PDP credits and (pending) ABA credits and CEUs as well.
4️⃣ Discover Resources – Check out helpful local autism affirming programs and services at our Exhibitor Showcase.
5️⃣ Hear Our Keynote Speaker – Dr. Daniel Wendler, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist, bestselling author, and autistic self-advocate whose inspiring work on neurodiversity, inclusion, and human connection will set the tone for the day.

Registration includes food for the day. We want everyone to be able to join us! If cost is a concern, you can request financial support when you register. For any other questions about the conference, just email us at AutismConference@servicenet.org—we’re happy to help.

02/25/2026

The Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism awarded Autism Connections $7,500 through the Autism Community Impact Grant!

A significant portion of the Flutie Foundation grant will go toward a special fund to help families needing financial assistance to attend the 34th Annual Autism Conferences on April 30 at the Sheraton Springfield Monarch Place Hotel. Part of the grant funds will support Autism Connection’s year-round programs such as support groups and social activities. The rest of the funds will be used in various ways to support Autism Connections.

“We are so grateful to be the recipients of this grant,” said Karen Serra, ServiceNet Vice President of Family Services, “This money will help us support families wanting to attend the Autism Conference. We hope that they will learn more about autism and inspire themselves and others. This grant lets us continue working on improving the lives of autistic individuals and their families in our community.”

If you're interested in attending the Autism Conference, visit our website: https://hubs.la/Q044GxYB0

If you'd like to attend and need financial assistance, please contact us at autismconference@servicenet.org

02/20/2026

Due to the current weather conditions, we’re rescheduling tonight’s dance.

Once we've set the new date, we will notify everyone per email. Be sure to check our page for an updated date if you haven't signed up!

Thank you for your understanding. Stay safe and warm during this winter storm!