SOCIAL GROUPS / Circle of Friends / Peer Support Program
Applications now open!
Please note, effective April 2024, there will be an increase in fee cost to $100* (for a 12-week cohort).
*If you require funding assistance, you will have the opportunity to inquire in the screening questionnaire. Please submit your application regardless of your status.
Applications for A-Team
are open!
Please email Holly at ateam@AutismAction.org to get a heads up on the next round!
What is A-Team*?
A-Team is an inclusive, structured after-school group designed to create social opportunities for neurodivergent students. A-Team seeks to broaden the idea of inclusion by creating a safe environment where peers on the spectrum participate collaboratively and are encouraged to use their collective strengths to create meaningful experiences. A-Team is a place to celebrate diversity across the spectrum.
2024 Cohort Schedules
October 14 - December 19 | Fall Cohort
There will be no sessions November 27 or 28.
JV (targeted to ages 10-13)
Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday from 4:30-5:30pm. Cohorts run for 11 weeks.
During this group, participants will engage in activities that align with that day’s topic—friendships, self-identity, self-awareness, wellness, safety, and peer collaboration. Activity modifications are available to ensure the success of each participant.
Varsity (targeted to ages 14-17)
Tuesday nights from 6:00-7:30pm. Cohorts run for 11 weeks.
During this group, participants will discuss the day’s topic in large and small groups and then participate in an activity that supports the topic—community engagement, navigating young adulthood, self-identity, relationships (family, friends, romantic), vocational skills and interests.
A-Team will take place at AAP’s office at 10909 Mill Valley Road, Suite 205! Doors open no sooner than 4:25 PM for JV and 5:55 for Varsity.
* Parents are welcome to stay in the lobby during sessions.
FAQs
We’re so excited you are considering joining A-Team! We are available to talk about A-Team if you have any questions. Just email us at ateam@autismaction.org and one of our amazing staff members will get back to you as soon as possible!
-
A-Team designed for adolescents ages 10-17 with autism who can participate in small and large group activities. A-Team consists of supported activities that ensure the collaboration and participation of all peers.
JV team is for individuals aged 10-13
Varsity team is for individuals aged 14-17
-
Applications will open the month before a new cohort launches. All interested families are encouraged to submit their application at our website. Upon applying, you will be emailed a screener to complete to provide more insights about the participant. A-Team staff will review all applications and determine who will be selected for the limited spots. When necessary, AAP will enact a wait list. When openings are available, a member of A-Team will offer the spot to priority wait list families.
Families will be notified of their acceptance two weeks prior to the cohort beginning.
-
The A-Team is staffed by a multidisciplinary team of professionals committed to serving adolescents on the spectrum. Led by Program Manager, Holly Kenny, who is a Registered Behavior Technician.
-
JV SAMPLE Session
4:30-4:40 - Check-In/Introduce the day’s topic (following directions through science activities)
4:40-5:00 - Activity #1 - Baking Soda Balloons
5:00-5:10 - Break – Snack & Share
5:10-5:25 - Activity #2 - Hidden Colors
5:25-5:30 - Check-Out/Get ready to leave
Varsity SAMPLE Session
6:00-6:20 - Check-In/Welcome Warm Up (Question of the Day, Icebreaker Game)
6:20-6:45 - Introduce Idea/Social Scenario (Self Identity: What Makes Me Who I Am)
6:45-7:00 - Structured Break (Conversation UNO)
7:00-7:25 - Activity (Group Portrait)
7:25-7:30 - Check-Out and Chill