Current Initiatives
Find out more about our current community outreach and support initiatives below. We look forward to adding more opportunities soon!
Welcome to the Hoosier Autism Caregivers Virtual Support Group!
Join us on the first Wednesday of each month at 12:00 PM (noon) via Zoom for a supportive and informative gathering of fellow caregivers.
Each session begins with a brief 10–15-minute talk on a topic related to Autism and caregiving, followed by an open discussion.
Whether you’re looking to connect, share experiences, ask questions, or just listen, you’re welcome here.
Our monthly topics are designed to spark conversation and provide helpful insights, but you’re always encouraged to bring up anything that’s on your mind.
This is your space for support, connection, and community.
Please note: This group is intended to create a safe space for non-paid caregivers, such as family members or friends providing care without compensation.There is no cost to participate, but registration is required to receive the Zoom link.
Fall 2025 Registration Links
Wednesday, November 5
Topic: Transition to Young Adulthood Part I - Laying the Foundation
This month, we’ll begin exploring the transition to early adulthood by focusing on early preparation. Whether your child is in preschool, high school, or somewhere in between, it’s never too early to start thinking about the future. We’ll talk about foundational skills such as:
- Fostering self-determination and self-advocacy from a young age
- Setting positive expectations around post-secondary education and employment
- The importance of providing opportunities for household responsibilities, and
- Understanding diploma options and the transition IEP.
As always, we’ll leave time for your questions and group discussion. We look forward to learning and sharing together!
Wednesday, December 3
Topic: Transition to Young Adulthood Part II
Learn More About the Hoosier Autism Caregivers Virtual Support Group Below!
All Indiana University faculty and staff who identify as Autistic are welcome! This is a primarily self-directed group that helps individuals stay socially connected, become effective self-advocates, and explore supports and activities on campus and in the community. FSOS is not a counseling program.
The Faculty/Staff on the Spectrum Group (FSOS) will continue through the summer, meeting on the first Wednesday of each month from 5:30 P.M. - 6:30 P.M.
Upcoming Meeting Dates
- Wednesday, November 5 at 5:30 PM Eastern Time
Meetings will take place at the Indiana Resource Center for Autism (address below) with a virtual option available for those who are unable to attend in person.
2810 E Discovery Parkway
Bloomington, IN 47408
Building M
Virtual Zoom Link: https://iu.zoom.us/my/rebeccamartinez
Parking at the Institute is open after 5 pm. One should use the spaces and not pull up to the side of the circle drive, etc., as that will block IU vehicles. There are accessible spaces off the circle drive and off the parking alongside the Institute.
We are excited to partner with the Neurodiversity Coalition, a student group at Indiana University Bloomington. Their mission is “to promote and foster a culture of inclusivity for neurodivergent individuals on the university campus and within the greater community.”
Next Event
- Tuesday, November 11, 2025 at 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. EST
Future Events
- Tuesday, December 9, 2025 at 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. EST
- Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. EST
- Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. EST
- Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. EST
- Tuesday, April 14, 2026 at 7:00 - 8:30 p.m. EST
For further information about the event, please contact Cecilia Buckley, Neurodiversity Coalition Faculty Advisor at cepobuck@iu.edu or visit the Neurodiversity Coalition Padlet.
General questions? Contact The Neurodiversity Coalition.
Accommodations
The Indiana Institute on Disability and Community is committed to providing equal access to this event for all participants. If you have questions about accessibility or have a request for alternative formats or other accommodations, please contact IRCA at irca@indiana.edu or 812-855-6508. The deadline for accommodation requests is three weeks prior to the meeting/event/workshop in question.