AASCEND has been a vibrant community of neurodivergent adults and their allies for 26 years. We are an all-volunteer nonprofit that advocates for the spectrum community. We offer an array of autism programming including monthly educational meetings, a Job Club, a TV show, a LinkedIn community, social events and a place to be yourself and have fun. Your support KEEPS US GOING STRONG!
Next up for AASCENDis theDecember 13 Holiday Potluck Party! Live and at the Arc. Come join our community for food, conversation, music and good cheer. There will be Entertainment, Music, Games, did we mention food, and a low-sensory space available. It’s a potluck, so bring food to share if you can — but if you can’t, show up anyway!
When: Sat Dec 13, noon-3:30pm Setup: 11:00-noon Party: noon-3:30pm food 12:30 on Cleanup: 3:30-4:00 Where: The Arc of SF, 1500 Howard St. @ 11th St. SF, CA 94103 map
Here is a brief introductory video about Autistry, and a recording of the following program.
Autistry Studios in San Rafael CA has been a powerhouse of creativity by and for autistic young adults since 2008. The Autistry program empowers neurodivergent teens and adults through project-based learning, vocational training, and community integration. This SaturdayNov 15,AASCEND presents, online via Zoom, Autistry co-founder Janet Lawson, bringing us up to date on Autistry programs, including developments as they expand into new locations. This program is a model of ways to engage autistic ability at any age. As Temple Grandin put it, “I love this positive approach to working with autistic individuals.” Please come with questions you have about this resource and its approach.
The Zoom link to this presentation will be emailed as the date approaches, to people on our mailing list. There is no need to register for the event. Click here to subscribe to our mailing list if you aren’t already on it.
Janet Lawson is a nationally respected leader in autism services. With her background in theater and film, and as a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Janet has built a career at the intersection of clinical practice, education, creativity, and advocacy. Inspired by her son Ian, who is on the autism spectrum, she co-founded Autistry in 2008 with Ian’s father, Dan Swearingen, to fill a critical gap in post-secondary opportunities for autistic young adults. What began as four students working on projects in her backyard has grown under her leadership into a thriving organization serving dozens of families every year in a therapeutic makerspace with classrooms, a vocational café, theater rehearsal space, animation studio, and makers-market providing real-world job experience and independence training.
Through Autistry, Janet Lawson has created a model of possibility and dignity proving that when you meet people where they are and nurture their interests, they can build meaningful lives, careers, and community connections.
Who: Adults on the spectrum, family, professionals and friends all welcome! When: Saturday, Nov 15, 2025 at 10:00 AM Where: Online via Zoom, Link will be emailed as the date approaches.
