As humans, we have a deep-rooted need to belong, feel accepted and connect with others.
However, for high functioning autistic adults, it can be more challenging.
“We have to like hide the most of our autistic traits, like in order to like fit in with our peers or like try to like, get connections.”
Gracie Wise calls that ‘masking’. She says it’s the method she uses to compensate for her social anxiety.
“It just it gets to a point, like where I end up overcompensating myself,” said Wise. “Where my nervous system is fried, or I’m burnt out socially and I’m just hiding every bit of my interest or my likes.”
Tired of masking and hitting dead ends, Wise and her friend Mason Edler are aiming to change that norm for autistic adults.
“Like the amount of places we can congregate,” said Edler. “Like that we can meet up, have similar interests, we can make more friendships, bond with.”
Wise and Edler first met working with the same occupational therapist as children.
Once they entered adulthood, the pair recognized a void in places where people on the spectrum can meet friends or romantic partners.
“What happens is when school stops, they lose that peer interaction,” said Occupational Therapist Kimberly Bradley. “And so that there’s not really any other support post, post schooling.”
That’s how ‘Connection Across the Spectrum’ was born, a safe space for those neurodivergent children, teens and adults can meet and get social support.
“Making them feel, independent is one of our big things and also making them feel that they can fit into the social game,” said Curt Calloway, the group’s event coordinator.
“I want to see all of us, like, thrive and bond, like as one big community, like what this group was designed for,” said Edler.
They also want to change the perception about autism overall, while building inclusive spaces where no one feels the need to mask.
“I want somebody who not only accepts me for who I am, but also somebody who respects boundaries, somebody who keeps me accountable and just offers a shoulder for me to cry on when I need, like support,” said Wise.
The group is hosting a speed dating style event Thursday, April 9th from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the Wrong Iron On The Greenway, 3532 Toulouse St.
It’s billed as a speed-friending and connection event designed to spark friendships and meaningful conversations.
For those interested in learning more, visit: Connection Across the Spectrum
READ MORE:On this World Autism Day, one group aims to connect adults on the spectrum in meaningful ways
