All Voices for Planning and Implementation: A dialogue with neurodiverse adults
There’s something new happening at Branching Out Support Services and it’s past due. As we move into our fifth (!!!) year of service at BOSS we are finding our stride with the kind of services and events our community wants to participate in. We are so blessed to have BINGO Nights, Horse Group, Mentoring, Dances, Art Shows and more. It’s easy, and traditional for a team of administrators and staff to put on these events FOR the neurodiverse community – we are doing something different.
Here’s what our Party Planning Committee has to say:
CG: “In a way it’s promoting events and activities from BOSS so other adults with neuro differences can join us.”
NF: “It makes me happy that the community people come and support us and join us at the events.”
As part of the BOSS Model, we attempt, at every stage and level of planning to include the service users, or participants of our planned events and services. This means a variety of steps:
- Finding out what types of events and services neurodivergent adults want to participate in at this stage of their lives
- Creating an events committee that includes participants and support pros.
“MB started with an idea of a Toronto Zoo Trip for him and his friends, together we were able to put together a trip plan and we already have 4 people joining us October 18th!”
MB: “It’ll be fun”
- Neurodivergent adults who attend our services make the CHOICE to be on the events committee
- Complete steps of planning WITH (not for) the neurodivergent adults including: space rentals, supply lists and purchases for each event (food, drinks, prizes, decorations)
“SEA-J and MB also are part of the events planning. They enjoy the planning, shopping and preparing of the events.”
- Have the participants create the flyers and advertise their events with the support of our social media manager – all with the end goal that the adults can invite community members, friends and family
NF: “Doing the flyers is teaching us how to be responsible for our own activities.”
- Go to events to host and have fun!
NF: “It brings friends together, not just sitting at home, we get to eat pizza together we dance together. Just have a good time.”
There is ultimate focus on the valued social roles adults can have in their communities. This is how we create equitable, aligned and safe opportunities for neurodivergent adults, who in the past have been excluded from “mainstream” opportunities or never had the chance to plan their own party or event if they want to. We are adjusting the focus of event planning for neurodivergent adults.
NF: “Keep your eyes on our Facebook, Instagram, and BOSS’S window for Flyers of new events.”
Developing services this way elevates the experience for all involved: BOSS participants, their families, the community and is an act of advocacy that sets an example for the rest of the world.
NF: “yea it helps to spread the word and help other people know they can do this too.”
In addition: our events committee and planners are OUTSTANDING! They are leaders! Here’s the final word:
CG: “Feel free to go to our website and if you’re a neuro diverse adult looking to join a new activity – they can feel free to join in.”
Onward,
Kim and the WHOLE BOSS team.
