Learn about activities offered by our members on this page and by liking and following our facebook and instagram pages.
February 7th 10:00am
Pittsburgh Steelwheelers Wheelchair Basketball Double Header
The Pittsburgh Steelwheelers wheelchair basketball team will face off in a double header against the Cleveland WC Cavaliers. The games will take place in the Trees Hall Gymnasium on Allequippa St. at the University of Pittsburgh. Entry is free and more information on location and parking can be found on the Steelwheelers website at https://www.steelwheelers.com/wheelchair-basketball-events-and-media
February 8th 11:00am – 1:00pm
Autism Caring Center Valentines
We will be making valentines, a HEART themed STEM craft/experiment and end our event with a sweet treat! 7051 Steubenville Pike Oakdale Pa 15071 www.autismcaringcenter.com
February 8th 2:00pm-5:00 pm,
Live Autism Friendly Open Mic @ Band Together Clubhouse
378 Freeport Rd, Blawnox, PA (in Moondog's)
February 9th & March 9th 5:00pm–7:00pm
SibShop
SibShop is an opportunity for children (ages 8-13) who have siblings with serious or chronic problems and/or developmental needs to gain peer support as well as education while having fun. Siblings of children with special needs play a lifelong role in their sibling's journey. SibShop helps these siblings process their feelings, connect with others, and build skills that support them today and into the future.
Location: LaRoche University, 9000 Babcock, Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA. 15237
Cost: $30 per workshop (dates listed above), $180 for entire program, additional children $140 for entire program. Contact Daria Durny at ddurny@elliementalhealth.com
February 10th, 17th, 24th March 3rd, 10th, 17th 24th 6:00pm-7:00pm
PEAL Pathways to Adulting - Transition Coaching Pods
Join the PEAL Center on Tuesdays in February and March for our Training Series where we will lay the foundation for personal development, advocacy, and employment readiness for youth in Southwestern PA ages 14-22. Small, virtual groups, meeting weekly. Hosted by The PEAL Center’s Youth Empowerment Specialist, Christie Cyktor, who has several years of experience supporting youth who are transitioning into adulthood. To register: tfaforms.com/5209242
February 11th & March 11th 1:00-2:00 pm
Yoga Storytime with Ivy Rehab for Kids
Come join Ivy Rehab for Kids at Beaver Library for a storytime followed by a yoga class with a physical therapist. Ages 2-10 welcome and please bring a yoga mat or towel with you. No registration needed. Location: Beaver Area Memorial Library; 100 College Ave Beaver, PA 15009
February 12th and February 19th 12:00pm – Attend one or both
SNC Virtual Lunch and Learn – Medicaid & Medical Assistance
The Special Needs Consortium Community Education Committee and the PA Health Law Project invites ALL who want to learn more about MA! MA is also referred to as Medicaid and Medical Assistance. Janice Meinert from PA Health Law Project will teach us about: MA categories including MAWD, changes at age 18, asset and income limits, HIPP, EPSDT and an explanation of those acronyms! JOIN AT THE LINK BELOW OR RECEIVE ZOOM LINK BY CONTACTING Mary.Evrard@AlleghenyCounty.US
Join Zoom Meeting https://zoom.us/j/91908771964?pwd=3CcqhP0GoQ0Qzhhf5wc3LoAPcNeUPA.1 Meeting ID: 919 0877 1964 Passcode: 513108
February 12th 5:00pm-7:00pm
Open Up Mix · Mingle · Matter- Happy Hour Mixer
Open Up is extending a warm invitation to a casual Mix, Mingle, Matter happy hour at Trace Brewing. It is a casual nonprofit networking happy hour where community members are invited to meet local organizations, learn about volunteer and leadership opportunities, and explore ways to get involved — or simply connect with others doing meaningful work. Link for More Information or to Register
February 13th 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Brother Andre’s Dance Party
Brother Andre's Assumption Location - 45 N. Sprague Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15202 (Entrance is on the back side of the building.)
February 16th 4:00pm
Reading With Horses at Stoneybrook Foundation
The program promotes awareness, acceptance, and inclusion of individuals with special needs, helping children develop empathy and understanding while learning together. 260 Mountain Trail Lane Acme, PA Preregistration is required.
https://secure.qgiv.com/for/stoneybrookfoundation/event/readingwithhorsesevent/
February 23rd 6:00pm – 7:15pm
Friendship Circle Talks - Pathways to Employment: Building More Inclusive Workspaces
Join us for an important panel discussion exploring the full spectrum of inclusive employment. Whether you’re looking for resources to support a family member’s employment journey, seeking to make your workplace more inclusive, or wanting to understand the tangible benefits of hiring people with disabilities - this conversation will offer practical insights and actionable pathways forward. Link for more information or to register:
February 26th 6:30pm - 8:30pm
Autism-Friendly Snow Tubing Trip @ Boyce Park
Band Together Monroeville PA
February 27th-March 1st (starting at 5:30pm)
DIVA Weekend Retreat at The Woodlands:
Join us for DIVA Weekend on February 27-March 1st as we uplift each other in this one-of-a-kind event! DIVA stands for Dreams-Inspiration-Vision-Advocacy. During this annual sleepover retreat, our DIVA participants focus on the power of self-love and self-care in all its forms. Activities are designed to foster attitudes of inspiration, confidence, and pride. The weekend culminates in an invited show where our DIVAS get to shine, strut, and roll down the runway for their family and friends. Participants will highlight what makes them their authentic selves through fashion, music, and conversation. The DIVA Retreat is open to participants, both male and female between the ages of 16-35 who wish to celebrate EVERYTHING that makes them awesome. This retreat costs $585. We accept out of pocket or private pay, ESY, and waiver funding. We also have a scholarship program called the “Wonderfund” to assist with cost, available upon request. To apply or for more information, contact Leia Patsilevas, 724-935-5470 or lpatsilevas@woodlandsfoundation.org www.mywoodlands.org
February 27th 6:00 pm to March 1st 10:00am
FireFly Weekend Retreat for Adults
A chance for adults with spina bifida and related disabilities to have a camp experience. Located at Camp Guyasuta in Sharpsburg, we hang out, watch movies, play games, explore nature, make crafts, and just have a fun weekend away in the woods!
February 27th 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Live Autism Friendly Open Mic @ The Warhol
The Andy Warhol Museum 117 Sandusky Street, Pittsburgh
March 2nd 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Understanding Behavior Parent and Family Meeting
Join us virtually for our monthly parent and family support meeting. We are pleased to welcome Brittany Maurizi, Founder of Balanced Behaviors, LLC and a Behavior Consultant and Licensed Behavior Specialist in Pennsylvania. Brittany will discuss understanding behavior, how to effectively communicate what you are observing at home and school, and how to interpret data presented through Functional Behavior Assessments (FBAs). To register, please contact Vicki Donne at donne@rmu.edu or Deanna Hiltz at hiltzd@rmu.edu to register by email or register at Google Registration (https://forms.gle/o8ekXGh6ZokMr9ut7) Upon registration, registrants will be sent a Google Meets calendar invitation.
March 3rd 12:00pm – 1:00pm
A Youth Transition Webinar with the Brill Family
Join Kathy & Alexa Brill, fierce self-advocates and professionals, as they share their experiences of transitioning into adulthood. Youth, families, and caregivers are invited to attend to learn more and to ask questions that may provide helpful resources.
About the Brills: Alexa Brill earned her BA from Edinboro University in 2013 and has worked at The Arc of Pennsylvania since 2014. She serves as President of Self Advocates United As 1 (SAU1) and participates in Temple University’s Assistive Technology Champions Program. Her mother, Kathy Brill, holds an MA from George Washington University and is a nationally recognized disability advocate and co-founder of Parent-to-Parent USA. Register here: https://www.tfaforms.com/5209597
March 5th 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Learn about PA ABLE and Social Security Disability Programs
Experts will discuss how PA ABLE Savings Program and Social Security Disability Programs work together. You’ll hear from Diana Fishlock, outreach specialist for the PA ABLE Savings Program, and Frank Magni, Social Security Administration public affairs specialist. PA ABLE gives individuals with qualified disabilities a way to save for disability-related expenses while maintaining important benefits and supporting health, independence, and quality of life. The Social Security Administration’s Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program pays benefits to adults and children who meet requirements for a qualifying disability and have limited income and resources. Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) pays benefits to individuals and certain family members if the individual is “insured.” While these two programs are different, the medical requirements are the same. Traditionally people receiving such benefits could only save a small amount, but ABLE accounts change the landscape, allowing people receiving these benefits to save for a house, a car, and other everyday expenses.
March 6th 6:00pm to March 8th 10:00am
FireFly Weekend Retreat for Youth & Teen
A chance for adults with spina bifida and related disabilities to have a camp experience. Located at Camp Guyasuta in Sharpsburg, we hang out, watch movies, play games, explore nature, make crafts, and just have a fun weekend away in the woods!
March 7th 9:00am – 4:00pm
Navigating Life After Brain Injury: A Toolkit for Empowerment and Advocacy
Survivors, caregivers, and advocates will discover practical tools, expert insights, and connect with a supportive community. This is a day of learning, connection, and empowerment focused on improving life after brain injury. Register: 2026BrainInjury.eventbrite.com
*For questions, you can email Rebecca MacTaggart - rmactaggart@classcommunity.org
March 7th 4-6p
Growing Together: The Friendship Factory's All-Abilities Resource Expo: Summer Safety & Wellness!
This expo, hosted at Rose E. Schneider YMCA (2001 Ehrman Road, Cranberry Township, PA 16066), is designed to bring families, caregivers, and community partners together in a supportive and inclusive environment focused on summer safety, wellness, and resources for individuals of all abilities. With school out and routines changing, summer can be a high-stress season for families of children with special needs. Many parents and caregivers are searching for safe, structured, and supportive options for their children. This event aims to highlight tools, programs, and community connections that help families feel prepared, confident, and empowered going into the warmer months. https://operations.daxko.com/programs/redirector.aspx?cid=2204&pid=120213&sid=2409112
March 11th 6:00pm
Moon Area School District Education & Support Series – Virtual Presentation
Virtual via Microsoft Teams- Join the virtual meeting now
Topic: LegalShield & The Fiffik Law Group - Presenters: Kim Berger-Grooms & Kevin Frankel Presentation Overview: The Fiffik Law Group is LegalShield’s Pennsylvania law firm, which will be providing frequently requested legal guidance to help individuals better understand and plan for important matters such as powers of attorney, guardianship, letters of intent, Social Security, and other key planning considerations. For more Information visit: https://www.fiffiklaw.com https://kimberlyberger.legalshieldassociate.com
March 13-15th (starting at 5:30pm)
S.S. Woodlands Retreat at The Woodlands: Set Sail Camp: Woodlands Cruise Weekend
All aboard for a weekend escape at SS Camp Woodlands! Participants will “set sail” as they receive their boarding passes and kick off a cruise-themed adventure filled with classic onboard fun. Throughout the weekend, campers will enjoy dinner and live music, splash into pool games, get creative with tie dye, and unwind during yoga on deck. It’s a smooth-sailing getaway packed with relaxation, creativity, and ocean-inspired excitement—right at The Woodlands! Join us March 13-15th! This Retreat is open to participants, both male and female ages 18 and older.
This retreat costs $585. We accept out of pocket or private pay, ESY, and waiver funding. We also have a scholarship program called the “Wonderfund” to assist with cost, available upon request. To apply or for more information, contact Leia Patsilevas, 724-935-5470 or lpatsilevas@woodlandsfoundation.org www.mywoodlands.org
March 15th 2:00pm – 3:00pm
Autism Pittsburgh presents Azure Enchanted Melodies
Join musicians Emily Gallagher and Caleb Glickman for an enchanted afternoon of musical storytelling. See what happens when a princess finds her own storybook and discovers the importance of finding her own path. The audience is encouraged to sing, dance, and play along to bring the story to life. FREE event.
https://www.autismpittsburgh.org/azureevents
March 17th 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Learn How PA ABLE Can Help Create Financial Opportunity for Veterans with Disabilities
The PA ABLE Savings Program provides an additional financial option for Veterans who have qualifying disabilities. PA ABLE can power your life experiences, giving you and your family opportunities to do more with increased financial security, all while maintaining important service-related benefits you may already be receiving from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), or Social Security Administration (SSA). We will discuss eligibility requirements for opening a PA ABLE account, the federal and state tax benefits, how PA ABLE interacts with important benefits and more. This live webinar will also have time for questions.
March 17th, March 24th, March 31st, April 7th, April 14th, April 21st, April 28th, and May 5th 5:30pm – 8:00pm
The PEAL Center’s Spring 2026 VIRTUAL Family Leadership Institute
Join us to enhance your advocacy and leadership skills! PEAL's Family Leadership Institute (FLI) will help parents and caregivers of children and young people with disabilities and special healthcare needs to develop an understanding of healthcare, education, and disability policies. Tools will be used to increase the impact of your voice to promote change beneficial to children, young people, and families across Pennsylvania. By applying, you are committing to attending all sessions. For more information and to apply, please visit: 2026 Spring Virtual : Family Leadership Institutes : Events & Trainings : PEAL Center
March 20th - 22nd (starting at 5:30pm)
Teen/Young Adult Weekend Retreat at The Woodlands: Nature in Motion Weekend!
Explore the powerful forces of nature through hands-on science experiments, movement-based games, and creative discovery. From 5:30 PM on Friday to 11:00 AM on Sundays, these inclusive getaways for youth with disability and chronic illness are created for individuals ages 13-24! Whether you’re a sports lover, singer, cook, or in touch with nature, the Woodlands covers it all! Each retreat offers a variety of activities that encourage social connections, health, and leadership skills. Our activities encourage new experiences that spark creativity and self-discovery. Each retreat costs $585. We accept out of pocket or private pay, ESY, and waiver funding. We also have a scholarship program called the “Wonderfund” to assist with cost, available upon request. To apply or for more information, contact Leia Patsilevas, 724-935-5470 or lpatsilevas@woodlandsfoundation.org www.mywoodlands.org
March 26th 9:00am -3:00pm
Health Matters Northwest
The PEAL Center’s Annual Health Matters Conference
PennWest Edinboro, Pogue Student Center, 405 Scotland Road, Edinboro, PA 16444
The PEAL Center’s Health Matters Conference is a conference designed to empower and connect youth with disabilities, their families, educators, healthcare providers, service professionals, and community organizations. This event focuses on advancing best practices, sharing innovative strategies, and highlighting evidence-based approaches that support young people with disabilities and their families. Attendees will learn from engaging speakers with lived and professional experiences. Participants will build meaningful connections with like-minded families, youth and professionals, as well as gain knowledge to navigate systems to access healthcare, education and community support. Register Here: https://www.tfaforms.com/5207268
March 28th 2:00pm
MVP Madness: Adaptive Basketball Day
MVP Madness is an inclusive, high-energy event where children of all abilities come together to move, play, and have fun in a supportive environment. Led by Coach Mike of Fitness 4 Focus, this experience focuses on confidence, connection, and adaptive fitness—encouraging every child to participate at their own pace and celebrate their own victories. Hosted by The Michael Mackie Project, MVP Madness is more than an event—it’s a joyful reminder that when inclusion leads, every child can be an MVP. Event is Free, registration is required. www.themichaelmackieproject.org
April 9th 12:00pm - 1:00pm
Learn About PA ABLE and Expand Your Opportunities
The PA ABLE Savings Program provides individuals with qualifying disabilities opportunities to Achieve a Better Life Experience. PA ABLE is a tax-free way to save for a wide range of disability-related expenses – from clothing to rent to transportation to education, assistive technology and more. PA ABLE powers your life experiences, giving you opportunities for more fun, more financial security or more of what you want to be all while maintaining important benefits. We will discuss eligibility requirements for opening a PA ABLE account, the federal and state tax benefits, how PA ABLE interacts with important benefits and more. This live webinar will also have time for questions.
Register
April 9th 7:00 pm
Live Autism Friendly Open Mic – Mars Area Middle School
1775 Three Degree Rd, Mars, PA
April 12th 2:00pm - 5:00pm,
Live Autism Friendly Open Mic @ Band Together Clubhouse
in Moondog's, 378 Freeport Rd, Blawnox, PA
April 24th - 26th (starting at 5:30pm)
Teen/Young Adult Weekend Retreat at The Woodlands: Spring Around the World
Travel the globe without leaving camp as participants explore spring traditions from different cultures through games, crafts, and hands-on activities. Explore the powerful forces of nature through hands-on science experiments, movement-based games, and creative discovery. From 5:30 PM on Friday to 11:00 AM on Sundays, these inclusive getaways for youth with disability and chronic illness are created for individuals ages 13-24! Whether you’re a sports lover, singer, cook, or in touch with nature, the Woodlands covers it all! Each retreat offers a variety of activities that encourage social connections, health, and leadership skills. Our activities encourage new experiences that spark creativity and self-discovery. Each retreat costs $585. We accept out of pocket or private pay, ESY, and waiver funding. We also have a scholarship program called the “Wonderfund” to assist with cost, available upon request. To apply or for more information, contact Leia Patsilevas, 724-935-5470 or lpatsilevas@woodlandsfoundation.org www.mywoodlands.org
April 25th 9:30am – 4:00pm
Beauty Beyond Limits
We believe beauty should be celebrated with everyone - and this year, we’re excited to celebrate with you. Beauty is accessible. Accessibility is beautiful. This event is not a showcase; it’s a movement to redefine beauty through inclusivity and accessibility. We’ll bring together advocates, innovators, and community members to share stories, explore accessible beauty solutions, and inspire change. Register:BeautyBeyondLimits2026.eventbrite.com *For questions, you can email Rebecca MacTaggart - rmactaggart@classcommunity.org
May 15th-17th, 2026 (A little earlier than past years)
2026 Tourette Family Camp – PA Tourette Syndrome Alliance
Join us for a fun filled weekend to be yourself and be around others that understand Tourette. Family Camp is open to anyone that has a tic disorder or Tourette and their family (siblings, parents, grandparents, etc.). **There is a cost for this event but scholarships may be available for you and your family. This year we are proud to have Boston Bachart, creator and performer of "The Boston Bachart Spectacular Variety Show" entertain us, along with all our other fun camp activities! To get more information or register, go to https://patsainc.org/events/ts-family-camp/ or email or call Brandi Cooper: Brandi@patsainc.org 800-990-3300 ext. 4
May 20th 7:00pm – 8:00pm
Learn How PA ABLE Can Help Create Financial Opportunity for Veterans with Disabilities
The PA ABLE Savings Program provides an additional financial option for Veterans who have qualifying disabilities. PA ABLE can power your life experiences, giving you and your family opportunities to do more with increased financial security, all while maintaining important service-related benefits you may already be receiving from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA), or Social Security Administration (SSA).We will discuss eligibility requirements for opening a PA ABLE account, the federal and state tax benefits, how PA ABLE interacts with important benefits and more. This live webinar will also have time for questions.
July 27th - August 7th
Future Camp
At Future Camp, Autistic and Neurodivergent learners come together for two weeks of creative and performing arts. At Evolve, we believe everyone has talents to share, and at Future Camp, our campers lead the way. We bring in creative professionals and teaching artists who build curricula based on Campers’ individual interests so that they can explore their niche in a welcoming, supportive learning environment. This year, Future Camp will feature classes on Animation, Music, Writing, Performance, and Visual Art. We are an Extended School Year (ESY) approved provider, helping students maintain progress through the summer months. Our application form is now open! Spaces are limited to ensure a sensory-friendly, high-support environment.
Camp fee: $2400. We are dedicated to making camp accessible to anyone who wants to attend. Contact us early so we can help to make this an affordable option.
Have questions? Please reach out to Amanda at amanda@evolve-coaching.org
Apply today! https://www.evolve-coaching.org/arts-programming
Variety’s My Bike®, My Stroller®, and My Voice® Programs
Right now, we are actively accepting new applications for all three programs for Southwestern PA kids/families, and it would be terrific if it could be highlighted in the next couple of weekly emails (to help us identify more local kids/families in need).
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Programs Ongoing & Accepting Applications
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Variety’s My Bike®, My Stroller®, and My Voice® Programs
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Variety offers three adaptive equipment programs for eligible kids and families to apply for one, two, or all three pieces of equipment, including adaptive bikes (My Bike), adaptive strollers (My Strollers), and communication devices (My Voice). These programs truly open newfound possibilities for kids and their families to live healthier, safer, and more fulfilling lives at home, school, and throughout the community! Right now, we’re actively accepting new program applications, especially for kids/families in Southwestern PA.
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Learn more about each program and/or start an application at www.varietypittsburgh.org
Various Saturdays (Jan-April; 10am-2pm)
Camp Woodlands Jr. Day Camps
Camp Woodlands Jr. (CWJ) is designed for our youngest campers, ages 6-12. Each Saturday session features a wide range of activities including arts & crafts, nature exploration, music, sports, “snack-tivities,” and more! Each CWJ session is built to encourage social connections and creativity in a safe and supportive environment. The Saturday session costs $75 (lunch included). We accept out of pocket or private pay, ESY, and waiver funding. We also have a scholarship program called the “Wonderfund” to assist with cost, available upon request. To apply or for more information, contact Leia Patsilevas, 724-935-5470 or lpatsilevas@woodlandsfoundation.org www.mywoodlands.org