Special Needs Consortium

08/31/2026

08/31/2026

08/30/2026

Join us virtually on Monday, September 14, 2026 from 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm for our first monthly family support meeting of the new school year. Catherine Hughes, Director of Family Support and Community Engagement from Achieving True Self will be joining us and discussing how parents and guardians can establish a collaborative relationship with their child’s school. To support this goal, she will discuss what an Individualized Education Program (IEP) means in everyday practice, including progress monitoring, accommodations and modifications, and what parents can expect on a daily basis. She will also discuss communication between home and school, parent rights and procedural safeguards, community and school resources, and provide time for questions. Anyone interested in learning more can register for the meeting by contacting Vicki Donne at [email protected] or Deanna Hiltz at [email protected] or registering at Google Registration (https://forms.gle/Apwwfi41WiTh5Zr86) Upon registration, registrants will be sent a Google Meets calendar invitation.

08/29/2026

08/28/2026

Step into a world of sound, movement, and community! Join us for the Musical Sensory Walk, hosted by Azure a program of Autism Pittsburgh.🎶

Designed specifically for autistic individuals, neurodivergent youth, and their families, this walk offers an interactive, sensory-friendly environment where participants can explore musical stations at their own comfortable pace. No pressure, no overwhelming crowds—just music, nature, and connection.💚

RSVP and get full details here: https://www.autismpittsburgh.org/azure

08/28/2026

🎙️ New Episode of Connecting Our Community!

Christine Brookins visits CLASS Community Living and Support Services to sit down with CEO Melva Fair and Chief Development Officer Shannon McCarty.

Hear how CLASS is helping people with disabilities live more independent, meaningful and connected lives through residential support, employment opportunities, advocacy, assistive technology, recreation and more.

Since 1951, CLASS has been working toward a community where everyone belongs and has the opportunity to live the life they choose.

🎧 Watch the newest episode and learn more about the people, programs and resources making a difference in our community!
Full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pyZ1Lx60IpE

08/26/2026

🌟 Here is Why You Shouldn’t Miss the 2026 SNC Disability Summit – October 8th! 🌟 Check out our updated agenda!

If you care about building a more inclusive, supportive, and empowered community for individuals with special needs, this is the event for you. 💙

On Thursday, October 8th, the Special Needs Consortium will bring together families, educators, advocates, and professionals for a day filled with:

✅ Inspiring speakers sharing real stories and practical strategies

✅ Resource connections to help you navigate services and support systems

✅ Networking opportunities with people who truly understand your journey

✅ Workshops designed to spark ideas and create lasting change

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, educator, or ally, you’ll leave with new tools, fresh perspectives, and a stronger sense of community.

📍 Northway Christian Community Church – Wexford

📅 Thursday, October 8th, 2026

Let’s come together to learn, connect, and make a difference!

2026 SNC Disability Summit From Birth Through Adulthood: Championing Persons with Disabilities October 8, 2026North Way Christian CommunityWexford, PA KEYNOTE SPEAKER - KELLY FREY Kelly will offer encouragement to families, caregivers, educators and providers while sharing her story of loving and ca...

08/26/2026

🚨 Attention: parents of TEENS 🚨

Our Teen Club has 2 openings for this school year!

If your teen is neurodivergent, between the ages of 13 - 17, and would like to socialize with similar-age peers after school by chatting, playing games, and making crafts, The Friendship Factory's Teen Club might be the perfect fit.

This group is facilitated by a background-checked volunteer student from Slippery Rock University who has years of experience working with children with special needs.

Interested? Please email [email protected] to fill out the application form.

08/26/2026

Events

08/25/2026