Beyond The Diagnosis- Finding your Village

Neurodiversity Retreat Weekend: BEYOND THE DIAGNOSIS - FINDING YOUR VILLAGE

Welcoming All Neurodiverse Individuals, Individuals with Down Syndrome, Families, Educators, Allies, Advocates, and Supporters

Join us for a transformative weekend of conversation, resources, celebration, and community as we come together to support, honor, and celebrate autism, Down syndrome, and all forms of neurodiversity. This event welcomes autistic individuals, people with ADHD, dyslexia, Tourette syndrome, Down syndrome, and other neurodiverse experiences, along with families, caregivers, professionals, educators, allies, and anyone committed to creating more inclusive communities.

We would also like to extend a special welcome to our Down syndrome community and families to be a part of this initiative. While every individual's journey is unique, many of us share common experiences, challenges, triumphs, and hopes for greater understanding, acceptance, and inclusion. By coming together, supporting one another, and building meaningful connections, we can create a stronger community where every person and every family feels valued, respected, and empowered. Together, we are building the village that everyone deserves.

Friday Evening – Conversations Under the Trees

Moderated by Corie Shepphard, this interactive panel discussion features special guests and a diverse lineup of panelists engaging in honest, real-life conversations about autism, Down syndrome, and neurodiversity. Participants will have opportunities to ask questions, share experiences, and connect in a welcoming outdoor setting designed to inspire meaningful dialogue, understanding, and belonging.

Saturday – Village Resource Station & Live Podcast Discussion

Hosted by The Culture and Clarity Podcast with Caribbean psychologists Dr. Nash and Dr. Smith (Autism Mom).

Explore a variety of resource stations designed to support neurodiverse individuals, individuals with Down syndrome, and their families. Meet providers, organizations, specialists, and community partners while accessing practical tools, information, and guidance to help navigate services, opportunities, and everyday challenges.

Sunday Brunch – Different Minds, One Table

Join us for a special closing brunch featuring special guests as we celebrate neurodiversity, inclusion, and community. Together, we'll share experiences, reflect on the retreat, build lasting connections, and engage in meaningful conversations that highlight the strength and beauty of different minds and abilities coming together at one table.

Where Do We Go From Here?

We build villages. We support one another. We strengthen connections and continue creating communities where every neurodiverse individual, every individual with Down syndrome, and every family feels seen, valued, respected, and empowered. Because when individuals, families, advocates, professionals, educators, allies, and community members come together, we create the village that every person deserves.

Everyone is welcome. Whether you are autistic, have Down syndrome, ADHD, dyslexia, Tourette syndrome, or another neurodivergent experience, or you are a family member, caregiver, educator, healthcare professional, advocate, or ally, this weekend is for you. Together, we build stronger, more inclusive communities.

Important Event Information

This is an adults-only retreat. To create a relaxed environment for meaningful conversations, connection, reflection, and community building, this weekend is designed exclusively for adults (18+). We appreciate your understanding and look forward to sharing this special experience with you.

Please note: Food will be available for purchase during the event.