Empower Nuerodiverse Communities: Building a Better Future
The workshop series explores innovative approaches to neurodivergent cohousing that foster independent living and strengthen community ties, offering an in-depth look at the potential for neurodivergent communities across North America. Through an in-depth examination of trends, case studies, and innovative models, highlighting opportunities to promote inclusion, belonging, and sustainable living through neurodivergent cohousing efforts, participants will gain the knowledge and tools needed to improve the quality of life for neurodivergent individuals.
Value and Key Outcomes:
Participants will explore the latest developments shaping neurodiverse communities, including policies, programs, and societal shifts. Dissecting successful initiatives will offer guidance on fostering inclusive environments. We will discuss strategies to advocate for belonging, accessibility, and social integration. As well as collaborative learning and interactive activities that provide opportunities to connect and network with like-minded advocates, professionals, and community leaders.
This course is for all: advocates, legislators, non-profit staff, housing developers, municipal employees, architects, planners, designers, grassroots organizers, activists, urban volunteers, self-advocates & family members, and all good citizens interested in taking action on this topic. The program is particularly useful to the parents of neurodivergent children, who are at their wits end, and need a cooperative effort to mitigate the obvious endless effort necessary to care for a neurodivergent child.
1. How to Outreach to Organizations and Organize a Neurodiverse Cohousing Effort | February 5, 2025.
Our primary focus is on the firs critical step: building a committed team: Learn how to identify, attract, and engage people interested in creating a neurodiverse community. Topics include organizing and outreach strategies, collaboration techniques, and the role of neurodiverse individuals and allies in co-creating these spaces.
2. Getting Designed: The Easiest and Highest Quality Process | February 12, 2025.
Discover how to design a community that meets both functional, social, and sensory needs: This session covers efficient design processes, from working with architects and planners to selecting features that enhance well-being and accessibility for neurodiverse residents. This session also covers working with the allies involved, peers, that play the most important role. Selecting features and designs that enhance well-being and accessibility for neurodiverse residents.
3. Getting Political Approvals | February 19, 2025.
Navigating zoning laws and gaining municipal or local government approval is essential for any community project: Participants will learn about building relationships with local officials, advocating for neurodiverse cohousing, and managing bureaucratic challenges along the way.
4. Getting Funded and Financed | February 26, 2025
Securing funding can be one of the biggest hurdles, but it’s doable: This session provides a roadmap for financing the project, including exploring grants, public-private partnerships, loans, and crowdfunding campaigns. Participants will also learn how to develop a compelling financial plan to attract supporters, investors, and work with peers.
5. Getting It Built: Key Macro Considerations | March 5, 2025
From construction timelines to contractor selection, this session outlines the major elements involved in building a neurodiverse cohousing community: Participants will gain an understanding of infrastructure, designs, budgeting, materials, and project management at a high level to ensure a smooth construction process.
6. Moving In: Establishing Community Culture and Operations | March 12, 2025
The journey doesn’t end when the homes are built, it is just the beginning: The stage is set for these individuals and the community setting them up for success. We will cover the transition from construction to community life, including setting up governance, and creating shared agreements, establishing a vibrant, supportive culture for all residents. Tips for on-boarding new members and sustaining the community will also be discussed.
By the end of the series, participants will be empowered with the tools to plan and build a sustainable community that not only supports, but uplifts neurodivergent individuals, paving the way for a more inclusive future across North America.
It is highly recommended to read the book, One Life, Live It! before this workshop to really have a thorough idea of what the workshop will be about and answer any questions. The book can be purchased HERE.
The program meets CE Credit Certificates and Professional Development Requirements.
An Antioch University Professional Development Certificate
With Charles Durrett, Architect Emeritus AIA
AIA and AICP CE Self-Reported Learning Units
