NOTICE - GCA is going a transitional phase and everything (events, etc.) will be on Facebook as of March 31, 2012.  For more information, please go to http://www.facebook.com/group/GCAspies .

A new logo/brand was created over late 2011 and early 2012 to help define who Greater Chattanooga Aspies (GCA) is.  The bi-color theme is represented by the color blue, which is symbolic for peace, tranquility, serenity, and quiet - things that describe the need for someone going through strong sensory stimulation from a job or anything else during the day.  The block letters represent that we and people who live with Asperger's and High Functioning Autism.  Although we may struggle with challenges, we can also be bold in overcoming those challenges and adjusting to them.   

FAQS About Greater Chattanooga Aspies

Who is Greater Chattanooga Aspies?  GCA was founded by Scott Kramer, an adult who was diagnosed officially with Asperger Syndrome (AS) and High Functioning Autism (HFA) in 2007.  Scott received written notification of AS/HFA by the Georgia Department of Vocational Rehabilitation in 2010.  He was looking for a group, similar to this one, and founded it.

What is GCA? The mission statement of GCA is to "provide support opportunities to adults with AS/HFA/PDD-NOS.  Support opportunities include building friendships, raising awareness, sharing information and experiences, developing skills, and connecting with others in a safe and secure environment."  Also, support opportunities include group meetings and social events.

When? 6:00 - 8:00 PM on the 3rd Tuesday of each month (except December, when we'll meet on the first Tuesday)

Where?  Due to the social stigma attached to having AS/HFA/PDD-NOS, only GCA members and GCA Advisory Board members know the exact location of where meetings are held.  However, GCA meetings are held just off the UTC campus close to downtown.  The GCA meeting location may change, beginning at the January meeting.

Why GCA?  So adults who have AS/HFA/PDD-NOS can be themselves around like-minded people, and not feel "out of place" around people they do not know.

How much does it cost to attend group meetings and social events?  Group meetings are free to attend.  GCA keeps the cost of social events as low as possible.  Some events will be free.  Others may cost a minimal amount.

For more information, please contact Scott Kramer, Founder/Executive Director, by clicking on the "Contact us" link, next to the envelope on the left side of the page. 

OUR SOCIAL EVENTS
We develop our events by Member participation, and we will always try to build in a conversation and planning time before, during or after the EVENT. Our events are varied, from bowling to trips to the Hunter Museum to pizza gatherings to entertainment and amusement facilities (and any other ideas members might have). Throughout the year, we try to meet the wishes of all participants. Although, some of our social events may not appeal to all of our members all of the time. Our members may bring a guest, friend, guardian or sponsor to the events. Many times, they may bring up to a few friends, depending on the venue and event (although the focus is on the participant, in building friendships with other like minded adults).  

OUR SUPPORT GROUP MEETINGS

Meeting topics will be determined by the group's Advisory Board/Board of Directors, which will be an initial mix of adults who have AS/HFA, and the professionals who treat/work with them.  Occasionally, the board will add an individual, who works with children with AS/HFA, to bring diversity to the board (although the focus is totally on the adult population).  We would like to see more adults on the board, because the support group meetings are for them.  If you would like consideration for being on this board, please click "Contact us" on the left side of the page, and let Scott know why you wish to become part of the board (as well as any topic ideas you would like to see presented possibly at support group meetings).  Thanks.