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What we’re about

Welcome to the Pittsburgh Autism Discussion Group and Social Meetup Page!
This is a private group. This meetup page hosts two monthly activities: the Discussion Group and a Social Outings Group. Sometimes, we add a third event.

  1. Both events are for adults 18 and older medically diagnosed as being on the Autism spectrum and living in or near the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area.
  2. This group is sponsored by the Autism Connection of PA. Visit the website at: http://autismofpa.org/

About The Discussion Group:
The Discussion Group meets monthly for individuals on the Autism Spectrum who want to have friendly and supportive conversations with other Autistic adults. This group is self-moderated by individuals on the Autism spectrum and is not monitored by a licensed therapist, behavioral counselor, or parent of an adult on the spectrum. Occasionally, the group features speakers who provide useful information to people on the spectrum.

  • Discussion Meetings occur once a month on the second Saturday of the month from 3:00 pm to 4:00. To participate, you must create a profile and be accepted on the meetup.com page.
  • If the Disccusion is live at a meeting place, group members are invited to gather at local restaurants to continue their conversation. If held at a public library, please double-check the times slated for the live in-person event.
  • The discussion groups discuss many subjects, so "tolerance to differences of opinion" is key. ——— Please note! Personal and socially pointed biases or prejudices about certain individuals or groups of people are discouraged.
  • We are all unique, and everyone has different personal challenges and viewpoints. While we encourage people to speak freely, we do not tolerate derogatory comments toward anyone's political stance, personal orientation, religion, or non-religious beliefs. ——— There will be one warning: If the group or a group member deems a particular person's behavior unmanageable or overtly harmful, we will ask that individual to change their rhetoric, and if they are unwilling, their membership will be terminated.
  • Please understand that what is easy for one person is difficult for another, and what is socially normal for one may not be normal for another. Open discussion about your or another's intimate details, such as sexuality, is off-limits.

2. About the Social Outings Group:
The Social Outings Group is for adults 18 and older on the Autism Spectrum who want to participate in social events in a friendly and supportive environment.
Our events often include potluck dinners, visits to local museums, trips to higher-stimulation venues such as Kennywood and Sandcastle, local events, movies, and more.
We try to accommodate the need for "chill" space, such as private cabanas, quieter areas of restaurants, and less busy times in public venues. Everyone has their tolerance to crowds, sound, and proximity to unfamiliar people. If you have any questions, please contact the organizer of each event. We hope to make each member's experience pleasant and rewarding.

  • Please keep in mind that we can not please everyone all the time. So, we try to create a balance of high-stimulation and low-stimulation-centered events.
  • The Social Outings Group usually schedules one social outing per month. Diana Dugina facilitates these outings, but other group members are encouraged to suggest social outings they would like to participate in for future events.
  • A few of our group members also organize events. These are (SELF) facilitated at these times, and the group owners may not be present. If you are unsure about this, please comment in the event's information area.

3. The Autism Spectrum

  • In the wider spectrum of Autism, PPD, Asperger's diagnoses, and neuro-diversity, there is talk of whether or not to use the term 'High Functioning Autism, HFA.' In this group, we use this term to indicate that the group members can communicate without assistance, independently arrange transportation, or relay the group's events to their family members, behavioral counselors, and personal assistants so they can coordinate transportation. This is not, by any means, intended to indicate the level of intelligence or skill.
  • Since we meet publically, our members must arrange their transportation and be able to communicate their needs to the event planner.
  • A very good source for information about Levels of Autism Complexity and Capabilties can be found here: https://www.verywellhealth.com/high-and-low-functioning-autism-260599
  • This group is not a 'grievance' group. The intent is to provide a supportive social setting for individuals on the 'spectrum' who require less assistance in public environments and social experiences.
  • 4. Social Interactions
  • This group is not a 'hook-up' or 'dating' venue. Please respect each person's sense of self and boundaries. Your comfort level may differ from another's: especially with newer people just getting acclimated with the group.
  • In the past and recent occurrences, some individuals have felt uncomfortable about repeated requests for one-on-one communication outside of the group, such as swapping telephone numbers or emails.
    • If someone doesn't reciprocate your request, respect their wishes. They should not have to repeat their wishes.
    • Some people wish to acclimate very slowly to a new group and personalities. Others enjoy the mix of the group but would rather maintain their personal space: preferring not to feel pressured by repeated requests for attention or conversation.
    • Lately, a few individuals have felt closed in upon. Please refrain from pressing in for their undivided attention or proximity. While they want to socialize with the group, they need to feel okay in their own space or speaking with others. Try not to insist upon your exclusivity with one particular person
    • Please understand, that if someone doesn't share their personal information or dedicate their entire time associating with you, this is not a sign of overt avoidance or nonacceptance. Oftentimes, it merely indicates that like many on the 'spectrum', personal space is safeguarded.

Thank you for understanding. These topics can be sensitive to discuss. We appreciate your abidance. If you have questions, you can contact the organizer, Diana Dugina directly through private message on this site. I will try to respond promptly.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
https://www.cdc.gov/autism/hcp/diagnosis/index.html

Autism Research Institute
https://autism.org/mission-statement/