About us
Welcome to our safe space in Sarasota where neurodivergent and shy people can connect authentically.
This group is part of and paid for by the International Friend Connection. We partner with The Octopus Movement Think Tank in Europe. We believe that everyone is important to the future of humanity. It doesn't matter what your past or present looks like.
What We Offer
This is an oasis from the outside world where you can be yourself without judgment. We create a peaceful environment where meaningful connections happen naturally.
Whether you're:
- Navigating social situations differently
- Processing the world in your own unique way
- Preferring deeper conversations over small talk
- Looking for genuine understanding and acceptance
You belong here.
Our Values
Acceptance - Everyone's way of being is valid
Peace - We maintain a calm, respectful atmosphere
Authenticity - No masks or pretending required
Connection - Building real relationships at your own pace
Who's Welcome
Everyone who comes in peace is welcome. We're here to support each other and create the kind of community we wish existed everywhere.
Come as you are. Leave feeling understood.
Find out more about the International Friend Connection at:
https://internationalfriendconnection.com/
Find out more about The Octopus Movement at:
https://www.theoctopusmovement.org/
Nobody under the age of 18 is allowed to attend without a parent present.
Upcoming events
2
Shy and Neurodivergent Friendly Hangout
Starbucks at Barnes & Noble, 4010 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL, US🎟️ RSVP Required Event 🎟️
A judgment-free zone for shy and neurodivergent adults to connect authentically.
Tired of masking? Need a break from explaining yourself? This meetup is for adults with Social Anxiety, ADHD, or Autism who want to be around others who "get it."## What to Expect:
- No pressure to be "on" or perform to social norms
- Conversations that can jump topics (we love tangents!)
- Acceptance of stimming, room to be your authentic self
## Our One Rule:
- Our group is about light-hearted, stress-free (platonic) companionship. Please join us in focusing on casual, uplifting topics!
🪷🧘🏼♀️🧘🏽♂️✨
💡 IMPORTANT: This is a social meetup, not a mental health support group. Just a comfy place to connect! 🙂
(This group is designed for individuals with low-support needs who can attend independentlly)
We meet in the Café @ Barnes & Noble, just look for our Meetup sign.
☕ While our Meetup is free, we ask that you please support the venue by purchasing a snack or beverage.
Come as you are. Hope to see you soon! 👋🏼
Do you have social anxiety? Are you struggling with having conversations? Please feel welcome to see our original FREE classes here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVhrbTYkCPs&list=PL7dZ0pbrV6fTSANlyWr58fqm-Wejf0OjTThis group is brought to you by the International Friend Connection in partnership with The Octopus Movement Think Tank.
Find out more here:
https://davidgood.org27 attendeesGAME Night 🎲 Shy/Neurodivergent Friendly Hangout *RSVP Event*
The Dark Side, 935 N Beneva Road, Suite 902, Sarasota, FL, US🎟️ RSVP Required Event 🎟️
Come as you are to our super-relaxed game night! Whether you're shy, a beginner, or just looking for authentic connection with friendly people, this is a judgment-free zone and the perfect night out! 🎲 ☕
## What to Expect:
🎯 The Games: Play one of the many games the venue offers, or feel free to bring your own card or board games.
☕ Food & Drinks: No outside drinks allowed. The venue sells drinks & snacks. They allow outside takeout food for a small venue fee ($1/meal, $3/pizza).
🙃 The Vibe: Low-pressure, welcoming & fun!👩🏿🤝👨🏼👨🏾🤝👨🏻👫👩🏿🤝👨🏼👭👩🏻🤝👨🏾👫👨🏻🤝👨🏿👩🏿🤝👨🏼👩🏼🤝👨🏻👩🏻🤝👨🏾👩🏼🤝👩🏿
Tired of masking? Need a break from explaining yourself? This meetup is for adults with Social Anxiety, ADHD, or Autism who want to connect with others who "get it."
As Always:
- No pressure to be "on" or perform to social norms.
- Conversations that can jump topics (we love tangents!)
- Acceptance of stimming, room to be your authentic self
## Our One Rule:
- Our group is about light-hearted stress-free (platonic) companionship; Let's focus on uplifting, casual topics! 🪷🧘🏻♀️🧘🏾🧘🏼♂️✨
(This group is designed for individuals with low-support needs who can attend independentlly)
💡 IMPORTANT: This is a social meetup; we're not a mental health support group. Just a comfy place to connect. 😃
☕ While our Meetup is free, we do ask that you support the venue by purchasing a snack or beverage.
✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨
Do you have social anxiety? Are you struggling with having conversations? Please feel welcome to see our original FREE classes here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVhrbTYkCPs&list=PL7dZ0pbrV6fTSANlyWr58fqm-Wejf0OjTThis group is brought to you by the International Friend Connection in partnership with The Octopus Movement Think Tank.
Find out more here:
https://davidgood.org9 attendees
Past events
22
