In April my job and I are hosting what a co-worker calls a "Friend Raising" for autistic adults to also help raise money for where I work and for the community. This is an amazing opportunity and something that's been a goal of mine for a while. Now that I'm in the planning process I have no idea what I actually want to do for this thing. I've thrown around a couple of ideas while aiming for this to feel not feel childish and that everyone can come.
Still, I wish I had more ideas of what I could do. I'm trying to think of this from a perspective of what I'd want if I went to this sort of thing.
1. A place where autistic vendors could have an artist ally and bring their crafts.
2. Designated quiet areas that are pointed out upon entry.
3. Maybe a caricaturist by artist ally.
4. Games to win stuff including fidgets if not all fidgets.
5. If this goes well, raffles.
6. Glow sticks.
7. Food but also with the option of a picnic.
8. Place to talk about our talents, special interests, or something we'd like to share about ourselves. Not mandatory.
9. Friendship "applications" or even speed dating type of thing but for friends instead. That one really needs to be workshopped but eh. I want this to be a space where people are encouraged to be their authentic autistic selves but not made to either. They can just vibe with other autistic people.
This will also all be outside and start at about 6 PM.
