Partnership for Extraordinary Minds upcoming events

Stress-Free IEP® Podcast Live: Sean McCormick on Executive Function Skills for IEP Success (28 Apr 2026)

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Stress-Free IEP® Podcast Live

Sean McCormick on Executive Function Skills for IEP Success

Date: Tuesday, April 28th

Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Location: Virtual -- Register for the podcast here or watch live on YouTube.

Cost: Free

Struggling with organization, time, and follow-through? Executive function skills are the key. Sean McCormick explains what these skills are and why they matter for school and life. Learn the risks of ignoring them—and how to build them into your child’s IEP or 504 plan. Get simple, practical strategies to help your child become more independent and confident.

WEG Advocacy: Moving IEPs to a New State, Military Families (29 Apr 2026)

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Weinfeld Education Group

Moving IEPs to a New State, Military Families

When: Wednesday, April 29th at 12:00pm

Cost: Free!

Registration: Click here to register.

Join Weinfeld Education Group (WEG) for their next FREE, 1-hour webinar concerning “Moving IEPs to a New State, Military Families” with Meg Flanagan, WEG Educational Consultant for military-connected children with disabilities in the U.S. public school systems, and moderated by Rich Weinfeld, Founder and Executive Director of WEG.

In this 1-hour webinar, you will learn:

Understand what happens to your child’s IEP when you move to a new state.
Know what the new school must do—and what they cannot require.
Take clear steps to protect services before and after the move.
Spot problems early and know how to respond.
Advocate for your child with confidence.

CHADD of Northern Virginia and DC: Preparing Your Neurodiverse Teen For Their Launch to College (01 May 2026)

Fri, 01 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

CHADD of Northern Virginia and DC

Preparing Your Neurodiverse Teen For Their Launch to College, presented by Andrea Malkin Brenner, PhD.

Teen Jedi Night (02 May 2026)

Sat, 02 May 2026 23:30:00 GMT

Teen Jedi Night

An xMinds/Slush & Krust Star Wars theme party!

Date and Time: Saturday, May 2nd @ 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Cost: FREE

Location: Gaithersburg High School Cafeteria, 101 Education Boulevard
Gaithersburg, MD 20877

For all Jedi ages 11 - 22!

Join the Resistance for an out-of-this-world experience at our Teen Jedi Night party for autistic middle and high school students! Embrace the force and journey to a galaxy far, far away as we celebrate the epic saga of Star Wars at this event for neurodiverse teens.* Channel your inner Jedi or don your best Sith attire – costumes are encouraged!

Prepare for an evening filled with Jedi Academy training, intergalactic video games, and cosmic tunes that will keep you grooving all night long.

Hungry after your battles? Fear not, as there will be plenty of galactic snacks, pizza, and refreshments to keep you fueled for the festivities. And don't forget to capture memories of this unforgettable night at our themed photo booth!

Whether you're a loyal supporter of the Rebellion or tempted by the dark side, there's a place for you at this stellar soirée. But space is limited, so register your teen today.

*Chaperones will be supervising this event so teens are welcome to be dropped off, but parents/caregivers are encouraged to stay if they feel their child may need support. Please indicate this in registration as our capacity is limited.

EN ESPAÑOL

Evento Social de xMinds y Slush & Krust Productions

Fecha y hora: sábado, el 2 de mayo, 7:30 p.m. a 9:30 p.m.

Costo: GRATIS

Ubicación: Cafetería de la Escuela Secundaria Gaithersburg, 101 Education Blvd, Gaithersburg, MD 20877

Para jóvenes Jedi de 11 a 22 años

¡Únete a la Resistencia para vivir una experiencia fuera de este mundo en nuestra fiesta de "Teen Jedi Night" para estudiantes autistas de secundaria y preparatoria! Abraza la fuerza y viaja a una galaxia muy, muy lejana mientras celebramos la épica saga de Star Wars en este evento para adolescentes neurodiversos. ¡Canaliza tu Jedi interior o viste tu mejor atuendo Sith, se anima el uso de disfraces!

Prepárate para una noche llena de entrenamiento en la Academia Jedi, videojuegos interestelares y melodías cósmicas que te mantendrán bailando toda la noche.

¿Hambriento después de tus batallas? No temas, ¡habrá un montón de snacks galácticos, pizza y refrescos para mantenerte lleno de energía para las festividades! ¡Y no olvides capturar recuerdos de esta noche inolvidable en nuestro fotomatón temático!

Ya seas un leal partidario de la Rebelión o tentado por el lado oscuro, hay un lugar para ti en esta estelar velada. Pero el espacio es limitado, así que registra a tu adolescente hoy mismo.

* Habrá acompañantes supervisando este evento, por lo que los adolescentes pueden ser dejados, pero se alienta a los padres/cuidadores a quedarse si sienten que su hijo puede necesitar apoyo. Por favor, indícalo en el registro, ya que la capacidad es limitada.

Training Rides for Bike to the Beach 2026 (03 May 2026)

Sun, 03 May 2026 13:00:00 GMT

xMinds Bike to the Beach 2026: Training Rides

Interested in joining the xMinds bike group for a beautiful bike ride on a weekend morning? Everyone is welcome!

We hope you will decide to join Team xMinds for our Bike to the Beach Fundraiser on Friday, June 19th, but feel free to join us for these training rides even if you can't!

For more information or to show your support click here.

Contact: Please email our Team Captain Patrick Quigley to tell him you'll be joining us. He will contact you with more details and updates.

Schedule and locations of practice rides:

Sunday, March 29th @ 9:00am

Ken-Gar Palisades Park, total distance 20 miles

Starting point: 4140 Wexford Dr, Kensington, MD 20895

Saturday, April 19 @ 9:00am

Shirlington to Vienna and back on W&OD Trail, total distance 25 miles

Starting point: W&OD Trailhead, Shirlington Rd. & S. Four Mile Run Dr., Arlington, VA 22206

Sunday, May 3 @ 9:00am

Mt. Vernon to National Harbor & back, total distance 30 miles

Starting point: Chalkboard Wings & BBQ, 8723 Cooper Rd, Alexandria, VA 22309

Sunday, May 17 @ 9:00am

Route TBD, total distance 35 miles

Starting point: TBD

Sunday, May 31 @ 9:00am

Shirlington to Herndon and back on W&OD Trail, total distance 40 miles

Starting point: W&OD Trailhead, Shirlington Rd. & S. Four Mile Run Dr., Arlington, VA 22206

Sunday, June 14 @ 9:00am

Hains Point/East Potomac Park (taper ride), total distance 21 miles

Starting point: Hains Point/East Potomac Park, Southernmost Parking Lot, Ohio Dr SW, Washington, DC 20024

Ride day is Friday, June 19th!

Cultivate Rehab - Spring Open House (03 May 2026)

Sun, 03 May 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Cultivate Rehab

Spring Open House

When: Sunday, May 3rd from 11:00am to 2:00pm

Location: Moon Rising Farm - 21800 Slidell Rd Boyds, MD 20841

Cost: Free!

For families, children and adults who are interested learning more about the benefits of occupational therapy utilizing equine movement. Cultivate Rehab serves children and adults with disabilities beginning at age 2. Primary diagnoses we serve include: Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Developmental Delay, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, Neurological Disease and Trauma, Genetic Disorders, Anxiety/Mental Health Disorders and Motor Delays.

Our Spring Open House will feature occupational therapy utilizing hippotherapy demonstrations, spring crafts and games for children and adults with disabilities, unmounted equine activities, and tours of the barn/treatment space. Our demonstration of occupational therapy utilizing hippotherapy and question and answer session with Owner and Occupational Therapist, Nathalie Miller will be held at 12pm. All other activities will be ongoing between the hours of 11am and 2pm.

Our practice is located at Moon Rising Farm, 21800 Slidell Rd, Boyds, MD 20841

All are welcome, when you arrive you must check-in at check-in table that will be labeled and fill out liability releases for Cultivate Rehab and Moon Rising Farm in order to participate in Spring Open House.

Admission for this event is FREE!

People of the Global Majority Discussion Group (04 May 2026)

Mon, 04 May 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Hosted by the xMinds BIPOC Committee

Future Dates: This is a continuing monthly discussion group with occasional speakers. This group typically meets the 1st Monday of every month, with adjustments for holidays.

Time: 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM

Location: Virtual (register to receive your Zoom link)

Cost: Free

People of the Global Majority is a discussion group for MoCo parents/guardians of autistic students who are Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), hosted by the xMinds BIPOC Outreach Committee. Daria Hall, chair of the Committee will facilitate. Guest speakers are often invited to provide information of interest to parents of autistic children. Individuals who are not BIPOC are always welcome to join our discussion group when we have a guest speaker.

Take a break from your busy schedule! Put your feet up, click your link, and take this opportunity to chat, connect, and share experiences with other parents in the BIPOC community.

** Unfortunately, we cannot offer Spanish interpretation at these discussion group sessions. **

No hay interpretación en español disponible para este evento.

Starobin Counseling: Support for Siblings of Autistic Kids (05 May 2026)

Tue, 05 May 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Starobin Counseling, LLC

Support for Siblings of Autistic Kids

Dates: Meets Tuesdays every other week between February 10th and June 2nd, 2026 from 6:00PM to 7:00PM

Location: Virtual

Registration: Application & screening are required. Apply here.

Cost: $85/session

Having an autistic sibling is a unique experience.

Siblings Together groups give your child the opportunity to be a part of a collective that shares similar experiences and faces similar challenges.

Starobin Counseling’s Sibling Support Group provides a supportive and therapeutic environment for children who have autistic siblings.

The Siblings Together group for kids & tweens (ages 8-13) is open to residents of Maryland, Virginia, Colorado and DC.

Groups are facilitated by Caron Starobin, LCSW-C.

Standing Out Without Burning Out: College Planning for Gifted Teens (06 May 2026)

Wed, 06 May 2026 10:30:00 GMT

Maryland Coalition of Gifted and Talented Education (McGATE)

Standing Out Without Burning Out: College Planning for Gifted Teens

When: Wednesday, May 6th, 6:30p.m. - 7:30p.m.

Location: Virtual

Registration: Register at mdgifted.org

Cost: Free!

Is your high-achieving teen doing everything—but still feeling overwhelmed? Discover a healthier, more effective approach to college planning for 8th–11th graders. Learn what truly matters (and what doesn’t) in college admission and how to build a meaningful, balanced path.

Hablemos Educación Especial -- Grupo de Discusión de Padres (06 May 2026)

Wed, 06 May 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Organizado por el Comité de Hispano de xMinds

Fecha: Por lo general, el primer miércoles de cada mes, con excepciones para los días festivos.

Hora: 7:00 PM - 7:45 PM

Ubicación: Virtual (regístrese para recibir su enlace de Zoom)

Costo: Gratis

El comité de xMinds sobre el alcance del idioma español está organizando un grupo de discusión en línea mensual en español para los padres de un estudiante autista del condado de Montgomery.

¡Tómese un descanso de su apretada agenda! Ponga los pies en alto, haga clic en su enlace y aproveche esta oportunidad para charlar, conectarse y compartir experiencias con otros padres de habla hispana que están criando a un niño autista y navegando por la educación especial en MoCo.

Hosted by the xMinds Spanish Language Outreach Committee

Dates: Typically the first Wednesday of every month with adjustments for holidays.

Time: 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM

Location: Virtual (register to receive your Zoom link)

Cost: Free

The xMinds committee on Spanish Language Outreach is hosting a monthly online discussion group in Spanish for Montgomery County parents of an autistic student.

Take a break from your busy schedule! Put your feet up, click your link, and take this opportunity to chat, connect, and share experiences with other Spanish-speaking parents who are raising an autistic child and navigating special education in MoCo.

MCPS Special Education Resource Fair (09 May 2026)

Sat, 09 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Montgomery County Public Schools

Special Education Resource Fair

Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Date: Saturday, May 9th 2026

Location: Paint Branch High School, 14121 Old Columbia Pike, Burtonsville, MD 20866

Cost: Free!

Don’t miss the Spring Special Education Family Resource Fair on Saturday, May 9th at Paint Branch High School. This free event is open to MCPS parents, staff and community members.

The fair will include many diverse and valuable resources from our community, and fun activities for kids.

A variety of MCPS special education offices, community organizations and government agencies will be on hand to present information and resources and services to parents and caregivers.

Small Steps Together -- Parents Discussion Group (11 May 2026)

Mon, 11 May 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Hosted by the xMinds Elementary and Preschool Parent Outreach Committee

Time: 7 – 7:45 PM

Future dates: Typically the fourth Monday of every month except for holidays.

Location: Virtual -- Register to receive your Zoom link.

Cost: Free!

The xMinds Preschool and Elementary Parent Outreach Committee is hosting a monthly online discussion group for Montgomery County parents or caregivers of preschool and elementary age autistic students. Parents and caregivers in other locations are also welcome!

Take a break from your busy schedule! Put your feet up, click your link, and take this opportunity to chat, connect, and share experiences with other local parents who are on the same path. Our committee is here to help you navigate this crucial stage in your child's life.

Find resources on MCPS services and interactive map of MCPS programs on the xMinds website here: Preschool Resources and Elementary Services.

And don't miss our next in-person Playground Meetup!

4th Annual Discover Neurodiversity Supports and Services (15 May 2026)

Fri, 15 May 2026 15:00:00 GMT

CLE | College Living Experience

Discover Neurodiversity Supports in the D.C. Area: Event for Parents and Professionals

When: Friday, May 15th at 11:00 AM

Location: CLE | 402 N. Washington Street, Rockville MD

Registration: Register here. Limited space - RSVP required!

Cost: Free!

Join our event on Friday, May 15th at 11:00 am in Rockville, Maryland! Enjoy brunch, learn and meet other parents & professionals.

This free workshop is designed to share insights from Washington D.C. area's leading experts and provide valuable resources for families and providers of neurodiverse children, teens, and young adults.

Mental Health and Education Panels will feature expert speakers from:

Anxiety Institute
The Lab School
Kennedy Krieger
Alvord Baker & Associates
Child & Adolescent Neuropsychology
Accessible College
Illuminos
Fusion Academy
PrepMatters
Playful Therapy Connections
CLE
...and many more!

Expert speakers specialize in many areas including diagnoses such as ADHD, Learning Differences, 2E (Twice Exceptional/Gifted), ASD, and Anxiety.

Our expert speakers will share their knowledge and experiences, covering a wide range of topics. This is a great opportunity to learn, ask questions, and network with other families and experts in the field.

Don't miss out on this incredible event! Space is limited, RSVP today!

Reach Every Voice - Communication Partner Skill Building Intensive (15 May 2026)

Fri, 15 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Reach Every Voice

Communication Partner Skill Building Intensive

When: Three sessions, May 15th 1-5pm; May 16th 9am-5pm; May 17th 9am-3pm

Where: Reach Every Voice Gaithersburg Office 800 S. Frederick Ave, Suite 210 Gaithersburg MD 20877

Cost: $525 for full course

Registration: Must to register by May 1, 2026, seats are limited! Register here.

Explore gods, heroes, and the stories that still inspire!

A 2.5-day, in-person training for anyone who supports a nonspeaking or partially speaking learner.

Built around a clear progression from skill building to practice to real-time coaching. See event link and flyer for more details.

Training Rides for Bike to the Beach 2026 (17 May 2026)

Sun, 17 May 2026 13:00:00 GMT

xMinds Bike to the Beach 2026: Training Rides

Interested in joining the xMinds bike group for a beautiful bike ride on a weekend morning? Everyone is welcome!

We hope you will decide to join Team xMinds for our Bike to the Beach Fundraiser on Friday, June 19th, but feel free to join us for these training rides even if you can't!

For more information or to show your support click here.

Contact: Please email our Team Captain Patrick Quigley to tell him you'll be joining us. He will contact you with more details and updates.

Schedule and locations of practice rides:

Sunday, March 29th @ 9:00am

Ken-Gar Palisades Park, total distance 20 miles

Starting point: 4140 Wexford Dr, Kensington, MD 20895

Saturday, April 19 @ 9:00am

Shirlington to Vienna and back on W&OD Trail, total distance 25 miles

Starting point: W&OD Trailhead, Shirlington Rd. & S. Four Mile Run Dr., Arlington, VA 22206

Sunday, May 3 @ 9:00am

Mt. Vernon to National Harbor & back, total distance 30 miles

Starting point: Chalkboard Wings & BBQ, 8723 Cooper Rd, Alexandria, VA 22309

Sunday, May 17 @ 9:00am

Route TBD, total distance 35 miles

Starting point: TBD

Sunday, May 31 @ 9:00am

Shirlington to Herndon and back on W&OD Trail, total distance 40 miles

Starting point: W&OD Trailhead, Shirlington Rd. & S. Four Mile Run Dr., Arlington, VA 22206

Sunday, June 14 @ 9:00am

Hains Point/East Potomac Park (taper ride), total distance 21 miles

Starting point: Hains Point/East Potomac Park, Southernmost Parking Lot, Ohio Dr SW, Washington, DC 20024

Ride day is Friday, June 19th!

Preschool and Elementary Parents Open Gym/Playground Meetup (17 May 2026)

Sun, 17 May 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Hosted by the xMinds Preschool and Elementary Parent Outreach Committee

Location: Playground in back of Ivymount School at 11614 Seven Locks Rd. Rockville, MD 20854

Future dates: Typically the third Saturday of each month, 10-11:30 a.m. with the exception of holidays.

Cost: Free!

The xMinds Preschool and Elementary Parent Outreach Committee is hosting a monthly meetup for parents of young autistic students who want to connect in person! Your whole family is welcome -- bring siblings even if they're not elementary or preschool age.

Take this opportunity to meet other local parents while your kids enjoy themselves on the playground (and in colder months at an elementary school gym). Snacks will be provided!

Registration is so we can send you an email reminder and email updates in case the event is cancelled due to inclement weather but is not required to attend.

Organizado por el xMinds Preschool and Elementary Parent Outreach Committee

Fechas futuras: Por lo general, el tercer sábado de cada mes, de 10 a 11:30 a.m., con la excepción de los días festivos.

Ubicación: Patio de recreo detrás de Ivymount School, 11614 Seven Locks Rd. Rockville, MD 20854

Acompáñenos para conocer a otros padres y cuidadores de preescolares autistas y niños de primaria. Melanie Carlos, Directora ejecutiva de xMinds, estará alli y proveerá merienda.

Toda su familia es bienvenida — hermanos mayores y menores también!

Regístrese para recibir recordatorios y un correo electrónico por si tenemos que cancelar el evento.

Lunchtime Reboot: Recharge and Prevent Parent Burnout (18 May 2026)

Mon, 18 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Lunchtime Reboot

When: 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM, usually the second Monday of each month with exceptions for holidays.

Location: Virtual -- Register to receive your Zoom link.

Presenter: Magüi Moreno, Certified Mindfulness Teacher, Author and Parenting Coach

Cost: Free!

Come pamper yourself! In this one hour online session, certified mindfulness teacher and parent coach, Magüi Moreno, will share simple and realistic self-care practices specifically designed for parents of autistic children.

Avoiding parent burnout is possible: together we will explore some ways to meet your own needs at the same time as you support your child's.

Upcoming 2026 topics:

Apr. 27 - Celebrating Small Wins (and Redefining Success)
May 18 - Handling Other People's Opinions (and Protecting Your Peace)
Jun. 15 - Finding Joy Again: Reconnecting with What Lights You Up
Sep. 7 - Navigating School and Services Without Burning Out
Oct. 5 - Caring For Yourself Without Guilt
Nov. 2 - The Power of Connection: Building Your Support Network
Dec. 7 - Holidays Survival Guide for Parents

Your host Magüi Moreno is a certified mindfulness teacher, parent coach and mom to a 14 year-old autistic son. She offers online courses, group facilitation and one-on-one coaching in both English and Spanish to parents of neurodivergent kids on wellbeing, emotional self-regulation and mindfulness. For more info about her work visit www.maguimoreno.com

Starobin Counseling: Support for Siblings of Autistic Kids (19 May 2026)

Tue, 19 May 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Starobin Counseling, LLC

Support for Siblings of Autistic Kids

Dates: Meets Tuesdays every other week between February 10th and June 2nd, 2026 from 6:00PM to 7:00PM

Location: Virtual

Registration: Application & screening are required. Apply here.

Cost: $85/session

Having an autistic sibling is a unique experience.

Siblings Together groups give your child the opportunity to be a part of a collective that shares similar experiences and faces similar challenges.

Starobin Counseling’s Sibling Support Group provides a supportive and therapeutic environment for children who have autistic siblings.

The Siblings Together group for kids & tweens (ages 8-13) is open to residents of Maryland, Virginia, Colorado and DC.

Groups are facilitated by Caron Starobin, LCSW-C.

Parents Together: Support for Parents of Autistic Children & Younger Teens (20 May 2026)

Wed, 20 May 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Starobin Counseling, LLC

Parents Together Support Group for Parents of Autistic Children & Younger Teens

Date: Generally the third Wednesday of each month. See sessions list for specific dates.

Location: Virtual

Registration:

New to Parents Together? Apply here, applications are always open: https://sites.google.com/starobincounseling.com/ parents-together/im-new-here

Once your application is approved, participants can RSVP for any meeting date. Please RSVP no later than the Monday before your selected meeting date: https://sites.google.com/ starobincounseling.com/parents-together/rsvp

Cost: Pay what you can: suggested $25, minimum $5.

Parents Together offers regular meetings for parents of children & younger teens (ages 3-14) to enhance coping skills and to gain insights and understanding about the emotional impact of Autism within the family system.

Parents Together offers opportunities for parents to:

Develop supportive relationships
Share resources
Strengthen their ability to navigate the emotional and practical challenges of raising autistic family members.

Since the first meeting in 2017, Parents Together continues to offer regular, relevant, and real time connections for families.

Program flyer

Groups are facilitated by Caron Starobin, LCSW-C.

Parents Together: Support for Parents of Autistic Teens & Young Adults (21 May 2026)

Thu, 21 May 2026 22:30:00 GMT

Starobin Counseling, LLC

Parents Together Support Group for Parents of Autistic Teens & Young Adults

Date: Generally the third Thursday of each month. See sessions list for specific dates.

Location: Virtual

Registration:

New to Parents Together? Apply here, applications are always open: https://sites.google.com/starobincounseling.com/ parents-together/im-new-here

Cost: Pay what you can: suggested $25, minimum $5.

Parents Together offers regular meetings for parents of teens and young adults (ages 15-28+) to enhance coping skills and to gain insights and understanding about the emotional impact of Autism within the family system.

Parents Together offers opportunities for parents to:

Develop supportive relationships
Share resources
Strengthen their ability to navigate the emotional and practical challenges of raising autistic family members.

Since the first meeting in 2017, Parents Together continues to offer regular, relevant, and real time connections for families.

Program flyer

Groups are facilitated by Caron Starobin, LCSW-C.

Let's Talk Transitions -- Parent Discussion Group (27 May 2026)

Wed, 27 May 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Hosted by the xMinds Committee on Student Transitions to Adulthood

Time: 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM

Future Dates: Typically the fourth Wednesday of every month with the exception of holidays.

Location: Virtual

Cost: Free

The xMinds Committee on Student Transitions to Adulthood is hosting a monthly online discussion group for Montgomery County parents of an autistic student in middle or high school. Parents in other locations are also welcome!

Take a break from your busy schedule! Put your feet up, click your link, and take this opportunity to chat, connect, and share experiences with other local parents who are considering their autistic teen's post-high school plans.

xMinds now hosts a Facebook group that shares the resources that come up in these discussions. Want to join it? Just click this link and the moderator will approve you. https://www.facebook.com/groups/618351869265897

Also, if you're looking for information, see our Transition Resources page.

Register to receive your Zoom link.

2026 xMinds/AUSOM Transition to Adulthood Clinic (30 May 2026)

Sat, 30 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Transition to Adulthood Clinic: Get Professional Help Applying for DORS, DDA & SSI

Presented by xMinds and Autism Society Maryland (AUSOM)

Registration for individual consultation appointments is now OPEN! To reserve a spot, fill out the Intake Form.

Date: Saturday, May 30th

Time: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Location: Montgomery Blair High School, 51 University Blvd E, Silver Spring, MD 20901

It’s a big school — so please park in the parking lot off of University Blvd (not the parking lot off of Colesville Rd). Use the cafeteria entrance, which is the entrance farthest from Colesville Rd. We will put up signage to help you find us!

Cost: Free!

Preparing your autistic teen for life after high school — also known as the transition to adulthood — involves planning for everything from further education and employment to independent living and support services. One key part of this transition is shifting from special education services received in school to applying for disability benefits and services, some of which only become available after graduation.

Understanding when and how to apply, and whether your child is likely to qualify, can feel overwhelming — but you don’t have to navigate it alone. xMinds and the Autism Society of Maryland (AUSOM) are co-hosting this free, in-person event designed for Montgomery County families of autistic students ages 14–22 who want professional guidance on applying for state and federal services such as:

DDA (Developmental Disabilities Administration)
DORS (Division of Rehabilitation Services)
SSI (Supplemental Security Income)

This unique in-person clinic provides several tiers of support including private 25-minute consultations with a professional (by appointment), a presentation by disabilities expert Eric Jorgensen, help from trained staff on completing applications and paperwork, and resource tables hosted by local service providers.

Ready to participate?
Here’s how to get the most out of this event:

1) Attend the presentation by disability benefits expert Eric Jorgensen

2) Bring your paperwork and/or a laptop (free wifi will be available), work on your applications, and get guidance from trained staff

3) Visit resource tables hosted by local providers from around the community!

4) Schedule your individual consult: Your private consultation appointment is separate from your general event registration.

If your preferred time slot for a private consultation is unavailable, we encourage you to attend as we will have a wait list in case of no-shows. There will also be general information that you may find useful!

Schedule:

10:00 to 10:25am -- First round of individual consultations
10:15 to 10:45am -- First keynote presentation on DORS/DDA and Q&A
10:30 to 10:55am -- Second round of individual consultations
11:00 to 11:25am -- Third round of individual consultations
11:30 to 11:55am -- Fourth round of individual consultations
11:45 to 12:15pm -- Second keynote presentation on SSI and Q&A
12:00 to 12:25pm -- Fifth round of individual consultations
12:30 to 12:55pm -- Final round of individual consultations

Local providers will be exhibiting their resources throughout. Snacks and beverages will be available.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Eric Jorgensen, Founder, Special Needs Navigator

SPEAKER BIO: Eric Jorgensen is an international expert in disability planning with decades of experience helping families navigate public benefits, financial planning, and long-term support strategies for individuals with disabilities. As the Director of Special Projects at First Maryland Disability Trust, he leads initiatives that bridge the gap between complex legal tools and real-life needs. Eric specializes in Special Needs Trusts, Medicaid, Social Security, and systems of support across the lifespan. His work equips families and professionals alike with the tools to plan confidently and compassionately for the future.

CONSULTANTS: TBD

QUESTIONS? Contact info@xminds.org

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Special thanks to our sponsors:

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***EN ESPAÑOL ***

Fecha: Sábado el 30 de mayo
Hora: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Ubicación: Montgomery Blair High School, 51 University Blvd E, Silver Spring, MD 20901
Costo: ¡Gratis!

¡El registro para las citas de consulta individual ya está ABIERTO! Para reservar un lugar, complete el formulario de admisión.

Si desea asistir y no desea una consulta privada, puede utilizar el boleto de admisión general.

Preparar a su adolescente autista para la vida después de la escuela secundaria, también conocida como la transición a la edad adulta, implica planificar todo, desde la educación adicional y el empleo hasta la vida independiente y los servicios de apoyo. Una parte clave de esta transición es pasar de los servicios de educación especial recibidos en la escuela a solicitar beneficios y servicios por discapacidad, algunos de los cuales solo están disponibles después de la graduación.

Comprender cuándo y cómo presentar una solicitud, y si es probable que su hijo/a califique, puede resultar abrumador, pero no tiene que lidiar solo. xMinds y la Sociedad de Autismo de Maryland (AUSOM, por sus siglas en inglés) son los anfitriones de este evento gratuito y presencial diseñado para las familias del condado de Montgomery de estudiantes autistas de 14 a 22 años que desean orientación profesional sobre cómo solicitar servicios estatales y federales, tales como:

DDA (Administración de Discapacidades del Desarrollo)
DORS (División de Servicios de Rehabilitación)
SSI (Seguridad de Ingreso Suplementario)

Esta clínica única en persona ofrece varios niveles de apoyo, incluidas consultas privadas de 25 minutos con un profesional (con cita previa), una presentación del experto en discapacidades Eric Jorgensen, ayuda de personal capacitado para completar solicitudes y papeleo, y mesas de recursos organizadas por proveedores de servicios locales.

¿Listo para participar? A continuación, te explicamos cómo sacar el máximo provecho de este evento:

Asistir a la presentación por el experto en beneficios por discapacidad Eric Jorgensen
Traiga su documentación y/o una computadora portátil (habrá wifi gratuito disponible)
Visite las mesas de recursos organizadas por proveedores locales de toda la comunidad
Programe su consulta individual: Para programar una cita de consulta individual gratuita de 25 minutos, DEBE registrarse mediante este formulario y nos pondremos en contacto con usted para confirmar la hora de su cita.

Si su horario preferido para una consulta privada no está disponible, le recomendamos que asista, ya que tendremos una lista de espera en caso de no presentarse. También habrá información general que puede resultarle útil.

Horario:

10:00 a 10:25am -- 1ra ronda de consultas individuales
10:15 a 10:45am -- Primera presentación sobre DORS y DDA
10:30 a 10:55am -- 2ra ronda de consultas individuales
11:00 a 11:25am -- 3ra ronda de consultas individuales
11:30 a 11:55am -- 4ta ronda de consultas individuales
11:45 a 12:15pm -- Segunda presentación sobre el SSI
12:00 a 12:25pm -- 5ta ronda de consultas individuales
12:30 a 12:55pm -- Ronda final de consultas individuales

Bocadillos y bebidas estarán disponibles.

ORADOR PRINCIPAL: Eric Jorgensen, Fundador, Special Needs Navigator

CONSULTORES: TBD

¿PREGUNTAS? Comuníquese con nosotros en info@xminds.org

Training Rides for Bike to the Beach 2026 (31 May 2026)

Sun, 31 May 2026 13:00:00 GMT

xMinds Bike to the Beach 2026: Training Rides

Interested in joining the xMinds bike group for a beautiful bike ride on a weekend morning? Everyone is welcome!

We hope you will decide to join Team xMinds for our Bike to the Beach Fundraiser on Friday, June 19th, but feel free to join us for these training rides even if you can't!

For more information or to show your support click here.

Contact: Please email our Team Captain Patrick Quigley to tell him you'll be joining us. He will contact you with more details and updates.

Schedule and locations of practice rides:

Sunday, March 29th @ 9:00am

Ken-Gar Palisades Park, total distance 20 miles

Starting point: 4140 Wexford Dr, Kensington, MD 20895

Saturday, April 19 @ 9:00am

Shirlington to Vienna and back on W&OD Trail, total distance 25 miles

Starting point: W&OD Trailhead, Shirlington Rd. & S. Four Mile Run Dr., Arlington, VA 22206

Sunday, May 3 @ 9:00am

Mt. Vernon to National Harbor & back, total distance 30 miles

Starting point: Chalkboard Wings & BBQ, 8723 Cooper Rd, Alexandria, VA 22309

Sunday, May 17 @ 9:00am

Route TBD, total distance 35 miles

Starting point: TBD

Sunday, May 31 @ 9:00am

Shirlington to Herndon and back on W&OD Trail, total distance 40 miles

Starting point: W&OD Trailhead, Shirlington Rd. & S. Four Mile Run Dr., Arlington, VA 22206

Sunday, June 14 @ 9:00am

Hains Point/East Potomac Park (taper ride), total distance 21 miles

Starting point: Hains Point/East Potomac Park, Southernmost Parking Lot, Ohio Dr SW, Washington, DC 20024

Ride day is Friday, June 19th!

People of the Global Majority Discussion Group (01 Jun 2026)

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Hosted by the xMinds BIPOC Committee

Future Dates: This is a continuing monthly discussion group with occasional speakers. This group typically meets the 1st Monday of every month, with adjustments for holidays.

Time: 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM

Location: Virtual (register to receive your Zoom link)

Cost: Free

Take a break from your busy schedule! Put your feet up, click your link, and take this opportunity to chat, connect, and share experiences with other parents in the BIPOC community.

** Unfortunately, we cannot offer Spanish interpretation at these discussion group sessions. **

No hay interpretación en español disponible para este evento.

Starobin Counseling: Support for Siblings of Autistic Kids (02 Jun 2026)

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 22:00:00 GMT

Starobin Counseling, LLC

Support for Siblings of Autistic Kids

Dates: Meets Tuesdays every other week between February 10th and June 2nd, 2026 from 6:00PM to 7:00PM

Location: Virtual

Registration: Application & screening are required. Apply here.

Cost: $85/session

Having an autistic sibling is a unique experience.

Siblings Together groups give your child the opportunity to be a part of a collective that shares similar experiences and faces similar challenges.

Starobin Counseling’s Sibling Support Group provides a supportive and therapeutic environment for children who have autistic siblings.

The Siblings Together group for kids & tweens (ages 8-13) is open to residents of Maryland, Virginia, Colorado and DC.

Groups are facilitated by Caron Starobin, LCSW-C.

Hablemos Educación Especial -- Grupo de Discusión de Padres (03 Jun 2026)

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 23:00:00 GMT

Organizado por el Comité de Hispano de xMinds

Fecha: Por lo general, el primer miércoles de cada mes, con excepciones para los días festivos.

Hora: 7:00 PM - 7:45 PM

Ubicación: Virtual (regístrese para recibir su enlace de Zoom)

Costo: Gratis

El comité de xMinds sobre el alcance del idioma español está organizando un grupo de discusión en línea mensual en español para los padres de un estudiante autista del condado de Montgomery.

Hosted by the xMinds Spanish Language Outreach Committee

Dates: Typically the first Wednesday of every month with adjustments for holidays.

Time: 7:00 PM – 7:45 PM

Location: Virtual (register to receive your Zoom link)

Cost: Free

The xMinds committee on Spanish Language Outreach is hosting a monthly online discussion group in Spanish for Montgomery County parents of an autistic student.

Training Rides for Bike to the Beach 2026 (14 Jun 2026)

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 13:00:00 GMT

xMinds Bike to the Beach 2026: Training Rides

Interested in joining the xMinds bike group for a beautiful bike ride on a weekend morning? Everyone is welcome!

We hope you will decide to join Team xMinds for our Bike to the Beach Fundraiser on Friday, June 19th, but feel free to join us for these training rides even if you can't!

For more information or to show your support click here.

Contact: Please email our Team Captain Patrick Quigley to tell him you'll be joining us. He will contact you with more details and updates.

Schedule and locations of practice rides:

Sunday, March 29th @ 9:00am

Ken-Gar Palisades Park, total distance 20 miles

Starting point: 4140 Wexford Dr, Kensington, MD 20895

Saturday, April 19 @ 9:00am

Shirlington to Vienna and back on W&OD Trail, total distance 25 miles

Starting point: W&OD Trailhead, Shirlington Rd. & S. Four Mile Run Dr., Arlington, VA 22206

Sunday, May 3 @ 9:00am

Mt. Vernon to National Harbor & back, total distance 30 miles

Starting point: Chalkboard Wings & BBQ, 8723 Cooper Rd, Alexandria, VA 22309

Sunday, May 17 @ 9:00am

Route TBD, total distance 35 miles

Starting point: TBD

Sunday, May 31 @ 9:00am

Shirlington to Herndon and back on W&OD Trail, total distance 40 miles

Starting point: W&OD Trailhead, Shirlington Rd. & S. Four Mile Run Dr., Arlington, VA 22206

Sunday, June 14 @ 9:00am

Hains Point/East Potomac Park (taper ride), total distance 21 miles

Starting point: Hains Point/East Potomac Park, Southernmost Parking Lot, Ohio Dr SW, Washington, DC 20024

Ride day is Friday, June 19th!

Preschool and Elementary Parents Open Gym/Playground Meetup (14 Jun 2026)

Sun, 14 Jun 2026 18:00:00 GMT