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A banner that states Adult Newsletter, Autism Ontario
 
October 2025

Hello!

Autism Ontario welcomes contributions from our readers. If you have a story, art piece, research, or any other contribution to share, Autism Ontario wants to hear from you! Please send your articles, reviews, and letters to adults@autismontario.com.

Stay in touch with the latest news, resources, and opinion updates by following us on Facebook, X (Twitter), LinkedIn, and Instagram.

Upcoming Workshops, Webinars & Events
 
Understanding the Disability Tax Credit
Online
Wednesday, October 29
7:00 pm

One of the first steps in financial planning for a person with a disability is applying for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). The DTC helps reduce the amount of tax an individual or their caregiver will have to pay, and opens the door to other valuable credits and programs, including the new Canada Disability Benefit which rolled out in July 2025.

This is an updated webcast and will provide:

  • Critical information to help you better understand the Disability Tax Credit (DTC).
  • Guidance on how to apply for the DTC.
  • Overview of the benefits of the DTC.
  • Review of the DTC and the Registered Disability
  • Savings Plan (RDSP).
  • Review of the DTC and the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB).
  • Insights on the impact of a disability vs. diagnosis in eligibility for the DTC.
  • Tips for completing the T2201 form.
Learn More
 
Intro to the RDSP
Online
Thursday, October 30
2:00 pm

The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is a made-in-Canada, long-term savings vehicle designed specifically for individuals with disabilities.

What's in it for you:

  • An understanding of the RDSP and potential government contributions.
  • Knowledge of the latest updates and changes to the RDSP.
  • Tips and advice on free resources that can be consulted for additional information.
Learn More
 
Future Planning With Siblings In Mind
Online
Tuesday, November 18
7:00 pm

When considering the future for a child with a disability, many parents struggle when thinking about the roles their other children may play. Parents encourage the siblings to live their own full lives and can be hesitant to share their future plans, but siblings may want to be involved in the planning process, particularly if they will take on more responsibility later in life. Avoiding conversations about plans for the future is never a good idea.

In this webcast you will:

  • Learn about how parents and adult siblings can come together to begin ongoing conversations on planning for a family member with a disability.
  • Gain tips and advice on some of the important topics families could talk about that would bring about peace of mind.
  • Learn why flexibility in future planning is so important and how it can help you stay prepared for the unexpected.
Learn More
 
Understanding Renter Rights with the Canadian Centre for Housing Rights
Online
Thursday, October 23
12:00 pm - 1:30 pm 

Join us at our upcoming session Understanding Renter Rights by the Canadian Centre for Housing Rights. In this education session, you'll learn about rights when starting a rental, repairs, rent increases, privacy, discrimination, and eviction.

You'll also hear about ways to get help if you or a loved one is facing a housing problem.

Learn More
 
Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) – Things to Know & Answers to Common Questions
Online
Thursday, October 23
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Join DSO Housing Navigators as we welcome guest speaker John Done, Executive Director at the Kingston Community Legal Clinic, for a free virtual presentation.

Topics include:

  • The Benefits ODSP Provides.
  • Board and Lodging vs. Basic Needs and Shelter.
  • Allowance.
  • Asset Limits and Gifts.
  • ... and more!
Learn More
 
Learn About Taxes & Benefits with Canada Revenue Agency
Online
Tuesday, November 4
1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Join DSO Housing Navigators as we welcome representatives from Canada Revenue Agency for a free virtual presentation on topics such as the Disability Tax Credit, the Ontario Caregiver Credit, and more.

Learn More
 
Mindfulness for Family Caregivers
Online
Wednesdays, October 15 - November 19
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Take time to nurture your own well-being!

Through these 4- and 6-week mindfulness programs, family caregivers and care providers will learn practical tools to recharge, reduce stress, and reconnect with a sense of calm. There's no cost to participate!

Learn More
 
Autism Ontario Regional Adult Events
 
D&D Improv Program
Bowmanville
Wednesdays, October 8 - November 26
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

Autistic adults and their parents/caregivers are invited to join Autism Ontario at Autism Home Base for an 8-week program where we will explore the magical world of Dungeons & Dragons in the form of improv theatre!

Develop your character and world-building skills through live game play and performing scenes. During your perilous adventure, the Dungeon Master may decide through the roll of a dice - anything is possible! Magical beasts, brave heroes, and cunning villains are all welcome.

Bring your imagination and curiosity! No previous experience in D&D or improv is required.

Learn More
 
Pickering Ghost Walk
Pickering
Tuesday, October 16
7:00 pm - 8:15 pm

Led through the Village by lantern-light, this spine-tingling tour will turn even the toughest cynic into a believer…of the supernatural!

Learn about the paranormal investigations that have taken place on site, hear the Museum’s most infamous staff stories, and uncover the tragedies that have occurred in Pickering’ past.

Learn More
 
Adult Social Club: Bowling
London
Monday, October 20
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Come out and enjoy a fun evening of bowling! Meet some new friends while enjoying some friendly competition.

Two slices of pizza, a drink, and shoe rentals are included! You may purchase more food at your own expense.

Please note: Ensure that everyone brings socks.

Learn More
 
Adult Game Night (bilingual)
Thunder Bay
Monday, October 20
7:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Join Autism Ontario at Carlito's Board Game Café for an exciting evening of board games!

You’ll have the freedom to select from a diverse collection of games, whether you’re into strategy, trivia, or party games.

Don’t miss out on this chance to unwind, have fun, and maybe even discover your new favourite game!

Learn More
 
Adult Social Club: Game Night
Mississauga
Tuesday, October 21
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Join Autism Ontario's Adult Social Club for a Games Night!

We will be at GG! Gaming Café in their private room, where everyone will be able to enjoy the boardgames they have.

Please note: Snacks and beverages will be the responsibility of the participant.

Learn More
Adult Social Club: Trivia
Windsor
Friday, October 24
6:00 pm - 7:45 pm

This month, we will gather at the Autism Ontario Windsor office for a Trivia night, board games, and chicken fingers with fries!

Cost: $5. Registration is required.

Learn More
 
Board Games & Pizza
Bradford
Friday, October 24
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Come out and meet some new friends or reconnect with some old ones!

Autistic adults (ages 18+) are invited to come out for a fun evening of board games and pizza! Various board games will be played as a group, and we invite you to bring your favorite board game.

Learn More
 
Adult Board Game Social
Hanmer
Saturday, October 25
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Join Autism Ontario and TLC for an exciting afternoon of board games and socializing! Bring your competitive spirit, or just come to enjoy the fun and camaraderie.

This session’s game is: Trivial Pursuit.

Learn More
 
Autistic Adults Board Games Social: Snakes & Lattes
Toronto
Monday, October 27
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Autism Ontario is partnering with Snakes & Lattes for a social meet up with board games!

At Snakes & Lattes, you can choose from hundreds of classic and new board games and play as many as you like while enjoying non-alcoholic drinks (coffee, tea, pop, and juice)!

Learn More
 
Adult Social Group: Dave & Busters
Vaughan
Wednesday, November 5 
5:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Come out for a fun and relaxed evening with other autistic adults at Dave & Buster’s! This is a great opportunity to connect, socialize, and enjoy some arcade fun in a welcoming environment.

We’ll start the night with some snacks and soft drinks in a private room before heading into the game area. Each registered social group member will receive a Power Card loaded with tokens to enjoy gameplay in the arcade!

Learn More
 
Autistic Adult Coffee Chat
Niagara Falls
Thursdays, November 6
9:30 am - 10:30 am

Join us for our monthly Coffee Chats in Niagara Falls!

This is a welcoming space to connect with others, share conversation, and enjoy a warm drink together.

Learn More
 
Autistic Adults Hip Hop Dance Class
Toronto
Saturday, November 8
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Autism Ontario partners with The Pink Studio for a Hip Hop dance class.

This is the perfect Hip Hop class for beginners, and is an urban dance style class inspired by the moves and music of the 90's. Learn fundamentals, grooves, and finish with a fun dance combo.

Cost: $5 per person. Supporters attend for free.

Learn More
 
Community Resources, Opportunities & Research
 
Promoting Brain Health for People with Developmental Disabilities and their Families - Study

Looking for ways to keep your brain healthy and strong?

You are invited to take part in a research study to promote the brain health of older Canadian adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities and their families.

Who can be in this study?

  • Individuals 40 years of age or older with an intellectual and/or developmental disability.
  • Individuals who are a family caregiver aged 60 years or older caring for an adult with an intellectual and/or developmental disability.
  • Individuals who are a family caregiver (any age) caring for an adult with an intellectual and/or developmental disability who is aged 40 years or older.

Requirements:

  • You live in Canada
  • You have internet access and a computer or phone
Learn More
 
Call for autistic participants: "The Report Card Project"

The Re Storying Autism in Education research team is looking for people who identify as autistic to participate in a short open text response survey based on their experiences with educational assessments.

You will be asked to recall your experiences with K-12 educational assessments such as report cards or evaluations

  • Participants must be 16 years of age or older to participate.
  • We encourage non speaking autistics, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ to participate.
  • Responses will be shared through an online exhibit.
  • Participants will be prompted with questions to share their experiences (no time limit).

If you are interested in participating or have any questions, please contact:

Haley Clark haley.clark@queensu.ca or Dr. Patty Douglas douglas.patricia@queensu.ca.

Learn More
 
Invitation to participate in research on: “Transforming the lives of Black children and youth in Canada”

We are conducting an important research project focused on transforming the lives of Black children and youth in Canada by addressing key challenges in education, healthcare, child welfare, criminal justice, and employment. We invite Black Canadian youth (ages 14-25) to take part in a survey. The survey will be completed virtually and will take between 30-45 minutes at a time and location that works best for you.

For participating in the study, you will receive:

  • An opportunity to share your thoughts on the experiences of Black Canadian children and Youth.
  • A $20 gift card as a token of appreciation for your time.
  • Language interpretation service, available for those who require it

To participate in the study, please contact: transformblacklives@ucalgary.ca. 

Learn More
 
Disability Planning Helpline
Disability Planning Helpline

The Plan Institute is thrilled to announce the expansion of their Disability Planning Helpline.

We are offering additional one-on-one support to guide you through every step of the DTC application process. This includes support with "Part A" and "Part B" of the DTC application form, such as providing sample language, reviewing paperwork, and preparing a letter to take to a medical practitioner.

Learn More
 
 

Disclaimer: Please note Autism Ontario does not endorse any specific therapy, product, treatment, strategy, opinions, service, or individual. We do, however, endorse your right to information. Autism Ontario strongly believes that it is important to do your own research and make your own informed decisions.

Autism Ontario’s Adult Newsletter has been developed by Autism Ontario. The editing team of our newsletter strives to include a range of perspectives. These perspectives may or may not reflect the views of Autism Ontario.

adults@autismontario.com

1179 King Street West, Suite 004
Toronto, ON M6K 3C5
Phone: 416-246-9592
Toll-Free: 1-800-472-7789

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