Empire State University's CAARES Partners with Saratoga Public Library to Host Neurodiversity Club

(SARATOGA SPRINGS, NY – September 22, 2023) The first meeting of the Neurodiversity Club, co-sponsored by Empire State University’s Center for Autism Advocacy: Research, Education, and Supports (CAARES) and the Saratoga Public Library will take place on Monday, September 25 from 4:30-5:30 p.m. at the Saratoga Springs Public Library (SSPL).  

Created for autistic and neurodivergent kids and teens in grades K-12 and their friends and families, the goal of the club is to be student-directed, so those who attend can spend their time in a way that is fun and meaningful for them.   

“The aim is for Autistic and neurodivergent children and teens to have fun and make connections in a welcoming environment,” said Lauren Allen, assistant director of CAARES. “There will be various self-directed activity stations to choose from such as crafts, games, Legos, and dancing, but we hope to see the students who attend the club really make it their own.” 

The idea for the club was born when CAARES reached out to SSPL to collaborate on program offerings that would serve the local autistic and neurodivergent communities.  

“CAARES was excited to collaborate with SSPL given the library’s commitment to inclusive offerings, such as their ‘Escape Room: Downtime for Adults’ and ‘Sensory Story Time,’ among other programs and policies,” Allen said.  

Ultimately, the driving force behind the club is connection. 

“The sense of belonging is so important to cultivate, and our hope is that Neurodiversity Club can contribute to that for children and teens who attend,” Allen said.  

Interested individuals can register for the free session: https://sspl.libcal.com/event/11009817. 

Subsequent sessions will occur on Monday, October 23 from 4:30-5:30 p.m. and Monday, November 27 from 4:30-5:30 p.m.