PAUSE is a social program and is not designed to replace any clinical/therapeutic programs. Any adults with specific needs should have an aide present to assist them. 

Our events are open to all Autistics. But keep in mind our general events are structured differently than PAUSE events. PAUSE events are more catered to high-support needs Autistics. Activities at our general events typically revolve around spoken communication, and some events may be in louder/less accessible environments. Additionally, we try to keep our general events a safe space for Autistic adults, as many prefer to be in an Autistic-only environment. Non-Autistic aides are still welcome at our general events, but advanced notice is required.

If you have any questions about one of our upcoming general events, please reach out! - info@autisticadultsnyc.org.

Due to space constraints, and to keep the priority of PAUSE events towards high-needs individuals, we kindly request that those who don’t fall under the umbrella of ID, non-speaking and/or high-needs refrain from RSVPing. Please check out our events page to see the other programs we offer!

Low-support needs: People who might need some support, but in general can lead independent lives.

High-support needs: People who require day-to-day care and support.

Non-speaking: A person who is unable to communicate by speaking, but may use other methods to communicate (communication boards, sign language, gestures, etc).

Minimally-speaking: A person who might speak some, or unreliably speak, and may use other methods to aid with communication.

Intellectually disabled (ID): A person with an intellectual disability. They may have difficulties with learning, communication, and independent living.

Non-Verbal = Without Language/Words. Many “Non-verbal” Autistics communicate through communication boards, typing, sign language and finger spelling, which all include words and language! Many non-speaking advocates state that the term “non-speaking” accurately reflects their experience, and discourages the stigma that “non-verbal” individuals are “non-thinking.”

Functioning labels can be seen as cold/offensive to some Autistic people, as they refer to their “economic value” or how they might “function” in society. Using “high-functioning” to refer to someone might dismiss their struggles, and “low-functioning” dismisses their capabilities and value as a person. Referring to someone’s support needs emphasizes what the Autistic individuals needs are, rather than how they “function” in society.