Adult Community Groups Volunteer
Positions Available: 4–8
Overview
Adult Community Group Volunteers support AutismTN’s social, connection-focused groups for autistic adults. These gatherings—held mostly online with quarterly in-person meetups—provide safe, affirming spaces for community-building, conversation, and belonging. Volunteers help moderate discussions, support attendees, and ensure events run smoothly. Dates for all events are pre-scheduled and will be shared with volunteers in advance.
Adult Community Groups
- Unveiling Autistic Identity (UAI)
- A group for late-diagnosed or late-discovered Autistic adults to explore and embrace their Autistic identity
- First Wednesday of each month Online
- Connect
- A community space for all Autistic and neurodivergent adults (18+) to form friendships
- First Thursday of each month Online
- The Spectrum Connection (TSC)
- An identity-focused community group for LGBTQIA+ Autistic adults
- First Thursday of each month Online
Responsibilities
- Online Events:
- – Serve as chat moderators, help uphold group norms, and encourage meaningful, supportive conversation.
- – Offer welcoming engagement to participants and help keep discussions accessible and inclusive.
- In-Person Events:
- – Assist with guest check-in and greet attendees with warmth and respect.
- – Coordinate with facilitators to support the flow of activities.
- – Provide attendee support as needed (directions, questions, sensory considerations, etc.)
- – Assist with picking up or setting up materials such as snacks, games, or event supplies.
- Communicate with kindness, patience, and understanding while representing AutismTN’s commitment to disability justice and neurodiversity-affirming care.
Qualifications
- Familiarity and comfort communicating with autistic adults.
- Understanding of neurodiversity and a commitment to inclusive, supportive language.
- Reliable and able to attend scheduled events (dates provided in advance).
- Warm, patient, and able to help create a welcoming environment for all participants.
- Lived experience as autistic, neurodivergent, or as a caregiver is welcomed and valued.
- No formal degree or prior experience required.
Time Commitment
- Mostly online events, with quarterly in-person gatherings.
- Online meetings range from 1.5 to 3 hours a month.
- In-Person events can range depending on activity and location.
- Volunteers may choose the number of events they are able to commit to.
Impact
As an Adult Community Group Volunteer, you will help create safe, affirming spaces where autistic adults can connect, share experiences, and build community. Your presence and support strengthen AutismTN’s mission to foster belonging, reduce isolation, and uplift neurodiverse voices across Middle Tennessee and beyond.