ABLES (Autism/Aspergers Better Living Empowerment Society)

ABLES was started in 2000 by staff from the Indiana Resource Center for Autism at the request of parents looking for activities for their adult family members. Over the 25 years we have had many members. Originally facilitated by 3 IRCA staff members, we now are all retired and only I remain in good enough health to continue and I am in the process of moving out of state.

Some parents help out with specific activities for the group, but none of them is able to take over completely. Parents and residential staff often attend and are often resources for one another. I feel it would be a shame to let ABLES fold, and am looking for someone to take over.

This is a volunteer position, requiring someone committed to helping folks on the spectrum to lead fuller lives. Communication with members is by email or text. The facilitator position does require some time commitment to send group emails about the planned activities, reminders, and often more reminders. And then to set up the activities, such as reserving a shelterhouse site for the cookout or making sure there is room at LaserLite or the bowling alley for our group.

ABLES is social activity group for adults on the autism spectrum. We welcome all ability levels. Currently we have about 10 members who attend regularly, ages 22 to 70. Other members attend irregularly depending on interest and other issues.

The group meets on the first Wednesday of each month at College Mall Food Court for supper and conversation. (Members buy their own meals at the various food kiosks) At that meeting we go around the tables letting other members know what is new in our lives in the last month.

We plan 1-2 activities for the upcoming month. Members suggest activities, as do I, and those that have the most interest are set. Not everyone does each activity, of course, and planning dates/times can be challenging as most members work varying schedules. We have gone bowling, played pool/billiards, hiked on the B-line trail, had cookouts, swimming parties at the apartment pool of one member, visited local museums, played laser tag, played mini golf, and attended local sporting events such as IU women's basketball and IU softball/baseball games.

We usually have a pontoon boat ride each summer on a boat donated by Four Winds Marina (arranged by one member's mother. I try to keep the cost low, as some members have limited financial resources. I feel it would be a shame to let ABLES fold, and am looking for someone to take over.

We need volunteers to help keep this organization going. Volunteer positions are available for someone committed to helping folks on the spectrum to lead fuller lives. Communication with members is by email or text. The facilitator position does require some time commitment to send group emails about the planned activities, reminders, and often more reminders. And then to set up the activities, such as reserving a shelterhouse site for the cookout or making sure there is room at LaserLite or the bowling alley for our group.

For questions about volunteering to join ABLES, please contact Susan Gray at skgray@bluemarble.net