NeuroDiverseCity has been providing an accepting, social and recreational experience for neurodivergent teens and adults in the local communities for more than two years.
Northland Connections manages the space, and facilitates activities and events at NeuroDiverseCity (NDC), which is a social recreation center in Platte County which serves individuals with disabilities.
When someone’s brain processes, learns, and/or behaves differently from what is considered “typical,” this is called neurodivergence.
“NeuroDiverseCity was created in collaboration with Platte County Board of Services to combat isolation, loneliness and social anxiety while providing residents in the Northland, where individuality is celebrated, an opportunity to genuinely be themselves, while connecting with others,” Madison Michaelis, Associate Director of Northland Connections said.
In its first two years more than 400 people have participated in the activities and events at NDC. The majority of those teens and adults have returned to the facility daily, or multiple times each week.
NDC is unique to Missouri and has become a model for other providers across the state to duplicate in their communities.
For local residents with developmental disabilities, NDC helps by providing a community center where residents can gather, engage in social activities, be accepted for who they are, and build stronger connections to others and their community, while strengthening individual self-confidence and forming meaningful relationships.
The person-focused consultations help to improve quality of life for local residents by working with the individual in their home or community. The service also helps to develop and support individualized strategies to increase skills needed for greater independence and overall quality of life.
NDC’s positive support strategies include creating daily visual schedules, incentive plans and positive teaching/incentive strategies.
Individual therapy is provided by a state-licensed clinician and addresses issues related to trauma, depression, isolation, loneliness, anger, and anxieties.
NDC also offers Camp Connections, which is a social skills summer day camp for adolescents and adults who are neurodivergent. It focuses on supporting skills for increased positive peer interactions, friendship development, and attainment.
“Our goal is to reach a wider audience, increase awareness of our programs, and connect with more individuals and families who could benefit from our services,” Michaelis said.
Spending time with their peers, sharing exciting events in their lives and taking part in group activities are some of the favorite activities that people enjoy at NDC, along with purchasing concessions.
There are many activities to choose from at the recreation center for adults. Favorites include playing UNO, karaoke, movie night, Mario Kart, and working on diamond art painting and other crafts.
“By far, the most popular activity is merely hanging out and socializing with friends,” Michaelis said.
The Social Hangouts group is very popular. “It is a scheduled time for individuals to come together, hang out, and socialize in a safe, welcoming environment where individuals are free to ‘unmask’ and be themselves,” Michaelis said.
September events include a video game party, indoor s’mores, a movie night, and a dance party. Later in the fall, a bingo fundraiser is also planned. NDC is also planning to host a “Creep Week” the last week of October, which will include Halloween-themed crafts, games, pumpkin carving, costume contests, and dancing.
Volunteers and donations to NDC are always welcomed.
Donations are essential to sustaining the goal of providing free experiences for participants. NDC was designed for the community and required support from the community to function. “Donations are strongly encouraged to keep the space open and free for everyone,” Michaelis said. “Volunteers ensure the best experience for participants by helping keep the space clean, organized, engaging with members, and supporting activities.”
Community members who support organizations such as NeuroDiverseCity are essential for the ongoing success of these organizations.
“In the short time that NDC has existed, it has become a true, welcoming and accepting community in itself for so many individuals who otherwise have been excluded and felt isolated and lonely,” Michaelis said. “Many have finally found a place, and peers where they can relax, unmask, and be themselves. Their differences and individuality are celebrated rather than judged. The most rewarding part of my job is engaging with community members, connecting them with others who share similar interests, and helping to build lasting friendships.”
Donations can be made at northlandconnections.org/donate.