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CONNECT.

GROW.

THRIVE.

​Empowering neurodivergent young adults to  build friendships, independence, and purpose

Our Goal, Vision & Commitment

Join Us & Make a Difference

Support, Engage, and Contribute

Connection Across the Spectrum (CATS)

is a Louisiana-based nonprofit organization dedicated to building inclusive, meaningful opportunities for young adults on the autism spectrum. We create spaces where individuals can connect, grow, and thrive through community programs, social engagement, and supported housing initiatives. Every donation helps us expand programs that foster independence, friendship, and belonging for neurodiverse adults.

Connection Across the Spectrum logo

At Connection Across the Spectrum, we create spaces where every individual is understood, supported, and valued. We celebrate the richness of neurodiversity and strengthen our community by building meaningful connections that empower growth, belonging, and opportunity for all.

Embracing Diversity, Building Unity

Upcoming Gatherings

  • CATS Gives Back: A Community Volunteer Experience
    CATS Gives Back: A Community Volunteer Experience
    Multiple Dates
    Jul 17, 2026, 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM
    Bayou Oaks At City Park, 1040 Filmore Ave, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
    Bayou Oaks At City Park, 1040 Filmore Ave, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
    Join the Connection Crew as we give back to our community by supporting the Bayou Oaks Junior Golf Camp. Help run a hydration and healthy snack station, connect with others, and make a meaningful impact while gaining valuable volunteer experience.
  • Jazz After Hours at the Cabildo
    Jazz After Hours at the Cabildo
    2 days to the event
    Jul 18, 2026, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
    French Quarter, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA, USA
    French Quarter, French Quarter, New Orleans, LA, USA
    🎷🏛️ Join the Connection Crew for a FREE cultural afternoon in the French Quarter! Explore the historic Cabildo & Presbytère and the New Orleans Jazz Museum as we experience Louisiana history, iconic stories, and the sounds of jazz that define the city.
  • Connection Crew Explorers: Aquarium & Insectarium Adventure
    Connection Crew Explorers: Aquarium & Insectarium Adventure
    16 days to the event
    Aug 01, 2026, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
    Audubon Aquarium & Audubon Insectarium, 1 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
    Audubon Aquarium & Audubon Insectarium, 1 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
    Adventure awaits, Connection Crew! Join Connection Across the Spectrum for a fun-filled afternoon exploring the newly renovated Audubon Aquarium & Audubon Insectarium featuring amazing sea life, interactive exhibits, butterflies, and unforgettable memories together. 🦈🌊
  • The National WWII Museum Adventure
    The National WWII Museum Adventure
    44 days to the event
    Aug 29, 2026, 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM
    The National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
    The National WWII Museum, 945 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
    Step back in time with the Connection Crew as we explore The National WWII Museum. Discover immersive exhibits, historic artifacts, and inspiring stories while enjoying a fun, educational day of learning, friendship, and connection.
  • Loft18 Fun Fest
    Loft18 Fun Fest
    58 days to the event
    Sep 12, 2026, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
    Loft18 Metairie, 3128 Metairie Rd, Metairie, LA 70001, USA
    Loft18 Metairie, 3128 Metairie Rd, Metairie, LA 70001, USA
    Join the Connection Crew for exciting golf games, great food, and unforgettable moments with friends. Whether you're a first-time golfer or just coming for the fun, this is an event you won't want to miss! 🎉
  • World Migratory Bird Day at Bird Island
    World Migratory Bird Day at Bird Island
    86 days to the event
    Oct 10, 2026, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
    Audubon Park, 6500 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
    Audubon Park, 6500 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
    Every Bird Counts! 🐦 Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day with the Connection Crew at Bird Island. Enjoy birdwatching, connect with friends, explore nature, and relax with a free picnic lunch in a welcoming, inclusive outdoor setting.
  • The Connection Cup : Mini Golf Challenge
    The Connection Cup : Mini Golf Challenge
    100 days to the event
    Oct 24, 2026, 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM
    City Putt Miniature Golf Course, 33 Dreyfous Dr, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA
    City Putt Miniature Golf Course, 33 Dreyfous Dr, New Orleans, LA 70119, USA
    The Connection Cup is teeing off! ⛳ Join the Connection Crew for a fun-filled afternoon of miniature golf, great food, and meaningful connections at City Putt. Enjoy friendly competition, laughter, and an inclusive social experience designed for autistic and neurodivergent young adults.
  • Under the Winter Stars: A Night of Connection
    Under the Winter Stars: A Night of Connection
    153 days to the event
    Dec 16, 2026, 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
    The Crossing, 519 Williams Blvd, Kenner, LA 70062, USA
    The Crossing, 519 Williams Blvd, Kenner, LA 70062, USA
    Dress up, dance, and celebrate a magical evening where every star shines bright. Join the Connection Crew for an elegant winter formal filled with friendship, music, meaningful connections, and unforgettable memories—because together, we shine brighter. 🌌❄️

Gracie’s Blog:
Stories Across the Spectrum

Meet Gracie Wise, one of the individuals who inspired the creation of Connection Across the Spectrum.

 

Through her blog, Gracie shares reflections, stories, photography, and vlogs about connection, community, and life on the spectrum.

READ GRACIE'S BLOG

Gracie Wise.jpg

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