Making Connection Across the Spectrum

Finding services and resources for people with autism can be daunting. Luckily, New Orleans has an ample amount of organizations, schools, and recreational programs despite Louisiana having an autism rate of 1.9%. Services can range from special education schools to support groups.

But what about adults? While services for autistic adults exist (especially in New Orleans), they’re very few and far between. Just search for autism services anywhere and you’ll find that the majority of them almost exclusively serve children.

Don’t get me wrong: I think children with autism need support. In fact, it’s critical that parents seek a diagnosis as soon as possible to ensure their child receives proper support.

But there are adults on the spectrum who don’t have access to appropriate services. Some of them may struggle with executive dysfunction, independent living, relationships, and mental health issues. These problems can range from mild to severe. After all, autism doesn’t just disappear at 18.

Sowing the Seeds for Connections

When I discovered my PDD-NOS diagnosis, I’ve been searching high and low for social and support groups for people like me.

I had the privilege of doing things independently as well as receiving a general education (with some accommodations). I also made great friends who I’m still in touch with, graduated from high school and college, and scored a part-time job.

But I was also socially awkward, struggled with sensory issues, and had a hard time with regulating intense emotions. I also had executive functioning issues, had little self-confidence, and was a huge people-pleaser. Needless to say, I felt like I didn’t fit in with my peers sometimes.

As an adult, I realized I needed help with improving my social skills and rebuilding my confidence. Those skills IMHO are key to getting a full-time work, making more friends, publishing novels, and hopefully getting my own house.

Last year, I reached out to Kimmy, an occupational therapist who worked with me at Crane Rehab. What started off as a simple lunch date turned into a discussion about manifesting a social group for adults with autism. Mason, my longtime friend who also went to Crane Rehab, shared the same sentiments.

After the snowstorm, my mother and I met up with Kim for lunch at Junior’s on Harrison to discuss our plans over chicken sandwiches, cheese curds, Gail’s Fine Ice Cream, and blueberry mimosas. Mason and his mother Shelley also joined in on the fun.

After much discussion and planning, we brainstormed potential names for our social group as well as activities for autistic adults to get out of their comfort zones and try new things while making new friends along the way.

Thus, Connections Across the Spectrum (or CATS, for short), was born.

Connecting with Adults in New Orleans

Connections Across the Spectrum had a slow start. But as more events occurred, so did our social media presence. Soon, we saw more faces and gained recognition as a non-profit organization in the Greater New Orleans area.

The purpose of Connections Across the Spectrum is to foster confidence, independence, and friendships in adults with autism. They’re also designed to help us explore New Orleans outside of our comfort zones while keeping everyone’s emotional, physical, and sensory needs in mind.

Events that we’ve done in the past include (but are not limited to):

• Bowling: On March 23, 2025, we made strikes and spares at Bowlero. Pro or amateur, we showed off our bowling prowess to members and staff!

• A Day at the Zoo: We went down to the Audubon Zoo, and they all asked for CATS! We met lions and tigers and monkeys on May 25, 2025. In addition to a picnic lunch, some of us with a sweet tooth (i.e., me) bought Roman Candy from the iconic wagon.

• Love on the Spectrum: Based on the reality show of the same name, we hosted our first speed dating event on November 13, 2025, at Wrong Iron. Autistic adults in search of love and friendship had the opportunity to make small talk and foster new connections with other autistic adults. Sensory aids were available to keep participants calm and focused.

  
  

• Tulane vs. East Carolina Football Game: On October 9, 2025, we hit the Yulman Stadium to watch the Tulane Green Wave play against the East Carolina Pirates. CATS members had the honor of walking on the stadium for the pre-game and being formally recognized by Tulane University! In the end, Tulane ended the game with a 26-19 victory.

Creating unforgettable moments and celebrating inclusion with Connection Crew at Tulane University’s Yulman Stadium.

• An Illusive Funhouse: Yesterday morning, we visited JAMNOLA, an illusive funhouse that knocked our socks off. From controlling a pot-stirring puppet to navigating the belly of a beast (psst… we’re not telling!), this immersive art exhibit left us with a greater appreciation for New Orleans culture and local artists. We concluded our day with a picnic lunch in Washington Square.

  
  

Connection Crew gather for a picnic lunch in Washington Square following the JAMNOLA event, celebrating connection and friendship.

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What’s Next for Connections Across the Spectrum?

On Thursday, March 5, CATS members and staff are invited to a free showing of Disney’s Frozen: The Broadway Musical from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. at the Jefferson Performing Arts Center. Be sure to reserve your spot here by Tuesday, March 3.

Connections Across the Spectrum will also go bowling on Saturday, March 21, at Bowlero in Kenner from 3-7 p.m. Get your tickets here!

If you or someone you know is an adult on the autism spectrum, Connections Across the Spectrum is the right group to join. This is also a great opportunity for anyone who enjoys working with individuals with disabilities.

We highly encourage new and existing members to sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop on upcoming events. Donations are also appreciated to make more of these events and programs possible.

For more information about Connections Across the Spectrum, you can visit www.connectionsacrossthespectrum.org.

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