A group of parents with children on the autism spectrum have created their own support group for families and neurodivergent children.

Renee Traverse, Colleen Pittman, and Heather Hewitt had always wished for a safe space that was accepting and understanding to kids with special needs—that’s when they founded Exceptional Connections.

The group offers play sessions that allow children with similar exceptionalities a chance to interact, as well as allowing parents a space to bond.

Traverse says the volunteer based group does its best to offer something for everyone.

She says they’re always planning and coming up with new ideas. The group tries to meet at least twice a month in a space that offers a variety of toys, games and sensory activities.

Your @590VOCM speaks w CoFounders of @ExceptionalNL
Renee Traverse, Colleen Pittman & Heather Hewitt now. They are bringing programming to the neurodiverse community with the work they are doing. April is autism awareness month so we will also hear about what they have planned. pic.twitter.com/IIiPsocstp

— Gerri Lynn Mackey (@GerriLynnMackey) March 31, 2023

Pittman says before they founded their own group, there were limited places where they felt included.

Her son is non-verbal and has a hard time connecting with others, but going to a place where everyone is understanding of his needs is “amazing.”